I have read most of the posts and find them intelligent and informative. With regards to college wrestling, I do think we miss the points at times, both as coaches and parents. For my athletes, and, I think, the majority of kids, we want them to go to college. My son included. I dream of him being in the NCAA final match one time. Can I know this (he is ten)? No. What I realize now is I want him to go beyond just high school in some capacity. This is the key here: go to college and get an education. Wrestling is an end to this means. Nothing makes me as a coach rouder than when my athletes earn their high school diploma. They have achieved something that some people can never say they have. I want our wrestlers to go on to college and earn those high degrees, such as doctor, judge, or, most imporantly, a teacher. Even though I wrestled for a small NAIA program such as Dana College, it was the sport of wrestling that brought me to school. Sure, we all dream of the "big show", the NCAA championships, but I know the college level is packed through all the levels. Andrew Lee, my recent signee, is at Missouri Valley. They compete all the time with DI schools and do very well. A lot of Kansas wrestlers come sign with the head coach at Missouri Valley--he is an active recruiter. I agree with Coach Westphal that sometimes Kansas is overlooked because of lack of programs. I cannot control that. What I can control is promoting my athletes in my program to college coaches so my wrestlers can earn their degrees and improve their opportunitiesin life.

Peter Sierant
Turner High School