West Virginia High
School Wrestling

West Virginia Wrestling -- April - May 2002 Forum

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If you have some bit of West Virginia wrestling information to share, or a question or comment, here is the place.
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May 31, 2002
From: Shanon
email: Shanonmetz@directconnectioninternet.com
comments: I would like to wish ALL W.Va. wrestlers good luck in the up-coming tourney in Va. in June!!! GO GET EM" WEST VIRGINIA!!!!!

May 31, 2002
comments: Dave, that was good.

May 31, 2002
email: melissa2@citynet.net
comments: I have been to Parkersburg Souths' webpage several times and can not find anything posted about their wrestling camps. Does anyone have any information on this camp? It is the one camp that my son enjoys attending. He said that he learned more at that camp than he has at any other. He looks forward to attending again this year.

May 31, 2002
From: Jared Walters
comments: Im trying to get a wrestling club started around Milton in a couple of weeks.. If anyone is interested email me...

May 31, 2002
From: wrestling fan
comments: I recently found out about the new wvssac wrestling change and the one i dislike the most is the weigh-ins i think it will be twice as hard for kids to make weight, and you'll see more kids running at tournments than ever.I think that all that this is going to do is make the kids starve themselves for about ten more hours then necessary and i also think this is just plain stupid and that there making a big mistake.
ps. good luck to all the wrestler next year

May 28, 2002
From: Dave
email: dajams71@hotmail.com
comments: To Mr. Lemaster: You were right, I responded in anger and I should not have done so. So please forgive me for the direct verbal attack. I'm sure you run a very fine program. I know there are a lot of teachers who are very well qualified and capable of doing their job. I allowed a few rotten apples to spoil the whole barrel. My actions and wording were inappropriate, but I firmly stand behind the right of this young man to participate in the wrestling program. This was personal to me as I know the boy who is being denied the right to wrestle. He is a very fine young man and would give 110% if given the chance. Once again, I apologize to you Mr. LeMaster and anyone else I may have offended for the trash talk. I promise you future post from me will be written with a calmer head and not in anger. THANK YOU!

May 28, 2002
From: Tim Mayle
email: WVWRESTLER@aol.com
comments: I have 4 rooms available for the NHSCA Open tournament in Norfolk the end of June. These are double rooms at the motel hosting the event. If you are in need of a room please let me know by June 1st as I will be cancelling them at that time.

May 27, 2002
From: Coach Procaccini - Old Mill HS Maryland
comments: We are having a big open wrestling tournament on June 2nd at Old Mill HS in Millersville, MD. Wrestlers from Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Delaware, and Ohio will be competing. It is a folkstyle Tourney. Forms are available at www.pawrsl.com/pa/ scroll down to Rick Smith's Tourney Listings and click on that. Every age division is represented. If you have questions call me at 410-732-3673 or 443-8312709. We hope to get some West Virginia wrestlers to show up too.

May 27, 2002
comments: The subject of home school children. Whichever you choose to do homeschool or public please think of the children they are our future so, letting this young man wrestle now would not be the end of the world for anybody. I think every student, home school or public should have the right to be in any sport he or she wants to do. People working together to help this situation will get things done faster then making everyone mad. But, before we come down hard on home schooled children or the parents that choose to do this go and spend some time with a home school child. I bet you would be surpise they are just as smart and expressive as any public educated child is so, saying they lack any thing from being home schooled is not fair.

Their is good and bad teachers in both places and no weird religious reasons cause that..........

May 27, 2002
From: Daniel Jones
email: cooldan_j@yahoo.com
comments: As originator of the home school subject, I would like to say that arguments from both sides of the question went off on the deep-end so to speak. To place all public school teachers or home schoolers in one catagory is narrow minded. There are many well qualified and dedicated public school teachers as I think you would find most parents who home school would be qualified and dedicated also. For either side to try less than 100 percent on a childs education would be irresponsible.

But, my point at this time concerns an eleven year old boy who has no enemy with public school teachers or home school organizations and just wants to wrestle in the local school. I would furthermore like to say that most local public school teachers support him. So lets not make this public school verses home school lets focus on what is best for the children.

May 27, 2002
From: Home Schooling Mother email: christie_j@yahoo.com
comments: To: Jim LeMasters,
Thank you for your support in saying that all children deserve the right to wrestle in the school system until otherwise proven unworthy. Please do not get me wrong I am very good friends with public school teachers who are very good at their job. My choice to home school was based on alot of different reasons. I understand your concern about the childs GPA and I know that you have no way to make sure the grades are correct but the child must make at least in the 40th percentile to pass according to the state standardized test. That score is easily checked. The Standardized Test is given by a third party neutral state approved teacher and the parent is not even present. To: Wondering Wrestler, Yes, this is a wrestling page and I am very discouraged that some people used it to slander. I was just using it for support to the home schooled child's right to wrestle. Please do not confuse me with Dave and his comments towards teachers thats not why I wrote.

Editor's note:

This is a topic of some controversy, as can be seen by the posts generated. It is of interest to me for several reasons, not the least of which is that I am a member of the Board of Education here in Preston County (recently re-elected to another 4 year term). Questions such as this do come before the BOE from time to time.

A good bit of heat has been generated, and some light. As the mother above points out, the home schooled child is required to take a standardized test each year, and if the student falls below the 40th percentile in any subject area for, I think it is either two or three consecutive years, then home schooling is no longer an option.

However, my sources tell me that "grade reporting" is not required, as some posters have suggested.

I think that all children should be allowed to participate in extra-curricular activities, public schooled or home schooled. However, the fact is that ALL STUDENTS DO NOT HAVE A RIGHT TO WRESTLE (or participate in any extra-curricular activity for that manner).

That is a controversial statement, and contend with me on this point if you will, but consider the following:

Public school students must maintain a 2.0 GPA to be allowed to participate in extra curricular activities, and must not fail any of the selected basic core classes. They must earn the privilege to participate in extra-curricular activities by keeping up with their grades. Every year in our sport, there are any number of wrestlers who disappear from the team roster when the semester grades come out - some of these wrestlers have been state contenders.

Consider this: A student athlete gets his mid-term grades and finds he/she is failing every subject. The student drops out of public school, declares "home-schooled status," and stays on the team -- while other team mates continue to labor under the 2.0 rule. What proviso is in place to prevent this occurrence? None that I know of, but I may be wrong -- perhaps someone can enlighten me on this point.

Furthermore, any number of disciplinary problems may make the public student ineligible for extra curricular participation. Some of the disciplinary problems may be for such non-violent activity as excessive number of tardies or skipping school - behaviors which the home-schooled student would not have to worry much about.

I am of the opinion that 99% of home-schooled students are exceptional academicians and the above "what-ifs" do not apply to them. I am of the opinion that most home-schooled students would have no problem in meeting the academic and disciplinary standards of the public school student. These students should of course be allowed to participate in selected public school programs.

Unfortunately, it is the 1% that throws a wrench into the works. And I can tell you that there are some "one-percenters" out there..

May 26, 2002
From the Editor: I finally have acquired a new computer system, as my old desktop from 1995 finally died. Admittedly the updates have been spotty the past few weeks, but my new system should help out.

Take a look at the 2002 State Tournament results now archived. You will see that the 2002 brackets are in .pdf format, which requires an Adobe Acrobat reader. I think most computer systems have this plug-in already, and if not, it is readily available on the net.

I also have some entry forms on the Youth/Open page posted in .pdf format. Links to download the reader (if needed) are on the youth page.

