Tab 1

Wrestling Handbook Index

Welcome Letter………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…………..(Pg. 3)

Mission Statement……………………….………………..…………………………………………………………………….……….(Pg. 4)

Core Values………………..………………………………………………………………………………………………………….……….(Pg. 5)

Program Overview……………………………………………………………………………………………………….……….…..….(Pg. 6)

Code of Conduct…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….(Pg. 7)

Attendance and Commitment Policy………………………………………………………………………………….……...(Pg. 8)

Training Philosophy & Curriculum………………………………………………………………………….…………………(Pg. 9)

Tournament & Travel Guidelines………………………………………………………………………………….…………….(Pg. 10)

Uniform & Gear Requirements…..………………………………………………………………………………….…………….(Pg. 11)

Parent & Volunteer Involvement/Communication…………………………………………...……….…………….(Pg. 12)

Fundraising Opportunities….………………………….……………………………………………………..……..…………….(Pg. 14)

Safety & Injury Protocols…………………………..…………………………………………………………..……….……….….(Pg. 14)

Membership & Fee Structure…………………….…………………………………………………………..……….……….….(Pg. 16)

Code of Ethics & Discipline Policy………………………………………………………………………..……….………..….(Pg. 17)

Media and Social Media Policy………………..…………………………………………………………..…………………….(Pg. 19)

Non-Profit Status and Organization Structure……….…………………………………………..……….………….(Pg. 21)

Coaches, Clinicians, & Contact Information………………………………………………………..……….………….(Pg. 23)

WELCOME LETTER

Dear Wrestler(s) and Family,

Welcome to Reiver Wrestling Academy! We are a non-profit organization committed to the development of youth, middle, and high school wrestlers across Council Bluffs, Omaha, and the surrounding communities.

Whether you’re stepping onto the mat for the first time or looking to take your skills to the next level, we’re excited to have you as a part of our program! At RWA, we pride ourselves on building not only strong athletes, but strong individuals. We work to instill values such as discipline, integrity, perseverance, and respect through the sport of wrestling.

Our coaching and clinician staff is passionate about providing a positive, challenging, and structured environment where every athlete can grow. We believe in high standards, consistent support, and a system built on accountability and mutual respect between athletes, coaches, and families.

Thank you for trusting Reiver Wrestling Academy with your athlete’s development. We look forward to a season of hard work, growth, and memories that will last a lifetime!

Welcome to the Reiver Family!

With pride,

Brayden Curry

Reiver Wrestling Academy

Club President

Council Bluffs, IA

MISSION STATEMENT

Reiver Wrestling Academy is a Non-Profit Wrestling Club based out of Iowa Western Community College in Council Bluffs, IA, serving youth, middle school, and high school athletes from Council Bluffs, Omaha, and surrounding areas. Our mission is to provide a positive and competitive environment where wrestlers are challenged daily to grow physically, mentally, and emotionally. We are committed to helping each athlete reach their full potential while learning valuable life lessons through the sport of wrestling.

As a Non-Profit Organization, we focus on athlete development over monetary gain, fostering a culture rooted in discipline, respect, and hard work. We expect our athletes and their families to uphold and represent the values of Reiver Wrestling Academy with integrity and commitment. We believe success comes from a unified system of support and shared purpose, we ask all athletes and parents to fully buy into our vision. Reiver Wrestling Academy reserves the right to deny or discontinue training to any athlete or family not aligned with our mission and values.

CORE VALUES

1. Development

We are committed to the physical, mental, and emotional development of each athlete. Our goal is to help wrestlers grow as competitors and as individuals prepared for life beyond the mat.

2. Discipline

Discipline is the backbone of our program. We expect consistent effort, focus, and commitment to daily improvement both in and out of the wrestling room.

3. Integrity

We teach our athletes to act with honesty and uphold strong moral principles. Winning is important, but doing things the right way is essential

4. Work Ethic

Success is earned through relentless effort. We instill in our wrestlers a strong mindset rooted in preparation, consistency, and grit

5. Respect

Respect is shown to teammates, coaches, opponents, officials, spectators, and self. We foster a culture where everyone is valued and treated with dignity.

6. Accountability

We emphasize personal responsibility. Wrestlers are expected to own their actions, attitudes, and results, and to lead by example.

