NORWICH – With the intention of building strong kids and strong teams for the future, organizers of the Norwich Youth Wrestling program say they’re expecting a big turnout when they unroll the mats next week.

“Our goals is to get 100 kids signed up,” said coach Tim Scheer.

He hopes there’s even more, because he believes the program offers a number of benefits to area kids.

“This program can really help all kids,” Scheer said. “It teaches respect for others, builds discipline, develops motivation and it keeps them active, that’s so important.”

The program begins Thursday, Nov. 8 with registration in the Norwich High School wrestling room, located just off the gymnasium. It’s open to all youth in grades kindergarten through sixth grade that reside in the Norwich City School District. There is no cost to participate.