I believe they are wrestling straight through this year. I think Kendric Maple, Tyler Caldwell, Nathan Butler, - just to name a couple of Kansas wrestlers who went on and wrestled NCAA D-I wrestling after competing in this tournament. There have been numerous HS state champions and state placers from several states that have gone on to all levels of college and wrestled. It also allows the kids that are Junior Varsity on their high school teams to wrestle someone in their own grade/class. If someone is so good in this area and has no competition then they should travel to wherever and seek out some other challenges. I personally have been going to this tournament and coaching kids since its started in Nebraska - and it is my opinion that it is far from being a joke and a great opportunity for wrestlers. I am reading a quote off of my coffee cup this morning, "Life Isn't About Waiting For The Storm To Pass It's About Learning How To Dance In The Rain".