Some 200 wrestlers from youth to high school levels are expected to be in attendance Sunday when the Vermont Wrestling Coaches Association sponsors a special preseason clinic Sunday at Rutland High School on Stratton Road.
The clinic will be led by Ryan Bertin, a two-time collegiate national champion at the University of Michigan.
The clinic will be held in two sessions, the first from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. and the second from 1 to 2:30 p.m. There will be a lunch period in between.
The event is open to all wrestlers, and anyone who is interested in wrestling. The cost is $5 per person.
Bertin is a four-time Academic All-American who completed his career with a remarkable record of 142-21.
“He’s a great young man, “said Rutland High coach Mark Borkowski, who met Bertin, a former Big 10 Conference wrestler of the year, at a clinic in Bennington. “This guy is not only athletic but smart. He’s going to show these kids you can be an educated person and be an athlete.
“In talking with the other coaches we wanted to do something special for the wrestlers to kick off the season and generate some excitement.”
Bertin, who wrestles in the 157-pound class, was 31-1 in his senior year.
Three mats will be set up at the RHS gym and Bertin will give instruction on moves and techniques. Wrestlers will then be able to work with partners and try out the moves Bertin demonstrates.
“You don’t have to be involved with any wrestling team to come, “said Borkowski. “Everybody is welcome.”
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