NFHS Wrestling Rules

Each state high school association adopting NFHS wrestling rules is the sole and exclusive source of binding rules interpretations for contests involving its member schools. Any person having questions about the interpretation of NFHS wrestling rules should contact Darin Boysen at the NSAA office.

The NFHS is the sole and exclusive source of model interpretations of NFHS wrestling rules. Only the NSAA rules interpreter may contact the NFHS for model wrestling rules interpretations. No other model for wrestling rules interpretations should be considered.

2010-11 NFHSWrestling Rules Changes

2010-11 NFHS Wrestling Editorial Changes

2010-11 NFHS Wrestling Points of Emphasis

2010-11 NFHS Wrestling Points of EmphasisConcussion Recognition and Management-Communicable Diseases-Fleeing the Mat-

Concussion Recognition and ManagementA concussion is a brain injury that results in a temporary disruption of normal brain function-A concussion occurs when the brain is violently rocked back and forth or twisted inside the skull as a result of a blow to the head or body-Neither referees, nor coaches, are expected to diagnose a concussion, as that is the job of an appropriate health-care professional-Referees, coaches and administrators are being asked to make all efforts to ensure that concussed athletes do not continue to participate-

Concussion Recognition and ManagementThe referee is not responsible for the evaluation or management of the athlete after he or she is removed from competition-

If an appropriate health-care professional on the mat determines that the athlete HAS NOT suffered a concussion, the athlete may return to competition-

If there is no appropriate health-care professional available to evaluate the athlete, the athlete SHOULD NOT be allowed by the coach to return to competition-

Athletes with continued concussion symptoms are at significant risk for recurrent, cumulative and even catastrophic consequences of a second concussive injury-

Concussion Recognition and Management

2010-11 Wrestling Rules Reminders

Competition - Rule 1Rule 1-2-2: No wrestler shall represent the school in more than one weight class in any meet or compete in more than five matches (championship or consolation), including forfeits in any one day. (Does not apply to a dual tournament, quad, or triangular.)Rule 1-2-3: No contestant shall wrestle in two consecutive matches with less than a 45-minute rest between them. The conclusion time of each match shall be recorded.Rule 1-2-4: A contestant shall not accept a forfeit in one weight class and compete in another class.

Team Benches - Rule 2

*NFHS Rule 2-2-1: For dual meets, all team personnel, including coaches, other than actual participating contestants shall be restricted to an area which is at least 10 feet from the edge of the mat and the scorers table, where facilities permit.

*NFHS Rule 2-2-2: During tournament competition, a maximum of two team personnel (coaches and/or non-participating contestants) will be permitted on chairs at the edge of the mat. It is permissible to allow coaches on the corner of the mat in a restricted zone. In tournaments where coaches are permitted on the corner of the mat, the restricted zone shall be defined by either a contrasting line marked on the mat with paint or tape or a contrasting colored surface under the chairs. The restricted zone shall be no closer than 5 feet to the edge of the circle. Coaches shall be seated at least 10 feet from the scorers table, where facilities permit.

Conduct of Coaches, Team Personnel and Others

*NFHS Rule 7-5-2: Coaches and other team personnel are restricted to the bench/chairs while the clock is running and during normal out of bounds and resumption of wrestling. The coach may move towards the mat only during a charged time-out or at the end of the match. (See Rule 2-2)

*NFHS Rule 7-5-3: Unsportsmanlike conduct is called on coaches or other team personnel who violate the bench decorum rule (7-5-2).

2010/2011 NFHS & NSAA Wrestling Skin Lesion Form

NFHS & NSAA Ejection Rules Page 42-43A participant or coach ejected from a contest for Unsportsmanlike Conduct or Flagrant Misconduct shall be ineligible for the remainder of the entire contest (including all duals within a triangular, quad, or dual tournament) and the entire next contest at that level of competition and any other contest at any level during the interim.

Coaches Misconduct has a different enforcement. Please refer to the Penalty Chart within the National Federation Wrestling Rule Book for ejection penalties within any form of competition (dual, triangular, quad, individual tournament or dual tournament):

a. Unsportsmanlike Conduct Contestants (not during the match), Coaches and Other Team Personnel

b. Flagrant Misconduct Contestants

c. Flagrant Misconduct Coaches and Other Team Personnel

NSAA Sportsmanship PenaltiesCoaches who are ejected:Have 10 days to successfully complete NFHS Teaching and Modeling Behavior online course at Coach or School ExpenseCoaches who are ejected a 2nd time:Have 10 days to successfully complete NFHS Fundamentals of Coaching at Coach or School Expense

NSAA Sportsmanship PenaltiesAthletes who are ejected a 1st time:Must sit-out 1 complete contest date

Athletes who are ejected a 2nd time:Must sit-out 2 complete contest dates

Athletes who are ejected a 3rd time:Must sit-out 3 complete contest dates

NSAA Sportsmanship PenaltiesAthlete and coach ejections occurring in the final match of the season carry over to the next season of the same sport.

Schools having coaches or students with multiple ejections must submit to the NSAA:A written management plan explaining how they plan to remediate the problem.

Rule 4-2-6

OFFICIALS REMINDERS

District/State Application due December 19, 2010

NSAA Supervised Test Dates: -December 8th or December 13th Open Book Test due November 19th

Keep Schedules Current on the NSAA Login

OFFICIALS REMINDERSDistrict Assignments will be made in mid- January.

Be on time for contracted meets! Verify your officiating schedule. Skin Checks a MUST!!

DO NOT CUT THE HAIR OR TRIM THE FINGER NAILS OF A WRESTLER!!

COACHES REMINDERSBefore Practice Starts: -Athletic Physical signed and on file at school. -Parental consent forms signed and on file.-Documentation of team Educational Instruction regarding proper weight managementDuring the Season: -Monitor each athletes weight control program. -Check each athlete for skin disorders. -District entries due January 31, 2011.

