You don't really measure the year until the whole year is done. I'm sure there are some concerned people, including the coaches right now.

My coaches were great. My mom and dad. My dad never missed a wrestling meet.

If we don't progress, we backslide into bad habits, laziness and poor attitude.

Many of those who have paid the ultimate price for freedom have come through the wrestling ranks. We need to honor them and win this decision to have wrestling - the world's oldest sport - remain a part of the most prestigious athletic competition in the world, the Olympics.

But we've got to work. We can't just live on reputations at all - by any means.

When I'd get tired and want to stop, I'd wonder what my next opponent was doing. I'd wonder if he was still working out. I'd tried to visualize him. When I could see him working, I'd start pushing myself. When I could see him in the shower, I'd push myself harder.

Wrestling... what men do during boys basketball season.