The Lakeland Predators are a youth wrestling organization located here in Antioch, Ill. The Predators were founded in 1978; they prioritize giving kids opportunities to wrestle, as well as teach great life skills.
“It prepared me for high school because it helps students at a young age with staying on weight and transferring to discipline in the real world,” junior Josh Sanchez said.
The Predators teach the right way to wrestle. Whether it’s shaking an opponent’s hand after a loss or congratulating someone after a win. It all translates to high school wrestling. They also provide good coaches and mentors.
“My best mentor would have to be Coach Streib, he really helped me with my moves,” senior Briar Russell said. “His son wrestles for ACHS, he is always at the wrestling meets and he still even gives me some tips to help me.”
There can’t be a successful program without a strong core of individuals leading it. The Lakeland Predators have been lucky to have good coaches to teach the youth. They can start as young as four years old.
“I joined the Lakeland Predators in 2008, my family has a high percentage of men in wrestling,” said junior Donny Carson. “I wanted to keep that tradition alive.”
Carson has first-hand experience starting with the Lakeland Predators back in 2008 when he was only four. That gives Carson an advantage over his opponents. With the ability to be able to start so young, the predators give the youth of Antioch a great opportunity to learn and prepare.
