Grit & Gratitude Wrestling Academy is a community non-profit organization that offers youth wrestling programs for boys and girls ages 5 – 18. Additionally, they have the “Lady Grizz” freestyle team specifically designed for girls of all ages. The academy is dedicated to empowering and enriching the lives of young people through the sport of wrestling, believing that grit and gratitude are essential qualities for academic and career success. With a focus on proper coaching and encouragement, Grit & Gratitude Wrestling Academy aims to develop these traits in their participants, viewing wrestling as a vehicle for personal growth and character development.
Founded during the Covid Pandemic, Grit & Gratitude Wrestling Academy was established to address the challenges faced by students, particularly student-athletes, due to the suspension of extracurricular activities and sports programs. Recognizing the impact of the “new normal” on students’ well-being and academic performance, the academy’s inception aimed to fill a void in the wrestling community in Western Massachusetts. By uniting wrestling leaders in the region, the academy sought to enhance the wrestling culture and provide a platform for more students to benefit from the positive aspects of the sport.
Quality sports programs are emphasized at Grit & Gratitude Wrestling Academy, as they recognize the importance of structure, discipline, and motivation in student success. The academy’s commitment to fostering grit and gratitude aligns with their philosophy that these qualities form the foundation of greatness. Through their programs and coaching, Grit & Gratitude Wrestling Academy strives to instill these values in young participants, preparing them for future academic and career achievements while promoting a positive wrestling culture in the region.