by Lisa Sandoval

This seems to be the big question lately. Well, I think everyone knows what it is, but what I don’t think people understand what it is truly all about.

As a newbie, to the scene last year, I had an awakening of sorts, not about wrestling, or traveling, but the experience was nothing less than mind blowing. To see the caliber of athletes and enormity of the Fargo Dome was that in its self worth going. Although, I didn’t go as the Media Director last year, I went as a parent, I thought I would give some light to those who haven’t gone before, and to remind those who have.

What is Team Texas all about, it’s about the athletes, pure sportsmanship; pride in ones self and where they come from, and last but not least the team comradely at its fullest. To see not only the team members, but the coaches pulling together as one unit was such a positive sight. To see rival cities, clubs, and high schools supporting each other for this time period was an awesome thing to witness.

Now, let’s talk about the friendships that are forged, yes, I mean forged. There is bonding when you see a fathers/mothers face when their son steps off the mat as a winner and advancing to the finals. There is the feeling of frustration that you share, when you see a teammate get robbed on a bad call, and then there’s the moment when you share the agony when you see you friends son defeated. All of these forge the wrestlers, coaches and their families, well to be a wrestling family.

Now, what’s this Pride thing? Well, let me tell you, during the week there, I don’t think there were very many moments where the guys weren’t wearing their Team Texas Jackets. I’ll remind you we were there in the middle of July and it wasn’t that cool outside. You could spot a Texas wrestler a mile away wearing his jacket. At the finals all you could see and hear was Red, White and Blue, no not the entire US, but the great state of Texas. We were so loud and so supportive of each other that we ultimately received the Outstanding Spirit/Greco-Roman award. 

I can’t wait to see what the boys/girls will be up to this year and rest assured they will represent Texas the way it should be represented, with Pride!