Speaking from the standpoint of a coach, I'll take the pinner over the takedown artist every time. Takedowns are exciting, I'll grant you, and an integral part of winning the close matches. The fall, however, is the wrestler's equivalent of boxing's 'knock-out punch'; if there's time left on the clock, no point margin (less than 15) is ultimately "safe". Pinning is the true difference between the 'very good' and the 'great'.

Just ask Chris Saferite. This past weekend Chris, now wrestling for the University of Central Oklahoma, wrestled for the NCAA II championship at 125#. His opponent was only good enough on his feet to prevent a takedown. In the second period, the other guy chose top, hooked up a cradle, and pinned Chris.

Incidentally, another former Oriole, Shawn Silvis, won the NCAA II 165# title; UCO won their 13th team title-- congrat's to Coach James and the rest of the Bronchos!!!

Pin to win, baby.

J. D. Hand
Ass't. Coach
Augusta HS