I'd appreciate it if you all would check these links and see how this format comes up on your machine. Posting the State Tournament brackets in this fashion saved me about 12 hours of work (seriously), and it will cut down the time required for me to manage Youth tournament entry forms by 90%. In addition, assuming you can get the forms to come up on your machine, you will find that they are of much better quality, are a nearly exact reproduction of the original, and print much more clearly and reliably.

Feedback appreciated.

Doc

May 26, 2002
comments: Ryan Courtney is going to help run the Cirlce of honor wrestling camp in fairmont on the given dates. june 10-14.

May 26, 2002
From: bg
comments: I have a basic problem understanding this home school issue. If you do not believe the public school can carry out the mission it was charged to do, why would you want to expose your child to that very same system you reject for some physical activity. Or is Physical Education not part of the home school curriculum?

May 26, 2002
From: ShanonMetz
comments: For the Forum! I think teachers are a Blessing, whether at home or in the school! So lets not be putting teachers down on the wrestling subject! I don't think they make those decisions anyway...Some parents may have that talent to teach their child at home, I on the other hand do not!!! So Amen for Teachers And Amen to home schooled children- They should all have the right to wrestle...My son is a wrestler, a very good one at that,And i would hate to think their might be a home-shooled child that could give my son a good match and he's sittin at home!!! Mother of Tommy Little-Sincerely, Shanon Metz

May 26, 2002
From: Wondering Wrestler
comments: Ok......I thought this was a wrestling site. Not " the Days of Our Lives." Honestly people.....what is the big deal? Ok....some home-schooled kid wants to play a sport. Let's all cry about it. LET THE BOY WRESTLE. Ok first, we don't let them wrestle. Then what does that lead to? I think some of these parents are scared. Go cry me a river. One of my good friends is home schooled. Ok...I'm stopping right now. I'm bout to get fired up. But.....the parent who's child is home schooled....if you have to....fight it. Isn't it discrimination if they don't let the kid wrestle?

May 26, 2002
From: EdUK8TR
comments: To Dave and others,
You mentioned that public schools are just "glorified day care centers." As a public school teacher I would welcome the chance to work for baby sitters wages! My current class load is 226 students in an 8 period day. (not counting time for my luxurious 30 min. lunch) 38 of my students are special needs kids with learning disabilities - 6 are physically handicapped - 10 more are Behavior Disordered. Most day care centers would chare extra for some of those - but what the heck, I'm a good guy. Most baby sitters today make at least $5.00 per hour. Do the math - 226/8 = roughly 28 students per hour @ $5.00 per student per hour. That comes out to $140.00 per hour x 8 = $1120.00 per day. Assuming I get time and one half for after school activities. - My county has a true 8 hour day for teachers. I spend roughly another hour per day at school (Minimum) beyond the 8 hours - not counting coaching time of course - add another $210.00. Pay per day would be $1330.00. Students in WV are required to have 180 days of instruction. I will be charitable and donate the other 20 days I work prior to and after the school year as part of my 200 day contract. I will also donate all the time I spend at home on school work. Holy Cow! I would be making over a quarter of a million dollars a year and still be unemployed with NO PAY for 9 weeks per year! It's a wonder that folks aren't lined up to try to take over my job. Do teachers in Preston make that kind of money, Doc?

On a realistic note - I actually divided out the amount I made for coaching last year by the number of hours spent less out of pocket expenses and came up with a whopping $1.16 per hour. This does not, of course include out of season time spent on uniforms, paperwork, clinics I attend, etc. Those who seem to think we are overpaid and underworked need to give it a try!
Editor's note: Er, nope

May 26, 2002
From: Shane Hall
email: cburgva@aol.com
comments: Christiansburg High School in Virginia will be holding a Individual 16 tean tournament on Dec 20 & 21. If your school is traveling over a hundred miles you will receive a room allowance for friday night. If you have any other questions Please call coach Dresser or Weber at 540-381-0172 or email. Thanks

May 26, 2002

comments: Is Ryan Courtney having some kind of camp in Fairmont this summer?

May 25, 2002
From: Matt
comments: To Christie J:
First I would like to point out that one cannot "falsely place an opinion". An opinion is just that, an opinion. You may disagree with it, but that doesn't make it false. I am ignorant on the subject of home schooling so correct me if I am wrong. You said that home schooled kids have a higher average GPA than public schooled kids, I assume that the parents give the grades to their own children. What is to stop a parent from giving their child all A's? If that is the case then a home schooled student is not being subjected to the same extra curricular requirements as a public schooled student who is receiving their grades from a neutral unrelated third party. Again pardon my ignorance and please enlighten me if I am incorrect.

From: Jim LeMaster
comments: To those who responded in anger about home schooled students... please go back and read the post I made again. In it, I stated that if you feel that is best for your child then that is what you should do. I in no way disparaged those who choose that option. I am quite well versed in the rules regarding home schoolers grades and how they are recorded. Perhaps I left an unclear impression. My intention was simply to point out that many of the things that I and many other coaches do to insure the academic and social success of our wrestlers would be impossible to do if we are not in contact with them daily in the school setting. In short, some of the support system available to our team members would not be available in their absense. I was not questioning the rights of homeschoolers to participate - they have every right to do so. I would welcome any homeschooler who has the desire to wrestle and the ability and work ethic needed. I do however resent that you chose to tar all public schools with the same brush. There are good and bad situations in both instances. I agree that some schools and of course, teachers are not up to the standards they should be. I also have personal knowlege of some homeschool situations that were to say the least were less than ideal. Conversely, just as there are some outstanding homeschool parents and students, I would like to feel that some of us in public education are capable of doing the job that we were charged to do. To infer that all schools are "dumping grounds" is perhaps to perpetuate the very kinds of thinking that you wish to remove yourself and your child from by home schooling them. In reference to "my nerve" in speaking about discipline, while public schools hands are somewhat tied by extraneous federal and state guidelines, I stand by the behavior and conduct of the wrestlers on my team. I also maintain discipline in my classroom. In my 30+ years of teaching, I agree that discipline has eroded over the years in our increasingly litiginous society. I feel this is one symptom of deeper problems within our society today. I do not choose to abandon my post in time of trouble but rather to try to be a part of the solution. If wrestlers do not have discipline, they should perhaps try another sport.

I am not an expert on home schooling nor a home school parent so I do not criticize it - please show the same respect to those of us who try our best every day to educate the children in our schools. Unless you are an expert in education do not deride the efforts that we are making. After all, we should all be trying to work together for the advancement of our sport, our state and our nation. To be divided and bitter can only hurt our sport and our children.

From: teacher
comments: Well, being a teacher I don't understand your views on the public school. I find it offensive that you refer to schools as glorified babysitters. I work very hard to make sure all my students learn. One thing you forgot to mention in recent studies WV homeschoolers have a higher GPA. Of course, what parent schooling their own child would give them a bad grade. Also, I'm sure if it's not done right the first time there is ample opportunity to redo the assignment for a better grade. That is a problem....in a public school we call it cheating. Not to mention the social interaction the child misses out on while sitting at home all day. I would love to see a parent homeschool a child for eight hours a day....yea right. In the long run your cheating your child. I can't understand why a parent would not send a child to school, fear? weird religious beliefs? what? why? I have two masters degree's from great universities. I'm a good teacher not a babysitter.

