This was my first time at Brute Nationals and I have to say I thoroughly enjoyed it. The facility was great, UNO wrestlers were great, and the wrestling was outstanding.

For the most part the officiating was very good. I was next to the mat on Aaron's match and I can honestly say that in 30 yrs of being around wrestling I have never seen anything like it. I think however, the most important part of that match was the way Aaron handled his disappointment. He didn't throw a tantrum or behave in any negative way....he got his gear, maintained his composure and then went outside to collect himself. I am extremely proud of him and the way he handled the situation. I know for a fact that his behavior has had a positive impact on my 7 yr old son and the lesson he learned on how to behave during unfortunate circumstances. I know it stinks to lose but Aaron has a lot more winning and succes ahead of him.

I also agree with the comments about the Kansas folks acting like a family and cheering for everyone from KS. I had a good friend from MT that was coaching and he asked me if they made a wrong turn and actually ended up in KS because all of the support he heard and how well all the KS wrestlers were doing. Congratulations to all wrestlers from KS. You all worked hard and definately represtented KS wrestling well.

Last but not least, I personally would like to thank the parents and wrestlers from Leavenworth and Lansing for allowing me to have the privalege to coach you. It was truely an honor. The parents were exceptional with taking care of "Little Man" while I was coaching and the "Big wrestlers" were absolutely awesome at including him and showing him how to behave when he gets that age. You all are fantastic young men and it is my hope that when my son grows up he has the same character as all of you.

I look forward to contuing working with all of you during the upcoming freestyle season and summer.

Thanks again for making this a trip that my son and I will remember for the rest of our lives!

Coach Budke