it would be nice if everyone could compete in open tournaments, but to me it is obvious why it is not allowed. Do i think it is right, probably not, but it does make it things "fair", no really. As for the 1%, it may or may not be the ones who want to go.

Wow! this is quite a string of posts. One thing I can say with confidence is formed in a question - everyone always talks "mattime" is the best experience for a wrestler. Break this down for me - I've always assumed this as being practice time. Heck, anyone can sign up and compete in a tourney - winning or going 0-2... give me a week in the practice room and put me against someone (equal) who goes to a tourney, I like my odds! One very important point some of us are missing - respect from our fellow teamates speaks volumes... during my 7-8 yrs of coaching I've seen kids do unbelievable things primarily feeding off of their teamates. Such teamates that are in the practice room helping them not those that believe this sport is about individuality!! I'll take a group (team if you will) of kids that will work their butt's off for their parents, coaches, and teamates before one kid that thinks and acts like he's to good and goes to a tourney rather than starting practice with "his" teamates - thats what summer wrestling is all about... just my feelings!

It really depends on when you want your kids to peak. Whether it be USA Kids & Club Wrestling - I want those kids to be at their best in March. For high school kids - ideally you want them at their best in February. Some high school kids may put more focus on summer wrestling and peak in the summer. I have seen some H.S. kids that hit their peak a little to early in January or early February - and maybe they have had to many matches early. I think the fall is for building strength, conditioning, and technique - for the up & coming long winter of competition. Some guys can stay on top of their game (peak) most of the time. But -a very large percent of competitors never stay on their peak all of the time. If you are trying to do that as a group or team it is pretty hard to get them all to peak at the same time - but that is one of the goals of the coach. Peak, A little flat for a while, peak, a little flat & peak. Stay out of the valley if possible.

Not that it matters but I agree that many of the pre season tourneys would be great for "mat time". But, I would struggle with having to give a week with their HS team to attend one tourney.

I might add in exchange for starting to season well in advance that a wrestler may be better suited to wrestle thru the spring at the state and nat'l level events in folkstyle, freestyle, and greco. There are plenty of top level events to keep their attention well into the summer if they want them.

I believe I saw high school wrestlers competing last year at the Bighorn Nationals the week before the Cliff Keen Kickoff.

A lot of great posts. Now CK is just around the corner. Who's going ?? I have a kid that is not a "Prima Donna" just loves to wrestle. Jake Hattabaugh 15U 145 will be there. Anyone need a ride ??

Ryne Cokeley 15U 115 (which is technically 117).