Jordan Burroughs shares what every wrestler needs to be tournament-ready.

10 Things Every Wrestler Needs For A Tournament

With Jordan Burroughs

Jordan Burroughs shares what every wrestler needs to be tournament-ready.
RUDIS USAW ICON 2.0 ELITE SINGLET
USAW ICON 2.0 ELITE SINGLET
RUDIS JB WHITE/BLACK KNIT ESSENTIAL SOCKS
JB WHITE/BLACK KNIT ESSENTIAL SOCKS
RUDIS JB ULTRA PERFORMANCE SHORTS
JB ULTRA PERFORMANCE SHORTS
RUDIS MOTTO CORNER TOWEL
MOTTO CORNER TOWEL

A wrestling tournament isn’t just about stepping on the mat. It’s about preparation, intention, and respect for the moment. The work doesn’t start when your name is called, it starts the night before, when you pack your bag, lay everything out, and get your mind right.

Here’s what every wrestler needs going into a tournament:

  1. SINGLET

    The foundation of competition. Your singlet represents your program, your work, and your opportunity. Always pack it first. Always check it twice. When you put it on, it’s time to compete.

    RUDIS Singlets at wrestling tournament

  2. SOCKS

    Changing socks between matches helps keep your feet dry and comfortable, especially during long tournament days.

  3. HEADGEAR

    Ensure your headgear is secure before you step on the mat. A solid pair of headgear stays comfortable and doesn’t shift around during matches all day.

    RUDIS Wrestling headgear

  4. WRESTLING SHOES

    Wrestling shoes are essential and matter more than anything else in your bag. Make sure they’re broken in, comfortable, and ready for a full day on the mat.

  5. WARM-UP APPAREL

    Bring gear you can warm up and move in comfortably. Pack extra shorts and multiple t-shirts to help keep you comfortable and ready as the day goes on.

  6. WATER BOTTLE

    Hydration matters over the course of a full tournament day. Having a water bottle and electrolytes on hand helps keep your body fueled between matches.

  7. BACKPACK

    Your bag holds your whole day. A reliable backpack keeps your gear organized and easy to grab between matches.

    RUDIS Wrestling backpacks

  8. HEADPHONES

    Music is a tool. Many wrestlers use it to lock in, block out distractions, and control emotion. Creating a fresh playlist for each tournament can help reset your mindset and bring intentional focus to competition day.

  9. MAT-SIDE TOWEL

    Every corner needs a towel. Whether it’s sweat or a quick reset between whistles, it’s something you’ll use more than you think.

  10. COURAGE & GRATITUDE

    Training hard earns you the chance to compete, but it doesn’t make competition easier. Wrestling on tournament day still requires courage. You can prepare as much as possible, but hard work is only the prerequisite. Courage is what allows you to step fully into the moment and compete the way you’re capable of.

    Gratitude changes how that moment is experienced. When you’re thankful for the opportunity, the preparation, your coaches, teammates, health, and support around you, pressure begins to fade. Competing with gratitude shifts your focus from fear and expectation to appreciation and presence.

    You can bring all ten things on this list, but courage and gratitude determine how the day unfolds. They’re what turn preparation into performance and experience into perspective.

    Bring all ten and you’re ready to compete.


“Regardless if you win or you lose, if you come in with courage, with perspective, and all ten of these items that you need, you’re bound to have a good day.” - Jordan Burroughs


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