Inside the Game: Making Weight to Compete
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Updated: 8:15 PM Jan 5, 2011
Inside the Game: Making Weight to Compete
Most athletes watch their calories for optimal performance. Others do it to determine who their competition is.
Posted: 7:42 PM Jan 5, 2011
Reporter: Deneige Broom
Email Address: deneige.broom@wctv.tv
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High school wrestling is about quickness, agility, and weight.

These teens train like any other athletes but their competition isn't only dictated by a schedule, but also a friend and sometimes foe, the scale.

It can be a heavy burden if not handled properly.

Godby Boys Wrestling Coach, Chuck Kilbourn knows the pressure well from his days of hitting the mat.

"Back in the day when we wrestled, we could lose 15-20 pounds in one day. That's an unhealthy way to lose weight."

That's why players are closely monitored by the Florida High School Athletic Association (FHSAA) not only for their weight but their body mass.

A calculator called the OPC uses both numbers to determine weight classes and protect the young bodies from damaging practices.

"They can only lose about 1.5% of their body weight per week so no matter what they weigh, if the OPC doesn't qualify them for the weight class they can't wrestle that."

The guys can qualify for one of 14 classes ranging from 103 pounds up to 285 but hitting their desired mark is all about dedication.

"Eat right eat light," said junior cougar wrestler, Joseph Rios. "Try to eat the healthy stuff, stay away from the breads, all that fried stuff. Try to get as much protein as you can."

"It's hard but it's a mindset thing," said sophomore Godby wrestler Andrew McGriff. "I know if i don't do right coach is watching."

While they're not trying to make light of the situation, they can't always pass up a tasty treat.

"If I'm feeling lucky and I'm on weight, I'll take a pizza," said Rios.


Latest Comments

Posted by: Sabrina Location: Tallahassee on Jan 7, 2011 at 07:57 AM

My son Andrew continuously practice good eating habits, but it's really hard on the kids not being able to eat what they like and enjoying life as a child. I guess its a good thing knowing your child healthy eating will pay off.
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