I am glad someone started this thread as I want to praise Mark Stanley and team for a great job. I use to come to the State Tourney a few years back with my son and after some years off, have been back 2 of the last 3 years with my grandson and I want to just state how well ran this tournament was.

The best change from past years was how nice the arena staff were. I remember a time when they were hateful, mean people. I remember when they did everything but make a kid strip to ensure they weren't trying to smuggle in a candy bar. In fact, I use to never buy any concessions there as a matter of principle. This year I spent way too much on those concessions!!

There was an issue with congestion, but I don't think a rule limiting floor passes is the way to go. It just creates hurt feelings and lots of animosity. A lot of the congestion has to do with the fact the tournament is about as big as it can get. I like the idea of moving the HS division. Maybe there should just be an open HS tournament on Friday, but that is another discussion. Another idea might be to move some of the mat assignments. Most of the congestion appeared to be by the 10U mats. This makes sense, the mats are small, the matches go fast, so lots of kids are on deck with their coaches. I don't believe any limiting of floor passes should be done until other options are tired. Also, remember the stands are crowed too!!! This is a BIG EVENT. Given its size, the congestion was livable.

I do like the idea of warm-up mats in the exhibition hall. This might get some of the kids off the floor and is a good idea regardless. It would also be nice if there were more table up out there. The arena is packed on the 1st day, people might enjoy a relaxing place to sit. I think the hospitality area is great, it was a relaxing place to sit between matches and my wife and daughter were not allowed in. Maybe it could be made more enticing to the coaches.

Moreover, I don't like the kids warming up on the mats during the introduction of the finalists. Looked bad. The mats should be clear during this time. These kids earned that.

Finally, I remember coming when Leann Grater and Ned Price ran the tournament. Its nice to see years later, their legacy and whoever might of been before them, is still a success!