WEST VIRGINIA MAT THOUGHTS

Shaking Hands - A Dilemma in Wrestling?

Yes, it's true; shaking hands with the opposing coach at the end of an individual match has become a problem. So, what's the problem. Allow me to explain.

There have been occasional incidents when wrestlers have approached opposing coaches and while shaking hands, they taunted the coaches with "in your face" remarks in regards to beating their wrestlers. Certainly, this is very unsportsmanlike behavior which, if observed by the match official, could result in a flagrant misconduct penalty.

On the flip side, at times coaches are busy explaining to their wrestlers the mistakes they made, and do not want to be bothered shaking the winner's hand. Often they tell such wrestlers to leave them alone, giving those in attendance the impression that they are being unsportsmanlike.

Due to such problems, the powers to be at the West Virginia Secondary Schools Activities Commission (myself included) highly recommend that wrestlers do not approach the opposing coach's corner at the conclusion of a match. Keep in mind, it is a recommendation, not a mandate.

Wrestling is an ultra-demanding sport both physically and emotionally. When emotions are high due to a "hotly-contested" match, it is best to separate both parties as quickly as possible. Walking to an opponent's corner (after winning a very close match) to shake hands, can easily cause post-match. This situation would not occur with the proper post-match procedure of each wrestler shaking hands. That is all which is required by the rules.

In my opinion (based on 50 years of experience), if a wrestler sincerely wants to shake hands with an opponent's coach, wait until later after everyone has calmed down and regained proper perspective. I think a good time would be at the completion of the event, be it a dual meet or tournament.

To summarize, shaking hands is without question a positive gesture, as long as it is sincere and appreciated by both sides of the competition.

Let me know what you think.