2014-15 Wrestling Rules Changes This PowerPoint presentation from the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) covers the following: 2014-15 NFHS Wrestling Rules Changes 2014-15 NFHS Wrestling Editorial Changes 2014-15 NFHS Wrestling Points of Emphasis 2014-15 NFHS Wrestling Rules Reminders 2014-15 NFHS Wrestling Information

NFHS Wrestling Rules Each state high school association adopting these NFHS wrestling rules is the sole and exclusive source of binding rules interpretations for contests involving its member schools. Any person having questions about the interpretation of NFHS wrestling rules should contact the wrestling rules interpreter designated by his or her state high school association. The NFHS is the sole and exclusive source of model interpretations of NFHS wrestling rules. State rules interpreters may contact the NFHS for model wrestling rules interpretations. No other model wrestling rules interpretations should be considered. Comment on Slide: This statement appears at the bottom of page 3 in the 2014-15 NFHS Wrestling Rules Book.

Legal Hair Cover Rules 4-2-1, 4-3-1a Rules Changes: Rule 4-2-1: ART. 1 . . . During competition all wrestlers shall be clean shaven, with sideburns trimmed no lower than earlobe level and hair trimmed and well groomed. The hair, in its natural state, shall not extend below the top of an ordinary shirt collar in the back; and on the sides, the hair shall not extend below earlobe level; in the front, the hair shall not extend below the eyebrows. (Photos 2-3) A neatly trimmed mustache that does not extend below the line of the lower lip shall be permissible. If an individual has hair longer than allowed by rule, it may be braided or rolled if it is contained in a cover so that the hair rule is satisfied. (Photo 4) The legal hair cover shall be attached to the ear guards. A bandanna is not considered a legal hair cover. The legal hair cover must be of a solid material and be nonabrasive. The wrestler opting to wear a legal hair cover must wear it to the weigh-in procedure and be checked for grooming with it on. The legal hair cover must be removed prior to the wrestler stepping on the scale to be weighed. If a referee is not present at weigh-ins, the hair cover must be checked by the meet referee upon arrival at the site. If an individual has facial hair it must be covered with a face mask. All legal hair covers and face masks will be considered as special equipment. If an individual’s hair is as abrasive as an unshaved face, the individual shall be required to shave the head as smooth as a face is required, or wear a legal hair cover. Rule 4-3-1a: ART. 1 . . . Special equipment is defined as any equipment worn that is not required by rule. Any equipment which does not permit normal movement of the joints and which prevents one’s opponent from applying normal holds/maneuvers shall not be permitted. Special equipment includes, but is not limited to: a. Legal hair coverings attached to the ear guards, face masks, braces, casts, supports, eye protection and socks; … Rationale for Change: Rule change approved in 2013 but goes into affect this season. The intent of this rules change for the 2014-15 wrestling season is to sustain continued action during the match by requiring legal hair covers to be attached to the ear guards. Comment on Slide: See description on slide. Case Book: See SITUATIONS 4.2.1A, B and E Effective in 2014-15, a legal hair cover shall be attached to the ear guards.

Bad Time Rules 5-1-1, 6-6-2 Rules Changes: Rule 5-1-1: ART. 1 . . . Bad time is wrestled with the wrestlers in the wrong position or the wrong wrestler being given choice of position: a. at the start of the third period. b. at the start of the second 30-second tiebreaker. c. at the start of the ultimate tiebreaker. d. after opponent has taken his/her second injury time-out. e. on the next restart after opponent receives a two-point stalling penalty. Rule 6-6-2: ART. 2 . . . When an error occurs in positioning wrestlers: a. at the start of the third period; or b. at the start of the second 30-second tiebreaker; or c. at the start of the ultimate tiebreaker; or d. after the opponent has taken his/her second injury time-out; or e. on the next restart after the opponent receives a two-point stalling penalty. NOTE: All points earned during bad time are canceled – Exceptions: Rule 5-1-3. In a.-c. above, following corrections made and a rest of one minute, the period shall be re-wrestled. In d. and e. above, and other situations when there is bad time, and if the amount of bad time can be determined by the referee, bad time shall be deleted and/or re-wrestled without delay. Rationale for Change: The committee clarified wording with regards to bad time. The previous definition of bad time did not specifically include the situations where the wrong wrestler was given choice of position at the start of the second 30-second tiebreaker or the start of the ultimate tiebreaker. Comment on Slide: See description on slide. Case Book: See SITUATION 5.1.1B The bottom wrestler with the red leg band was supposed to start the second 30-second tiebreaker in the top position, but the opponent was given the top position instead. The result is bad time.

