compiling a list of wrestling clubs in DFW for anyone looking to train or get their kids involved. updating as people comment with more.
youth focused clubs:
- multiple DFW-area clubs run youth programs from ages 5-18
- most practice 2-3 times per week with tournament travel on weekends
- the competition season runs roughly October through March for folkstyle, with freestyle/greco in the spring and summer
- cost is usually $100-200/month for youth programs
adult/open training:
- several MMA gyms in DFW have wrestling classes open to adults
- Fortis MMA has a wrestling program thats MMA-focused but legitimate wrestling technique
- many BJJ gyms are adding wrestling classes because nogi grapplers need takedowns
what to look for in a club:
- coaches with actual wrestling credentials (college wrestlers or above)
- competition results — are the kids placing at state and nationals?
- practice structure — drilling, live wrestling, conditioning should all be present
- team culture — is it supportive or is the coach a screamer who burns kids out?
the freestyle vs folkstyle thing:
- high school wrestling in Texas is folkstyle (same as all US high schools)
- freestyle and greco-roman are the Olympic styles and are trained in the offseason
- the best clubs train all three styles because they develop different skills
- USA Wrestling sanctions freestyle/greco tournaments throughout Texas year-round
if your kid shows ANY interest in wrestling, get them in a program. its the hardest sport in the world and it builds character like nothing else.
DFW wrestling parents and athletes — drop your club and experience below.
if you are an adult who wants to learn wrestling, your best bet in DFW is an MMA gym with a dedicated wrestling coach. pure wrestling clubs are almost exclusively youth-focused. the MMA gyms fill the adult wrestling gap