Dickens & Rumi
Cover of Going to the Mat

film

Going to the Mat

2004

Jace Newfield has a problem. Besides being blind and being the new kid at school, his problem is that the kids at his new school thinks he's a jerk. Jace has to find a way to be accepted into his new school. Joining the wrestling team just might work.

Ages 7+Source checked

Why this age? The G-rated family film centers on school adjustment, bullying, wrestling competition, disability, friendship, and perseverance; sports conflict may mildly unsettle younger viewers. This is guidance, not a safety guarantee; reading level and family context may differ.

Quick view

At a glance

Recommended age7+

Strongest cautions

  • Violence2/5
  • Frightening scenes1/5
  • Products & advertising1/5

Strongest positives

  • Courage & resilience4/5
  • Kindness & empathy4/5
  • Positive messages4/5

What’s in it?

Products & advertising1/5
Why this rating?

Incidental presence of general brand awareness common in Disney films, but no significant push.

Strong language1/5
Why this rating?

Very mild language; instances of characters being called 'jerk'.

Romance1/5
Why this rating?

A mild, age-appropriate teen crush or romantic interest may be present, but romance is not central to the story.

Frightening scenes1/5
Why this rating?

No scary scenes, creatures, or threats.

Violence2/5
Why this rating?

Features wrestling matches typical for a high school sports setting; contact is competitive but non-violent in nature.

What’s good in it?

Courage & resilience4/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist shows great courage in trying a new, difficult sport while being blind.

Creativity & curiosity2/5
Why this rating?

Highlights problem-solving through sports and music.

Diverse representation3/5
Why this rating?

A blind teenager is central and portrayed as an active student and athlete with agency, friendships, flaws, and achievements.

Educational value2/5
Why this rating?

Provides some insight into the life of a blind student and the sport of wrestling.

Kindness & empathy4/5
Why this rating?

Friends and coaches show empathy and encourage the protagonist's growth.

Positive messages4/5
Why this rating?

Strong positive messages about humility, perseverance, and acceptance.

Good role models3/5
Why this rating?

The protagonist learns from his mistakes and grows into a positive role model.

Family discussion

Talk about it

Conversation starters based on this title’s published content notes.

  1. What did courage look like in this story? Was being brave always the same as being fearless?
  2. How did the story handle conflict or violence? Did the characters have other choices?
  3. Which choice in Going to the Mat would you have made differently, and why?
  4. Who changed the most in Going to the Mat, and what caused that change?
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