Bad Time Rules 5-1-1, 6-6-2 Rules Changes: Rule 5-1-1: ART. 1 . . . Bad time is wrestled with the wrestlers in the wrong position or the wrong wrestler being given choice of position: a. at the start of the third period. b. at the start of the second 30-second tiebreaker. c. at the start of the ultimate tiebreaker. d. after opponent has taken his/her second injury time-out. e. on the next restart after opponent receives a two-point stalling penalty. Rule 6-6-2: ART. 2 . . . When an error occurs in positioning wrestlers: a. at the start of the third period; or b. at the start of the second 30-second tiebreaker; or c. at the start of the ultimate tiebreaker; or d. after the opponent has taken his/her second injury time-out; or e. on the next restart after the opponent receives a two-point stalling penalty. NOTE: All points earned during bad time are canceled – Exceptions: Rule 5-1-3. In a.-c. above, following corrections made and a rest of one minute, the period shall be re-wrestled. In d. and e. above, and other situations when there is bad time, and if the amount of bad time can be determined by the referee, bad time shall be deleted and/or re-wrestled without delay. Rationale for Change: The committee clarified wording with regards to bad time. The previous definition of bad time did not specifically include the situations where the wrong wrestler was given choice of position at the start of the second 30-second tiebreaker or the start of the ultimate tiebreaker. Comment on Slide: See description on slide. Case Book: See SITUATION 5.1.1B The bottom wrestler with the red leg band was supposed to have the choice to start the ultimate tiebreaker, but the opponent was given the choice instead and chose the top position. The result is bad time.

Tournament Advancement Rule 10-2-9 Rules Change: Rule 10-2-9: ART. 9 . . . If two wrestlers in the championship bracket simultaneously cannot continue the match due to both being disqualified for stalling or having their injury or blood time elapse, the wrestler who is leading on points at the time the match is terminated will continue in the consolation bracket. If the match is tied at the time of termination, the wrestler who scored the first point(s) in the match (first three periods, or first or second 30-second tiebreaker) will continue in the consolation bracket. If no points were scored, neither wrestler will continue. Rationale for Change: The current rule addresses which wrestler advances into the consolation bracket when both wrestlers simultaneously cannot continue in the championship bracket. This rule change further clarifies which wrestler will advance into the consolation bracket when points have been scored in the match. Comment on Slide: In the PlayPic, since both wrestlers’ injury time has elapsed at the same time and the match is tied, the Wrestler in the Green would continue in the consolation bracket because they scored the first points in the match. Case Book: See SITUATION 10.2.9B If two wrestlers in the championship bracket simultaneously cannot continue the match due to both being disqualified for stalling or having their injury or blood time elapse, the wrestler who is leading on points at the time the match is terminated will continue in the consolation bracket. If the match is tied at the time of termination, the wrestler who scored the first point(s) in the match (first three periods, or first or second 30-second tiebreaker) will continue in the consolation bracket. If no points were scored, neither wrestler will continue.

2014-15 Wrestling Editorial Changes

Unnecessary Roughness (NEW) Signal Chart - #26 Slide Comment: A new wrestling referee signal has been created for Unnecessary Roughness. This is signal #26 on the Referees’ Wrestling Signals Chart on page 79 of the 2014-15 NFHS Wrestling Rules Book. The fist is extended straight out with the elbow not bent and the hand in a fist. Which arm is used depends on which wrestler is being penalized. A new signal has been created for Unnecessary Roughness. The fist is extended straight out with elbow not bent and the hand in a fist. Which arm is used depends on which wrestler is being penalized.

Default/Technical Fall/Disqualification (NEW) Signal Chart - #27 Slide Comment: A new wrestling referee signal has been created for Default/Technical Fall/Disqualification. This is signal #27 on the Referees’ Wrestling Signals Chart on page 79 of the 2014-15 NFHS Wrestling Rules Book. The arms are crossed in front of the chest. A new signal has been created for a Default, Technical Fall or Disqualification. The arms are crossed in front of the chest.

