I have been fortunate to have wrestled when all classes were together, to have worked the State tournament when it was in Russell, one class, when it was in Hays, two classes, and 4,5,6A classes in Wichita. I also attended both of the Grand State tournaments in Hays. All sides of this agrument have good points, however, I feel the combined site offers the true wrestling fan a great venue to see the best of the best. The view from the floor seeing 7000 fans standing, the large flag waving, and the top wrestlers in the state standing waiting to compete is a sight you will not forget. Putting 123 & 4 A together might make sense, however spliting all classes into individual classes again will take the sport back 20 years. The Newton tournament had more excitement that the State tournament would have if we did that. Someone made a great point, if it is dirty, pick up the trash and put it in the trash can, then call the County Commission and let them know. They do listen. Former County Commissioner Bud Hentzen arranged for the Officials Association to have a meeting with the County. They agreed the housekeepping was not what it should be, they agreed the mangement should have been friendier, and those of you that complained about the security should see how you look and act from the floor. The County will work with the wrestling community, remember Dave Unruh was a outstanding official, fan and he had wrestling sons.

Sure the 5-6A tournament will not be a financial success, the rental rate will be the same 1/3 of the teams will be gone and the State will take that into consideration when they separate the classes back into some of the new high school gyms. But I feel fortunate to have been associated with over 20 years of the best State Championship arrangements this state has ever seen, the KSHSAA State Wrestling Championships in Wichita. Thank you Wichita