The MAT Program seeks to create skill-strong novice wrestlers who are prepared to competently and confidently compete in live wrestling situations after mastering fundamental skills which can be utilized throughout their entire wrestling careers.

The growth of a novice wrestler is dependent upon the triangle of equal involvement and communication between the wrestler, the parent, and the coach.  The system is only as strong as the combined efforts and collaboration of the three key players.

The MAT Program allows first and second-year wrestlers of all ages to attain a winning attitude, develop technique, and build strength and other essential skills for success.

Wrestlers who complete the MAT Program enter the more advanced, competitive rooms better prepared, well-versed in wrestling vernacular, and most importantly, with a strong foundation of skills and technique upon which they can continue to develop.  These athletes have proven to be more confident and successful in the sport at all levels.

The MAT Program, much like the belt system in martial arts, is individually paced. Wrestlers advance through a series of levels and earn a new colored shirt at each level. Testing sessions occur monthly when the athlete’s coach believes they are ready. Once your wrestler earns his or her Black Shirt, they have completed the program, and are ready to advance to the Folkstyle Red Room.

Wrestlers in the MAT program do not normally compete in tournaments. This allows them to hone their skills and develop technique, helping them feel more confident and eliminating competition anxiety.

Beginning wrestlers must complete this program before advancing to MWC Wrestling Academy's Red Room and begin competing in tournaments. This program is designed to make sure that your son or daughter gets a proper start in the sport by making sure that fundamental strengths, skills and techniques are set early in their wrestling career. This solid foundation gives us the base on which to build great wrestlers. 

• Wrestlers must be at least 5-years-old or older.
• MAT Program runs year-round, so new wrestlers are accepted at any time as space allows.  
• To inquire about registration, please contact Coach Adrian Gallardo – MAT Program Director.
• Cost: $90/month.  Tuition includes all practices, initial White shirt, and all additional shirts earned through program advancement.  
• Practice Days/Times:  Mondays/Wednesdays  5:30 – 6:30 PM
•  All Practice sessions are held at the MWC Wrestling Academy Training Center. 302 East Cary St.  Papillion, NE 68046
• Apparel:  Wrestlers are asked to wear black shorts and the shirt which corresponds to their current level to every practice. o Wrestling shoes are required.  MWC has a selection of used shoes which can be borrowed.  Headgear is not required. 

Take some time to familiarize yourself with the following terms and concepts:

1. Bracket types: Round-robin/8-man/16-man/etc.
2. TrackWrestling
3. Rules & Referee Hand Signals
4. Bouts/Bout Numbers
5. Code of Conduct - Parent AND Athletes
6. "The Triangle"
7. Match Structure
8. MWC Wrestling Academy Culture
9. USAWrestling
10. National Coaches Education Program