First of all, you made some sort of comment of why do we not follow the other states as they have found the right way to impove their state's wrestling. Did you ever consider that we are the state breaking new ground. That we are the ones ahead of the curve. That we got it right!! You know it is a flaw in logic to say just because everyone else does it that way, we should. Don't you remember you mon making that comment about if everyone is jumping off a bridge, would you. In other words, I do not care what others are doing. Prove they are right first, then tell me about it. I know my son benefited from wrestling against HS kids - do not take that away from the new 8th graders coming in.
Second, you talk about a state champion wrestling 8th graders (and please keep it at 8th graders) at kids state. I can think of one. But, will you also research how many 8th graders won first over High School kids.
Remember the main reason for federation wrestling in Kansas is to prepare kids for high school, not give the fans high profile matches to watch. The current system gives junior varisity and low weight kids a reason to continue their season. The changes you advocate will change that. Leave the 14U alone. Allow Freshmen to choose and add a High School division.
Overall this is position, I would vote for it, but then try to change it. And, we really need to look into using USA age group. You kind of lose your grand state, unless you allow kids to choose to go up.
Finally, Sports Fan, why even comment if you are not going to add something of value to the discussion. For the most part, this has been an excellent thread where people are exchanging opinions and debating a topic in a civilized manner we are not really use to.
