Mike-
I must disagree with you here. I think that a wrestler weighing 120 pounds with 15% body weight should not be allowed to cut to 103, even if they have the disciple to do that. They could safely get to 112 without losing too much muscle mass, but after that point that is where the weight loss will come, from muscle mass. The wrestler would not continue to lose fat after a certain point as the body requires a minimum of 3-4% body fat for life functions. This fat is in cell membranes and around many nerve cells.

When I say muscle mass, I am not just talking about biceps, pecs, etc. I am also talking about cardiac muscle, digestive muscle (the stomach and intestines), and other necessary organs. Even if a parent were in favor of this weight loss, I feel a responsible coach would not be. The system proposed by the KSHSAA backs up a coach in this instance in doing the right, healthy thing for this athlete. It may also prevent a coach from looking the other way, or thinking that if the wrestler can make it that is all that matters. Even if no negative effects are felt now, this type of weight loss can result in long term damage that would not be seen for years to come, and may not be able to be linked back to the weight cutting in particular.