I was coaching at an open tourney being refereed by a young man while my 12 year old son sat beside me. During the match the young ref made a call in which the opposing coach got up and began screaming in the face of the ref. The young ref explained himself to the coach and acted professionaly and we went on with the match. I don't remember the call, but I know it wasn't something to get that worked up about, it is kids wrestling, and the kids continued on. When the match was done, I told my son that young ref really had gained my respect for the way he handled himself. My 12 year old informed me that the young ref was Ryne Cokeley. He said he hoped that he hoped someday he could give back to kids wrestling like Ryne does.

We have all been there when things didn't go our way and let our emotions get to us. That is part of life and growing up. We learn from it and move on.

I for one am thankful that we have good quality kids like this that represent KS. Thanks to these two wrestlers for giving your everything on the mat! It gave something for all of us sitting on our couch to talk about!


B. Star
Lawrence, KS
Sunflower Kids Wrestling Club
"Rivals on the mat, friends in life"