The Super 32
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"Is my tag in?"
by Butch Sadler, head coach, Wake Forest-Rolesville
When I was the coach at Tarboro HS, I had the pleasure of coaching Lee Carroll. Even though Tarboro brought back wrestling in 1992-93 (after having cut the program in 1986), Lee's sophomore year, he was quick to learn and very dedicated. As a junior, Lee was a state finalist. In his senior year, Lee gradually overcame his personal doubts concerning his success the year before and the external and internal pressures to win the states as a senior. He rolled to a 50-0 undefeated season and state championship. We never talked about the record he was breaking (Mike Kendall's 49-0 season)- I'm not sure he realized it at the time. What I do remember was the ritual that developed as the season came to a close. Every wrestler has their own warm-up/psyche-up routine before a match, but this one was unique to me. Before every match at regionals and states, Lee would get his last minute advice from myself and Lo (Lorenzo Carmon) and then, before checking in at the table, he would ask "Is my tag in?" (in reference to the tag on his singlet). We would make sure it was in, and he would then go off to kick butt. I thought it was hilarious- of all the things to be concerned with before a big match- the tag on your singlet. Oh well- what do I know? Whatever it takes to get you in the "Zone"
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