Entries Rule 11-1-4 NOTE EDITORIAL CHANGE FOR 2014-15 for Team Advancement Tournaments: NOTE: All wrestlers must weigh-in each day of the multiple-day event and they must weigh-in at the same weight class each day of the event. A wrestler is only eligible for two weight classes during a multiple-day, team-advancement tournament, and those two weight classes are determined at the first day weigh-in and cannot change during the remainder of the event. Slide Comment: This slide lists an editorial NOTE that was added to Rule 11-1-4 for further clarification on Team Advancement Tournaments dealing with weigh-ins.

2014-15 NFHS Wrestling Editorial Changes Mat Area Diagrams Further clarified the markings on the mat adjusted some of the dimensions in the diagrams. 4-2-1 Removed the Note and added to the rule that the legal hair cover shall be attached to the ear guards. Also added “legal” before “hair cover.” 4-3-1a Added to special equipment rule that legal hair coverings must be attached to the ear guards. 5-1-2 Clarified when bad time occurs with regard to time. 5-18 Added the reference to Photo 11 to assist with illustrating out of bounds situations. 6-6-2 Reorganized the rule dealing with correction of errors in positioning wrestlers and expanded the Note. Slide Comment: This slide lists the rules references and a brief description to the wrestling editorial changes that were made to the 2014-15 NFHS Wrestling Rules Book.

2014-15 NFHS Wrestling Editorial Changes 8-1-1 Clarified in the rule that any contestant reporting to the scorer’s table not properly equipped or not ready to wrestle is a technical violation, 9-2-2b Added “opposing” before “head coach.” This was omitted from the 2013-14 Rules Book. Slide Comment: This slide lists the rules references and a brief description to the wrestling editorial changes that were made to the 2014-15 NFHS Wrestling Rules Book.

2014-15 Wrestling Points of Emphasis

2014-15 NFHS Wrestling Points of Emphasis Avoiding Wrestling and Encouraging Wrestling in Center of Mat Preventing False Starts from Creating Injuries – Preventive Officiating Legal Hair Coverings Cleaning Wrestling Mats and Wrestling Equipment Authority/Responsibility of the Off-Mat Referee to call Flagrant/Unsportsmanlike Conduct Slide Comment: The following five wrestling points of emphasis were selected by the NFHS Wrestling Rules Committee for the 2014-15 high school wrestling season. Each of these wrestling points of emphasis need to be stressed to all coaches, referees, wrestlers, parents, school administrators, appropriate health-care professionals and all others who have an interest in high school wrestling.

Avoiding Wrestling and Encouraging Wrestling in Center of Mat PlayPic® Avoiding Wrestling and Encouraging Wrestling in Center of Mat (Point of Emphasis): Going out of the wrestling area by either wrestler or forcing an opponent out of the wrestling area at any time as a means of avoiding wrestling is a technical violation (Rule 7-3-1). There are many occasions when this happens and no call is made or a wrestler is called for stalling when the appropriate call would be a technical violation for fleeing the mat. There can be no technical violation of fleeing the mat if near-fall points have been earned. One common scenario that occurs is often initiated from the offensive/defensive starting position in the center of the mat when both wrestlers work their way to their feet and the action goes out of bounds. It can be difficult to determine if the offensive wrestler is pushing the defensive wrestler out of bounds, if the defensive wrestler is running out of bounds to make it look like the offensive wrestler is pushing him/her out, or if it is aggressive action by both wrestlers. Another common scenario is when one wrestler has a single leg in the air near the out-of-bounds line, and the other wrestler tries to jump or spin out of the situation and ends up out of bounds. In the above situations as well as similar situations where a wrestler may be using the edge of the mat to get out of a situation, judgment is required by the referee with the primary question being “Was the wrestler wrestling aggressively and trying to stay in bounds or using the edge of the mat as a means to avoiding wrestling?” If he/she was using the edge of the mat as a means of avoiding wrestling, a technical violation should be called. Good wrestling action requires both wrestlers to make an honest attempt to stay within the wrestling area. Good wrestling action requires both wrestlers to make an honest attempt to stay within the wrestling area.

Preventing False Starts from Creating Injuries – Preventive Officiating Preventing False Starts from Creating Injuries – Preventive Officiating (Point of Emphasis): Preventive officiating must be on every referee’s mind. One area of concern is injuries that occur during false starts from the neutral position. To avoid such injuries, the referee should stretch his/her arm(s) out between and parallel to the starting lines before blowing the whistle. By doing so, the referee can block either wrestler who false starts prior to the whistle, thus reducing the potential for injury to one or both wrestlers.

