So many questions, so little space. But this will be my last post on this topic, (unless I change my mind).

Suckerpunch and Will...gentlemen, no offense intended by my comments. I am trying to focus on the particular call that generated so much interest...unfortunately, and as so often happens, these threads end up being a personal attack or they spiral out of control into something that is ugly. I apologize if I offended either of you. What has happened with my comments is what I hate to see happen on this forum (and why I don't post here much)which is that a discussion about a wrestling situation becomes personal.

Suckerpunch, I was not referring to your comment as a "hissyfit." It was a general remark about complaints that are not backed by anything other than emotion or opinion. That was not directed at you. I was responding to your "drop it" comment and wish now I'd taken that. I thought the call was an interesting topic. That interest has worn off....

Will...Sorry, I thought you were a official and that was the "secret society." You've lost me there, I guess. Doesn't matter.

I know who you are (never said I didn't, we've met once, maybe twice,) but everybody in Kansas wrestling knows your name. I do not know your son, never met him, but do know by his record and reputation that he is an outstanding wrestler. You are certainly well-qualified and knowledgable regarding wrestling, at all levels and in all respects, and I don't think you'll find anyone who thinks otherwise. You are also an ardent supporter of the sport. Based upon the posts I've seen here, I doubt if there is anyone with a broader understanding of wrestling in Kansas than you. That's sincere. And you are passionate about the sport. I would probably agree with most of what you think needs to be done to improve Kansas wrestling.

Now, my final points on the wrestling topic. This was a good match. I didn't see it live. I heard about on this site. It generated lots of discussion here. I've not talked to anyone in person about. I posted on the NFHS site to get some input on a close, controversial call that happened in my state. That's what goes on at the NFHS website everyday. We try to be better officials through civil discussion. This call was arguable, certainly, that's why I posted it. I reported back what those officials thought because it seemed to me a lot of folks were interested in what the correct call was. But it was a close call.

This wrestling situation was also interesting to me because I had a very similar call arlier this year and I spent some time second-guessing that call and getting input from other officials on the correctness of that call.

I do not put officials on a pedestal. Of course wrestling fans, parents, coaches, and participants know the rules.

If this thread gets turned into an indictment of officials, that's unfortunate, because most officials would agree with you that mistakes are made. I've seen calls "wiped off" or reversed numerous times over the years. And I've seen officials that are very reluctant to admit a mistake as well. I don't know how you address that because I don't know the reason for it. But there is a forum to have some ubiased review of alleged "blown calls" by out of state officials...the NFHS forum. Those guys are not circling the wagons for anyone. ..check out the posts, these are, for the most part, well-qualified officials.

Will, you've got a lot going on it your last post. Perhaps another thread could be started on "How to Improve Officating in Kansas" and I'd be happy to be a regular contributor. But for now, I'm going to eat some crow and take Suckerpunch's advice.

In closing, apologies to all. Everyone enjoy the sport. Do what you can to contribute and improve it. Get a kid involved. Officiate if you can.

Bob Ford
Wrestling Official