This is an incredibly dumb thing to say regarding an issue like this. Do you honestly believe that just because an entire wrestling team appears to be a top 3 or 4 team in the state that they are exempt from the rules?

I believe that those involved should be punished in a reasonable and acceptable fashion, something to fit the crime so to speak. I can't say that I have read the team handbook of Derby Wrestling (if one exists). I would say that whatever is contained in that book should be the penalty administered. It shouldn't matter how good a wrestler is that determines his/her punishment. I know where I came from our team book had specific guidelines regarding alcohol/tobacco use. Anyone caught with alcohol/tobacco was suspended from the team for the week which included any duals and tournaments that week. This was in accordance with the schools own policies. The 2nd time for this offense was dismissal for the team. There were no provisions for an athlete’s talent level.

I have met the wrestler whose name was mentioned here. He is an intelligent person with a heart of gold. I honestly believe that this incident will serve as a great reminder that there are still rules in life, and I don't think he will repeat them. As far as the team goes, it would be a shame to see leniency shown just because of their talent level. Rules are set for a reason and if you break them you have to be willing to accept the consequences of them.