7. Family

RWA is more than just a team, we are a family. We support one another through challenges and celebrate successes together.

8. Excellence

We aim to set and pursue high standards in all areas. These areas include training, character, and leadership. Excellence is not about perfection, but about always striving to be better.

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

RWA Wrestling Academy is structured to serve athletes across multiple age groups and experience levels. Our training model emphasizes long term development, competitive preparation, and personal growth.

Age Groups and Eligibility

RWA welcomes athletes from K-12. Wrestlers are grouped by age and skill level to ensure an appropriate training environment. While no prior experience is required to join, all athletes must demonstrate a willingness to learn, work hard, and follow team expectations.

        White Room:        Grades K-2 BEGINNER (MUST be in KG, NO Pre-K)

        Blue Room:                Grades 3-6 BEGINNER (First year wrestlers)

        Navy Room:         Grades 3-8 ADVANCED (2nd allowed with 2+ yrs experience)

Practice Structure

        Beginner Practices:         Focus on body awareness and control, fundamentals,

character development, and having fun. 1hr duration.

Advanced Practices:        Focus on advanced technique, match strategy, and

competitive intensity. 1hr 30min duration.

        Individual Practices:        ALL AGES K-12. 50min duration.

Competition Expectations

While competition is an important part of growth, it is not the only focus. HEWA encourages tournament participation as a tool for learning, not just for winning. We promote a healthy competitive mindset, focusing on effort, sportsmanship, and improvement.

(Recommendations)

White Room:        2-4 Local Competitions per year

        Blue Room:        4 Local Competitions per year (1 each month)

        Navy Room:         Numerous Local and Regional, 2-4 National Competitions

Code of Conduct

At Reiver Wrestling Academy, our culture is built on respect, accountability, and excellence. All members including athletes, parents, and coaches are expected to uphold the highest standards of conduct to create a positive, disciplined, and growth oriented environment

Athlete Code of Conduct

• Show up on time, prepared, and ready to work
• Treat coaches, teammates, opponents, and officials with respect at all times
• Give maximum effort in every practice and match, win or lose.
• Maintain a positive attitude and be coachable
• Avoid negative behavior such as trash talk, outbursts, or disrespectful actions
• Take care of your body and mind. Eat right, get your rest, and clean your body
• Represent RWA with honor in school, online, and in the community

Parent Code of Conduct

• Support your child and the team with encouragement, not pressure or criticism
• Respect all coaches, officials, athletes, and other parents on and off the mat
• Beginner parents are welcome to help during practice, but please reiterate and repeat what the coaches are teaching.
• Communicate concerns respectfully and through proper channels
• Be a positive example of sportsmanship and integrity
• Encourage effort, improvement, and enjoyment over winning
• Support the team by participating in fundraising, volunteering, and academy activities when able

Coach Code of Conduct

• Be a positive role model in behavior, attitude, and communication
• Promote safety, learning, and the emotional well being of each athlete
• Plan and execute practices that are structured, intentional, and appropriate
• Treat all athletes fairly and foster a “team first” culture
• Encourage effort, discipline, and character development
• Communicate clearly with parents and respond to concerns professionally
• Uphold the values and mission of RWA at all times

Violations to the Code of Conduct

Violations to the Code of Conduct may result in disciplinary action including suspension or a non-refundable dismissal from Heartland Wrestling Academy at the discretion of the leadership team. We reserve the right to protect the culture and integrity of our program.

Attendance & Commitment Policy

Reiver Wrestling Academy places a high value on attendance, consistency, and commitment as keys to individual growth and team success.

Expectations

• Athletes are expected to attend all scheduled practices, team events, and competitions unless excused for a valid reason (e.g. illness, family emergency, school event)
• Consistent attendance is essential for skill development, team cohesion, and earning competition opportunities
• Athletes should arrive on time, dressed appropriately, and ready to work

Communication

• If an athlete is unable to attend a practice or event, parents/guardians must notify the coaching staff in advance via the communication app, email, or text.
• Unexcused absences without prior notice may result in reduced mat time or competition opportunities

Commitment to the Team

• Athletes must demonstrate a commitment to RWA’s culture and values throughout the season
• Commitment is measured not only by attendance, but also by attitude, effort, and accountability
• Outside club participation is allowed, but must not conflict with RWA practices

Consequences for Excessive Absences or Lack of Commitment

• Meeting with athlete and parent/guardian
• Removal from program in severe cases

Training Philosophy & Curriculum

Reiver Wrestling Academy is dedicated to developing athletes physically, mentally and emotionally by creating a structured and competitive wrestling environment.

