Be on the look out over the next couple days and weeks for additional details to be released on this event.  But right now put October 8 on your calendar.  The dual will take place at Legends in Louisville.  Thanks to Mike Sullivan for the effort he has already put in to make this event possible.

106 lbs #1 ranked Ren Birk of Great Crossing versus #2 ranked Roman Valera of Central Hardin

113 lbs #2 ranked JaRi Campbell of Christian County will face #3 ranked Jonah McCloskey of Simon Kenton

120 lbs #2 ranked Sebastian Vega of Conner will battle #4 ranked Ethan Davis of Grant County

126 lbs #2 ranked TJ Meyer of Walton-Verona will battle #3 ranked Amari Hardin of John Hardin

132 lbs R1: #1 ranked Jayden Frazier of Paducah Tilghman will face #3 ranked Rider Trumble of Ryle, #2 ranked Leland Reeves of Taylor County will face #5 ranked Rowder Benner of Great Crossing; later the winners will face off

138 lbs R1: #4 ranked Mason Kellett of Christian County will face #5 ranked Ayden Lehman of Trinity.  The winner will wrestle #2 ranked Isaac Johns of Woodford County.At 144 we will have

144 lbs #2 ranked Nick Armentano of Great Crossing is wrestling #4 ranked Hunter Isaacs of Walton-Verona

150 lbs R1: #1 ranked Nolan Banfield of Montgomery County vs. #4 ranked Malachi Harris of Trinity, #3 Mason Schweitzer of Walton-Verona vs. #5 Braedon Herron of North Hardin; later the winner will face off

157 lbs #3 ranked Jasitin Kubwimana of Lafayette will wrestle #4 ranked Justin Krebs of St Xavier

165 lbs #1 ranked George Ferree of Trinity will face #6 ranked Logan Dingus of Harrison County

175/190 lbs #5 ranked @ 175 Brandon Burchett of Fairdale will face #8 ranked @ 190 Joshua Strayer of Great Crossing

215 lbs #6 ranked Samuel Bertin of Fairdale will take on #7 ranked Omarion Wimberly of Christian County

Very exciting. 

Great news! 

Pardon me for not knowing, but what exactly is this?

It’s Kentucky’s version of who’s #1 !

Thanks to everyone for putting this on!!

I was going to wait another day or so to start putting the matchups out, but why not go ahead.  This will also provide a little sneak peak into the next round of preseason rankings that will be posted some time around Labor Day.  The first big match to be announced is ...

113 lbs #2 ranked JaRi Campbell of Christian County will face #3 ranked Jonah McCloskey of Simon Kenton

JaRi is the returning state runner-up at this weight and Jonah was 3rd at 106.  I know both kids have been working hard this off season and it should be a great match.

That sounds awesome, is it gonna be one match at every weight?

54 minutes ago, pin4thewin said:

That sounds awesome, is it gonna be one match at every weight?

Generally yes.  Ideally, we would have #1 v #2 at each weight with 14 matches.  But as you will see there will be some deviation from that format; some with very good reasons and some just for a little extra entertainment value.

Have all the kids been notified that are in it?

Let me know if you want a lineup image created like we did in 2019

Next match to be announced is at 126 lbs

#2 ranked TJ Meyer of Walton-Verona will battle #3 ranked Amari Hardin of John Hardin

This is a matchup with the runner-up and 4th placer from 120 last year; these guys had a battle at state duals as well

When will you be posting all the matches?

9 hours ago, wwrestling121 said:

When will you be posting all the matches?

That's the fun of it. Ranger keeps you guessing. It's kind of like Christmas; you don't want to open all the presents at once. Make it last enjoy the experience.

By popular demand …

Next matchup is at 157 lbs where #3 ranked Jasitin Kubwimana of Lafayette who was 3rd at 144 last year will take on #4 Justin Krebs of St Xavier who was 4th at 150.

At 138 we will also have a preliminary matchup.  In round 1 we will have #4 Mason Kellett of Christian County vs. #5 Ayden Lehman of Trinity.  The winner will advance to a match with #2 Isaac Johns of Woodford County.