Legal Hair Coverings PlayPic® All wrestlers weighing in must meet the grooming standard, which requires the hair to meet certain length and abrasive standards. All competitors must meet this standard or wear an appropriate cover. This legal hair cover must be worn to the weigh-in for the referee’s approval and then removed prior to stepping on the scale. Legal Hair Coverings (Point of Emphasis): The NFHS wrestling rules define special equipment as any equipment worn that is not required by rule. Whenever a wrestler has hair that does not conform to the rule, a legal hair covering must be worn. Because of the physical contact in the sport of wrestling, hair that does not meet the rule is considered a safety issue as it may pose a risk to an opponent. Using a legal hair covering for hair that does not meet the rule helps to minimize the risk. Legal hair coverings must be made of a solid material, must be nonabrasive and must be attached to the wrestling ear guards. The attached legal hair covering may be worn either inside or outside of the wrestling ear guards. The attached legal hair covering must be brought to weigh-ins and inspected by the referee to determine their conformity to proper grooming with the legal hair covering on. The legal hair covering must be removed before the wrestler weighs in. If the referee does not conduct the weigh-ins, then the referee must check the legal hair covering prior to the meet. The goal of wrestling is to have a continual match without interruptions except for normal out of-bounds situations, the end of periods, etc. Legal hair coverings that are secured to the wrestling ear guards have less of a chance of coming off during the match than hair coverings that are not secured to the wrestling ear guards. The manufacturers of legal hair coverings and wrestling ear guards have been alerted a year in advance of this rule change and some have chosen to modify their legal hair coverings accordingly. This new rule will significantly improve the continuity of matches whenever a wrestler is required by rule to wear a legal hair covering.

Cleaning Wrestling Mats and Wrestling Equipment PlayPic® Cleaning Wrestling Mats and Wrestling Equipment (Point of Emphasis): Communicable diseases are a major concern in the sport of wrestling. It is imperative that ALL schools continually use best practices to control the spread of communicable diseases. A major aid in preventing the spread of communicable disease is to properly clean all wrestling mats and wrestling equipment. Practice and competition wrestling mats must be cleaned prior to practicing or competing on them. An effective disinfectant is a solution of 1:100 chlorine bleach and water (¼ cup chlorine bleach to each gallon of water, or 1 tablespoon of chlorine bleach to each quart of water). There is no advantage of using a stronger chlorine bleach and water solution than what is recommended above. Commercial disinfectant products are also available. When cleaning wrestling mats, it is beneficial to walk backwards in an effort to minimize contamination from the shoes of the individual who is cleaning the wrestling mat. Be sure that any product used states that it is effective against viruses, fungi and bacteria. Typically, the label will state the cleaner is bactericidal, fungicidal and virucidal. Please follow the label directions closely for the best effectiveness. Several items should be kept at wrestling mat side to effectively deal with blood or other body fluids, including disposable towels and/or gauze pads, spray bottles containing a 1:100 chlorine bleach and water solution or a commercially prepared disinfectant solution. Protective gloves and disposable plastic bags must also be readily available to clean up blood or bodily fluids. Likewise, it is imperative to clean all wrestling equipment daily. All workout gear should be cleaned after each practice. This includes towels, clothing, headgear, shoes, knee pads and any bags used to transport this equipment. In addition to cleaning wrestling equipment and wrestling mats properly, a few basic steps must be taken by all involved in the sport in order to minimize the risk of spreading communicable diseases. • Educate coaches, athletes, referees and parents about communicable skin conditions and how they are spread. • Maintain proper ventilation in the wrestling room to prevent the build-up of heat and humidity. • Emphasize to the athletes the importance of showering immediately after each practice and competition with antibacterial soap. • Wash all workout clothing and personal gear after each practice. • Perform daily skin checks to ensure early recognition of potential communicable skin conditions. Athletes cannot be allowed to practice or compete if an active infection is suspected, even if the infection is covered. • Do not share towels or personal hygiene products (razors) with others. • Refrain from full body (chest, arms, abdomen) cosmetic shaving. Communicable diseases are preventable. Following these steps can certainly decrease the chance that these communicable diseases will be spread among the athletes in the wrestling room and/or during competition. Cleaning wrestling mats with an effective disinfectant helps prevent outbreaks of communicable diseases.

