Left Handed and Beginer

Question
Hello

My son is 9 and is in his 2nd year of youth wrestling. The coaches do their best but there's too many kids for them to work with. So I've been trying to learn what I can to help him.

My main question is that he is left handed. Does he need to alter how he goes in for penetration step and other moves? He's been shown everything as a righty but he doesn't look comfortable doing some as a righty.

Answer
Hey Kevin,

Thanks for the question. I would agree that if he is not comfortable doing penetration steps as a 'righty', by all means have him step with a 'left-lead' leg. Perhaps you may want to administer some tests to see if he might be ambidextrous, since he is so young. It may end up being a distinct advantage if he establishes being able to go both directions before he gets accustomed to certain motor skills. I, personally, do not believe all moves have to be performed in both directions, as it cuts down on 'over-thinking' a move. For example, I opted early in my career to only under-hook an opponent with my left arm, primarily because I play bass guitar (right-handed) which keeps my left arm up in the air, and gives me a natural, functional position that I do not have to consciously think about maintaining. It is admirable that you are taking the necessary steps to prepare your son in the absence of the youth coaches' attention. He will never forget his first coach that grounds him with the necessary fundamentals. Please keep me posted on your progress.

Yours in the Quest for Gold,

Coach Rae-Rae