I agree with up4Wrestling. In addition, we compete in USA santioned events. The upper age groups are very important to USA and Olympic style wrestling. 6 and under is not a recognized age group nationally in USA wrestling. Bantams are 7 and 8 year olds. Similar but not equal to our 8 and under division. The national format is another reason that we end as late as we do. I say start in January. Let your 6 year olds (and less serious 8 years olds) go at the end of February and concentrate on your older wrestlers and serious younger kids in March. Parents have a hard enough time keeping the sport in perspective. In the first couple of years, spare the kid and the parents the intensity of qualifying. They have many more years to enjoy the sport. That's my 2 cents worth after 11 years around USA wrestling.