Ayden Smith is your Freshman of the Week!
- Thread starter Tango Two
- Start date
Congratulations young man! Loved the way he wrestled last week vs. Minnesota. Got the dual off on the right foot!!
Remember when you were constantly questioning why he hasn’t worked harder to fill out his frame at 125?
Ayden Smith is the first Big Ten Conference Freshman of the Week in Rutgers Wrestling history!
Relax.He was just stating the obvious at the time. He was undersized, and was performing well, but seemed to get out-muscled.
There’s a difference between being undersized, and being accused of not working hard enough to get bigger.
Yes, and it was and still is true. He needs size and strength to attain his potential.
I just hope the accolades don’t get to him tonight against MSU.
At this point in his wrestling career and at this level, he should know he can't rest on his laurels because of one big win. Plus the coaches have some responsibility to help keep him focused.
Wow...i would have guessed Ashnault....but he was freshman the same time as Zein (I think)
He credited Sasso with his mindset. Sasso will not let him rest
Sure, he’s undersized but to question his work ethic to get there like you have in the past is ridiculous.
I wasn't questioning his work ethic. I was pointing to yet another deficiency with the program. Individuals need help and guidance in developing muscle mass. Rutgers' strength and conditioning is very suspect, as several posters have pointed out. He'll be going into another off-season. Will he get the help he needs? We'll know come next season. Peterson said he requested dietary advice, which took several months to get, if he got it at all. If you really want to know what I think of Smith, search for my other comments.
Bill: I would think it should give him confidence and motivation to continue. He was part of the post-Minn press conference. I was impressed with his comments and thought process. Most young guys aren't nearly as articulate as that. I don't think Ashnault was, and I don't remember myself speaking that well at his age.
If Knox does arrive, it looks like either Smith, Gibson, or Parkins will be without a spot.
Or it could be an advantage if he gets a guy who's cutting a bunch. Guys will be up until 2am cutting while he's sleeping
Seems like Knox could go 125 or 133(think his preferred weight is 125 and 133 will be stacked next year). If Knox goes 125 then Smith/Gibson can compete for 33 spot. Parkins would compete w younger Harer? For 41/49 spots most likely.
You would be surprised the amounts of guys that rest on their laurels…. Need the Mesenbrink mindset— let go of results— and just focus on continuous improvement.. all the top guys seem to think like this. Seems like Sasso has really benefited his mindset.
I dont doubt that and I'm sure it happens. But again, at this stage and level they should be well aware what's need continue their success. They choose their path forward.
I love Sasso. He has been a great addition to the room
No way Smith can go 133.. he's tiny for 125.
Well look at Gibson at 141.. he looks tiny compared to everyone at that weight.. if Knox goes 125, Smith should try to wrestle off Gibson for 133 spot no?