I would like to start by saying I have no desire to get into a name-calling contest with anyone. But, I would like to express my opinion on several areas of this subject.
1) First, in regards to a takedown record. Not trying to disrespect anyone who aspires to hold this record I feel often records are achieved at the expense of inferior opponents. Many of the greatest wrestlers that have come out of Kansas aren't on any all-time records list.
2) Second, regarding taking an opponent down and letting him up. The ultimate in wrestling is the fall. In my opinion that is what every wrestler should be trying to do each time they step on the mat. I do understand that wrestlers of greater skill sometimes find it hard to find opponents that they just can't takedown and pin, thus, the argument that they won't be ready for the tougher competition down the line because of a lack of mat time. In this case it is the coaches responsibility to a) make sure they have a schedule that gets them tough matches during the year, and b) the coach makes sure they get tougher in practice. If a coach hasn't figured out how to push his wrestlers to the breaking point in practice then no amount of takedowns against a lesser opponent will get them ready for the really tough matches. In my opinion a competition shouldn't be used for practice.
3) Third, there are instances where taking a wrestler down and letting him up is good strategy. Let me give you those situations. a) The object is to score the most points for your team and if you can't pin your opponent then you want to tech fall him or major decision him to gain additional points in a dual or tournament. This might be done by letting him up and taking him down because he is to tough to turn. Also, sometimes, by doing this the other wrestler loses his will and then is easier to pin. b) A wrestler who might be hard to turn can sometimes be more easily put to his back from the neutral position. But, once put there the wrestler should try and secure a fall.
I do believe that sportsmanship is a part of this discussion. I do not believe that someone who gets toyed or played with on the mat and feels embarrassed about it should be questioned about whether they have enough heart to wrestle. We all wrestle for different reasons and most won't ever be champions. But, the real champions will never try and disrespect or embarrass their opponent. Anyone that has the guts to step out on the mat is okay in my book.
Jeff Watkins