Authority/Responsibility of the Off-Mat Referee to Call Flagrant/Unsportsmanlike Conduct Authority/Responsibility of the Off-Mat Referee to Call Flagrant/Unsportsmanlike Conduct (Point of Emphasis): The jurisdiction time of the referee begins when he/she arrives at the site of the competition and concludes with the approval of the scorebook in dual-meet competition and after signing the bout sheet after the last match in tournament competition. In either dual meets or individual tournaments, when a referee is not on the mat working, he/she still has jurisdiction in the mat area and responsibility for enforcing NFHS wrestling rules associated with the mat area. The referee on the mat is responsible for his/her match, but other referees involved in the competition should offer assistance in the mat area when necessary. Referees are reminded that just because they are not officiating a match, they still have responsibilities for enforcement of rules that extend beyond officiating a match.

2014-15 Wrestling Rules Reminders

Equipment Rules 1-1-3, 4-3-1, 4-3-6, 10-1-2 PlayPic® PlayPic® Rules Reminder: Rule 1-1-3: ART. 3 . . . Video recording is authorized unless prohibited by the state high school association. Rule 4-3-6: ART. 6 . . . Electronic devices that enable communication between coach and contestant during a match are not permitted. Rule 10-1-2: ART. 2 . . . Video recording is authorized unless prohibited by the state high school association. Rationale for Change: The intent of these rules changes in 2013 was to address the desire of the member state associations to standardize the rules language in the NFHS Rules Books dealing with the use of electronic devices and video recording. Comment on Slide: See description on slide. Case Book: See SITUATIONS 1.1.3; 4.3.6A and 4.3.6B Dual Meet: Legal Tournament: Legal Electronic devices may be used by coaches in the coaching area.

Equipment Rules 1-1-3, 4-3-1, 4-3-6, 10-1-2 PlayPic® Rules Reminder: Rule 1-1-3: ART. 3 . . . Video recording is authorized unless prohibited by the state high school association. Rule 4-3-6: ART. 6 . . . Electronic devices that enable communication between coach and contestant during a match are not permitted. Rule 10-1-2: ART. 2 . . . Video recording is authorized unless prohibited by the state high school association. Rationale for Change: The intent of these rules changes in 2013 was to address the desire of the member state associations to standardize the rules language in the NFHS Rules Books dealing with the use of electronic devices and video recording. Comment on Slide: See description on slide. Case Book: See SITUATIONS 1.1.3; 4.3.6A and 4.3.6B Legal Coaches may share information on electronic devices with wrestlers during injury time-outs.

Equipment Rules 1-1-3, 4-3-1, 4-3-6, 10-1-2 PlayPic® Rules Reminder: Rule 1-1-3: ART. 3 . . . Video recording is authorized unless prohibited by the state high school association. Rule 4-3-6: ART. 6 . . . Electronic devices that enable communication between coach and contestant during a match are not permitted. Rule 10-1-2: ART. 2 . . . Video recording is authorized unless prohibited by the state high school association. Rationale for Change: The intent of these rules changes in 2013 was to address the desire of the member state associations to standardize the rules language in the NFHS Rules Books dealing with the use of electronic devices and video recording. Comment on Slide: See description on slide. Case Book: See SITUATIONS 1.1.3; 4.3.6A and 4.3.6B Illegal Coaches may not use electronic devices to discuss a call.

Equipment Rules 1-1-3, 4-3-1, 4-3-6, 10-1-2 PlayPic® Rules Reminder: Rule 1-1-3: ART. 3 . . . Video recording is authorized unless prohibited by the state high school association. Rule 4-3-6: ART. 6 . . . Electronic devices that enable communication between coach and contestant during a match are not permitted. Rule 10-1-2: ART. 2 . . . Video recording is authorized unless prohibited by the state high school association. Rationale for Change: The intent of these rules changes in 2013 was to address the desire of the member state associations to standardize the rules language in the NFHS Rules Books dealing with the use of electronic devices and video recording. Comment on Slide: See description on slide. Case Book: See SITUATIONS 1.1.3; 4.3.6A and 4.3.6B Illegal It is illegal to use a bullhorn or other devices to communicate with a wrestler during a match.

