lakemats,

Very good point about the Neely vs Witt. Witt was very impressive on top. If Witt could've gotten a takedown, the match could've went the other way. The advantage that Neely and others have is that the 1st period is on your feet. When they get their choice, on their feet again. So they have 2 shots vs their opponents who will only have once choice.

My son has been runner up at National events because his opponent (nemesis) is better on his feet. He's lost by 2 or less points via his nemesis because of a takedown. They both are equal on the mat. Also, my son has lost to Zac Gentzler a couple of times by 2 points because Zac skills on his feet are excellent. I guess that's why I feel that the neutral position is so important. Also, watching the best HS & college wrestler has pointed me in that direction.

I stress to my son all the time that you must protect your legs and get a takedown. He does pretty good on the mat but has alot of work to do on his feet. Blue Springs are Oak Park good from the neutral position and I personally do like watching that phase of their wrestling. Haynes is awesome on top and always has been. I'll be following him during his time at Mizzou along with seeing how well Disney does at Minn.