Earlier this week, Coach Eric Van Kley and the Central College wrestling program hosted a three-day youth camp to help young wrestlers develop their skills and find a stronger love for the sport. 

Along with help from his assistants, Van Kley also counted upon a number of his wrestlers to serve as instructors at the camp, something he says was a great benefit to them, as well as the youth they worked with. 

“The majority of our college guys realize that it wasn’t all that long ago that they were in those same shoes – whether it was attending a camp or just starting off as a youth wrestler – so they really enjoy giving back to the sport,” said Van Kley.  

“I think all of our guys in some capacity definitely plan on helping and giving back in the future, and it’s a great way for them to help other kids grow and help encourage them along in the great sport [of wrestling] and make sure these kids have a lot of fun.”
 
Central’s wrestlers also benefited from the opportunity to get back together and continue planning for the upcoming season, as they look to continue what has been a steady improvement over the past several seasons.