COVINGTON, Ga. — Tuesday night was all business for coach Tommy Gregory and Newton Ram wrestlers, as he spent time preparing them for the Area 8-AAAAAAA duals that will take place at Rockdale High School Saturday.

Gregory is in his first year at the helm of the program, which means he’s still in program building mode. But that’s not stopping him from doing all he can to help the Rams put out their best effort as the season inches closer to state tournament time.

“We have to make sure each weight class is tight and secure,” Gregory said, “Unfortunately we don’t have someone in every weight class, so we need to make sure we are strong in the classes we do have to counteract those missing weights.” 

While practice and focusing on the specifics of wrestling was an important part of Tuesday’s workout, part of Gregory’s plan for his program is making sure his grapplers are getting it done in the classroom as well as on the mat. 

Because of that, the team took some time to sit together and go over report cards, while listening to a very specific message from their coach. 

“You are close to 20 (years old), and it’s time to become responsible, and stop being so dependent on your parents,” Gregory said while addressing his team. “It is time to take responsibility for your actions, and that starts with school.” 

Soon after the team meeting, it was back to business as they went out into the hall to do some sprints. Going back into the practice room Gregory and his assistant coach finished up by showing the team a couple of helpful tools to win. 

It was a high-spirited workout as Gregory was often emphatic in trying to nudge his athletes to their physical limits. 

“Push yourself,” Gregory shouted to them several times. “Pain is your friend.” 

Duals begin for Newton on Saturday at 9 a.m. at Rockdale. Other area schools will be participating in their own area duals tournaments as well. 

Eastside traveled to Woodward Academy Saturday to participate in the Area 4-AAAA duals. Alcovy will participate in the Area 3-AAAAAA duals at Heritage High and the four-time defending Class AA champion Social Circle Redskins will compete in Area 8-AA duals action Saturday at Monticello.

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