So What Is Wrestling All About?

What is the sport of wrestling all about?

"The 1st period is won by the best technician. The 2nd period is won by the kid in the best shape. The 3rd period is won by the kid with the biggest heart." -Dan Gable

• Wrestling is a very fair sport. At the high school level, a wrestler is matched up against an opponent their own weight.
• Wrestling is a tough sport. One must train hard to be successful and handle the physical and mental challenges of the sport.
• Wrestling is a fun sport. We have found that kids enjoy learning the wrestling moves and techniques, building muscles, and getting in the best condition of their lives, and winning trophies and medals.

What are the weight classes? WEIGHT (pounds) – 98 (Frosh/Soph), 106, 113, 120, 126, 132, 138, 145, 152, 160, 170, 182, 195, 220 and 285. If a wrestler weighs in 00.01 over their weight class, they are NOT allowed to compete at that weight.

What about weight cutting? At the start of the season, each wrestler must pass a hydration test. Once the wrestler has been determined to be fully hydrated, they are given a body-fat test. The results determine the lowest and highest weight that is healthy for each wrestler. If a wrestler decides to wrestle at a lower weight, it must be approved according to their weight certification. They then are only allowed to drop 1.5 pounds per week on their way down to a lower weight class. Finally, there is also a growth allowance during the season which goes into affect after the start of the new year. 

How are lineups chosen? Each week at wrestle-offs, wrestlers at the same weight class will compete, with the winner earning the spot for that week. There are often meets with multiple schools, allowing for different lineups.

Is Wrestling Safe? 

According to a 2013 Study by the Pediatric Injury Prevention, Education and Research Program at the Colorado School of Public Health, concussion rates for wrestlers is low. 

What about skin infections? Skin infections are a threat to wrestling because they are communicable through skin to skin contact, which is obviously predominant in wrestling. Most of these diseases can be prevented by being clean. W also do their part in preventing skin infections. The practice mats are cleaned before each practice. Also, we attempt to keep street shoes off the mats. Finally, after every tournament or practice, it is important to shower using antibacterial soap (or anti-fungal soaps/products).