During the past 4 years, I have attended both regular and qualifying tournaments at Winfield. I never had any problems until this year’s regular tournament. I waited over 2 hours for a teammate’s medal who went home sick from the morning session. When I finally heard them announce his age and weight, I went to the table and asked for the medal. I was told that announcement was only to mean that they would be calling us soon. I told them that the last match was done over 2 hours before and 2 workers chewed me out but at least I got the medal. My son was done wrestling by 3 and we didn’t get his medal until almost 5. Furthermore, many of our coaches were sick that weekend and we had 3-4 kids wrestling at the same time. On at least 4 occasions the referee refused to allow our kids to call for a coach. When Mr. Biddle came by to inform one of our mother’s that her son’s bracket was being changed again we told him what was going on. He asked if he won and when we said “no”, he said, “oh well” and walked away.

I was in a good mood until going to weigh ins tonight. I got into line for a bracket and realized that my husband had no cash on him and I left my purse at home. I asked the bracket worker if I could see my son’s bracket so I would know how early I needed to arrive. My son almost always has a round robin and he is usually late on the mat since he is in a heavier weight. I was told that I would need to wait until her paying customers were taken care of. They were not posted. After a few minutes another parent joined my wait. After 20 minutes a parent offered to lend me a dollar but at this point I was to upset to give Winfield a dollar “donation“. I stood at the table for almost 35 minutes before I asked another volunteer for help. Even she seemed surprised I had to wait 35 minutes to see his bracket but they still wouldn’t let me see it. I was told they would tell me his first match only. As she told me he wrestled match #33 the bracket volunteer and the teen next to her just glared at us.

My entire family has a cold and to be honest we could really use the extra hour sleep. We will still get there early to cheer on our club. We are used to waiting around and enjoy watching our team. I do fundraising for our club so even though my son usually only wrestles 2 matches, I buy a bracket so I can donate to the club. I also sell the brackets at our tournament and even though ours are posted, I never deny a wrestler, parent, or coach the chance to see a bracket.

I understand that a tournament is mentally and physically exhausting but would a little courtesy kill someone. I guess I should be thankful that Winfield is saving me money. I refuse to support them in any way. I will not purchase a bracket or concession items at any future tournaments