Early talent selection in wrestling, though often necessary for high-performance development, poses significant psychological risks when not tailored to children`s emotional and maturational stages. This study investigates the mental and emotional consequences of early selection practices, especially in athletes aged 6 to 10. Drawing from self-determination theory and the Developmental Model of Sport Participation, the paper highlights how rigid, performance-based selection can lead to stress, anxiety, identity foreclosure, and sport dropout - particularly among early-maturing girls. Case studies from ACS Patru Academy and CS Petrolul Ploiesti illustrate the real-world impact of early puberty, with findings emphasizing the importance of psychological readiness, gender-sensitive coaching, and biological-age informed criteria. The paper proposes a child-centered, ethically grounded approach to selection, integrating physical assessments with emotional monitoring and parental guidance. Recommendations include avoiding labeling, adjusting expectations based on pubertal timing, and promoting long-term engagement over short-term success. Ultimately, early selection should serve not as a filter for exclusion, but as a structured opportunity to support each child`s holistic development in sport.
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