El Paso’s Takedown Elite TX: Fundamentals That Work

By Bill X. Barron, RMN Events Writer

Seven years ago in El Paso, Texas, the vision began with 7 kids in a garage. Now numbering seventy plus elite level wrestlers, these grapplers all adhere to Coach Eric Martinez’ philosophy of mastering the simple but effective fundamentals. Through a structured curriculum, these athletes excel in consistently performing the best technique.

While an opponent may know in advance the moves of a Takedown Elite wrestler, they are so well trained and coached that you will find it most challenging to beat one of these homegrown talents. Other traveling dual teams may be comprised of competitors from all over the country. Takedown Elite, however, stands out not only due to their success, but in particular that their excellence comes from within. In order to train and travel with Takedown Elite, wrestlers must practice with the club.

Despite the fact that “every high school kid in Texas wants to train, bleed, and travel with us, we only welcome club members,” asserts Coach Martinez. “I am proud to have trained these boys and girls myself. Many who began at 7-8 years old are now excelling in high school. Our dual team emphasis encourages kids to stay and train together. With help from business donations, most of the kids’ travel expenses are covered.”

Coach Martinez’ proteges are taught to “push the envelope,” to be as aggressive as possible at all times and in every position. He states: “Our goal is to give the opponent an ‘out,’ where all he wants to do is get off the mat when we’re done with him.”

Takedown Elite relishes the opportunity to participate in Rocky Mountain National Events. As Coach Martinez relates: “In our opinion, there are no better tournaments than RMN. They are always well run, the awards are great, and Ed brings in the best from all over. As a club, we attend as many as our schedule allows us to do.”