Match Limits Rules 1-4-3, 5-13, 5-17-2 PlayPic® Rules Reminder: Rule 1-4-3: ART. 3 . . . No wrestler shall represent the school in more than one weight class in any meet or wrestle in more than five matches (championship or consolation), excluding forfeits in any one day of competition. Rule 5-13: It shall be considered a forfeit when the opponent, for any reason, fails to appear for a match. In order to receive a forfeit the wrestler shall be dressed in a legal wrestling uniform and appear on the mat. Rationale for Change: The intent of these rules changes in 2013 was that forfeits are no longer considered as matches wrestled when considering the limit of five matches in one day of competition. Comment on Slide: See description on slide. Case Book: See SITUATION 1.4.3B Forfeits are no longer considered as matches wrestled when considering the five matches in one day limit for competition.

Artificial Limbs Rule 4-5-9 PlayPic® PlayPic® A B Rules Reminder: Rule 4-5-9: ART. 9 . . . Any contestant who has been authorized to wear an artificial limb, shall weigh-in with the artificial limb if the contestant chooses to wrestle with it on. Once a wrestler has weighed in with the artificial limb, it shall not be removed during competition. Rationale for Change: The intent of this new rules change in 2013 was that a wrestler has the option whether or not to use an artificial limb during competition. However, if a wrestler chooses to weigh-in with the artificial limb, the wrestler shall wear the artificial limb during competition at all times. Comment on Slide: See description on slide. Case Book: See SITUATION 1.1.2 If a wrestler chooses to weigh-in with an artificial limb (A), the wrestler shall wear the artificial limb during competition at all times (B).

Representation Rule 1-4 Rule 1-4-3: No wrestler shall represent the school in more than one weight class in any meet or wrestle in more than five matches (championship or consolation), excluding forfeits in any one day of competition. Rule 1-4-4: No contestant shall wrestle in two consecutive matches with less than a 45-minute rest between them. The conclusion time of each match shall be recorded. Rule 1-4-5: A contestant shall not accept a forfeit in one weight class and compete in another class. Rules Reminder: Comment on Slide: The NFHS Wrestling Rules Committee wants to remind all coaches, referees, meet administrators and wrestlers that these three competition rules need to be followed during all competitions. Case Book: See SITUATIONS 1.4.3A, 1.4.3B and 1.4.4

Wrestling Mat Rule 2-1 Rules Reminder: Comment on Slide: The NFHS Wrestling Rules Committee wants to remind all coaches, referees, meet administrators and wrestlers that these four equipment rules need to be followed during all competitions. Rule 2-1-1. . . The wrestling mat shall be of uniform thickness not more than 4 inches thick nor less than the thickness of a mat which has the shock-absorbing qualities of at least 1-inch PVC vinyl-covered foam. All mats that are in sections shall be secured together. Rule 2-1-2 . . . The wrestling area of the mat shall be a circular area with a minimum of 28 feet in diameter. Surrounding and secured to the wrestling area of the mat shall be a safety mat area approximately 5 feet wide. Rule 2-1-3 . . . The wrestling area shall be marked on the mat by painted lines, 2 inches wide, which are inbounds. At the center of the mat there shall be a 10-foot circle, indicated by a 2-inch line. When the area enclosed by the 10-foot circle and the inbounds area of the mat are of contrasting colors, the 2-inch line may be omitted. Rule 2-1-4 . . . Starting lines, 1 inch wide, shall be placed at the center of the mat and the front line should lie on the diameter of the 10-foot circle. These 1-inch starting lines shall be parallel, 3 feet long, and 12 inches from outside to outside. The two 3-foot lines shall be connected on one end by a 1-inch red line and on the other end by a 1-inch green line.

Wrestling Mat Area Rule 2-1-5 Rules Reminder: Comment on Slide: The NFHS Wrestling Rules Committee wants to remind all coaches, referees, meet administrators and wrestlers that this wrestling mat area rule needs to be followed during all competitions. Rule 2-1-5. . . The mat area includes the wrestling mat and a space of at least 10 feet surrounding the mat, as well as the team benches and scorer’s table where facilities permit. The team bench in dual meets should be at least 10 feet from the wrestling mat and 10 feet from the scorer’s table. The diagrams on page 10 in the 2014-15 NFHS Wrestling Rules are a suggested configuration.