COACHES REMINDERS

Catastrophic Injury Preparations:1. Have a plan in place for practice and matches.

2. Document your instructions of correct wrestling techniques and drills.

3. Correct illegal holds and potentially dangerous holds in practice and in meets and document if they persist.

COACHES REMINDERS

2010-11 WRESTLING SCHEDULES

All schools are required to submit their schedule electronically using the NSAA web site.Must be completed by November 24th

Only matches on a schools 30 point Schedule can be counted towards District Seeding

Class A & D have early SessionsClass B & C have late SessionsTicket Order Form is located on the NSAA Wrestling Web page. Due to Qwest by December 3rdTicketmaster opens sells after January 1st2011 State Wrestling Championship-Omaha

NEW NSAA State Wrestling ChampionshipCoaches Passes

1-5 Qualifiers = 2 Coaches Passes6-9 Qualifiers = 3 Coaches Passes10-14 Qualifiers = 4 Coaches Passes

** No Manager Pass **

NSAA Weight Management ProgramKey Dates:November 8 Alpha Testing may beginDecember 2First CompetitionDecember 25Growth Allowance begins for Wrestlers who have completed a Descent PlanJanuary 22Descent Plan must be CompletedFebruary 4 Last Date for any Alpha Test Results to be entered due to injury

Review the ALL Weight Management Guidelines!

Weight Management Reminders for 2010-11 The day the test is completed descent will show on the weight loss plan the following day Double check, right away, that your decent plan matches your Pre-Match Weigh-in form. DO NOT WAIT UNTIL THE LAST DAY!!!Coaches must enter actual weigh-in weights before creating the next Pre-Match Weigh-In Form.

Weight Management RemindersAllowances for consecutive days wrestling are NOT forgiven in the descent. Coaches must declare that a wrestler has completed the descent after December 25 to receive 2 pound growth allowance.

Nutrition Education Program

Tools for you to give Wrestlers & Parents

Every Student Athlete Has a Log In

Wrestler Nutrition Plan & Creating Meal Plans

Healthy TrainingEmphasis should be placed on training and competition - not weight loss.

Emphasis on lifelong healthy living.

Consequences of dehydration.

Educating the Athlete and ParentNWCA VideoIndividual program presentations.NWCA Web based Nutrition/Weight Management program

Darin Boysen NSAA dboysen@nsaahome.org OR 402-489-0386ONE MORE SLIDE AFTER THIS!!!!!!

Welcome to the 2010-2011 Nebraska School Activities Association Wrestling rules meeting.Information of Meeting:NFHS Rules ChangesNFHS Points of EmphasisRules RemindersGeneral RemindersChanges in the State Wrestling ChampionshipsWeight ManagementThe purpose of a rules meeting is to inform coaches and officials of the major wrestling rules not to debate or change rules.*Each state high school association adopting NFHS wrestling rules is the sole and exclusive source of binding rules interpretations for contests involving its member schools. Any person having questions about the interpretation of NFHS wrestling rules should contact Darin Boysen at the NSAA office.

The NFHS is the sole and exclusive source of model interpretations of NFHS wrestling rules. Only the NSAA rules interpreter may contact the NFHS for model wrestling rules interpretations. No other model for wrestling rules interpretations should be considered.

This PowerPoint presentation from the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) covers the following:2010-11 NFHS Wrestling Rules Changes2010-11 NFHS Wrestling Editorial Changes2010-11 NFHS Wrestling Points of Emphasis2010-11 NFHS Wrestling Rules Reminders2010-11 NFHS Wrestling Information*Rules Change:ART. 7All contestants (male and female) shall weigh in wearing a suitable undergarment that completely covers the buttocks and the groin area. Female contestants must also wear a suitable undergarment that covers their breasts. This rule change will also be used in the assessment of all wrestlers for weight management. Any contestant who has been authorized to wear an artificial limb, shall weigh in with the artificial limb.

Rationale for Change:The committee addressed some privacy issues for all involved with weigh-ins. Previously, both male and female contestants had to weigh in wearing no more than a suitable undergarment. Beginning this season, specific language has been added regarding what constitutes a suitable undergarment. Male and female contestants will be required to wear a suitable undergarment that completely covers the buttocks and the groin area during weigh-ins. In addition, for female contestants the suitable undergarment must also cover the breasts.

Comment on Slide:(PlayPic A) The male contestant is weighing in wearing shorts, which is a suitable undergarment and is legal.(PlayPic B) The female contestant is weighing in wearing shorts and a sports bra, which are both suitable undergarments and is legal.

All contestants (male and female) shall weigh in wearing a suitable undergarment that completely covers the buttocks and the groin area. Examples of these types of suitable undergarments include briefs, boxers and shorts. Female contestants must also wear a suitable undergarment that covers their breasts. Examples of these types of suitable undergarments include a t-shirt or sports bra.

Case Book: See 4.5.7 SITUATION *Rules Change:ART. 9The referee shall direct the offensive wrestler to assume a legal starting position once the defensive wrestler is stationary in a legal starting position. Once the offensive wrestler has assumed a legal starting position and is stationary, the referee shall verbally say set and then pause momentarily before starting wrestling.

The committee deleted 5-20-5 NOTE for 2010-11.

Rationale for Change:This rule change will eliminate either wrestler gaining an advantage by using a rolling start. It also eliminates the need for the offensive wrestler using a specific sequence when assuming a legal starting position, including the optional offensive starting position. Once the offensive wrestler has assumed a legal starting position and is stationary, the referee shall verbally say set and then pause momentarily before starting wrestling. Establishing the referees mechanic as part of the rule, and eliminating the sequence, simplifies establishing a legal offensive starting position and still assures a fair start for both wrestlers.

Comment on Slide:See description on slide.