Training Philosophy

At RWA, our philosophy is grounded in technique, discipline, and progression. We believe in building technically sound wrestlers who are mentally tough, resilient, and driven to improve. Our goal is to help athletes reach their full potential, not just as competitors, but as young men and women of character and work ethic.

        (Key pillars of our philosophy include)

• Fundamentals First: Solid technique is the foundation of everything we do. We drill the basics relentlessly
• Live with Purpose: Live wrestling sessions are designed to reinforce technique and develop match instincts
• Train Hard, Train Smart: Practices are intentional, focusing on maximizing growth while maintaining a strong pace
• Mental Toughness: Athletes are challenged to become accountable, focused, and coaching in all areas of life.
• Culture Wins: We cultivate a “development first” culture where effort, attitude, and respect matter just as much as results

Curriculum Structure

RWA offers developmentally appropriate training broken down by age and skill level, but all wrestlers will experience these key curriculum components throughout the year.

1.  Technical Progression

• Stance & Motion
• Setups & Attacks (Basics to more advanced moves)
• Defensive Fundamentals (Sprawls, Down-blocks, Re-attacks)
• Top Offense (Rides, Returns, Breakdowns, Turns)
• Bottom Offense/Defence (Escapes, Reversals)
• Mat Awareness and Simulation Drills

2.  Live Wrestling & Match Simulation

• Positional sparring
• Situational Matches (Starting from different positions and scenarios)
• Match management (Pace, score awareness, edge wrestling)

3.  Conditioning and Strength

• Bodyweight circuits
• Functional movement
• Endurance & grip training
• Wrestling specific agility

4.  Mental & Leadership Development

• Goal setting
• Handling Adversity
• Growth mindset coaching
• Leadership talks and team building activities

Tournament & Travel Guidelines

Reiver Wrestling Academy views competition as a valuable extension of training. Our approach to tournaments and travel is guided by preparation, professionalism, and pride in representing RWA.

Tournament Participation

• RWA encourages athletes to compete regularly to test their development, build confidence, and gain experience
• Coaches will recommend events that align with an athletes age, skill level, and readiness
• Families are responsible for registration fees unless otherwise noted

Tournament Participation

• Tournament schedules will be shared in advance through official RWA communication channels. Tournaments can also be found on Trackwrestling.com

Travel Expectations

• Families are responsible for all travel and lodging expenses unless otherwise noted

Coach Supervision & Cornering

• Coaches will try to be present at all major events to corner athletes during matches and provide feedback
• Because of their commitments to Iowa Western Wrestling, coaches may not be able to make many tournaments. Parents are encouraged to coach their athletes following the coaching expectations listed previously in the Handbook
• Athletes are responsible for warming up and checking in with coaches prior to their matches

Uniform & Gear Requirements

Reiver Wrestling Academy requires all athletes to be equipped and dressed to maintain safety, professionalism, and team identity.

Practice Gear

• Well fitting or tight short sleeve/long sleeve t-shirt (no holes, hoods, or pockets)
• Well fitting or tight shorts, sweatpants, or compressions (no holes or pockets)
• Wrestling shoes (clean and worn only on the mat)
• Headgear (optional, but recommended for ear protection)
• Mouthguard (required for wrestlers with braces)

Note: Athletes must maintain personal hygiene. To prevent skin diseases and other infectious forms of disease, dirty gear, bare feet, and poor hygiene will result in removal from practice.

Competition Gear

If representing RWA

• Official RWA Singlet (Purchased through gear order)
• RWA Warm Up Gear
• Wrestling shoes and headgear
• Knee pads and other protective gear (optional)

Gear Responsibility

• Athletes and parents are responsible for purchasing and maintaining required gear.
• Loaner gear may be available in limited quantities but is not guaranteed

Purchasing Gear

• RWA gear will be made available through seasonal team stores.
• Items will be clearly labeled with pricing and possible deadlines for order submission
• Items will be made through Nearfall

Parent & Volunteer Involvement/Communication

Parents, Volunteers, and Volunteer Coaches play a vital role in the success of Reiver Wrestling Academy. We believe in creating a strong support system that encourages accountability, discipline, and unity both on and off the mat.

