Let me first state that the following is my opinion on this topic, no one else’s, mine.
#1 Singlet - truth is that now there is discussion as to what kind of singlet is to be used for weigh in. My son for example collects singlets as does many wrestlers. There actually are some that he can get into that weigh an ounce or so less, hard to imagine but true. I think here that one has to look at the intent of the rule. The reason for the singlet is that they have to wrestle in it and skin checks are one of the reasons for wearing the singlet. Weigh in with a singlet as the rule states, but when a kid forgets a singlet remember the intent of the rule. I know someone will make mention of borrowing a singlet, but frankly I know that kids don't always wear underwear when weighing in so I don't want my son borrowing one. Maybe more graphic than you want but the truth.
#2 I believe in making weight for the reasons mentioned above. Even in tournaments where they give weight, my son makes weight. As a coach I would hope that every child makes weight. The posts are correct, flat weight and you must make it. If you have trouble making weight, then go up a weight class. We can't have it both ways, complain about kids who cut weight and then give weight. Last note, it is never fair to the kid who makes weight and then give another an ounce or two. Explain that to the kid that made it.
#3 I agree don't give allowances here, but then again, be patient and allow a redrawing of brackets. We can't have it both ways if it really is for the kids. I also agree with time being allowed for conditions like weather. Also realize that the redrawing of brackets could take longer than the allowance of weighing in. Last note on this one, if it is about the kids, it is about letting the kids get matches. That is why I favor the redrawing of brackets. Believe me, we have so many trophies and medals in boxes in our basement that I don't know what we will do with them. After awhile it is not about trophies or medals, although the nice ones are special. It is about mat time. Want me upset, let me show up at a tournament pay my money, drive the distance, and then only get one match for a wrestler. One match as has happened numerous times is never acceptable in my book, redraw brackets if need be, combine brackets, round robin or something but find a way to allow the wrestler to wrestle.
#4 There should be one test scale before stepping into the room. I like this about Freestyle and Greco. Once in the room you get the option to challenge 1 scale if you don't like the scale you are on. In Freestyle and Greco if you don't make the weight, after the challenge you wrestle the weight on the challenge scale, so if heavier, you wrestler the next weight class up, but you get to wrestle. Then once in the room, because of the test scale, once you weigh or challenge you either have or have not made weight, no multiple chances thus drawing out the process.