May 24, 2002
From: Coach Maisel
comments: I would just like to let everyone know that I only have aprox. 9 wrestlers that have called me to express their intrest in participating on Team West Virginia (training camp and Nationals at Fargo). I hope this is not an indication of how much interest there is. Hopefully your coach has given you the introductory letter! If you would like to participate please call me to get on the list! (304) 291-6526.

May 24, 2002
From: Mother of Home Schooled Students
email: christie_j@yahoo.com
comments: To Mr. LeMasters
This comment is for the two wrestling coaches that have falsely placed their opinions on your forum. I would like to educate them on the facts of home schooled students. Most home schooled students have a higher GPA than most public schooled students and most are very well behaved. The young man that you speak of just like any other child has a right to participate in any program that the public school system provides. If you were to check into it, all home schooled children have to be registered with the board of education and administer state standardized test scores and be within the guide lines the state has placed in their laws. So for you to form a false opinion of all home schooled students before you know the facts is uncalled for.

May 24, 2002
From: Dave
email: dajams71@hotmail.com
comments: I would like to comment to the teachers who have responded to the home-schooled wrestler. You obviously don't have much knowledge on this subject. A home schooled child's grades are recorded with the county where he lives. Grades could easily be checked out. I'm sure as teachers, you should be smart enough to find your county courthouse. As far as disciplinary actions, that's the reason parent are turning to home-schooling. Schools now days are nothing more than glorified day care centers for parents who can't wait until the child is old enough to be "dumped off" and out of their hair. And as far as that's concerned, the coaches can dismiss the children from the team that are unruly. You have some nerve talking about discipline as I have seen the behavior of the children in the public school system. Any parent who cares enough to take the extra time and effort(and believe me there's a lot of time and effort) to go the extra mile of home-schooling will more than likely be more strict on discipline than you could ever imagine. Good Day!

May 23, 2002

From: Shane Eakle
email: Shanedog89@aol.com
comments: The Circle of Honor wrestling camp is going to be held june 10-14 at East Fairmont jr. high the times are going to be monday-friday 9am-12pm and 12-1 extra instructional time for those who want it. Papers will Hopefully be out this week sometime sorry for the wait hopefully this well help out some. Also this camp will finish up the day before the Bu summer tournament. Cost is $60. For more details call Jeff Noechel (304)366-0181 or Shane Eakle (304) 363-0258.

May 23, 2002
From: Jim LeMaster
comments: I wish to echo the commments of the coach who responded to the post about home schooling. If you feel that is the best education for your child then far be it from me to tell you differently. ... with this caveat. If you are not part of the system then don't take it to task. I see a parallel to those who choose not to vote and then criticize those elected. At my school , like the other coach outlined my wrestlers are expected to maintain very high standards of scholarship-leadership-citizenship and behavior. To do any less would be to let down your team members. In addition during the season they all eat a healthy lunch together to support those who are watching their weight. Many times I need to talk to them as a team before school hours to arrange rides or change practice times. We dress alike on match days in either shirts and ties or on special occasions matching warm ups. I have never had a wrestler suspended from school or kicked off the team for disciplinary reasons. Last season our team G.P.A. was 3.28 with 23 out of 27 wrestlers on the semester honor roll. This was in part because my asst. coach or I check on their academics weekly or daily when needed. Those whose grades are not up to snuff attend after school tutoring for an hour and then come to the remainder of practice until they bring them up. All of the above would be difficult if not impossible with a home schooler. I hope your son has great success in wrestling whether it be as a member of a school team or one of the many excellent club programs available. Perhaps a club team made up of home schoolers and those who are not fortunate enough to attend schools that have the sport could be arranged. Good luck in whatever you decide to do.

May 23, 2002
comments: I feel that if you are paying state and local taxes, you should have the right to participate in state and local funded programs. Home schooling a student does not excuse the citizen from paying taxes that fund the board of education so I see no problem with a home school student participating in an extra curricular program within their school district. Since that isn't being allowed, maybe the local county can sponser their own home schooled sports teams.

May 23, 2002
comments: Anyone have any open mats? How about freestyle or greco practice?

May 20, 2002
comments: Coaches, Wrestlers, Parents:
I'd like to remind you about the 2002 Lightning Wrestling Clinic to be held at Roane County High School on June 14-16. Coach Dave Satterfield can give you more details about the camp, and you can find it on wvmat as well. With oustanding clinicians like Rob Waller and Rob Waller, Sr., coaches Matt Stevens, Rob Archer, Will Schenerlein, Garry Bender, Terry Kendall, Wayne Jarvis, Dave Satterfield, Toby Ford, and others, I'm sure you will not find a better camp at such a modest price. Applications need to be in with deposit by May 24. Contact Coach Satterfield at (304) 927-2128.

May 20, 2002
comments: This note is regarding the denial of wrestling priveleges to the young man who is home-schooled. I have been a teacher and wrestling coach for several years and I personally have no problem with being home schooled. It is a very popular trend in the eastern panhandle where I am located. I have a special needs child in school and realize that public education is not perfectly fitted for each individual. We work very hard to make sure his educational experience at school works for his advantage and also put endless hours in a home to suppliment what the school either does not or cannot provide.

I feel however that if you choose not to have your child as part of the public school experience that you really have no complaint when he is not allowed to wrestle for the school team. Even for children who are enrolled in the school a spot on the wrestling team is not guaranteed. Students have to fulfill many expectations to be allowed on the team. Students must maintain certain grade expectations and even harder for most, certain behavioral expectations within the school to be able to compete for the team. Students who cannot meet these standards are forced to find another way to compete in wrestling or other sports such a rec. leagues or open tournaments. My thought is if you choose not to take part the the system, thats okay but you are choosing not to part in a system which has many facets which help lead to the developement of young people.

That being said, I hope you find a way for your son to continue with the sport. I believe it the greatest sport for building abmirable qualities in people if the lessons learned are applied the correct way.

May 20, 2002
From: nchs wrestler
comments: I have not had the opportunity to see Mitch Smith of Ripley wrestle, but he really seems to be an outstanding wrestler. Going undefeated his freshman year and winning the way he did in the state tournament is almost unbelievable. I wonder if this kid can go the distance undefeated with 4 state championships. I believe this would be the first time this has been accomplished from a AAA wrestler in the history of WV. Good luck Mitch!

May 20, 2002
From: regis
comments: forum congrats to kyle turnbull-cadet world team trials-defeated state champions from ohio,michigan,and illinois.lost acontroversal match in the semis or may have won .

May 20, 2002
From: Concerned Wrestling Mom
comments: For the Forum- I would like to ask the Pleasants Co. Pioneer Wrestling coaches if they would consider going further with their wrestlers, Big Tournaments like the Eastern Nationals, Tournament of Champions... This is really good experience for these boys and have alot better chance of placing with a coach! Sincerely, Concerned Wrestling Mom!

May 20, 2002
From: JP Tenney
email: tenneyjp@peoplepc.com
comments: I just wanted to thank every one for the great response we have received to the Upshur Summer Tournament we are having this year. Judging from all the calls, emails, etc. Yvonne and I have had, this should be a good sized tournament with excellent competition. We have had several inquiries by wrestlers from surrounding states also. I had a long explanation typed out explaining why we decided upon a $25 dollar entry fee. I erased it because I felt it was a waste of forum space. I will say our Upshur County Grapplers have been traveling this offseason and the entry fees for tournaments have ranged from $15-$65. So, yes, we are slightly more expensive than some but still cheaper than others. If anyone would like a more detailed explanation of why we are charging $25, feel free to email me and I will send you that information. Again, the response to our tournament has been overwhelmingly positive so far and we appreciate the support. Please keep those mail-ins! coming in and we will see you in June.

