General Discussion

I just wanted to leave a quick comment, that the sportsmanship at the Class L tournament was the best I've ever seen at a major tournament. Countless hugs, pats on the back and a generally great attitude by both the winning wrestlers and the defeated. I think I only saw one thrown headgear over the two days. Even after some very heated contests, wrestlers were helping each other up off the mat. The winning wrestlers genuinely shook hands with the defeated (not that weak, limp wristed, your not worth my time dead fish handshake I've seen so much of). Respecting your opponent, even after a dominant win, makes you look so much more like a man (or a woman)!

Very little arguing with the officials, and even then it was mostly respectful. And there were some bad calls, always are, but the coaches respectfully asked to speak with the ref and share their point of view. And the refs obliged, again, respectfully. Well done refs, not making this a pissing contest between you and the coach and seeing every comment as a challenge to your manhood.

My kudos to the coaches, parents and especially the kids for raising their social game here. I bring this up in part as my wife, who is not the biggest fan of the sport, commented on how much she noticed the great attitudes of the wrestlers this year. Made an exciting tournament that much better. Thanks again!