Networking as a Wrestler

Building Connections Beyond the Mat

When people think about wrestling, they picture grueling practices, intense weight cuts, and hard-fought matches. What they don’t always think about is the relationships that make success possible.

Wrestlers like to believe that hard work alone is enough—that if they put in the hours, they’ll get noticed, earn opportunities, and find their way. But in reality, who you know can be just as important as what you know. Wrestling, like any career or competitive field, is built on relationships, connections, and opportunities that often come from networking.

Yet, many wrestlers struggle with networking. The individual nature of the sport, combined with some of the common mindsets wrestlers develop, makes it hard to reach out, build connections, and open doors for themselves. But those who figure it out? They’re the ones who get recruited, find the best training partners, and even open doors for a future in coaching, business, or life after wrestling.

So, how do wrestlers start building meaningful connections, and what pitfalls should they avoid along the way? Let’s dive in.

Why Wrestlers Struggle with Networking

Wrestling is a sport that breeds independence. Unlike team sports where success depends on teammates, wrestling is about the individual. You step on the mat alone, and whatever happens is entirely on you.

This creates a powerful mentality, but it also makes it easy for wrestlers to fall into the trap of thinking they don’t need anyone else. Some wrestlers believe that as long as they work harder, train longer, and push themselves further, they’ll get where they want to go. While work ethic is essential, the truth is, no wrestler succeeds alone.

Another challenge wrestlers face is the tough-guy persona. Wrestlers are taught to be mentally and physically tough, which sometimes makes networking feel unnatural or even weak. Many athletes struggle to ask for advice, show gratitude, or stay in touch with people who could help them grow. Instead of seeing networking as a tool for success, they avoid it out of fear of looking dependent or unprepared.

Social media also plays a role in networking struggles. Some wrestlers don’t use it at all, missing opportunities to connect with coaches, fellow athletes, and influencers in the sport. Others use it the wrong way—only posting highlight videos or engaging in negative conversations, which can turn off potential connections instead of drawing them in.

How Wrestlers Can Build a Strong Network

1. Treat Every Competition as an Opportunity

Tournaments and meets are more than just chances to prove yourself on the mat—they’re prime opportunities to build relationships with other wrestlers, coaches, and tournament staff. Some of the best connections happen after the match is over, when wrestlers take the time to introduce themselves, shake hands, and show respect.

A simple conversation after a hard-fought match could lead to a new training partner, a future coach, or a mentor who could open doors down the road. Some of the best recruiting stories don’t happen because an athlete won a tournament, but because they made an impression on the right people.

Wrestlers should approach every event with the mindset of making connections, not just winning matches. That means sticking around after competing, talking to coaches, and paying attention to who’s in the room. The wrestling world is small, and a good impression today could lead to big opportunities later.

2. Build Strong Relationships with Coaches

One of the most overlooked resources in networking is coaches. A good coach isn’t just someone who runs practice—they’re a bridge to bigger opportunities.

Coaches talk. They know college recruiters, club directors, and other coaches at all levels of the sport. They hear about camps, clinics, and training opportunities before anyone else. A coach who believes in a wrestler will go out of their way to recommend them for scholarships, training programs, and jobs in the sport.

But coaches don’t just hand out recommendations. They advocate for wrestlers who show respect, work hard, and take their advice seriously. A wrestler who barely listens, complains in practice, and doesn’t show gratitude won’t be the first name a coach mentions when a recruiter calls.

The best way for a wrestler to stand out in a coach’s mind?

• Be coachable. Listen, ask questions, and apply feedback.

• Show gratitude. A simple “Thanks, Coach” after practice goes a long way.

• Stay in touch. Even after moving on, checking in with old coaches keeps the door open for future opportunities.

3. Connect with Alumni and Former Wrestlers

One of the most underrated networking strategies is reaching out to former wrestlers who have already walked the path you’re trying to take.

Older wrestlers have been where you are, faced the same struggles, and know what it takes to succeed. They also have connections—whether it’s at the college level, in coaching, or even outside of wrestling.

A simple message on social media or introduction at an event can lead to incredible mentorship. Something as small as, "Hey, I really look up to what you've done. Any advice for someone trying to follow a similar path?" can open doors.

Alumni networks are powerful, and wrestlers who build relationships with those who came before them will always have an edge.

4. Use Social Media the Right Way

Social media isn’t just for posting highlight reels—it’s a tool for building a reputation and connecting with the right people.

A strong wrestling profile should:

• Follow and engage with coaches, wrestlers, and organizations in the sport.

• Comment and start conversations instead of just liking posts.

• Showcase hard work and personality, not just wins.

Instead of just posting clips of matches, wrestlers should share insights on what they’re learning, how they train, and the mental side of competition. A wrestler who posts thoughtful, engaging content will stand out more than someone who only posts when they win.

5. Follow Up and Stay Connected

One of the biggest mistakes wrestlers make in networking? They don’t follow up.

Meeting someone once doesn’t build a relationship—staying in touch does. If a wrestler meets a coach, an older athlete, or a potential mentor, they should send a quick follow-up message within a few days thanking them for their time.

Checking in every few months keeps the relationship alive, and over time, small connections can lead to major opportunities. A simple message today could turn into a training invite, a job, or a life-changing recommendation down the road.

Wrestling is a Small World—Connections Matter

In wrestling, who you surround yourself with can shape your future. Hard work and skill are essential, but opportunities often come from the relationships you build.

The best wrestlers don’t just dominate on the mat—they connect with coaches, teammates, competitors, and mentors who help them reach the next level. Whether it’s through tournaments, social media, alumni, or training partners, networking isn’t just a skill for businesspeople—it’s a tool that can change a wrestler’s career.

Encourage your wrestler to step outside their comfort zone, start conversations, and build relationships that will last long after their final match. Because in the end, wrestling is about more than just competing—it’s about the people you meet along the way.