Case Book: See 5.20.5D and 5.20.9 SITUATIONS

*Rules Change:ART. 9The referee shall direct the offensive wrestler to assume a legal starting position once the defensive wrestler is stationary in a legal starting position. Once the offensive wrestler has assumed a legal starting position and is stationary, the referee shall verbally say set and then pause momentarily before starting wrestling.

The committee deleted 5-20-5 NOTE for 2010-11.

Rationale for Change:This rule change will eliminate either wrestler gaining an advantage by using a rolling start. It also eliminates the need for the offensive wrestler using a specific sequence when assuming a legal starting position, including the optional offensive starting position. Once the offensive wrestler has assumed a legal starting position and is stationary, the referee shall verbally say set and then pause momentarily before starting wrestling. Establishing the referees mechanic as part of the rule, and eliminating the sequence, simplifies establishing a legal offensive starting position and still assures a fair start for both wrestlers.

Comment on Slide:See description on slide.

Rules 5-20-7, 8:ART. 7 . . . Optional Offensive Starting Position. The offensive wrestler may use an optional start, by being positioned on either side or to the rear of the opponent supporting all of their weight on both feet, one knee, or both knees. The offensive wrestler is to place the hands on the opponents back (area between the neck and waist), thumbs touching, and only the hands are to be in contact with the defensive wrestler. The offensive wrestler is not to place a foot, feet, or a knee(s) between the opponents feet or legs, in front of the forward starting line or the line extended, nor straddle the opponent. (Photos 33-34)

ART. 8 . . . If the offensive wrestler selects the optional starting position, the wrestler must indicate this intent to the referee. The referee shall then inform the defensive wrestler of the offensive wrestlers intentions. If the defensive wrestler is set prior to being informed, readjustment can be made. (Photo 33)

Case Book: See 5.20.5D and 5.20.9 SITUATIONS

*Rules Change:ART. 5 . . . Other illegal holds/maneuvers include, but are not limited to:x. rear-standing, double-knee kickback. (Photo 86)

Rationale for Change:The committee added the rear-standing, double-knee kickback to the list of illegal holds/maneuvers. This maneuver is increasingly being used at the high school level. This move would clearly put the opposing wrestler in a dangerous situation and at a high risk for injury.

Comment on Slide:When the wrestler from the rear standing position jumps and kicks with the bottom of his/her feet in the area behind both knees of the opponent in an attempt to take the wrestler back to the mat, it is an illegal rear-standing double-knee kickback.

Case Book: See 7.1.5L SITUATION

*Rules Change:ART. 4 . . . Any contestant who exhibits signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion (such as loss of consciousness, headache, dizziness, confusion or balance problems) shall be immediately removed from the match and shall not return to competition until cleared by an appropriate health-care professional. (See NFHS Suggested Guidelines for Management of Concussion, in Appendix B on page 80.)

Rationale for Change:The committee continues to maintain a focus on primary efforts toward maintaining the highest level of wrestler safety. This rule change, as a clarification and directive from the NFHS Sports Medicine Advisory Committee, stipulates that any contestant who exhibits signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion shall be immediately removed from the match. The contestant shall not return to competition until cleared by an appropriate health-care professional. See NFHS Suggested Guidelines for Management of Concussion, in Appendix B on Page 80 of the 2010-11 NFHS Wrestling Rules Book. The previous rule directed referees to remove a wrestler from competition if unconscious or apparently unconscious which was perceived in some circles as requiring a medical diagnosis. The previous rule also allowed for return to competition based solely on written authorization by a medical doctor or osteopath.

Though the enforcement of all wrestling rules is the responsibility of the wrestling referee, the recognition of the possibly concussed contestant and the removal of the contestant from competition is a shared responsibility. All coaches must be aware of the signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion and must remove a wrestler from any competition or practice if he or she exhibits those signs, symptoms or behaviors.

Comment on Slide:See description on slide.

The sole role of the referee is to stop wrestling and immediately remove the contestant that displays the signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion (See NFHS Suggested Guidelines for Management of Concussion, in Appendix B on page 80 of the 2010-11 NFHS Wrestling Rules Book) and the referee is not involved with the return to competition decisions. No specific written authorization needs to be presented to the referee in order for a contestant to return to competition. Each state association must determine who qualifies as an appropriate health-care professional and may formalize a procedure, including requirements for written certification, for making return to competition decisions.

**See Concussion Recognition and Management Point of Emphasis on pages 56-58 of the 2010-11 NFHS Wrestling Rules Book for more information.

Case Book: See 8.2.4A and B SITUATIONS

*Rules Change:ART. 4 . . . Any contestant who exhibits signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion (such as loss of consciousness, headache, dizziness, confusion or balance problems) shall be immediately removed from the match and shall not return to competition until cleared by an appropriate health-care professional. (See NFHS Suggested Guidelines for Management of Concussion, in Appendix B on page 80.)

Rationale for Change:The committee continues to maintain a focus on primary efforts toward maintaining the highest level of wrestler safety. This rule change, as a clarification and directive from the NFHS Sports Medicine Advisory Committee, stipulates that any contestant who exhibits signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion shall be immediately removed from the match. The contestant shall not return to competition until cleared by an appropriate health-care professional. See NFHS Suggested Guidelines for Management of Concussion, in Appendix B on Page 80 of the 2010-11 NFHS Wrestling Rules Book. The previous rule directed referees to remove a wrestler from competition if unconscious or apparently unconscious which was perceived in some circles as requiring a medical diagnosis. The previous rule also allowed for return to competition based solely on written authorization by a medical doctor or osteopath.

Though the enforcement of all wrestling rules is the responsibility of the wrestling referee, the recognition of the possibly concussed contestant and the removal of the contestant from competition is a shared responsibility. All coaches must be aware of the signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion and must remove a wrestler from any competition or practice if he or she exhibits those signs, symptoms or behaviors.