Parent Expectations

• Be positive supporters, and let the coaching staff handle instructions and feedback during practices and competition
• Encourage your athlete(s) through effort, improvement, and character, not just wins and losses
• Uphold the values of respect, discipline, and sportsmanship at all events
• Model appropriate behavior toward referees, opponents, and other families
• Trust the process. Our coaches have your child’s best interest in mind and are committed to long term development

Volunteer Involvement Opportunities

We encourage parents to support the academy in a variety of meaningful ways:

• Volunteering at tournaments or team events
• Helping with fundraising efforts or booster activities
• Promoting a positive team atmosphere in the community and online

Fundraising, special event, and other ideas from parents on ways to support RWA’s mission and initiatives are welcomed and will be heard

Volunteer Coach Opportunities

Volunteer Coaching Applications can be found on our website

• Must have prior experience as a wrestler (High School or above is preferred)
• Must complete a background check and required USA Wrestling Certifications
• Must align with the values, philosophy, and standards of RWA

Volunteer coaches are essential to the success of RWA, both in practice and at tournaments. It is important that volunteer coaches uphold a high standard of professionalism, support the training curriculum, and serve as a positive role model for our athletes.

Communication Guidelines

Official communication will be delivered through:

• RWA’s designated team app or email platform
• Scheduled parent meetings or announcements at practice
• Social media pages (for general updates and results)

For questions or concerns:

• Use respectful and professional communication
• Direct all inquiries to the head coach or designated staff
• Please avoid addressing coaching decisions during or immediately after practice/events. Please request a meeting if needed

Fundraising Opportunities

As a non-profit organization, Reiver Wrestling Academy depends on the support of families, businesses, and the community to keep our program strong, affordable, and accessible for all athletes.

Purpose of Fundraising

Funds raised will go directly towards:

• Facility maintenance and equipment upgrades
• Team apparel and gear
• Guest clinician visits and special training opportunities

Fundraising Events & Initiatives

RWA offers several annual fundraising opportunities, including but not limited to:

• Team apparel sites
• Seasonal Tournaments
• Corporate Sponsorship Packages
• Family & Fans Fundraiser

Parent & Athlete Involvement

• Each family is encouraged to participate in at least one major fundraising event per season
• Volunteers are always needed to help with planning, set up, and promotion of events
• Clear expectations and sign-up opportunities will be communicated well in advance

Safety & Injury Protocol

Reiver Wrestling Academy is committed to providing a safe training environment and responding quickly and appropriately to any injuries or health concerns

Training Safety Standards

• All athletes must complete a waiver and medical release before participating in practices or competitions
• Wrestlers must arrive in clean gear, with trimmed fingernails, and free of contagious skin infections (e.g., ringworm, impetigo)
• The wrestling room is sanitized regularly, and athletes are expected to help keep the space clean
• Horseplay, unsafe behavior, or failure to follow coach instructions presents a safety concern, and will not be tolerated

Injury Prevention

• Practices are designed with proper warm up, cooldown, and technique progression to reduce risk of injury
• Wrestlers are taught to train with control, especially during live wrestling and partner drills
• Protective equipment (e.g., headgear, knee pads, mouthguards) is recommended and in some cases required
• Coaches closely monitor intensity and modify sessions for age and experience level

Injury Response Procedure

1.  Minor Injuries (bumps, bruises, small cuts)

• Athlete will be treated on site with basic first aid
• Parent/Guardian will be notified if necessary
• Wrestler may return to practice if cleared by a coach and is pain free

2.  Moderate to Severe Injuries (concussions, sprains, fractures)

• Athlete will be removed from activity immediately
• Parent/Guardian will be contacted promptly
• If necessary, emergency services will be called
• Athlete must receive medical clearance before returning to activity

3.  Suspected Concussions

• Athlete will be removed from participation and monitored
• RWA follows a no-return-the-same-day policy for head injuries
• Medical clearance from an incensed provider is required for return to practice

Return-to-Play Policy

• Wrestlers returning from injury must provide written clearance from a medical professional when applicable
• Coaches may implement a gradual reintegration process depending on the nature of the injury
• The health and safety of the athlete always take priority of competition

Emergency Preparedness

• Staff will maintain up-to-date CPR and First Aid certification
• Emergency contact information for each athlete must be on file and easily accessible at all time
• A basic first aid kit will be available at every practice and competition

Membership and Fee Structure

Reiver Wrestling Academy is a non-profit organization committed to providing high-level training at an affordable cost. All membership fees help support facility expenses, coaching, competition support, and program growth.

