Do you have trouble shooting on your opponent? A lot of athletes go through this, and therefore turn to defense. I've heard many parents say, "He has a nice shot but never hits it during the match." Is that you?

There are several reasons why athletes don't shoot much. One, you don't have confidence in your leg attacks and your ability to get to the legs. Two, you get to the legs but can't finish, and oftentimes end up in bad position.

If you can't get to the legs, look at a couple of things: Are you " clearing a space" to attack? What are you using to set it up? You should have a variety of setups that get you in position to score. Have an answer to everything your opponent does. In other words, if he grabs your head, be able to clear his arm and position yourself to attack - namely, by creating an opening (arm out of the way), and changing levels. If he puts a hand on you, same thing. If he grabs your wrist - be able to clear that, level change and be in position to attack.

Another big key: While you are changing levels, you should have your Attack Leg forward. Many wrestlers make this mistake. You should practice a lot of level changing with your attack leg forward. If you can't level change well, you won't have a very good shot.

If you have trouble finishing the shot, look at the mechanics of your particular leg attack. This includes your angle, where your hands are, and what your finish options look like. Be able to finish based on a variety of opponents' reactions, just as you would set up for your shot based on a variety of opponents' positions.