My thoughts:

It's not the 'move' that's suspect, it's the user. When executed correctly at the proper time (and there are times when it is tactically called for other than the last desperate moments of a match) it is devastating. If you have a kid who's top heavy, leaining forward on his toes, elbows out and head down, than fire away - you'll teach him how to be a better wrestler when you pin him.

If not, it's like trying to hammer a nail with a pair of pliers...it'll work sometimes, but more often than not you wind up hurting yourself.

General Observations - (NO PROGRAMS ARE INTENDED FOR DISCRIMINATION)

- It's taught incorrectly for incorrect reasons at Jr Hi and Kid level and, perhaps, at some HS

- It's 'enabled' for incorrect reasons at Jr Hi and Kid level (and probably at some HS).

- I estimate 90% of headlocks are 'forced' at HS level, meaning they aren't set up, they aren't tactically called for, or they are incorrectly applied.

- The argument that users wind up with pins is irrelevant if the mentor or coach is trying to develop the total wrestler. The Head and Arm or 'Standing Headlock' is simply another tool, not the only tool, in the toolbox. I counsel my wrestlers after the match, even if they win, about the choice of moves, series, etc. Even if the win, I am very critical an incorrect application or sequence as it would lose to a 'better' opponent.

Nice thread.

Tim Shea
Asst Coach Spring Hill