When the new wrestling season started it was clear that Jordan was a new wrestler. His confidence and work ethic were greatly improved. At the first meet of the year he placed 1st, at the next tournament he placed 2nd, and at the third tournament he placed 1st again. Other wrestlers were now coming up to Jordan and asking him how he knew how to wrestle so well, but Jordan knew it was a process. You have to be willing to be bad to get good. My son finished the year with 25 wins and 6 losses. He still has many areas in which to improve, but his confidence and work ethic will carry him through. This is the most valuable thing I believe you can learn about success. Know what you want, know what it costs, and pay the price. Succeeding in business or any other endeavor has the same basic principles. I believe you only lose when you blame someone else. There are people in life who have made a career out of blaming others for their losses. I have made a life out of learning from my losses. We want everyone on the Team to win financially, but we also understand that there are many more wins than just how big your checkbook is. As we wrap up another year of wrestling I would like to thank all the moms, dads and coaches who go out and serve our next generation – building hope into their lives, that no matter what comes their way they can dream, struggle, and have a victory. One day Jordan and I had a hard practice where I was teaching him that repetition is the mother of skill. After practice and his shower, Jordan came down into my office, wrapped his arms around my neck, looked me in the eyes and said, “dad, thanks for teaching me discipline.” I was never prouder of my son than I was that day as I realized my young boy was turning into a young man. No, Jordan Woodward will probably never make any money wrestling and yes, we have invested thousands of dollars into wrestling, but the results in the mind, heart, and soul of a next generation champion are priceless.

Orrin Woodward 2004

06/18/04