Video analysis has proven to be integral to wrestling programs across the nation.
As video has grown in popularity, sports such as soccer, basketball and volleyball have begun to adopt it more and more. Even sports who've previously overlooked it have started using Hudl—like wrestling. And now, those wrestling teams that aren’t using video are behind the game.
Many sports focus on formations or plays to work as a team towards a win. Wrestling, on the other hand, concentrates on individual techniques athletes must master to overcome their opponent.
Moves such as tackling, hand fighting, leverage and footwork are drilled every day to help athletes improve—video allows coaches to slow things down and give clear, constructive feedback.
Recording practices and matches allows coaches to watch their athletes' technique and make any necessary adjustments. For an added advantage, coaches can record and upload from the Hudl app to share feedback in real-time. Athletes don’t have to wait until they get home to see their performance—they can start learning from their match right after it’s over. In tournament settings, with multiple matches per day, coaches can make adjustments on the fly.
“My wrestlers want to be able to watch video,” Syracuse (Neb.) High School head coach Jeremy Goebel said. “They’re able to do that from their phones or computers. I think the athletes like the fact that Hudl can be used immediately following matches to help them see, visually, areas to work on.”
Team video review sessions also help athletes understand what needs to change. “I think group breakdown of technique is more beneficial,” Plattsmouth (Neb.) High School head coach Curtis Gocke explained. “Watching it, then applying it immediately in the practice room.” This keeps feedback fresh in the minds of athletes and coaches with minimum downtime. “The team can identify weaknesses that are being exposed,” Gocke said. If a certain wrestler is keeping their legs exposed for a single leg takedown, coaches can identify and adapt for upcoming matches.
Video can also give teams a leg up with scouting, which could be the difference between winning a tournament or falling short. And not just scouting opponents—scouting one’s own athletes can be just as important.
Coaches can use video to show a player’s growth over the course of the season. Adding clips to a playlist as the season progresses can show players their hard work is paying off. “It helps develop your coaching, and is a way to make kids aware of great things they are doing and areas that can be improved,” Goebel said
As with any athlete, wrestlers want to be able to share their achievements. Highlights give them the opportunity to share moments from their matches
“I make a highlight reel of the previous week’s competitions, then tag that to their individual highlights. "It seems to really motivate them,” Goebel said. “Highlights help get kids excited. It’s very beneficial in terms of engaging the athletes.”
Hudl is a great tool for all teams—wrestling is no exception. Check out what Hudl can do for your wrestling team.