Regionals were being held the first Saturday after Shawn deployed so I was worried for many reasons. I was worried about understanding the brackets and knowing when to send James down to wrestle. I was worried mentally how James would do without Shawn being there. I was worried how I would enterain Ethan the entire time in the gym because I couldn't just leave James. James had a very hard time with Shawn deploying. Thankfully, Mr. Zac (Shawn's oldest and dearest friend) came down and helped fill that void as much as he could. Mr. Zac coached and cheered James on which was very encouraging. James was 0.4 pounds over his normal weight so Mr. Zac made him run for 30 minutes to get down to goal weight. After we headed to CiCi's and James said food never tasted so good :). The day of the tournament Shawn was able to call several times to check the status of James. You would've thought Alabama was playing for another championship based on how nervous and anxious Shawn was. James made it through his first few matches with wins and even got a pin! Then came the semifinal round and that kid was a beast!! He was a 2nd grader who obviously had experience under his belt and used the choking technique. During this James yelled "stop the match" and because referees have to take it seriously the match was called based on a forfeit :(. Despite both coaches arguing it wasn't what he meant it had to be called. However, our little champ didn't let defeat get the best of him. After a pep talk from Mr. Zac and one final match to place in the top 4 he was raring and ready to go!! He dominated and won his last match placing him in 3rd place in the Regional Tournament!! I was sooooo proud of my little champ!! As in keeping with tradition he got to get a tshirt. We all agreed that the saying he chose for the back was very appropriate. As the guy was heat pressing the shirt Mr. Zac made a comment about how it smelled awful. James replied "it's the smell of victory". Gotta love him!
Although he earned a slot in the state tournament he has chosen not to attend. He just isn't showing much interest since Shawn left. It is a very demanding sport and we are not going to push him at this age. He has proven enough and we know he is a true champion!
