Split format tournaments need to run with plenty of mats as to where there are only about 30-40 matches on each mat. This keeps the matches moving and allows for the different age groups to run on their prescribed time. And honestly do 6 and Unders really need full size mats to wrestle on? maybe the heavyweights, but even then half a mat is sufficient in my opinion.
I know this is a "new" concept when Derby ran the Novice championships last year of having 6 and Under from 9:00-11:00 8 and Under from approx. 11:00-1:00 etc. and I believe that it is a good concept for the kids' sake as well as the parents of the kids.
Before anyone starts bashing the idea, figure it up with the number of entries in the tournament for each age group and set the mats accordingly so that there would be a maximum of 30 matches on each mat. 30 matches @ approx 4 minutes per match (give or take a few) is 2 hours of wrestling on each mat. Granted, you would have to waive the 30 minute rest time between matches, but that would need to be stated on the tournament flyer beforehand.
I'll be the first one to give props to Haysville for attempting the split format idea, however, more mat space was needed in order for things to run smoothly and get everyone out of there before 9:30 p.m. I believe this was a definite learning experience for everyone involved.