One of the toughest weights to project to begin each year is 106.  Who will make it back down to weight?  Very few do.  What new youngsters will emerge?  It is so hard to predict who will grow into the weight and we has jumped levels in those critical MS years and as they move into HS.  For the all star event we will see

#1 Ren Birk of Great Crossing versus #2 Roman Valera of Central Hardin

15 minutes ago, Ranger123 said:

One of the toughest weights to project to begin each year is 106.  Who will make it back down to weight?  Very few do.  What new youngsters will emerge?  It is so hard to predict who will grow into the weight and we has jumped levels in those critical MS years and as they move into HS.  For the all star event we will see

#1 Ren Birk of Great Crossing versus #2 Roman Valera of Central Hardin

So when will the new rankings come out because I noticed that neither of these two placed at state last year so it would make sense that you moved everyone else up in weight.

Just now, pin4thewin said:

So when will the new rankings come out because I noticed that neither of these two placed at state last year so it would make sense that you moved everyone else up in weight.

you would be correct.  based on results i have seen this summer and input i have received from lots of folks so far this summer.

Just now, Ranger123 said:

you would be correct.  based on results i have seen this summer and input i have received from lots of folks so far this summer.

Ok, sounds great. Can't wait for the new rankings!

Just now, pin4thewin said:

Ok, sounds great. Can't wait for the new rankings!

Should be getting them out about Labor Day

2 hours ago, Ranger123 said:

One of the toughest weights to project to begin each year is 106.  Who will make it back down to weight?  Very few do.  What new youngsters will emerge?  It is so hard to predict who will grow into the weight and we has jumped levels in those critical MS years and as they move into HS.  For the all star event we will see

#1 Ren Birk of Great Crossing versus #2 Roman Valera of Central Hardin

Ren will be an enormous 106. Are they making base weight for the event or is there a weight allowance?

5 hours ago, Ranger123 said:

One of the toughest weights to project to begin each year is 106.  Who will make it back down to weight?  Very few do.  What new youngsters will emerge?  It is so hard to predict who will grow into the weight and we has jumped levels in those critical MS years and as they move into HS.  For the all star event we will see

#1 Ren Birk of Great Crossing versus #2 Roman Valera of Central Hardin

Who all do you think will be at 106 this year?

4 hours ago, WVhighlander said:

Ren will be an enormous 106. Are they making base weight for the event or is there a weight allowance?

There is a slight allowance, but less than some events where kids are stepping on the scale at another weight class.

Bonus second announcement today, 

120 lbs #2 Sebastian Vega of Conner will battle #4 Ethan Davis of Grant County

On 8/23/2022 at 8:19 AM, Ranger123 said:

Be on the look out over the next couple days and weeks for additional details to be released on this event.  But right now put October 8 on your calendar.  The dual will take place at Legends in Louisville.  Thanks to Mike Sullivan for the effort he has already put in to make this event possible.

 

106 lbs #1 ranked Ren Birk of Great Crossing versus #2 ranked Roman Valera of Central Hardin

113 lbs #2 ranked JaRi Campbell of Christian County will face #3 ranked Jonah McCloskey of Simon Kenton

 

120 lbs #2 ranked Sebastian Vega of Conner will battle #4 ranked Ethan Davis of Grant County

126 lbs #2 ranked TJ Meyer of Walton-Verona will battle #3 ranked Amari Hardin of John Hardin

132 lbs R1: #1 ranked Jayden Frazier of Paducah Tilghman will face #3 ranked Rider Trumble of Ryle, #2 ranked Leland Reeves of Taylor County will face #5 ranked Rowder Benner of Great Crossing; later the winners will face off

138 lbs: R1: #4 ranked Mason Kellett of Christian County will face #5 ranked Ayden Lehman of Trinity.  The winner will wrestle #2 ranked Isaac Johns of Woodford County.

157 lbs #3 ranked Jasitin Kubwimana of Lafayette will wrestle #4 ranked Justin Krebs of St Xavier

Are the rankings next to their name their newest ranking?  If so that makes it pretty interesting. 

yes, this is a sort of preview before the updated rankings come out next week.

