Organizers bit off more than the volunteers could chew - should have added just middle school (6th, 7th, & 8th) to see how the facilities worked out. The tournament has multiple purposes - it is a showcase and a fundraiser. I like what they are doing in helping faltering college programs. The demand for kids to attend these events is growing. Tulsa Nationals, USA Folkstyle Nationals, Brute Nationals, Virginia had senior nationals this year but added other grades. They pulled it off. Nearly 3,600 to 4000 matches in 2 days. The problem with wrestling that many grades is that you need one more day and you need another day of volunteers, extra day of facility rental, another day of officals. The high school numbers may stay about the same but the kids number will grow and the problems with running it in two days will also grow.
All and all if you have ever run a tournament. I just say unbelievable that they ran nearly 2000 kids through registration and weigh-ins, skin checks in 2 hours. I am sure organizers are going to take suggestions and make some changes. I like the grade thing. But if they are going to include youth wrestling - Then they may have to do something like combine
1-2 grade, 3-4 grade, 4-6 grade, 7-8 grade, 9-10 grade, 11-12 grade. 6 Divisions by grade or age. That would create bigger brackets - I am not sure if you would have fewer matches.
Maybe keep split session both days 4 grades in the morning, afternoon, and evening. I am rambling so I'll quit here.