Season Membership Structure

• One time payment at the beginning of each season
• Seasons include

• Preseason (October)
• Regular Season (November - March)
• Freestyle/Greco Season (March - May)
• Summer Season (June - August)

• Prices, registration, and checkout for each season posted on website during respective season
• $25 Drop-In fee per practice for all non-members
• MUST complete waiver before participation
• Additional Costs:

• USA Wrestling Card- required for insurance and competition
• Team Gear
• Tournament Fees
• Travel Expenses

Refund Policy

• No refunds will be issued for missed practices, voluntary withdrawn memberships, or policy infraction resulting in expulsion from RWA.

Code of Ethics and Discipline Policy

Reiver Wrestling Academy is committed to building not only elite wrestlers, but exceptional individuals. Our Code of Ethics serves as the moral and behavioral foundation of our program, while our Discipline Policy ensures consistent accountability for athletes, coaches, and families.

Code of Ethics

All members of RWA including coaches, athletes, parents, and volunteers are expected to uphold the following ethical principles.

1. Integrity

• Always act with honesty, fairness, and consistency, both on and off the mat

2. Respect

• Treat teammates, coaches, officials, opponents, and yourself with dignity at all times

3. Responsibility

• Take ownership of your actions, your training, and your role within the team

4. Sportsmanship

• Compete with class, win with humility, and lose with grace. Never sacrifice character for victory

5. Team Unity

• Support and uplift others. The success of the academy is greater than any individual

6. Excellence Through Effort

• Commit to giving your best every day in preparation, competition, and conduct

7. Representation

• Remember that you represent not only RWA but also the region wrestling community, your family, and yourself. Conduct yourself accordingly in public, online, and at all practices and events.

Discipline Policy

Violations of the Code of Ethics, team rules, or behavioral expectations may result in disciplinary action. The following process will be followed to ensure fairness and clarity;

Step 1: Verbal Warning

• Issued by Coach or Directors for minor infractions (e.g., tantrums and or disrespectful argument, tone, behavior, etc.)
• Offender will be reminded of expectations and asked to correct behavior

Step 2: Parent Notifications

• If behavior persists or escalates, a coach will notify the athlete’s parents or guardian
• Athlete may receive a temporary suspension from practice or competition depending on severity

Step 3: Formal Meeting

• A scheduled meeting with the athlete, parent/guardian, and coaching staff
• Behavior contract may be implemented
• Repeated violations may lead to dismissal from the team

Step 4: Dismissal

• Serious violations (e.g., violence, bullying, illegal activity, blatant disrespect) may result in in immense removal from the program
• Dismissal decisions are made by the academy directors and board members and are final

Zero Tolerance Policy

Immediate disciplinary action, including possible dismissal, will result from:

• Physical or verbal abuse
• Bullying or harassment (including online behavior)
• Possession or use of drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or vaping products
• Criminal activity or conduct that brings disrepute to RWA

Appeals & Reinstatement

• Parents/Athletes dismissed from RWA may request a review of the decision after one full cycle of seasons (approx. 1 year).
• Reinstatement is not guaranteed and is contingent upon demonstration of growth, responsibility, and alignment with RWA values.

By enforcing a clear Code of Ethics and Discipline Policy, Reiver Wrestling Academy fosters a safe, structured, and character driven environment for every athlete to thrive.

Media and Social Media Policy

Reiver Wrestling Academy understands the power of media and social platforms in promoting our athletes and sharing our story. With that opportunity comes responsibility. This policy outlines how media and social media use should align with our values, mission, and professional standards.