Comment on Slide:See description on slide.

The sole role of the referee is to stop wrestling and immediately remove the contestant that displays the signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion (See NFHS Suggested Guidelines for Management of Concussion, in Appendix B on page 80 of the 2010-11 NFHS Wrestling Rules Book) and the referee is not involved with the return to competition decisions. No specific written authorization needs to be presented to the referee in order for a contestant to return to competition. Each state association must determine who qualifies as an appropriate health-care professional and may formalize a procedure, including requirements for written certification, for making return to competition decisions.

**See Concussion Recognition and Management Point of Emphasis on pages 56-58 of the 2010-11 NFHS Wrestling Rules Book for more information.

Case Book: See 8.2.4A and B SITUATIONS

*

*2010-11 Editorial Change:ART. 8. . . Any contestant failing to make weight during the weigh-in period shall be ineligible for that weight class. That contestant may wrestle in the weight class for which his/her actual weight qualifies the contestant, or in the next higher weight class as long as either of these weight classes are permitted by the contestants individual weight loss plan on that given date. An additional weigh-in is neither required nor allowed.

Rationale for Change:This editorial change from the Committee was for clarification and eliminates the previous contradiction between Rules 4-5-3 and 4-5-8.

*2010-11 Editorial Change:ART. 2Grasping of clothing, mat or ear guards by a contestant is prohibited. Any advantage gained thereby shall be nullified. Grasping of clothing, mat or ear guards to gain or prevent an escape, reversal, takedown, near fall or fall is a technical violation and the penalty points shall be awarded in addition to points earned.

Rationale for Change:This editorial change from the Committee was for clarification.

**Slide Comment:The following three wrestling points of emphasis were selected by the NFHS Wrestling Rules Committee for the 2010-11 high school wrestling season. Each of these wrestling points of emphasis need to be stressed to all coaches, referees, wrestlers, parents, school administrators, appropriate health-care professionals and all others who have an interest in high school wrestling.

*Concussion Recognition and Management (Point of Emphasis):

Adolescent athletes are particularly vulnerable to the effects of concussion. Once considered little more than a minor ding on the head, it is now understood that a concussion has the potential to result in death, or short- and long-term changes in brain function. A concussion is a brain injury that results in a temporary disruption of normal brain function. A concussion occurs when the brain is violently rocked back and forth or twisted inside the skull as a result of a blow to the head or body.

The NFHS has been at the forefront of national sports organizations in emphasizing the importance of concussion education, recognition and proper management for the past several years. In 2008, the NFHS Sports Medicine Advisory Committee (SMAC) advocated that a concussed athlete be removed from play and not allowed to return to play on that same day. In 2009, this position was adopted by the leading group of sports medicine experts and the National Football League (NFL).

To highlight the continuing importance of this issue, the NFHS SMAC and each sports rules committee have taken the unprecedented step of including Concussion Recognition and Management as a point of emphasis in each NFHS sport rules book for the 2010-11 year. The purpose of this point of emphasis is to explain the change in verbiage in the NFHS rules books regarding the referees recognition of a possibly concussed athlete and to emphasize the importance of proper concussion management.

Concussions at all levels of sports have received a great deal of attention in the past few years. Attention has increased even more so over the past year, culminating with the NFL, NCAA and NFHS testifying before the United States Congress about what each organization is doing to protect athletes from concussion.

Change in verbiagePrevious rules books for most sports included language directing officials to remove an athlete from play if unconscious or apparently unconscious. The wrestling rules language has been changed to the following: Any contestant who exhibits signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion (such as loss of consciousness, headache, dizziness, confusion or balance problems) shall be immediately removed from the match and shall not return to competition until cleared by an appropriate health-care professional. The common signs, symptoms and behaviors of concussed athletes may be found in Appendix B on page 80 of the 2010-11 NFHS Wrestling Rules Book.

Given that most concussed athletes do not lose consciousness, yet they often show other common signs, symptoms and behaviors of concussion, the NFHS SMAC strongly believes that referees must be empowered to remove these contestants from competition, thus protecting them from potential further injury. Continued participation in any sport following a concussion can lead to worsening concussion symptoms, as well as increased risk for further injury to the brain, and even death.

Neither referees, nor coaches, are expected to diagnose a concussion, as that is the job of a medical professional. The previous rule called upon referees to determine apparently unconscious which appeared to expect some level of medical judgment. Referees are now being asked to use their best judgment again in observing the signs, symptoms and behaviors as listed above, but are no longer being asked to make what could be perceived to be a medical opinion. The well-being of the athlete is of paramount concern during any athletic contest. Referees, coaches and administrators are being asked to make all efforts to ensure that concussed athletes do not continue to participate. *Concussion Recognition and Management (Point of Emphasis): Continued

The referee is not responsible for the on-the-mat evaluation or management of the contestant after he or she is removed from the match. The responsibility of further evaluating and managing the athlete with a possible concussion falls upon the head coach, appropriate health-care professional or other individual designated by school administrators. If the mat-side appropriate health-care professional (if present) determines that the contestant HAS NOT suffered a concussion, the contestant may return to competition, if injury or recovery time has not expired. If there is no appropriate health-care professional available to evaluate the contestant, the contestant SHOULD NOT be allowed by the head coach to return to competition. Please see the NFHS Suggested Guidelines for Management of Concussion in Sports at www.nfhs.org for further information.

The referee does not need written permission for an athlete to return to competition nor does the referee need to verify the credentials of the appropriate health-care professional. Ensuring compliance with the Suggested Management Guidelines is a health and safety issue and should be the responsibility of the head coach and school administration, NOT the wrestling referee.