May 17, 2002
Green Run Stallion Stampede results, May 11
The West Virginia wrestlers took home some medals. The results are posted on or website or Twinks"mattalkonline". Thanks for your wrestlers participating.
Jeff Jackson
Web Site Manager
Green Run High School Wrestling Team and Club
Virginia Beach, Va.
HTTP://GreenRunWrestling.homestead.com

May 17, 2002
From: Ross Maruka Fan
comments: On Wednesday, May 15th, 2002, West Virginia high school wrestling lost one of its biggest fans. Ross Maruka of Fairmont passed away at the age of 73 at his residence.
Two of Mr. Maruka's seven sons-in-law are Fairmont Senior coach Mark Delligatti and his brother John "Skeeter" Delligatti. His grandchildren include former and present Fairmont Senior wrestlers Chris Neptune, Jonross Neptune, Jonathan Delligatti, Anthony Delligatti, Matt Delligatti, Hunter Delligatti, and young Vincent Delligatti.
Please keep them in your prayers as all in the WV wrestling world are deeply saddened by his loss.

May 17, 2002
From: GRWC Jeff Jackson
email: jdcjjack@bellatlantic.net
comments: The Virginia Beach, Green Run Stallion Stampede AAU wrestling tournament for 11 May results are posted on our web site, Http://GreenRunWrestling.homestead.com
Thanks to all the West Virginia Wrestlers for showing up, ya'll took home few medals.
Thanks.....

May 17, 2002
From: Little Danny Boy
comments: Does anyone know the reasoning behind the new weight rule change? If this is an attempt to stop poor weight-loss habits perhaps they should rethink it because prolonging the amount of time a wrestler has to control his weight is only prologing the amount of time they perform these habits (ex. laxatives, vomiting, sweat boxes). Could someone shed a little light on this for me?

May 17, 2002
From: Chris
email: true_qt4e@hotmail.com
comments: I'd like to ask anyone that knows if there is anywhere I can get information on how to correctly weight train during the off season. I am going to IOWA in July and want to be as big as I can for there and next season. THis will be my ninth year of wrestling and I want it to be my best. So if anyone knows how to make me a better wrestler please e-mail me at true_qt4e@hotmail.com

May 17, 2002
From: matwizard
comments: VOTE FOR WRESTLING NOW www.usctrojans.com USC could get a wrestling program...the poll is at the bottom of the page...PLEASE VOTE NOW!!!!!!

May 17, 2002
From: Daniel Jones
email: cooldan_j@yahoo.com
comments: My son was recently denied the chance to participate on the Middle school wrestling team for the district which he lives in for the up coming year by the WVSSAC because he is home schooled. He has competed in the youth open class this past year and was very much looking forward to wrestling this fall for the local middle school program.

I think this action by the wvssac was unfair and would appreciate any helpful advice from anyone having any experience with this type of situation or any useful information. I also would enjoy hearing any support and let the wvssac also know that you support my son's right to participate.

e-mail cooldan_j@yahoo.com
Thank You (Proud Parents)

May 13, 2002
comments: Wirt High School Wrestlers sponsoring Golf Scramble June 22, 10:00 at Mingo Bottom Golf Course in Elizabeth, WV. More informatio will be coming later or in Sundays Parkersburg News.

May 13, 2002
From: WIRT HIGH SCHOOL WRESTLERS
comments: Wirt High School Wrestlers Fund Raisers:
June 2: 1:30p.m. POKER RUN - ATV and/or Motorcyle $10.00 donation for each rider playing. 50% pay back for the best hand. Leisurely riding through country roads for the afternoon(NO RACING) with 5 different card stations to pick up your cards. No alcohol beverages permitted. Hotdogs and snacks will be sold be the beginning and finish. Pop will be sold at each card station. Starting point will be on Cranesnest Road off of Garfield Road, Wirt County. (12 miles from Elizabeth). Call or email for more information, register, or directions. 304 275 6634. Helmets recommended for under age 18.

May 13, 2002
From: Derrick Stover
comments: I have created a yahoo group for those of you who are interested
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/wv_wrestling/
I realize that right now there is not transpiring in the wresting world, but hopefully when the season resumes we can have a good message board.

May 13, 2002
From: Pirate_Mann
comments: David Drennen wrestled 160 his brother Danny was 152.

May 13, 2002
From: wrestler
comments: i dont like the new rule for weigh ins should be cahnged for the high school divsion. i think think that we should still weigh out in stead of having to weigh out the next morning.if you are for changing the rule back to the way it was replay back on here.

May 13, 2002
From: PHS FAN
comments: 1990 PHS state champ Dave McNemar to box live on ESPN tues, june 11th
http://newsandsentinel.com/sports/story/05102002_spt02_McNemarBelt.asp

May 13, 2002
From: South Wrestling Fan
comments: Less than 7 months til the season begins!Parkersburg Big Reds return 3 state champions and other placers next year which should make them early favorites to unseat South and end their run of 4 sraight championships.South has one returning state champ and 4 other placers and will be helped by several really good young wrestlers from the junior high ranks.If South's youngsters can grow up fast and make the adjustments from jr. high they will make some noise again!Good luck to both schools!

May 13, 2002
From: wrestlingmom!
comments: I wish the Pleasants co. Pioneer coaches would seriously consider going further with their wrestlers! Eastern Nationals is really a GREAT experience for these boys, and they definetely need their coach... Concerned wrestling mom!

May 13, 2002
From: Team Easter
comments: Can anyone give information about the organization of Team WV for cadet and Jr Nationals in Fargo? I understand coach Masel from University is in charge, but I can't find any updates on the team. Thanks

May 13, 2002
From: LJ3
comments: I recently heard that they were doing away with the 215 pound weight class nation wide. i have not seen it anywhere and was wondering if it is just rumor or truth. any insight on the matter will be greatly appreciated. thanks

May 8, 2002
From: Shanon Metz
comments: For The Forum! I would like to congragulate my son Tommy Little for his 1st place at Tour. or Champions in Columbus, Ohio. It was a tough tourn. He really had to have it in his heart to win this! Some really tough matches! I would also like to thank all of tommys coaches, Lester Hughart,Brian Wilson,Mike Everettand Phil West.A special thanks to my husband Paul Metz and Brian Wilson for coaching Tommy in Columbus..Another very special thank you to the P-Burg Cougars for taking Tommy under their wing and letting him practice with their team!Thanks Lou Thomas and Mike Litton. Great Job all W.Va. wrestlers!!!!

May 8, 2002
comments: I would like to argee with what someone said last month about how the greatest wrestlers shouldn't be judged by what they did in college. Another great example of this is David Drennen. He finished with a record of around 112-11 (think that's right?) and 3 state titles, he only lost his freshman year because he was DQ'd when someone took a slam... he came back and beat that wrestler for 3rd place. The thing that really demonstrated how good he was was that he came back his senior year in mid season, after not having planned on wrestling just because the team asked him to. He was out of shape (no offense) and wrestled at 152 when had previously been 103/112/125. His bracket wasn't easy though... he wrestled against some extremly talented and strong wrestlers, and won his 3rd state title. He also got outstanding wrestler that year. He didn't wrestle in college - but who knows how good he could have been if he had kept going. I think the fact that he one his last championship against wrestlers in far better shape than himself shows that he had true talent - he had a gift.

