New Season, New Changes

Here we are on the brink of a new season and there are many changes that are at hand.

First of all, Mr. Ranallo decided not to come back this year as head coach. He continues to teach in the school, but will not be on the mat with us. Also, Coach O'Brien chose not to come back due to his new family. This leaves myself, Coach Turk, as the only remaining coach from last year. I will assume the head coaching position this year as a first timer. We have added Mr. Seacrist, a mobile teacher, as our assistant coach.
Second, we have a tough schedule that will challenge our wrestlers in the coming year. We have two home matches one on Jan. 31st and the other on Feb. 12th (Parents Night). The rest of our schedule will be on the road.
Third, is that we will change the format for wrestle-offs. This week, on Friday December 5th, we will have our first wrestle-offs. This will decide our line-up for the RIverside Rumble. The following weeks the starter only has to win the challenge match to retain his spot. Should the starter lose, then it becomes a best of 3 series to determine the starter. This is how they do it in college and it is fair to the returning starter and the challenger.
Fourth, there are some new rule changes for the year. The biggest being lining up in the referees position, which has a new sequence. To begin from the down position, the top guy must now put his hand on the navel, then put the palm on the elbow. The ref will then momentarily pause before blowing the whistle. This will prevent rolling starts and the advantage the top wrestler had.
Lastly, this is the 50th anniversary of our 1958 State Championship Wrestling team. We will look to honor them at future match.

I am excited to get this season started. If you have any questions, feel free to post a comment or contact me.