Question 1

What ages and grades can join Mustang Elite Wrestling?

Accepted Answer

Our program is built for boys and girls in **kindergarten through 8th grade**. Wrestlers are grouped by age, size, and experience so newcomers are never thrown in with seasoned competitors. If you're unsure whether your child is ready, [reach out](/contact) — most of our wrestlers started with no experience at all.

Question 2

Does my child need any experience to start?

Accepted Answer

No. The large majority of our wrestlers begin with zero background in the sport. Our [beginner program](/programs/beginner) teaches the fundamentals — stance, motion, and basic positions — in a safe, encouraging environment before anyone competes.

Question 3

Where do you practice?

Accepted Answer

We practice and host events at **J.J. Pearce High School, 1600 N Coit Rd, Richardson, TX 75080**, in the Richardson ISD community. See the [practice schedule](/schedule) for the current season's days and times.

Question 4

How much does it cost to join?

Accepted Answer

As a **501(c)(3) nonprofit**, we keep our fees deliberately low so cost is never the reason a Richardson kid can't wrestle — well below the $90–$200+ per month many for-profit programs charge. Current-season registration fees are listed on our [registration page](/register). If affordability is a concern, [contact us](/contact) — we want every wrestler on the mat.

Question 5

Is wrestling safe for young kids?

Accepted Answer

Wrestling is a contact sport, but when it's coached properly it has injury rates comparable to other youth sports, and beginners spend their early weeks learning safe positions before any live competition. We coach technique, hygiene, and respect for training partners. Read our full guide on [whether wrestling is safe for kids](/blog/is-wrestling-safe-for-kids).

Question 6

What should my child wear to the first practice?

Accepted Answer

For a first practice, athletic shorts (no zippers, buttons, or pockets) and a fitted t-shirt are perfect, plus water. Wrestling shoes help but aren't required to start — clean athletic shoes are fine for the first few sessions. See our [what-to-wear checklist](/blog/what-to-wear-wrestling-practice) for details.

Question 7

Do girls wrestle?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Girls are a fast-growing part of youth wrestling, and we welcome girls in every age group. Many practice alongside the full team and also compete in girls divisions. Learn more about our [girls wrestling program](/programs/girls-wrestling).

Question 8

What style of wrestling do you teach?

Accepted Answer

We teach **folkstyle wrestling** — the scholastic style used in American middle schools and high schools, including Richardson ISD. That makes our program a natural feeder into J.J. Pearce, Berkner, Richardson, and Lake Highlands high-school wrestling.

Question 9

How do I register my wrestler?

Accepted Answer

Registration is handled through our online SportsEngine portal. Head to our [registration page](/register) for the link and a walkthrough of what to expect for the current season.

Question 10

What equipment does a beginner need?

Accepted Answer

Very little to start: athletic clothing and water for the first practices. Over time, families typically add wrestling shoes and headgear. Our [what-to-wear guide](/blog/what-to-wear-wrestling-practice) explains exactly what to bring to a first practice and what to skip.

Question 11

How often are practices?

Accepted Answer

Practices run on weeknight evenings during the folkstyle season (roughly fall through spring). Frequency depends on the program track — beginners and competitors may train different numbers of nights. Check the [schedule](/schedule) for current details.

Question 12

Are you affiliated with USA Wrestling?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We're a **USA Wrestling–affiliated** club and host sanctioned events, including the annual **Mustang New Year Classic** at J.J. Pearce High School. See our [events page](/events) for the tournament calendar.

Question 13

Will wrestling help my child in other sports?

Accepted Answer

Coaches across many sports value wrestling for the balance, body control, mental toughness, and work ethic it builds. It's one of the best cross-training foundations a young athlete can have — and it transfers directly to football, jiu-jitsu, and more.

Question 14

My child is nervous about competing. Do they have to?

Accepted Answer

No. Plenty of wrestlers spend a full season just learning and practicing before they ever step onto a competition mat — and some never compete at all. Tournaments are an opportunity, not a requirement. We meet each wrestler where they are.

Question 15

Are you a nonprofit, and how can I support the club?

Accepted Answer

We're a registered **501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 84-1770885)**. Donations and sponsorships help us keep fees low and provide gear and travel support for families who need it. Learn how to help on our [donate & sponsor page](/about/nonprofit-donate).

Question 16

Which communities do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We're rooted in **Richardson** and welcome families from across north and northeast Dallas, including **Garland, Plano, Sachse, Murphy, and Lake Highlands**. See our [locations](/locations) for community-specific details.

Youth Wrestling FAQ for Richardson Parents

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