Champion Mindset: Albany Clinic with Alexandria Glaudé

This past weekend, student-athletes from over 15 high schools across the Bay Area gathered for the From The Bay To The Mat free wrestling clinic in Albany, led by Alexandria Glaudé, a 2025 U.S. World Team Member, 2021 Pan Am Champion, and 2018 U23 World Bronze Medalist.

The day began with a Beyond the Mat activity where students reflected on what wrestling means to them. Some shared that the sport helped them find a sense of belonging, others said it built their confidence, and a few opened up about how it helped them cope with mental health challenges. For two participants, this was their first clinic ever and their very first time stepping onto a wrestling mat.

After the reflections, Glaudé guided everyone through warm-ups including bear crawls, bridges, and light jogging before moving into technique. The athletes listened closely, eager to learn, and Glaudé’s calm and encouraging energy filled the room. Each participant had a chance to demonstrate what they had learned, giving them an opportunity to build confidence and learn from one another.

As practice came to an end, Glaudé shared how much she enjoyed working with them. She spoke about how clinics like these were what first got her into wrestling and hoped that each participant would take away something meaningful from the experience.

Before the day ended, everyone gathered once again for the Beyond the Mat Award. Two students were recognized for their heartfelt reflections on what wrestling means to them. One student spoke about how wrestling helped her find her place in the world and feel comfortable being herself, while another shared that wrestling gave him purpose and helped him push through depression.

Their stories reminded everyone why this sport matters. Wrestling isn’t just about strength or winning, it’s about growth, community, and finding yourself in the process. The day closed with a group photo, capturing a room full of smiles, courage, and connection.

Thank you to Coach Glaudé, Albany High School, our volunteers, and all the wrestlers and families who made this event possible. Each clinic continues to show how much impact the sport can have on and beyond the mat.

This Saturday we are hosting the final stop of our From The Bay To The Mat free clinic series at SF State, led by Stanford All-American Jaden Abas.