From a parent’s perspective the youth clubs on the MO side (K-8, no HS division in MOUSAW) do a HORRIBLE job letting the community know they even exist. No fliers in the schools, nothing. Almost felt like we were trying to join the mafia trying to get my son started, found our local club online by accident.

Even talking to family friends (some of whom now wrestle) I was surprised by the number of people who didnt realize youth wrestling existed AT ALL. More kids may try it out if they’re aware it’s out there.
Length of the folk style doesn’t help recruitment either. MOUSA state tournament was just last weekend. 2-3wks later than last year, regular season ran 5 full months. Not an issue for everybody, my son practices year round and I know of several clubs who offer year round practices and/or switch to freestyle after state but kids (and their families) trying something new may not want a nearly half year commitment. I’m sure with a 5 month season we lose kids in MO because of the overlap with the spring sports season too.