In my opinion, and this is strictly coming from someone who has set up and run novice tournaments, I think the coaches should be held accountable. Yes, generally the parents do sign the kids up for the tournaments, but they are coached mat side by a club coach. The tournament directors should also be notified if there is a kid who is appearing too advanced for novice so they can talk to the coaches too. Maybe a little embarrassment would help curb their placement again in another novice tournament. I know I wouldn't have a problem talking to them about it, but then again, I'm not one to keep my mouth shut. A tournament director can also report the incident to the Exec Director and Exec Chair, then it would be on record. I agree the whole point is to grow the sport, and parents and coaches need to remember that. I also agree with the Annette and FJ VanAnne, we use Track Wrestling for our tournament and it is a great tool, so the more it is used the more can be checked to see if "Johnny" placed at a previous novice tournament.

Just my thoughts.......