May 8, 2002
From: nchs wrestler
email: octjan2@yahoo.com
comments: I am willing to pay good money for copies of the WV state wrestling tournament for 1989-93 both AA and AAA. If you have copies or know how I can obtain copies please let me know. E-mail me if you can help me out. Thanks.

May 8, 2002
From: Brooke Wrestler
comments: So you dont hve to weigh out at one day of the tournament??

May 8, 2002
comments: I believe it's great to have an off season tournament and I am plan on attending but why is the admission fee $25.00 at the Buckhannon Summer Tournament? The Youth State Tournament usually is that much but have huge trophies and Champion T-shirts and the usual entry fee to normal tournaments is about $12.00 to $15.00. Just wondering?

May 8, 2002
From: Rick Parks
comments: Congratulations to all of the Pleasants County wrestlers that went to the Tournament of Champions. Every match you wrestle in the off season will make you better in the upcoming season. Hope to see all of the Pioneers at camps this summer fine tuning their skills.

May 1, 2002
comments: I think the Upshur County summer tournament is a great idea for the summer. Maybe other places could hold such tournaments in the off season as well. I am sure if tournaments were opening up this summer people will start to come.

May 1, 2002
comments: Congratulations to all WV wrestlers who wrestled at the Ohio Tournament of Champions. There were over 3200 entries in this HUGE 1 day tournament.
Placers from WV were:

Bantam
48  Layne Michael     3rd
52  Dylan Cottrell    2nd
56  Ryan Henry        6th
65  Cody Churchill    4th
95  Brandon Tallhamer 2nd
Midget
58  Kyle Bratke       5th
64  Jordan Nolan      3rd
100 Casey Hogg        7th
115 Randy Tallhamer   3rd
Junior
76  Mason Bailey      5th
82  Bryce Rush        6th
90  Cameron Gallaher  3rd
95  Tommy Little      1st
95  Eric Hinerman     3rd
110 Seth Easter       1st (4X winner)
Schoolboy
70  Brandon Wilson    2nd
155 Adam Gibson       4th
205 Matthew Griffith  7th
Cadet
110 Anthony Easter    3rd
140 Mitch Smith       1st (5X winner)
171 Patrick O'Malley  2nd
Elite
125 Matt Easter       1st (3X winner)
125 Aaron Glaser      7th
132 Bradon Shaw       2nd
153 Blane Mayle       2nd
190 Brandon Geary     2nd
190 Ben Geary         3rd
220 John Dilworth     2nd

May 1, 2002
comments: The PLEASANTS COUNTY PIONEERS SAY ****CONGRATS**** to Tommy Little on his CHAMPIONSHIP at the Ohio Tourney Of Champions. WAY TO GO we knew you could do it!

May 1, 2002
rom: HOBO
comments: Didn't know about the Cougar team at the Nationals,GOOD JOB GUYS. We are blessed with lots of talent in Pburg. area.

April 29, 2002
Memo from the Department of Reliable Sources:

There was only one bid for the WVSSAC State High School Wrestling Tournament for 2003, and so it will continue in Huntington for the next two years.

The new national rules on weigh-ins will have to be followed next year. At the state and all tournaments, there will be no "night before" weigh-in. Example: The state, Nitro, WSAZ, OVAC and most all other tournaments allow you to "weigh-out" after the day's wrestling when the tournament is to be continued the next day. Beginning next year, and including the State Tournament, you will not be allowed to weigh in until 2 hours before the start of the day's session. This is a national rule and is to be enforced (over the objections of the coaches).

There is continuing discussion on establishing a State Duals tournament. This has been proposed to the WVSSAC, and the WVSSAC is allowing more research and study by the coaches on this topic, but so far there is nothing more concrete than this.

April 29, 2002
From: Hobo
comments: I would like to give congrats to the Jr. Patriots who wresteled in the eastern nationals this past weekend in Md.CHAD PORTER came home with his 3rd. M.A.W.A. NATIONAL TITLE. Looking forward to watching you guys next season at SOUTH.

April 29, 2002
From: U.S. NAVY Sailor Joe Roberts
comments: I would like to wish st. albans some luck with their program. the last few years have been rough!! just hang in there guys you'll have a good program in the upcoming year!!!

April 29, 2002
From: DragonsBreathingFire
comments: I would like to congratulate the Cameron Dragons on yet another spectacular wrestling season. The 20-3 Dragons will be losing 6 tremendous wrestlers, but will be strenghtening in the season to come. Good luck to those senior wrestlers in their future careers. A special congratulations goes out to Tucker Brown for being choosen for the North/South football game. Also, a congratulations goes out to Roger "Beaner" Kupfer for being a 4-time OVAC place winner, among other precious awards. And in conclusion, good luck to the juniors of the next year Dragon Mat Men on carrying the team to what I think could be a very well deserved and over due state championship.

P.S. Good luck to Oak Glen in the season to come. April 29, 2002
comments: To: wrestling mom #1
You can find Jeff Jordan's camp info at www.foryou.net/~rknull/GHS/Jordan's.htm

April 29, 2002
From: Cougar Fan / PHS Wrestling fan
comments: Congrats to Andy Thomas, Lou Thomas, Robert Shyver, Brandon Rader, on your FIRST PLACE finishes at the Eastern Nationals. Also Ryan Dearmans hard earned runner-up, and Brian Williamson on your runner-up finish. You young men are the LEADERS.. Thanks Mike Litton, Steve Rader, Big Lou Thomas for all your time and coaching of these hard working young men. I would also like to send my congrats to Chad Porter on your title. All WRESTLERS are special people no matter where they may live.

April 29, 2002
From: David Jeffrey
email: uspf@netassoc.net
comments: The tentative date for the Patriot wrestling clinic is the weekend of July 12,13 and 14. This years clinic will again feature Wade Schalles as well as some other well known clinicians. The others names are not available yet because we have not made a firm committment. We are also working on bringing Jeff Jordan to Pburg , hopefully just before school lets out , however we do not have a date or details worked out at this time. Registration forms will be on the Patriot website within the next two weeks .For further information you may call David Jeffrey at 304-489-2428 or email uspf@netassoc.net

April 22, 2002
From: Ken Chertow
email: chertow@olympianwrestling.com
comments: Enrollment for my camp in Ripley, WV is going great! It is nice to see so much support from my home state. I believe the move from Huntington to a more central location was a key factor.

If you are not yet enrolled, make plans ASAP. Camp will be at the Best Western Convention Center just off I-77 Ripley exit. We will eat, sleep, and wrestle at this great facility.

We have two great camps, Junior Olympian and Kids Training Camp, for elementary school age kids, as well as Intensive Learning and Training Camps for high school wrestlers.

All camp details and much more can be found on www.kenchertow.com

April 22, 2002
From: Andy
email: andrewstewart12@hotmail.com
comments: i am just woundering if anyone is aware of any freestyle clinics or camps that might be going on this summer. if you are can you please post or email me.

April 22, 2002
From: info guy
comments: it is looking like the circle of Honor camp is going to be held the week of June 10-14. In fairmont more info as it becomes available.

