I'm just waiting for someone to blast me here...but Mike, I'm not aware of any other HS sport where an advantage could be gained by grinding stubble into your opponent's shoulder or back, like you can in wrestling.

The rule's a rule. There's no other rules in the rule book that are overlooked for religious reasons. If an athlete wants to wear a religious medalian, they just can't where it on a chian, it must be taped to the body.

This rule has nothing to do with religion, but for an advantage gained by one opponent over another.

I hate to say, but if I was working this duel/tourney, he's going to shave or produce a letter from Bowden/KSHSAA telling me that he is exempt from this rule and allowing me to overlook it.