By Paige Mokma And Ella Raab
In wrestling, weight classes- the different “levels” of weight so that it makes it easier and safer to compete- are a huge part of the sport. Every wrestler has to compete at a certain weight, which means managing what they eat, how they train, and how they take care of their body. At Hamilton High School, varsity wrestlers are learning that cutting weight isn’t about starving yourself — it’s about discipline, nutrition, and doing things the right way.
A big misconception about wrestling is that athletes are constantly trying to lose weight in unhealthy ways, like straight-up not eating. While that may have happened in the past, Hamilton’s wrestling program focuses on safe and smart weight management. Wrestlers work closely with their coaches and athletic trainers to make sure they stay healthy throughout the season.
To protect wrestlers’ health, the MHSAA enforces rules that regulate how athletes manage their weight. First-year athletic trainer Jenica Beamer is familiar with these rules and works to ensure the process is done the right way.
“It sets rules and regulations on how much a wrestler can lose weight and also how fast. We use track wrestling at the beginning of the season, and that breaks down for each wrestler how much they can lose, the safest amount they can lose altogether, and breaks down by week where they should be at.” Beamer explained.
Two-time state placer, Bryce Morrison, also talks us through how he says it can be unhealthy and risky to cut weight at a young age when many people pursue the sport of wrestling. He mentions how, at that young age, it’s more important to “focus on eating good and getting better at wrestling.”
Nutrition plays a major role in wrestling. Instead of skipping meals, wrestlers are encouraged to eat balanced foods like lean protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Drinking enough water is also important, especially during long practices. Proper nutrition helps wrestlers have energy, recover faster, and perform better on the mat.
Coach Trenton Holyfield overall emphasizes that healthy discipline matters more than the number on the scale. Wrestling requires self-control, consistency, and mental toughness, and weight management is just one part of that.
“Dehydration reduces strength and endurance. It can also affect mood, focus, and recovery. Hydration should be daily, not just after weigh-ins. Rest days and lighter days can prevent burnout and overtraining. Recovery is part of training, not a break from it!” Said Chach Holyfield.
For many wrestlers, learning how to manage their weight also helps them grow as people. They learn responsibility, time management, and how to make better choices. These lessons carry over into school and everyday life.
”Wrestling has taught me so much discipline in my life because, through wrestling, I have learned that working hard and being intentional pays off in everyday life, so now, because of wrestling, I work hard in every aspect of my life and take pride in everything I do, which helps a lot with things like schoolwork.”
Says sophomore Chase Morrison, a member of the Hamilton Boys Varsity Wrestling team. Overall, agreeing with the statement of learning responsibility and time management.
Another common misconception is that cutting weight makes wrestlers weaker. In reality, when done correctly, wrestlers feel stronger, more focused, and more confident. Healthy weight management allows athletes to compete at their best without risking their health.
Going back to Bryce Morrison, a teammate and brother of Chase, talks about how he has to keep an encouraging, uplifting mindset through it all. Here’s what he says about that,
”The hardest habit to build is consistency and not feeling sorry for yourself. I stay mentally strong by remaining positive and keeping my goals in mind.”
At Hamilton, wrestling is about more than just winning matches. It’s about building discipline, staying healthy, and supporting teammates. By focusing on nutrition, education, and safe habits, the team proves that cutting weight doesn’t have to be dangerous!! It can be a lesson in discipline that lasts a lifetime.