April 22, 2002
comments: i dont see how they could have championships for AAA AA and A in cause there is not a high enough perscentage of Class A teams too make that possible

April 22, 2002
From: R. Nick
comments: I just want to Congratulate my three Wrestlers who made it to East Coast Nationals at Salisbury MD. Midget 80lb. Dylan Nick: Bantam 56lb. Gunnar Wilt: Bantam 40lb. Tyler Sigler, Good Luck Guys , you all worked so hard for it, also thanks to the Wrestlers who made it possible for them to continue: Are, Major Dodson, Tyler Cross, Dylan Ceravalo, Colin Gustines, Brady Fargo, you guys make them even tougher, when you come out to practice with those guys. Lets all dont forget about Jr. League Wrestling, it is such a great feeder program to the Middle, Jr. High, and High school. So, lets go to Maryland and just show how tough West Virginia Wrestling is. Regalbuto.....there are several Jefferson County Jr. league kids who want to participate in youre camp this year , please keep us updated. And good luck to you next year at W.V.U. We are behind you 100%. And good luck to all the West Virginia Wrestlers who will be attending the East Coast Nationals , this weekend at Sal! isbury MD., April, 20th,21st especially my Three from the JJWA Team. Good luck "little ones" ,I am behind you all the way. Make me Proud!! And to the best wrestlers who came out of West Virginia, they are "all" good in my opinion, but lets not forget John Jackson, J.D. Kirby they were two tough wrestler, from Jefferson.

April 22, 2002
From: mom
comments: I would like to congradulate Danielle Cox on finishing 1st in the United State Girls Wrestling Championship in Michigan. She place 1st in the 104 ld class in the Middle School division. It was great to see over 550 girls from all over the United State competing. Hopefully more young ladies will get the chance to participate in the sport that once was for guys only. Not anymore guy. Watch out, here comes the girls!

April 22, 2002
From: Another wrestling mom
email: mhupp@ee.net
comments: To: Wrestling mom #1
Your e-mail is not accepting any more mail. I have info. on Jeff Jordan's wrestling camp. If interested, send me an e-mail.

April 18, 2002
From: nchs wrestler
comments: Does anyone know how I could obtain copies of the WV state wrestling finals for 1989, 90 and 91. I would appreciate it if someone would let me know in the forum. Thanks.

April 18, 2002
From: South Wrestling Fan
comments: I was very moved by the post from Dennis Stanley and our prayers are with his family.He is right...wrestling forms a bond like no other I know.These young men wrestle with each other most of the time and 30-50 times a year go at it with the opposition.I think they wrestle well with diversity and pain when that time comes in life also.Such was just the case of Mr. Stanley's lose.It is family and friends,with God's support,that will see you through this tragic event.I guess God had an opening in his lineup for a good wrestler.God Bless you.

April 18, 2002
From: wrestling mom #1
email: debbie_shively@hotmail.com
comments: I wonder if anyone knows about Jeff Jordan's wrestling camps. I can't find anything anywhere. I know it is in Ohio. So if anyone can help me I would be very thankful.

April 18, 2002
Just received information that starting in the 2003-2004 Wrestling Season, wrestling will have 3 divisions. AAA-AA-A at the Championships.
Editor's note: The person who passed this info is reliable, but I wonder how or when this was announced. What's the story here....

April 18, 2002
From: wv wrestling watching redneck
comments: well for the past year or so i have been readin on this site and readin about you guys argueing who the best wrestler is well i belive you would have to consider matt wherle one of the top to come outta west virginia even though he didnt wrestle in college he was a good one... i had been watchin matt for about 10 years eversince he was a lil one in my book he is real good... two time state champion at that..

April 15, 2002
From: Dennis Stanley
email: DEStanley@dow.com
comments: To the West Virginia Wrestling Family

They say that tragedy brings out the best in people. I know this is true because I have witnessed it. I am deeply touched and proud of the people of West Virginia and Cabell County for their dedication to my family during a very difficult time.

Standing in line to greet visitors at the same time suffering through an intense physical pain beyond comprehension that that only a grieving parent could understand, your mind is going wild and you're doubting yourself if you will even survive this ordeal let alone retain your sanity. Then you look up and standing in front of you is the Cabell Midland Wrestling Team a thousand miles from home to provide their support to fallen teammates. At that point you realize the possibility that you might just make it through this.

Wrestling is a sport of deep personal commitment. When a kid trains to achieve the highest level of this sport he is in close physical and emotional contact with his teammates and coaches and they develop a commitment to each other. The parents and coaches of these kids understand and develop the commitment to each other as well. This is a characteristic that goes beyond the mat. Wrestling is new to South Texas and many of our parents new to the sport in our area were taken back that so many people would come so far to support each other. The response from the veteran parents was simply "That’s Wrestling". This community realizes now what a special sport this is and West Virginia as helped show the way.

Time will mend the broken hearts of my family and myself. However the healing will not be complete because when they left, Cabell Midland took a piece of our hearts with them. The people of West Virginia and the wrestling family in particular should be very proud of Cabell Midland not only for what they have accomplished on the mat but for what they demonstrated off the mat.

I cannot begin to describe how much your support helped.
God Bless You.
Dennis Stanley

April 15, 2002
From: hedgesvillefanm
comments: Like to congratulate Rob Jarrett, Dan Lord, Brian Moats, and Josh Grim on their recent performances at the North Hagerstown Tournament. All 4 did great jobs, Moats had a tough match with a Univ of Maryland wrestler, Lord had the biggest bracket and very tough also with MD 152lb runnerup Dustin McDonough of North and Mark Nakasone 3rd at 140 in MD. Lord would meet and defeat Nakasone in the finals despite cutting his eye very early in the match. Like to mention to any wrestlers in the eastern panhandle area that there are practices going on every Tuesday at North Hagerstown at 6:00 and every Thursday at South Hagerstown at 6:30 in the mat rooms. These practices are go at your own pace and work on what you want to work on type practices which are excellent for young wrestlers. Some good coaching there to help you learn. It's a great opportunity for anyone hoping to improve their skills.

I would also like to congratulate the West Virginia wrestlers who competed at Sr. Nationals good job and best wishes in the future to you. Like to add my 2 cents or less to the debate on here about "best wrestler from WV ever", I agree with the person who stated on here before that there are some very good wrestlers that never got the opportunity to wrestle in college. I would say that the debate should probably be more specific and break it down to best in high school, best in college and best olympic level. As for best in high school. I've had the priveleg of seeing some of the wrestlers named on here as "best" and feel they are very deserving. According to record for a 4 year starter you would have to say Doug Moore has the best record in the state losing only 2 times in his high school career. I also agree with the person who mentioned Regalbuto as a great high school wrestler. He lost I believe 5 times as a freshman. Technically once as a Sophomore but that was the match when he broke his shoulder and had to default the rest of the season. And don't forget the prior week he had beaten state champ Bonasso pretty easily at the JIT. He then lost once as a Junior on a very questionable call. And then was undefeated as a Senior. My opinion he is one of if not the best high school wrestler I have personally had the pleasure of watching.

As for college the best so far at the D1 level are obviously Mason and Chertow. But watch out for Regalbuto he has the potential to pass both. In a match this year between 165lb Regalbuto and 174lb NCAA D1 national champion Greg Jones at the end they were tied with Jones winning by the riding time point. Gotta make you wonder what Ant could have done this season and what the future holds. He obviously has the potential and desire and work ethic to go far. WVU fans should be very happy as WVU returns Ant, Jones, McMath, Miller, Cunanan all D1 national qualifiers. If some of the others keep improving like Lauer, Smith and the 125lbers next year could be incredible.