Suggested Concussion Management1. No athlete should return to play (RTP) or practice on the same day of a concussion.2. Any athlete suspected of having a concussion should be evaluated by an appropriate health-care professional that day.3. Any athlete with a concussion should be medically cleared by an appropriate healthcare professional prior to resuming participation in any practice or competition.4. After medical clearance, RTP should follow a step-wise protocol with provisions for delayed RTP based upon return of any signs or symptoms.

The suggested guidelines for concussion management fall outside the realm of meet management, but are clearly a health and safety issue for coaches and administrators. These guidelines should also be applied to practices. The position of the NFHS SMAC is that no athlete should return to play or practice on that same day after suffering a concussion. Studies have shown medical professionals that the school-aged brain does not recover quickly enough for a high school athlete to return to activity in such a short time.

An appropriate health-care professional must be determined by each member state association and/or school district with respect to state laws and local preferences. Such individuals should be knowledgeable in the evaluation and management of sports-related concussions and may, depending on controlling law, include MDs, DOs, nurse practitioners, physicians assistants and certified athletic trainers.

Athletes with continued concussion symptoms are at significant risk for recurrent, cumulative and even catastrophic consequences of a second concussive injury. Such risks are minimized if the athlete is allowed time to recover from the concussion and return to play decisions are carefully made. No athlete should return-to-sport or other at-risk participation when symptoms of concussion are present and recovery is ongoing.

For further details, please see the NFHS Suggested Guidelines for Management of Concussion in Sports at www.nfhs.org.*Concussion Recognition and Management (Point of Emphasis):

See Suggested Guidelines for Management of Concussion in Appendix B on page 80 of the 2010-11 NFHS Wrestling Rules Book.*Communicable Diseases (Point of Emphasis):

Communicable skin conditions are a major concern in wrestling and with the emergence of MRSA infections, the concern is greater than ever. If a participant has a suspect skin condition, NFHS rules require current, written documentation from an appropriate health-care professional stating the athletes participation would not be harmful to an opponent. The NFHS has developed a form that can be used for that documentation and several state associations have adopted that form for use in their state. Regardless of the form used, it is imperative that ALL coaches perform routine skin checks of their wrestlers and require any wrestlers with a suspect condition to seek medical attention and treatment. It is also imperative that ALL referees perform skin checks as part of their pre-meet duties prior to EVERY meet. If there is a suspect condition, the wrestler, or coach, must present the proper clearance form at the weigh-in for the dual meet or tournament, if the wrestler is to be allowed to compete. One of the keys in preventing the spread of communicable skin conditions are coaches and referees fulfilling their responsibilities professionally. It is, however, only one of the keys.

The other, equally important key is proper prevention. While prevention can be complicated, it requires that a few basic steps must be taken by ALL teams. Educate coaches, athletes and parents about communicable skin conditions and how they are spread. Clean wrestling mats daily with a solution of 1:100 bleach and water or an appropriate commercial cleaner. Maintain proper ventilation in the wrestling room to prevent the build-up of heat and humidity. Clean all workout gear (including towels, clothing, headgear, shoes, knee pads, etc.) after each practice. Require each wrestler to shower after each practice with an antibacterial soap. Do not share bars of soap. Use individual soap dispensers. Perform daily skin checks to ensure early recognition of potential communicable skin conditions. Refrain from sharing razors or other personal hygiene supplies.*Communicable Diseases (Point of Emphasis):

Rules 4-2-3, 4, 5:ART. 3 . . . If a participant is suspected by the referee or coach of having a communicable skin disease or any other condition that makes participation appear inadvisable, the coach shall provide current written documentation as defined by the NFHS or the state associations, from an appropriate health-care professional stating that the suspected disease or condition is not communicable and that the athletes participation would not be harmful to any opponent. This document shall be furnished at the weigh-in for the dual meet or tournament. The only exception would be if a designated, on-site meet physician is present and is able to examine the wrestler either immediately prior to or immediately after the weigh-in. Covering a communicable condition shall not be considered acceptable and does not make the wrestler eligible to participate.

ART. 4 . . . If a designated, on-site meet physician is present, he/she may overrule the diagnosis of the appropriate health-care professional signing the medical release form for a wrestler to participate or not participate with a particular skin condition.

ART. 5 . . . A contestant may have documentation from an appropriate health-care professional only indicating a specific condition such as a birthmark or other non-communicable skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema, and that documentation is valid for the duration of the season. It is valid with the understanding that a chronic condition could become secondarily infected and may require re-evaluation.

*Rules Change:ART. 3 . . . If a participant is suspected by the referee or coach of having a communicable skin disease or any other condition that makes participation appear inadvisable, the coach shall provide current written documentation as defined by the NFHS or the state associations, from a physician stating that the suspected disease or condition is not communicable and that the athletes participation would not be harmful to any opponent. This document shall be furnished at the weigh-in for the dual meet or tournament. The only exception would be if a designated, on-site meet physician is present and is able to examine the wrestler either immediately prior to or immediately after the weigh-in. Covering a communicable condition shall not be considered acceptable and does not make the wrestler eligible to participate.

Comments on Rule Change:The committee clarified that if a designated, on-site meet physician is present, they may examine a wrestler for a communicable skin disease or any other condition, either immediately prior to or immediately after the weigh-in.

Comments on Slide:In PlayPic A, the wrestler is being examined by the designated, on-site meet physician immediately prior to the weigh-in.In PlayPic B, the wrestler is being examined by the designated, on-site meet physician immediately after the weigh-in.

