Reynolds, Tyler WY: Epitome of Courage
From Tyler’s Club Coach:
I am the head coach of Tyler Reynolds and Camel Kids. Tyler, or as I call him “Hollywood,” is a great kid. He works hard, and he does everything his teammates do as far as technique and conditioning. Ty is an inspiration to all of his teammates and coaches.
To me, wrestling is a sport that takes courage for any kid to compete. In my mind, there are very few that are as courageous as Tyler Reynolds.
One of the coolest things about Camel Kids Wrestling club is we are like family. One thing Ty has been determined to do is run like all the other kids. Our club raised enough money to get him a prosthetic leg a few years back. Seeing him walk with it the first time at the Little League baseball field is something I will never forget. Ty has since upgraded to a different one.
With his determination, Tyler will accomplish many great things in his wrestling career as well as in his life off the mat. -- Coach Mike Johnson
Dialogue with Tyler Reynolds, 8U Wrestler from Wyoming (Camel Kids WC)
1) How did you discover wrestling and who helped you find this sport?
Coach Lorenzo was also my baseball coach and told me about wrestling, so we went to a practice. I knew then that I wanted to try wrestling.
2) Describe what wrestling has meant to you and how it has changed your life.
It has taught me how strong I am if I work hard. Wrestling makes me stronger and tougher in all things I do.
3) What is the most difficult aspect of wrestling for you and how do you overcome it?
Some moves are hard to get out of, especially when they have hold of my only leg, as I don’t have a way to push out of it. I must look for other ways to get free. I just keep fighting and always looking for an opportunity to do a switch, tilt, or a fireman’s carry.
4) Tell us what has changed in your life through wrestling and how this growth has continued as you have become more experienced.
I am more confident in myself on and off the mat. Now as I grow and get better, it makes me feel like I can do anything.
5) Discuss your special challenges and in what way wrestling has helped define the character you need to succeed on and off the mat.
I need several tools during the day, like my leg, arm crutches, wheelchair, or cane. With wrestling I only need to hop onto the mat and wrestle; the only tool I need is the will to never give up and always do my best.
6) Based on your experience, why would you recommend wrestling to those who face challenges like your own? What advice can you give to help them succeed as you have?
You get to compete and have fun using your own muscles. Never give up and always keep pushing, because you can do anything.
7) Wrestling teaches each participant how to face up to difficult circumstances. How has your participation better prepared you to take on situations you face in your daily life?
If my body hurts, I may go slower, but I won’t give up. I can find a way, if I keep pushing.
8) How does wrestling truly free you to be your own person?
It is all up to me win or lose; all I need is to remember my moves and strength.
9) What would you like to tell an opponent before he competes against you?
Good luck. Give me your best shot!
10) How would you describe your wrestling actions to those who watch you compete?
They tell me I’m so strong and brave. They tell me I have heart to push through anything and how I never quit. They love watching me and how I keep fighting.
11) Describe what you will do to give back to the sport of wrestling to repay what it has done for you.
I want to show and teach kids what they can do if they work hard.
12) If you have participated in an RMN wrestling tournament, describe how this experience is special for you and what you most enjoy about their events.
There are a lot more people, and it’s bigger and better than other events. There are a lot of tough people to wrestle, and the opening light show is my favorite.