Like to congratulate WVU on winning the EWL and Greg Jones on his national title. Wonder how Ant Jones and McMath will fit in the lineup next year. I would love to see Jones and Ant at 174 and 165 and McMath at 157. I think that could be an awesome threesome. Anyway hope everyone is having a good off season and hope to see some of you at the Hagerstown practices and stay tuned for news of Regalbutos camp.

April 15, 2002
From: EB
comments: Larry Childers: 2 state championships and 2 OW awards at State Lester Hughart: 3 state championships, 1 third
There are no burned out wrestlers, but there are kids who have ceased to set goals, whether the goals are for themselves,their parents,or others.

April 15, 2002
From: The Truth
comments: I'll tell you what, I would hate to be in AAA Region 1. It is stacked. Some of the other regions could be walk-throughs and there are potential placers who aren't even going to qualify....It's a shame.

April 15, 2002
From: nchs wrestler
comments: I would like to recognize a former wrestling buddy of mine who many of you probably don't remember. His name is David Cook and he won the AAA state championship for Nicholas County in 1991 at 152lbs and finished the season undefeated. Growing up with Dave, I can honestly say that he was a champion on and off the mat.

April 15, 2002
comments: Editor: Maybe you should switch to a message board type format like some other wrestling sites.....it would eliminate my comming to the page everyday and not seeing anything new.
Editor's note: In my experience, unmoderated message boards deteriorate into vulgar moronic drivel in record time....

April 15, 2002
comments: looks like region 2 AA/A just got a little tougher!

April 15, 2002
comments: In the Regional changes here, i was wondering why was teams that were Region 3 teams in 2002 now changed to Region 4 for 2003. It is like this both in AA and AAA. I know there was a need for changes in the Region's but why did they make that switch?
Editor's note: I was wondering the same thing....

April 11, 2002
From: A wReStLeR
comments: Like to congratulate Jeff Courtney on his 4th place and Nathan Pickens on his 6th place finish at the Senior Nationals. The wrestlers who attended the tournament had a very good showing for the state of West Virginia.

April 11, 2002
From: WOW
comments: Just noticed the region 3 re-alignment. Go ahead and pencil in 14 Huntington wrestlers reaching the state tournament the next 2 years!!!!

April 11, 2002
comments: Some of the best: Matt Ashley 4x Rich Greathouse 4x Todd Kendall 4x Three young men 12 state titles.

April 11, 2002
From: former phs wrestler
comments: whoever said that a wrestler couldn't get burnt out hasn't seen some of the things i have, some kids didn't have the choice to wrestle or not, the parents are very strong influences and sometimes they are living there child hood through there kids, that's when young men get burnt out and don't want to wrestle after high school

April 11, 2002
comments: Last season Greg Jones did not get hurt! However, he filled in for someone who did get hurt. He did not wrestle an EWL opponent, and that is how he got to keep his red-shirt. The EWL is the conference WVU is in, and that is how they determine a year of eligibility. Right now Ryan Courtney is running into an eligibility issue in sort of the same case. Ryan was injured in the home opener against Mercyhurst. Mercyhurst is a new program, and they were added to the same region as West Liberty. The All American might not get a chance to wrestle a senior season. If anyone has any information on this please post it on here...

April 11, 2002
comments: Are there any senior wrestlers planning to wrestle at WVU or West Liberty next year?

April 11, 2002
From: dg
comments: Best Wrestlers last 20 years:

First it is too bad Matt Ashley ended his wrestling career in 1979 since he won four straight state titles for Spencer. His younger brother Malcom won three state titles -- one for Spencer and two at Calhoun -- and his son Justin won a state title at Calhoun this year.

That said, here are some possibilities:
1. Rich Greathouse (Spencer) four state titles.
2. Todd Kendall (Spencer) four state titles.
3. Michael Miller (Wirt -- his coach was Matt Ashley) four titles.
4. Ash Gandee (Ravenswood) three state titles and a three-time All-American.

Those are just a few and they all have one thing in common -- they all wrestled in the LKC as did people like Ash Wenmoth, Mike Mason and Chris Morris. It is a good conference and often overlooked because it is a Class AA/A conference instead of a Class AAA conference.

April 11, 2002
From: yoyoyo
comments: Greg Jones is a redshirt freshman because he got redshirted his freshman year. In school he is considered a sophomore but in sports he is a redshirt freshman. If he wrestled last year he would be considered a true freshman and this year a sophomore. Just because it says he is a redshirt freshman doesnt mean he is redshirted this year.

April 11, 2002
From: don vito
comments: one of the names that I think should be in the top 3 or close to it is Mike Viani from Fairmont Senior. He came from the same mold as Mike mason, Doug Moore, Steve Higgins and Jay Michael. All these boys were trained by Ken Chertow who is the best wrestler the past 20 years. His camp is the best, but his camp of champs is where the real wrestling in W.V. really takes place.Although he never made it to the next level because of an ACL tear in his knee, he was recruited by several top notch programs in the nation. He won 2 state titles, one of which was with a temperature of a 102 degrees. As a frosh he tied Eric Fisher 1-1 on G.W. home mat and finished the year 3rd in the state. His soph year he went up against Doug moore in the conf. tournment bowing out 1-0 to the only 4x AAA state champ. He also went up against Mark Samples more than twice handing him defeats every time they stepped on the mat. The most important was in the state finals were he put Mr. Samples to his back in overtime. He did have a down fall his jr year losing to M. Samples in the state finals. Good Job Mark. Then his senior year came and nobody wanted to wrestle him. Last point going to be made his over all record was 125-9-1, six of those loses in his frosh year at 130lbs. That is the best winning % at Fairmont Senior. I'm am not bragging it is just the facts!

April 8, 2002
nobody has mentioned Anthony Regalbuto, he didn't lose a high school match after his freshman year, doesn't that qualify him for some consideration? He also wrestled his entire true freshman year at WVU injured and recoving from 3 surgeries . In spite of these hinderances he still finished with an 8 -8 season. He red-shirted this year but will return next year and should be an All-American candidate .

April 8, 2002
From: MK
comments: Hi Doc I am responding to the remarks about Greg Jones. Last year Hi was 10-0 before getting hurt. So he was able to get a medical redshirt. Just wanted to make the correction......

April 8, 2002
From: South Fan
.. comments: Just thought I would update everyone on how the wrestlers from West Virginia are doing at the senior nationals. Out of twelve wrestlers that went, five are still in it. In the semi-finals, Parke May 31, 2002
From: Shanon
email: Shanonmetz@directconnectioninternet.com
comments: I would like to wish ALL W.Va. wrestlers good luck in the up-coming tourney in Va. in June!!! GO GET EM" WEST VIRGINIA!!!!!

May 31, 2002
comments: Dave, that was good.

May 31, 2002
e

April 8, 2002
From: David Jeffrey
email: uspf@netassoc.net
comments: Details for the Patriot wrestling clinic will be available soon. We are in contact with Wade Schalles , Jim & Jeff Jordan and Neil Nutter at this time . We will post on this site as well as our own website.

April 8, 2002
comments: I believe that there is no such thing as a wrestler becoming burnt out. I feel that it is just an excuse.Yes i know what it is like to wrestle from November to April and beyong but that is the sport of wrestling- noone came and asked you to wrestle you decided upon it and should go at it with such determination that you know no burnt out.

April 8, 2002
From: Brandon Kupfer
email: gunnz185@aol.com
comments: I would like to inform everyone that myself and Robert Busick will be instructing Youth Wrestling classes, for ages 5 yrs.and up. The location will be at the Fitness Centre at Mountianeer Race Track.The days and times are Tuesday and Thursday from 5P.M-7P.M. The cost is $20.00 a month. Classes will begin Tuesday April 9th. There is only limited space, so if you would like information you can e-mail me at gunnz185@aol.com, call my office 304-387-8185 or my cell 304-479-0801. Robert and myself are looking forward to teaching this classes, and we hope the Youth wrestlers are looking forward to learning. We'll see you on the MAT

April 4, 2002
comments: What about James Branch from huntington who won a National Title for West Liberty, shouldnt he be mentioned too.

April 4, 2002
From: nchs wrestler
comments: It is my opinion that anyone who has the heart to come out for wrestling and give their all every match is a champion in their own right. I just want to commend all the kids who come out for wrestling. As a former wrestler, I can honestly say that it will always be a big part of your life. The only advice I can give you is to give 100 percent in practice and in every match and you will be successful. I've been out of high school for 10 years now and what I wouldn't give to go back to those years and take care of some unfinished business on the mat. Also,remember, practice doesn't make perfect, perfect practice makes perfect. So if you are serious about being a solid wrestler then you need to practice hard. God bless the sport of wrestling!

April 4, 2002
From: the truth
comments: John Crain of Oak Glen should be on any all-time list.

April 4, 2002
From: Pirate_Mann
comments: I have just read the article on Jeff Courtney. It said he was a three time state place winner but in actuality he is a four time place winner because he was fourth at 160 his freshman year. By the way congradulations to his for that award!

April 4, 2002
comments: Excuse me if I'm wrong but doesn't (red shirt) mean you sit out that year? Greg Jones was definitely not a red shirt.

April 4, 2002
From: wrestling fan:
comments: I believe the reason alot of wrestlers don't go on to wrestle in college is because, they get burnt out at the high school level. Wrestling is a sport that takes alot of dedication and alot of hard work. It is to easy to walk away from after high school.

April 4, 2002
There have been and still many great wrestlers in the Parkersburg area,who may never win a state championship. These same wrestlers however have won several national championships against the best in the nation.When you win the TULSA, EASTERN, or FOLKSTYLE nationals, you have competed and won something far beyond a state championship. Think about these kids and don't judge just by a state title. Thanks for the fun times.
from HOBO

April 4, 2002
From: Mason County Fan
comments: I just found out about this sight recently, and think it's great. I was at the Mason Co. Tourney last weekend and saw some great matches. I aws really impressed by two boys from Parkersburg. Sean Smith from the Patriots,[I've seen him before], and the Grewell[??] boy at 145# from Parkersburg. He won his weight class, looking very strong against some good kids. He should help PHS in the future. Overall, it was a well run Tourney, and I'm already looking forward to next year.

April 4, 2002
From: Jim LeMaster
email: lemastermu@hotmail.com
comments: On behalf of all the middle school/ jr. high coaches and wrestlers I would like to thank Brent Samms for all the hard work he put in on the website. This must take countless hours of attending matches and compiling statistics. It really means a lot to the younger guys to see their names in print.

Since the Who's Who doesn't have grade on it - I would like to start a thread for middle schools and Jr. Highs of top returning wrestlers similar to what we have for the high schools. I'll get it rolling with my team and some others I am aware of - let's hear from all you coaches and fans out there!

Milton Wrestlers - Who's Who Starters Returning Grade Next Year
Sam Simmons 75 22-4 1-CMK 1-POP 1-CCC 3-TSC 7th
James Setliff 80 25-7 1-OWV 2-CMK 2-CCC(#75) 3-POP 3-Z(#75) 7th
Matt Nutter 85 26-11 3-CCC 4-CMK 4-CI 5-OWV 6-Z(#80) 6-TSC 8th
Chris Miles 95 27-07 1-CCC 2-CMK 3-OWV 3-POP 3-TSC 4-Z 8th
J.D.Hughes 100 20-15 1-CCC(#100) 3-OWV 4-CMK 6-TSC(#100) 8th
Nate Wood 105 31-08 1-OWV 1-CCC 3-POP 4-TSC 8th
Adam Chapman 145 37-02 1-CMK 1-OWV 1-POP 1-TSC 2-Z 2-CCC 8th
R. Christian 170 26-11 1-OWV 2-CMK 3-CCC 4-POP 6-TSC 7-Z 8th
Alex Neal 170 18-11 1-CMK 1-OWV 2-CCC(#170) 4-TSC 8-Z 8th

April 4, 2002
From: Marion County fan
comments: : Circle of Honor Camp will be held this year,second or third week in June.Stay tune for more details in the coming months.

April 4, 2002
comments: Cliff Warden and Jeremy Hart of Independence are also two of the best wrestlers to come out of wv.

April 4, 2002
comments: Good luck to all the WV wrestlers that will be heading to Senior Nationals tomorrow.

April 4, 2002
From: Coach Maisel
comments: The NHSCA West Virginia qualifier is coming up very soon! It is Saturday, April 13th at University High School in Morgantown. If you wish to pre-register please have your forms and checks to me by Wednesday, April 10th! (Forms can be found on this site) If you are going to walk in register, registration and weigh-in is on Friday, April 12th from 5-7 PM in the University High School gym lobby. If you just want to weigh in on Saturday morning (between 8-9)you MUST be pre-registered and you MUST wrestle at the weight you are pre-registered for because all of the bracketing is done on Friday night. We already have 4 state champions pre-registered and many wrestlers from other states especially Pennsylvania! I hope that we get more wrestlers from West Virginia this year. We want to make another good showing at Nationals which are in Norfolk, Virginia this year instead of Birmingham, Alabama, much closer drive!

April 4, 2002
comments: i would just like to make a comment about the state tournament and i really don't go by if your a senior or not but the most outstanding wrestler of the tournament was mitch smith. i mean freshman nerves and all and still made it look easy.

April 4, 2002
From: just the facts
comments: before you go and make assumptions about what happens to great high school wrestlers, you had better get some fact straights. There have been many great wrestlers come out of WV, from many different areas, but many have reasons that kept them from furthering their career. The wrestlers you name are good, but don't assume that they are the best because they had the means to continue with there career. many wrestlers have their own reasons for hanging up the shoes. whether it is because college was not an option due money or for any other reason, it is not for anyone to assume that they were afraid of the competition at the next level. i never understand why you people have these asinine debates on here about the best of the best. no will ever know because they were not all put on an equal playing field after high school. some had the means to go on to college and work on their skill, while others had to go on to life and take care of a family. my proof is in Ken Chertow, he was beat in the state finals by Rich Underwood in their jr. years. the following season, chertow moved up a weight class and won a state title. the point is that chertow went on to college and had many accomplishments, underwood went to work and is accomplished in his own right; however, had they both had the same path after high school, you have to wonder what kind of wrestling career rich would have had

April 4, 2002
From: A Former Wrestler
comments: Robbie Archer should be named as one of the top wrestlers in the past 20 years. He was a 4 year starter at Ohio State. He place in the Big 10 tourny, and is now a coach at Huntignton High which got 2nd at the 2001 state tourny. Not to mention all the help he does with young wrestlers at his schools and camps. Though he never won the state he placed 2nd-3rd-2nd, which is no small feat. That combined with everything else he has done for the kids in Huntington, should be enough.

April 4, 2002
comments: When will the new regions for next year come out? Didn't they already do the regions for basketball?


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