Case Book: See 4.2.3 SITUATIONS C, E

*Fleeing the Mat (Point of Emphasis):

Intentionally going out of the wrestling area to prevent being scored upon or forcing an opponent out of the wrestling area to avoid wrestling is a technical violation. When a wrestler is fleeing the mat or forcing an opponent off the mat (from any position) the call should be made immediately, there is no warning. There can be no technical violation for fleeing the mat if near-fall points have been earned (two-second near-fall count or more). These situations must be recognized and penalized differently than a stalling violation. Both wrestlers are charged with making every effort to remain inbounds and are not allowed to avoid wrestling. Too often wrestlers are using the edge of the mat to avoid being scored upon takedowns, reversals, or when near-fall is imminent but no near-fall points have been earned (back is exposed but less than two-second near-fall count). The goal of the match is to have continuous action and conduct the match with minimal stoppages. Wrestlers are obligated to make every effort to remain inbounds, but the boundary line should not serve to handicap a wrestler or place them in a position of disadvantage.

*Fleeing the Mat (Point of Emphasis): Continued

Fleeing the mat and forcing an opponent off the mat shall be recognized as a technical violation, not stalling; therefore, penalized without hesitation. When a Technical violation occurs due to fleeing the mat or forcing an opponent off the mat, penalty points are awarded in addition to any match points scored (Example: Points should be awarded for a reversal, escape or takedown if earned, in addition to penalty point(s) for a technical violation of fleeing the mat or forcing an opponent off the mat.)

**Rules Reminder:

Coaches Restricted Zone (2-2-2): This 2008-09 rule change clarified the existence of a boundary for the coaches restricted zone on the corner of the wrestling mat. Previously, coaches sometimes tended to get too close to the circle, which could increase risk of injury to the wrestlers or the coach.

Rule 2-2-2:ART. 2 . . . During tournament competition, a maximum of two team personnel (coaches and/or non-participating contestants) will be permitted on chairs at the edge of the mat. It is permissible to allow coaches on the corner of the mat in a restricted zone. In tournaments where coaches are permitted on the corner of the mat, the restricted zone shall be defined by either a contrasting line marked on the mat with paint or tape or a contrasting colored surface under the chairs. The restricted zone shall be no closer than 5 feet to the edge of the circle. Coaches shall be seated at least 10 feet from the scorers table, where facilities permit.

Case Book: See 2.2.2 SITUATIONS A, B, C

*Rules Reminder:

Weighing In (4-5-3): This 2009-10 rule change added the option for meet administration to weigh-in contestants by weight class or team(s).

Rule 4-5-3:ART. 3 . . . For any event, all contestants shall be present in and remain in the designated weigh-in area at the time established by the meet administration. Contestants shall not leave the designated weigh-in area unless permission is granted by the meet administration. Dual meet weigh-in shall proceed through the weight classes beginning with the lowest weight class and end immediately upon the completion of the highest weight class. When all wrestlers for a weight class have had an opportunity to weigh in and the next class is called, that weight class is closed. Tournament weigh-in may proceed by team(s) with the lowest weight class to the highest and end immediately upon the completion of the highest weight class. A contestant shall weigh in for only one weight class during the weigh-in period. If only one scale is available, a contestant may step on and off that scale two times to allow for mechanical inconsistencies in the scale. If multiple scales are available, a contestant may step on and off the first scale two times to allow for mechanical inconsistencies in that scale. If the contestant fails to make weight on the first scale, the contestant shall immediately step on each available scale one time in an attempt to make weight. During time off the scale(s), activities that promote dehydration are prohibited.

Comments on Slide:In PlayPic A, Team A (Green Shorts) is weighing in as a team from the lowest weight class to the highest weight class.In PlayPic B, Team B (Red Shorts) is weighing in as a team from the lowest weight class to the highest weight class. The wrestler from Team A (Green Shorts) cannot weigh in with Team B (Red Shorts) as they have to weigh in when their team weighs in.

Case Book: See 4.5.3 SITUATIONS B, C, D

*Rules Reminder:

Choice in Ultimate Tiebreaker Revised (6-7-1c6): This 2008-09 rule change provides the wrestler whose opponent has been penalized for unsportsmanlike conduct at anytime during the match the choice of position for the ultimate tiebreaker. The unsportsmanlike conduct penalty will supersede the first points scored in the regulation match.

Rule 6-7-1c6:ART. 1c6 . . . if the score is tied at the end of the two 30-second tiebreakers; the choice of position for the ultimate tiebreaker will be granted to the wrestler who scored the first point(s) in the regulation match (first three periods of the match); the wrestler whose opponent has received an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty at anytime during the match will have the choice of position. The unsportsmanlike conduct penalty will supersede the first points scored in the regulation match; if no points are scored in the regulation match, a flip of the disk shall determine the wrestler who has the choice (points for double-stalling or simultaneous penalties shall be considered as no points for the purpose of the tiebreaker choice).

Case Book: See 6.7.2 SITUATION

*Excessive Celebrations (POE)

Postmatch celebrations are becoming more demonstrative and staged. Not only does the excessive celebration reflect badly on the sport, it increases the likelihood of retaliatory actions by the losing wrestler. Referees should move quickly after a match to get in proximity to the wrestlers, especially the winner, to discourage excessive celebrations. Referees should also be well versed in the rules pertaining to unsportsmanlike conduct in such situations. Coaches should emphasize to their athletes that good sportsmanship is expected from all and that excessive celebrations will not be tolerated.

*Rules Reminder:

Rule 1 - Competition:The NFHS Wrestling Rules Committee wants to remind all coaches, referees, meet administrators and wrestlers that these three competition rules need to be followed during all competitions.

No changes to these three rules.

Case Book: See 1.2.2 SITUATION

**Rules Reminder:

Rule 2 Equipment (Team Benches):Need to emphasize to coaches and team personnel that they must comply with both of these rules.

Referees need to enforce these two rules at all times.

Case Book: See 2.2.1 SITUATIONS A-B; 2.2.2 SITUATIONS A-C

*Rules Reminder:

Rule 7 Infractions (Conduct of Coaches, Team Personnel and Others):Need to again emphasize to coaches and team personnel that they need to comply with Rule 7-5-2.

