Dylan,

Great post. I think you touched on the overarching issue...

What is the overall purpose of an event like this?

If the answer is to showcase individual wrestlers, etc. then you are spot on.

If the answer is to try and grow the general fan base and provide an event that is exciting to the general public and not just wrestling fans, then the dual tournament is the way to go (IMO).

In a perfect world there would be both....unfortunatelly we don't live in a perfect world.

I voted for the Dual because I think we have enough venues for individuals to show their stuff and accomplish their individual goals. The idea of a State dual appeals to me because I think it is exciting, appeals to a larger fan base, and is becoming a victim of some outdated rules.

In my opinion, dual meets get at the heart of what is great about the sport of wrestling...

1. It's for everyone (doesn't matter what shape or size)
2. Success is directly proportional to amount of effort you put into.
3. Discipline
4. Teamwork.....this is what makes sports so fun in high school. Representing your school, having the fans cheer for you, sweating, bleeding and competing with your buddies.....heck it doesn't get any better than that!

Just my 2 cents.

Shawn Budke