In this episode of the Wrestling Mindset Podcast, Gene Zannetti sits down with Roy Dragon, Head Coach of Ridge High School Wrestling, to talk about the evolving landscape of high school wrestling, the growing talent gap, and how athletes can close it through discipline, mindset, and effort. Coach Dragon shares his insight on what separates elite wrestlers from the rest — and why character always comes before championships.

Episode Highlights

• 3:49 – The evolution of New Jersey wrestling talent.
• 5:54 – Doing more than the top kids to close the gap.
• 7:17 – Social media's impact on young wrestlers.
• 10:34 – Watching and learning from elite wrestlers.
• 12:20 – The tight-knit wrestling community of the past.
• 16:06 – Public school mindset and representing your town.
• 20:06 – Creating great people first, wrestlers second.
• 21:45 – Wrestling is the toughest sport for parents too.

Closing the Gap in High School Wrestling

Coach Dragon highlights one of the most pressing issues in modern wrestling — the widening gap between top-tier wrestlers and everyone else. With club programs, travel tournaments, and year-round training becoming the norm, the best wrestlers are doing more than ever. But Dragon challenges athletes from all backgrounds to rise to that standard by controlling what they can — their mindset, effort, and consistency.

“You don’t need to be at a powerhouse program to reach the top,” he says. “You just have to be willing to do more than the top kids and outwork them.” That message embodies the Wrestling Mindset philosophy: success starts in your head before it ever shows up on the scoreboard.

Social Media, Comparison, and Focus

In today’s digital era, young athletes are constantly comparing themselves to others. Dragon discusses how social media can both inspire and distract wrestlers. Watching elite athletes online can be valuable — but only when used as motivation, not discouragement. Staying focused on personal growth is key, and that’s where 1-on-1 mindset training can help wrestlers develop the discipline to block out noise and stay locked in on their goals.

Old-School Values in a Modern World

Coach Dragon reflects on how the wrestling community used to be more personal — built around rivalries, friendships, and respect. He believes the sport needs to return to those roots. Representing your town, school, and teammates with pride still matters. Wrestling at a public school, he says, teaches loyalty, accountability, and gratitude — values that last far longer than medals.

Programs looking to strengthen their team culture and rebuild community pride can benefit from team mindset training, which unites athletes under shared principles like effort, respect, and resilience.

Building Great People Before Great Wrestlers

One of the most powerful messages from this episode is simple: be a great person before you’re a great wrestler. Dragon emphasizes that while wins fade, who you become through wrestling defines your legacy. The sport teaches humility, accountability, and work ethic — traits that carry into every part of life. “The best part of coaching,” Dragon says, “is seeing my wrestlers become successful, strong people long after they leave the mat.”

Sponsored By

This episode is proudly sponsored by:

• Eat Clean Bro – eatcleanbro.com
  Use code MINDSET for 15% off your order.
• Champion Athletes Sports Nutrition – champion-athletes.com
  Use code MINDSET25 for a special discount.

Support the Wrestling Mindset Podcast

If you enjoyed this episode, please support the podcast by:

• Liking and subscribing on YouTube.
• Leaving a 5-star rating & review on Apple Podcasts.
• Sharing the episode with other wrestlers, parents, and coaches who value mindset training.

For partnership and sponsorship inquiries, email mindset@wrestlingmindset.com.

About Wrestling Mindset

Wrestling Mindset was founded to help athletes master the mental side of competition. Built by wrestlers for wrestlers, our mission is to give athletes, parents, and coaches the tools to perform at their best under pressure — on and off the mat.

• 1-on-1 Mindset Training – Personalized sessions that build confidence, focus, and resilience.
• Team Training Programs – Help your entire team develop a championship mindset and unified culture.
• Unlock Your Free Assessment Now – Take the first step toward building your mental edge today.

 Listen to more episodes of the Wrestling Mindset Podcast on Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts.