I have a question for discussion and clarification. I was "very kindly expressing" to an official (who did a great job this weekend, by the way!) that the top wrestler was hooking and sitting on our ankle (my wrestler was on bottom). He did this for a large majority of the period. My claim was that this should be considered a stall tactic and called similar to holding on to the ankle with a hand. I have seen it called this way before, but not always.

So, I just wanted to know what other thoughts were on this situation. Should this be a stall warn? Opinions...

Another situation, my wrestler was on top in a spiral ride. The bottom wrestler was in a tripod. Neither wrestler was improving or moving, but top man was busted for a stall warning.

I think top wrestlers too often are nailed for stalling when really the bottom wrestler is not "wrestling aggressively" or legitimately hitting scoring attempts either. I find this unfair, especially when top man is out to side, hitting scoring attempts, making good efforts to: a) be off hips and give opportunities, and b) trying to lock up and turn scoring holds. I see this happen a lot. It is a recurring gripe I have.

I would like to see officials ask themselves one question on a stall, which wrestler is guilty of not working to score. If neither, then stalemate. A very good college ref from Kansas (Mr. Jim Ramirez) once gave me some great advice....he said if one wrestler CAN improve and is choosing to not, he is stalling. If neither wrestler can improve, then it is a stalemate. I thought that was a very good rule of thumb to look for.

Thoughts.....

This is for healthy discussion only, I mean no disrespect or to call anybody out. I think all officials do a great job, even when us coaches are yelling at you! Keep up the great work. Discussions like this help us ALL learn.