About this episode
In Episode 066 of the Athletor Podcast, we're joined by Steve Mytych, Assistant Coach at Rutgers, who brings a wealth of experience from both the competitive and coaching sides of wrestling. This discussion delves into the critical aspects of youth wrestling culture and the influence of parenting on young athletes' careers. Steve shares poignant insights from his time on the camp circuit, illustrating common mistakes he observes in wrestling parents and the often overlooked emotional toll of "the car ride home" discussions post-practice. Steve offers invaluable advice to wrestling parents, emphasizing the importance of stability by committing to a single wrestling club and fostering a supportive home environment aligned with shared goals. He also recounts some eye-opening stories of parenting mishaps he's encountered, providing lessons on what not to do. Additionally, Steve discusses the logistical and emotional challenges of juggling a demanding Division I coaching schedule with managing youth national competitions, shedding light on how he successfully maintains balance between high-level coaching responsibilities and personal commitment to youth development in the sport. This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in youth sports, particularly wrestling, offering guidance on nurturing young athletes while avoiding the pitfalls of high-intensity sports parenting.