While I am not a Derby "Board Member,” I felt the need to respond to your question, even though it was not specifically related to the question used to start this particular section. I am new to Kansas and after viewing numerous quality clubs in the Wichita area chose Derby for a number of reasons, among which included the fact that they wrestled the Oklahoma and Kansas season, had quality coaching, and had little of the "politics" that so many clubs possess. I must admit that I did not see the area of politics in any of the Kansas clubs during the time we were trying out, although I have since after making the decision to join a club. Virtually every single person, with the exception of one out of literally dozens, had nothing but positive to say about Derby.

I would like to be more specific about answering your question but can not because you are not specific, nor do you leave any method of contacting you other than the forum. I do know that there were a large number of kids who were sick on both days of the tournament and the brackets had to be redrawn. As someone involved in the sport for a large number of years, I personally appreciated this. It certainly prevents a direct ride into the finals and assures more appropriate bracketing, and matches for the kids. Outside of this one area, which I did hear a few complaints about, I heard nothing but good about the tournament, coaches and officials. When explained why the need to rebracket, everyone I personally spoke with was grateful for the extra work. I also know that the tournament was fairly strict with the weigh in process, but worked with the clubs regarding all other areas. Again though an area that I appreicate due to the fact that some do not take the weight issues seriously nor do all tournaments inforce the issue.

I encourage you to contact one of the Derby officials if you have a complaint or contact me off line and I'll certainly relay your specific concerns.