Team Benches Rule 2-2 *Rule 2-2-1: For dual meets, all team personnel, including coaches, other than actual participating contestants shall be restricted to an area which is at least 10 feet from the edge of the mat and the scorer’s table, where facilities permit. *Rule 2-2-2: During tournament competition, a maximum of two team personnel (coaches and/or non-participating contestants) will be permitted on chairs at the edge of the mat. It is permissible to allow coaches on the corner of the mat in a restricted zone. In tournaments where coaches are permitted on the corner of the mat, the restricted zone shall be defined by either a contrasting line marked on the mat with paint or tape or a contrasting colored surface under the chairs. The restricted zone shall be no closer than 5 feet to the edge of the circle. Coaches shall be seated at least 10 feet from the scorer’s table, where facilities permit. Rules Reminder: Comment on Slide: Need to emphasize to coaches and team personnel that they must comply with both of these rules. Referees need to enforce these two rules at all times. Case Book: See SITUATIONS 2.2.1A, 2.2.1B; 2.2.2A, 2.2.2B and 2.2.2C

2014-15 Wrestling Information

2014-15 NFHS Wrestling Rules and Case Book as E-Books Electronic Versions of the NFHS Wrestling Rules and Case Book are now available for purchase as e-books. Apple users can visit iTunes for available books. Apple, Android and Kindle users can buy e-books from Amazon.com and view them through the Kindle app. Price: $5.99 each Visit www.nfhs.org/ebooks for more information. Slide Comment: Electronic versions of the 2014-15 NFHS Wrestling Rules Book and Case Book are now available for purchase as e-books.

NFHS Suggested Guidelines for Management of Concussion In the Appendix in all of the 2014-15 NFHS Rules Book Slide Comment: The “NFHS Suggested Guidelines for Management of Concussion” is in the Appendix in all of the 2014-15 NFHS Rules Books and was developed by the NFHS Sports Medicine Advisory Committee (SMAC). 33

Concussion in Sports – What You Need to Know www.nfhslearn.com NFHS Coach Education: Slide Comment: “Concussion in Sports – What You Need to Know” is a free 20-minute online course that was developed by the NFHS and the CDC and was released in 2010. It can be accessed at no cost to users at www.nfhslearn.com. The course objectives of this online course are: Educate coaches, parents, officials, and students about concussions. Identify the signs and symptoms of concussions. Understand the problems associated with concussions. Explain the actions to take when a concussion is suspected. 5. Identify responsibilities of coaches, parents, officials, and students regarding concussions.

Interscholastic Officiating NFHS Officials Education: Slide Comment: “NFHS Interscholastic Officiating” is a new online course that was released in 2013. www.nfhsofficials.com

Wrestling Information 1st Day of Hydration Testing October 27 1st Day of Practice October 29 1st Play Date November 18 Growth Allowance December 25 Weight-Class Certification January 31

Dual Team Playoffs 1A/2A/3A/4A Dual Team Playoffs Reporting Deadline – 6:00AM February 2 1st/2nd Round February 3 3rd Round/Regionals February 5 State Championship February 7 1A – Western Champion 2A – Eastern Champion 3A – Western Champion 4A – Eastern Champion

1A Dual Team Playoffs

Individual Tournaments Individual Regionals - February 13-14, 2015 Entry Deadline – February 2, 3:00PM 1A East – Rosewood 3A Mideast – Morehead 1A West – Walkertown 3A Midwest - Piedmont 2A East – Croatan 3A West – North Henderson 2A Mideast – Wheatmore 4A East – New Bern 2A Midwest – Parkwood 4A Mideast - Knightdale 2A West – West Lincoln 4A Midwest – NW Guilford 3A East – Western Harnett 4A West - Hough

Individual Tournaments Individual State Championships February 19-21, 2015 Greensboro Coliseum, Greensboro Thursday, February 19 (TENTATIVE) Weigh-Ins (1.5 Hours Prior to Start) 3A – 5:00PM 4A – 6:30PM 2A – 8:00PM

Individual Tournaments Friday, February 20 (TENTATIVE) Weigh-Ins – 7:30AM 2A, 3A, 4A Wrestle – 9:00AM 1A Weigh-Ins – 12:30PM All-Classes Wrestle – 2:00PM Saturday, February 21 (TENTATIVE) All Classes Wrestle – 9:00AM Finals – 5:00PM