Photo and Media Consent

• Upon registration, all athletes (or their legal guardians) will be asked to sign a media release form allowing RWA to use photos, videos, and athlete names for promotional and educational purposes
• Media may be used on social media, websites, and printed materials, and newsletters unless a written opt-out request is submitted

Official RWA Media Use

• Only authorized staff or designated volunteers may post on official Reiver Wrestling Academy platforms
• An official content will reflect RWA’s commitment to excellence, integrity, and sportsmanship
• Personal photos or video taken at practices or events should not be shared with commentary that misrepresents Reiver Wrestling Academy's values or internal matters

Athlete & Family Social Media Guidelines

Athletes and parents represent RWA both in person and online. To maintain a positive image and healthy team culture:

Do:

• Share and celebrate team achievements and individual progress
• Promote events, fundraisers, and program updates
• Use respectful, appropriate language in all posts
• Represent RWA with pride, professionalism, and sportsmanship

        Do Not:

• Post or comment negatively about coaches, teammates, officials, or opponents
• Share confidential team information, strategies, or disciplinary matters
• Use profanity, promote violence, or engage in online arguments
• Tag or associate RWA with inappropriate content (e.g., drug/alcohol references)

Disciplinary Consequences

Failure to follow the Media and Social Media policy may result in:

• A warning and meeting with the athlete and/or parent
• Suspension from practice or events
• Removal of media privileges
• Dismissal from Reiver Wrestling Academy for repeated or egregious violations

Promoting the Brand

• We encourage families and athletes to use official hashtags and RWA when sharing content that reflects the positive spirit of the program

By following this policy, we ensure that Reiver Wrestling Academy is represented with integrity, our athletes and families are protected, and our brand remains one of professionalism, unity, and class.

Non-Profit Status and Organization Structure

Reiver Wrestling Academy is proudly operated as a non-profit organization committed to affordable, high-quality wrestling instruction and character development for athletes across Council Bluffs, Omaha, and surrounding communities.

Non-Profit Status

• Reiver Wrestling Academy is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
• Our mission is to develop youth, middle school, and high school wrestlers through structured training, positive mentorship, and a culture rooted in discipline and respect.
• All proceeds; including membership fees, donations, and fundraising revenue; are reinvested directly into the RWA and IWCC Men’s Wrestling programs to support operations, equipment, competition costs, scholarships, and facility improvement.
• Donations to the RWA may be tax-deductible; donors will receive appropriate documentation upon request.

Governance

• RWA is governed by a leadership structure that ensures transparency, accountability, and alignment with the organization’s mission.

Organizational Structure

• Executive Director/Head Coach

• Oversees daily operations, training curriculum, athlete development, and staff management
• Serves as the face of the academy and primary point of contact

• Board of Directors

• Provides oversight and strategic direction
• Assists with fundraising, financial decisions, and long-term planning
• Meets regularly to review program progress and vote on key matters

• Assistant Coaches & Volunteer Staff

• Support training sessions and events
• Must have prior wrestling experience and complete background screening
• Work under the direction of the Executive Director

• Parent Committee (Optional/Seasonal)

• Assists with the fundraising events,m team meals, and logistical support
• Works closely with the coaching staff on non-technical needs
• Promotes family engagement and community outreach

Transparency & Accountability

• Annual budgets, major purchases, and financial reports are reviewed by the board to ensure responsible use of funds.
• RWA welcomes questions and involvement from families and community members who wish to contribute to the program’s growth and sustainability.
• Suggestions and feedback can be submitted to the Executive Director or Board Chair for consideration.

Reiver Wrestling Academy’s non-profit structure reflects our belief that success should be accessible, earned through hard work, and driven by mission-not money. We are proud to operate with integrity and a commitment to the athletes and families that we serve.

Coaches, Clinicians, & Contact Information

Coaches

Brayden Curry - Club President

bcurry@iwcc.edu

(712) 541-2298

Matt Malcom - Club Director

mmalcom@iwcc.edu

(712) 310-5402

An Assistant and Volunteer Coach Application will be open at the beginning of each season. All Assistant and Volunteer Coaches will be subject to a background screening.

Contact Information

Reiver Wrestling Academy

IWCC Reiver Athletic Performance Center

2700 College Rd, Council Bluffs, IA 51503

reiverwrestlingacademy@gmail.com