Originally posted by Gibby:
"As to the proactive measure, a thought to consider - with the growth of FS/GR in the state and the number of real injuries that occur with athletes not properly trained/coached in these disciplines should be a concern. Deaths/season ending injuries due to hydration/body fat in Kansas = 0, real injuries, a loss of opportunity for athletes to compete at the highest level and earn scholarships, and the disability of many small schools vs. metros in = many."
"If KSHSAA was interested in saving injuries/ possible deaths (a suplex placed on a kid that doesn't know how to land can break his neck and kill him), then they would do the responsible thing and recognize FS/GR as different from folkstyle and allow coaches that have athletes that are interested in these disciplines the opportunity to coach them to prevent serious injury."
"Enough broken arms, strained backs, dislocated shoulders have evolved from their lack of training. Granted, it won't cure all injuries, but by taking a PROACTIVE step would be a step in the right direction."
Maybe that is why we wrestle folkstyle during the school year. Why should the KSHSAA be concerned anymore about FS/GR than they are about surfing? Neither happen on their watch or concern their constituents ie. the schools.
"(post-secondary education - an athlete that is stellar in the classroom is not capable of gaining the "balance" sought by the restrictive rules)"
All evidence to the contrary based on the number of Kansas kids wrestling at college levels.
"(effective citizenship through good sportsmanship = are they doing this? Part of being a good citizen/good sport is to take your losses in stride, but still work hard to overcome your setbacks. KSHSAA's position of "taking their ball and going home does not follow the mission they have adopted. Just as a good citizen will continue to vote even in defeat, KSHSAA should do the same. Hiding under the guise of "we're doing what's best for our kids," is in my opinion, the exact opposite. We are showing our kids that it's okay to just quit when you know you can't win, which is exactly the message sent by KSHSAA and it non voting status.)"
I believe that's called winning. Where and when has KSHSAA lost a court ruling? They haven't quit, they just win every time and usually for good reason.