Referees need to enforce both of these rules at all times.

Case Book: See 7.5.3 SITUATION

Weight Allowance (4-5-5): This 2008-09 rule change added a one-pound weight allowance in the event of a school closing due to inclement weather or unforeseen circumstances, where wrestling practice(s) cannot take place due to school policies. The minimum 48 hours advance notice is not required under these circumstances. The head coach, principal or athletic director of the opponent(s) should be the acceptable person(s) to be notified.

Rule 4-5-5:ART. 5 . . . When there are consecutive days of team competition, there shall be a 1-pound additional allowance granted each day for all wrestlers up to a maximum of two pounds. In order to be granted this 1-pound additional allowance, a minimum of 48 hours advance notice is required for the opponent(s). The acceptable person(s) to receive that notice shall be the head coach, principal or athletic director. Competitions that are postponed for one calendar day or more, for reasons beyond the control of the participating school(s), or practices that cannot be held in these situations due to school policy shall be treated the same as competitions when there are consecutive days of competition in terms of the 1-pound allowance, with the exception of the required 48-hour notice.

Case Book: 4.5.5 SITUATION F

*NFHS REMINDER 2010/2011 NFHS Wrestling Skin Lesion Form:The NFHS Sports Medicine Advisory Committee has revised and updated the NFHS Wrestling Skin Lesion Form for the 2010-11 wrestling season.

This form can be found under Wrestling on the NSAA Web site (www.nsaahome.org)

The gray highlighted areas indicated what has been revised and updated.

*Wrestling Inbounds (5-15-3): This 2008-09 rule clarification allows the referee to bring both wrestlers back to the center of the mat and restart the match in order to promote action in the center of the mat area. This rule change allows the referee the option at the edge of the mat to stop wrestling and restart the wrestling in the center of the mat when no action is taking place without penalizing either wrestler.

Rule 5-15-3:ART. 3 . . . Wrestling shall continue as long as the supporting parts of either wrestler remain inbounds. If there is no action at the edge of the mat and one wrestler is out of bounds, the referee may stop the match.

Case Book: 5.15.3 SITUATION

*NFHS & NSAA Ejection Rules May be found on pages 42-43 of the NFHS Wrestling Rules book.A participant or coach ejected from a contest for Unsportsmanlike Conduct or Flagrant Misconduct shall be ineligible for the remainder of the entire contest (including all duals within a triangular, quad, or dual tournament) and the entire next contest at that level of competition and any other contest at any level during the interim.

Coaches Misconduct has a different enforcement and is not an ejection. Please refer to the Penalty Chart within the National Federation Wrestling Rule Book for ejection penalties within any form of competition (dual, triangular, quad, individual tournament or dual tournament):

a. Unsportsmanlike Conduct Contestants (not during the match), Coaches and Other Team Personnel

b. Flagrant Misconduct Contestants

c. Flagrant Misconduct Coaches and Other Team Personnel

The NSAA ejection policy requires coaches and athletes who are ejected to sit-out the next contest. In addition to that policy:Coaches who are ejected from a contest must successfully complete the NFHS Teaching & Modeling Behavior online course at his/her expense within 10 days of the ejection. Failure by an ejected coach to successfully complete the NFHS online course will result in the coach being suspended from coaching in any further competition in that activity for the remainder of the season. Coaches who are ejected a second time during the season must sit-out two contests and complete the NFHS Fundamentals of Coaching course.An athlete ejected from a contest for Unsportsmanlike Conduct or Flagrant Misconduct shall be ineligible for theremainder of the entire contest (including all duals within a triangular, quad, or dual tournament) and the entire next contestat that level of competition and any other contest at any level during the interim.

Any participant ejected a second time during a season from a contest for Unsportsmanlike or Flagrant Misconduct shall be ineligible for thenext two contests at that level of competition and all other athletic contests at any level during the interim, in addition toother penalties the NSAA or school may assess.

Any participant ejected a third time during a season from a contest for Unsportsmanlike or Flagrant Misconduct shall be ineligible for thenext three contests at that level of competition and all other athletic contests at any level during the interim, in addition toother penalties the NSAA or school may assess.

Athlete and coach ejections occurring in the final match of the season carry over to the next season of the same sport.

Schools having coaches or students with multiple ejections must submit to the NSAA:A written management plan explaining how they plan to remediate the problem.*Tooth and Mouth Protector (Rule 4-2-6) (4th Year for this NFHS Wrestling Rule):This rule requires each contestant who has braces or has a special orthodontic device on his or her teeth, to wear a tooth and mouth protector.The tooth and mouth protector must cover the teeth and all areas of the braces or special orthodontic device with adequate thickness. This would include upper and lower teeth if devices are present on both.The NFHS Sports Medicine Advisory Committee and the NFHS Wrestling Rules Committee both feel that it is in the best interest from a safety perspective that if a wrestler does have braces, or wears a special orthodontic device on their teeth, that they shall be covered to protect wrestlers from injury when coming in contact with the mouth and teeth. Tooth and Mouth Protector penalty is treated the same way as the ear guard penalty.

Rule 4-2-6:ART. 6 Each contestant who has braces or has a special orthodontic device on his or her teeth, shall be required to wear a tooth and mouth protector. A tooth and mouth protector (intraoral) shall include an occlusal (protecting and separating the biting surfaces) and a labial (protecting the teeth and supporting structures) portion and cover the teeth and all areas of the braces or special orthodontic device with adequate thickness. This would include upper and lower teeth if devices are present on both. It is recommended the protector be properly fitted and:a. Constructed from a model made from an impression of the individuals teeth and braces or special orthodontic device.b. Constructed and fitted to the individual by impressing the teeth and braces or special orthodontic device into the tooth and mouth protector itself.

