The spladle is one of the sneakiest maneuvers in wrestling. There are two reasons for this. The first is that it turns a defensive position into an offensive one. The second is that the move puts your opponent on his back and puts you in position to earn a fall from the standing position. This is why the spladle is generally referred to as a “homerun” move — a technique that can instantly win the match or, at the very least, dramatically change its course. If you are ready to learn this powerhouse move, follow these steps closely. This move is definitely one to keep in your back pocket, ready to use if the match isn’t going your way — or if you’re going for an instant win!
1. Standing Single
There are many ways to hit the spladle. The most effective way is from the standing position, when your opponent is attempting a single leg takedown on you. From here, you will turn your defensive position into an offensive one. The key is the first step. Make sure that your opponent’s head is against the inner thigh of whichever of your legs he’s controlling the single on — this is absolutely critical. If your opponent’s head is on the outside of your hip, “throw” his head toward the inside of your leg’s thigh and maintain a good position. Keep your legs back and your weight on top of your opponent.
2. Step & Stuff
With your free leg, take a big step (or sometimes a few big steps) towards your opponent’s nearest foot. For example, if your opponent is attempting a single on your left leg, use your right leg to step towards your opponent’s left foot. As you do this, “stuff” or push your opponent’s head down with either hand as you step. From here, your hips should be facing your opponent. This will allow you to trap his head on the inside of his own hip, making it very difficult for him to defend as you roll him onto his back.
3. Hook the Leg
With the arm that is on the same side of your body as the leg your opponent is controlling, hook the inside of your opponent’s far leg (the leg you stepped towards). Reach this arm behind your opponent’s knee, lock hands with your other arm, and pull the leg towards you.
4. Roll & Catch
With your opponent’s far leg hooked, push your body in towards both of your opponent’s legs and land on your side. If you hooked your opponent’s left leg, you would land on your right side. Likewise, if you hooked your opponent’s right leg, land on your left side. This will help you control your opponent’s body so that you can roll him onto his back.
As you roll, hook the inside of your opponent’s near leg using the leg that he’s controlling. That is, if he is controlling the single on your left leg, hook his right leg with your left. To do this, bring your leg behind his knee and use it to pull his leg toward you. Continue to roll over your back and bring your opponent’s shoulders to the mat. From here, your opponent’s head will be trapped with your hip, and you will have control of both of his legs. Pull your opponent’s legs down towards you to keep him in position for the pin.
Hot Tip: Land Close
When landing on your side, the closer you land to your opponent’s feet, the better. This will keep his body compact, helping you to complete the natural rolling motion.
Pin to Win
All wrestlers must have a homerun move they can use to get themselves out of sticky situations. The spladle is a great technique that does just that — it can easily turn the tide of a losing match. Make sure to practice this technique extensively before trying it in a match. Hitting this move without the proper practice will actually leave you open to be taken down, or even worse, pinned! Start practicing so you can use the spladle as your go-to homerun move! Good luck!
