I agree that weight cutting is a part of wrestling. I'm sure any tough kid who thought it would give them and edge would not object to cutting a few pounds. There is a difference, however, in a small kid cutting a few pounds as opposed to a big kid doing the same. Sometimes your lighter weights have a number of kids who are still growing... and they certainly don't need to jeopardize their health. On the other hand, a heavyweight might be healthier if he DID drop a few. The most profound issue is at both ends of the spectrum. It's tough to watch a true 95-pounder wrestle at 103 against a kid who has cut 10-15 pounds to get to 103. Assuming their skills match up, the small kid hasn't got much of a chance. By the same token, in heavyweight the same thing occurs when two equally skilled wrestlers square off with a 30+ pound gap. Don't know if matside weigh-ins are the answer either...it just might give the macho maniacs more fuel to add to their "if you're tough you can do it" fire. I think the most important factor in the entire issue is the integrity and intent of those resposible for the wrestlers...the parents and coaches. You've got to hope they'll always guide their wrestlers to do what's right and safe.