Case Book: 4.2.6 SITUATIONOFFICIALS REMINDERS:District/State Application due December 19, 2010 NSAA Supervised Test Dates: -December 8th or December 13th Open Book Test due November 19, 2010

Officials: make sure your schedules are correct so that observations can be completed throughout the stateOFFICIALS REMINDERS:District Assignments will be made in mid- January.Be on time for contracted meets! Verify your officiating schedule on your NSAA officials login. Skin Checks a MUST!!DO NOT CUT THE HAIR OR TRIM THE FINGER NAILS OF A WRESTLER!!

Schools: Annual Reminders:Signed Physical signed and on file for each athleteParental Consent FormDocument your Educational Instruction of weight management NWCA web site is an excellent sourceDuring Season:Monitor each athletes weight control programCheck for skin disordersDistrict Entries due online by Jan. 31 2011Document all Practice schedulesDocument when instruction took place of correct tech. and drills daily practice scheduleCorrect illegal holds and potentially dangerous holds in practice.Varsity schedules need to be completed on line the sooner the better. Must be completed by November 24thOnly matches on a schools 30 point Schedule can be counted towards District Seeding.The 200 NSAA State Wrestling Championships will be held on February 17-19 at the Qwest Center Omaha.Classeses A & D have the early sessions, while Classes B & C have the late sessions.The advanced ticket order form is posted on the NSAA Wrestling web page. All advanced orders must be received by Qwest no later than December 3rd.Ticketmaster sellsopen after Jan.1st.NEW for the 2011 NSAA State Wrestling Championships:Schools with 10 or more qualifiers can earn a fourth coaches pass if this person is a full time coach for the wrestling program.All names must be submitted by the school's Athletic Director in January.The Board of Directors have discontinued all manager passes.There will be several changes to the NSAA State Wrestling Championship Schedule.Weigh-Ins will be moved back one hour to 8:00 AM each dayWith the use of 10 mats rather than 8 for the first four sessions the goal is start weigh-ins and competition later in the day and complete the final matches earlier on Thursday and Friday. Changes in the schedule are highlighted in yellow. Due to a Creighton Mens basketball game on Wednesday, February 16th, the packet pick-up schedule and location within the Qwest Center will be changed. Look for detailed information in your pre-championship coaches link on the NSAA Wrestling web page.New for the 2011 State Wrestling Championships:Use 10 mats for all session Thursday & Friday during the day.Team seating will be by class for the entire tournament:Class A: Northwest CornerClass B: Southwest CornerClass C: Southeast CornerClass D: Northeast Corner

Mat assignments for each match will be predetermined and printed in the program for all rounds up to the 215 pound weight class. Matches at this point in the round will be assigned by the public address announcers. Wrestlers should report to the assigned mat at the conclusion of the 2nd period or after a fall. Coaches and wrestlers will be asked to leave the arena floor after each match.Session 5 Friday Night Championship Semi-Finals and Consolation 3rd Round will return to the 8 Mat format.

Team seating will remain in the lower level corners.For the Finals round we will return to the 4 mat format.Team seating will remain in the corners.New for the 2011 Championships will be public seating on the arena floor that was in the past intended for coaches and athletes. 300 seats on each end will be made available Saturday morning at the Qwest Box office on a first come first serve basis for $9 each similar to the format of the NCAA Championships.Other changes will include two warm up areas one located on the north end the new second warm up area located on the south end.

The weigh-in area will now be located on the south end of the arena with the south warm up area used as a staging area.

Any athletes that are flagged as a skin concern will now be taken to a private screening room where both on-site physicians will make a final determination if the athlete is eligible to compete.

Also new for the 2011 State Championships. If an athlete is declared medically ineligible due to a skin condition by the designated on-site physicians on Thursday or Friday, he or she will be allowed to weigh-in and medically forfeit the match without having to report to the mat. He or she can then be re-evaluated the following day by the designated on-site physicians for eligibility. The designated on-site physicians will have complete authority in this determination.

All Pre-Testing with an Assessor must take place before November 8thWrestler may NOT compete until an Alpha test is complete and recorded in the NWCA Database Growth allowance: Wrestler must make scratch weight before be granted the 2 poundsDescent plans end on January 22nd.A wrestler must have a weigh-in prior to the district tournament.PLEASE review all weight management guidelines online or in the NSAA Wrestling Manual.The day the athlete is tested the descent begins. The following day will be the first day of weight loss calculated at 1.5% body weight per week.Please make sure to check at the beginning of the year that the descent plan matches your first pre-match weigh-in form.Coaches must enter actual weigh-in weights before creating the next pre-match weigh-in form.For a two day tournament, only the day one weigh-in is required to be entered into the NWCA system.Two Exceptions: If the athlete does not make weight for day two of an individual tournament.If the athlete moves up in weight more than the consecutive day allowance in a dual tournament.The NWCA system does not forgive allowances for consecutive days. Any weigh-in weight above the calculated descent plan for the given day will not be forgiven.Coaches are reminded that they must declare that a wrestler has reached their minimum weight class after December 25th for each athlete to receive the 2 pound growth allowance. Directions will be posted online and e-mailed to each coach.The National Wrestling Coaches Association is here to help you the coaches and your athletes.Each head coach is given a Login ID and Password for each wrestler so they too can login into the NWCA web site.The most powerful area for an athlete is the Nutrition & Meal Planning.Each athlete can create custom nutrition plan for his or her needs step by step.Parents, coaches and athletes can work together to develop wise choices for the demands of wrestling.

The NWCA and the NSAA promotes healthy training while focusing on two goals:

Training & Competition Lifelong healthy living

Coaches need to educate young athletes the dangers and consequences of dehydration practices.Refer to the NWCA website for several resources that can help you in getting information to the athletes and parents.Thank you for time and attention. If you have questions during the season please contact Darin Boysen at the NSAA office.