Wrestling is a character builder and conditions the bodies of young men (and women) and teaches them discipline. It also allows anyone of any weight or height to participate so it gives an opportunity to those who would not otherwise be able to participate in a sport. Those were important considerations in 1950 but not so much today. Society has changed and a sport that requires 100% effort for 6 minutes followed by 2 hours of down time just doesn't have the allure it once had in a slower paced society. Its simply a different time and kids, for the most part, don't have any real incentive to be a sportsman. Having the most "friends" on Facebook is more important than having the most medals on the dresser. I love the sport, but I have to acknowledge that the crowds and participate both have waned over the past twenty years. Keeping it viable in the future, much less bringing its popularity back, is about as likely as reviving the passenger pigeon.