Approved Board Items Must be on certified list as issued by the NCATA 1st Responder/Licensed Athletic Trainers Now required for all wrestling competitions Skin-Fold/Hydration Testers All testers/measurers must be certified and validated prior to the start of wrestling season Must be on certified list as issued by the NCATA Updated Weekly Match Allowance Schools are now able to wrestle a “quad” meet in addition to one multi-team event per week NCHSAA Handbook (Item 6) will now read “one dual, one tri, or one quad + one multi team event”

Approved Board Items Practice with Other Teams (Playoffs) For individuals who qualify to regional or state playoffs: “after the individual regional seeding is completed, he/she may work out or scrimmage one-on-one against students from another school where competition is not available at their own school. The number is limited to one partner for each qualifier advancing, whether from their own school or another school.” Bracket Finalization & Process Approved clarification the “once the seeding process and the brackets have been finalized, no other team or individual will be substituted in or added to the brackets as a result of a change in the reported record (incorrect or adjusted).”

Points of Emphasis Match Weight Form Season Limit Coaches are REQUIRED to exchange this form at ALL matches. All coaches should receive a copy of this sheet for matches. Season Limit 55-Matches Endowment Dual & Conference Tournament matches DO NOT COUNT towards 55-match limit

Points of Emphasis Weigh-ins Must occur daily and weekly Beginning with the first regular season contest, match weigh-in required to be entered into OPC within 24 hours of conclusion of the match or tournament All (Daily and Weekly) sheets must be available for NCHSAA review

Points of Emphasis 2-Pound Allowance (Declaring Minimum Weight Class) NWCA Schools must register by October 15th $30 Registration Fee 2-Pound Allowance (Declaring Minimum Weight Class) Coaches must select each wrestler who will receive the two pound allowance on the NWCA website before they are allowed to use the allowance Wrestlers who have certified their minimum weight class before December 25th can receive the allowance on the 25th. Wrestlers who have not certified their minimum weight class by December 25th will receive the allowance the first time they weigh-in after certifying

Points of Emphasis Weight-Management System Conducted with NWCA online system Wrestlers have until January 31 to lose down to the weight & weight class that they wish to compete at the individual regional championships Even though a wrestler may certify their weight class for post-season competition during the season, they must still abide by the NWCA weight loss guidelines and remain cognizant that their weight is below the certified weight class on January 31. ***NEW*** AFTER JANUARY 31, THE WEIGHT LOSS DECENT PLAN WILL REMAIN IN EFFECT THROUGHOUT THE INDIVIDUAL REGIONAL TOURNAMENT

Clinic Attendance Head coaches in football, soccer, volleyball, basketball, wrestling, swimming, baseball, softball, and track & field and lacrosse must attend an NCHSAA approved State Rules Clinic. Must be completed prior to coaching in the first contest; subject to $400 fine, in addition to a $500 fine if he/she actually coaches in the contest Can be satisfied at the NC Coaches’ Association Clinic being held here in Greensboro—July 21-24

Coaches’ Education NFHS Fundamentals of Coaching Course Currently, all non-faculty and newly hired coaches must take the Fundamentals of Coaching Course; certificate of completion must be on file at the individual school Complete prior to first contest; subject to a $500 fine; continuing to coach without completion = another $500 All coaches must have satisfied the requirement to take this course by August 1, 2015.

Coaches’ Education Concussion Management Certification Effective August 1, 2014, the NFHS Concussion Course (free on-line course) or an equivalent course must be completed by all coaches Prior to the first date of practice for that sport; subsequently, the certificate of completion must be on file at the individual school; subject to $500 fine

NFHS Sportsmanship Course Replaces the Star Sportsmanship Course for any ejected/disqualified player Free, on-line course (nfhslearn.com) Certificate must be sent to NCHSAA

Teaching & Modeling Behavior Course Sportsmanship Teaching & Modeling Behavior Course Required for any coach ejected during a contest Required for any coach who has player (s) ejected for fighting NFHS Sportsmanship Course Replaces the Star Sportsmanship Course for any ejected/disqualified player Free, on-line course (nfhslearn.com) All certificates must be sent to NCHSAA

Gfeller-Waller Concussion Law Requirements of the Law: Concussion signs and symptoms Given prior to participation Parents/athletes sign indicating “receipt of” Return to Play (RTP) form signed by a physician licensed to practice medicine When in doubt, sit them out” An up-to-date Emergency Action Plan (EAP) Must be on-file Must be posted Must be updated annually

Thank You! www.nfhs.org