Another great weight for the All Star event will be 150 where we will do another 4 man group.  Round 1 will feature

#1 Nolan Banfield of Montgomery County vs. #4 Malachi Harris of Trinity

#3 Mason Schweitzer of Walton-Verona vs. #5 Braedon Herron of North Hardin

winners will battle at the end

An awesome weight where we have 4 of the top 5 ranked kids at the weight to see who will go into the season at the top of the rankings.

At 165 we will see

#1 George Ferree of Trinity wrestle #6 Logan Dingus of Harrison County

I know a couple JC kids were passed on but what about Union. Did they decline?  Rickets is back right?

1 hour ago, WVhighlander said:

I know a couple JC kids were passed on but what about Union. Did they decline?  Rickets is back right?

That’s a long haul for both JC (most of their guys are probably playing football) and Union even at the centralized location. I’d say they were offered for sure. 

9 minutes ago, CUTiger184 said:

That’s a long haul for both JC (most of their guys are probably playing football) and Union even at the centralized location. I’d say they were offered for sure. 

Let's just say, distance is NOT an issue.  I'll leave it at that unless people want to make it into a deeper personal issue as in certain schools were passed on.  My goal is plain and simple, get #1 and #2 at each weight.  That's not always possible so we work down for the best matches we can get.

9 minutes ago, Ranger123 said:

Let's just say, distance is NOT an issue.  I'll leave it at that unless people want to make it into a deeper personal issue as in certain schools were passed on.  My goal is plain and simple, get #1 and #2 at each weight.  That's not always possible so we work down for the best matches we can get.

It’s not personal at all. Nothing deep to it. You passed on the two JC kids that were available Bc you have kids you feel are better. Nothing wrong with that at all. Definately was not taken personal. I was asking about Union. Is it the same situation. I’m just curious where a few of their kids are going to fall weight wise. 

4 minutes ago, WVhighlander said:

It’s not personal at all. Nothing deep to it. You passed on the two JC kids that were available Bc you have kids you feel are better. Nothing wrong with that at all. Definately was not taken personal. I was asking about Union. Is it the same situation. I’m just curious where a few of their kids are going to fall weight wise. 

Union is simple.  They have 100% not participated in the past.  A couple guys who did accept invites over the years dropped out before the event.  So until I have reason to believe anything different will happen I don't waste what little time I have on tracking them down. 

1 minute ago, Ranger123 said:

Union is simple.  They have 100% not participated in the past.  A couple guys who did accept invites over the years dropped out before the event.  So until I have reason to believe anything different will happen I don't waste what little time I have on tracking them down. 

Makes sense. Would never have knew that if i didn’t ask. 

A couple weights were very difficult to get a matchup and will not be contested.  At 215 we had plans for a 3 man group, but a late change impacted this one.  So we are still giving a couple guys a chance to showcase where they are at this weight.

#6 Samuel Bertin of Fairdale will take on #7 Omarion Wimberly of Christian County

23 hours ago, WVhighlander said:

I know a couple JC kids were passed on but what about Union. Did they decline?  Rickets is back right?

Ricketts is back. Union is wrestling In Wisconsin that weekend. 

I'm going to finish off the ticket with one last post.  Our last 2 matches will be at 175/190 and 144.  Football and injuries made the upper weights particularly hard to pull together, so we are doing a combined matchup at 175/190 with 

#2 @ 190 Lane Kiser of Trinity will face #5 @ 175 Brandon Burchett of Fairdale

At 144 we will have

#2 Nick Armentano of Great Crossing wrestling #4 Hunter Isaacs of Walton-Verona

That will be all of the matchups as we currently have them.  Over the next week or so we will lay out the bout order and share more information about the event.

I will add it is interesting to see over 2k views on this thread in just 10 days.  Hopefully, we see that interest manifest itself with a great crowd showing up in Louisville on October 8 for the event.

On 8/30/2022 at 4:02 PM, Ranger123 said:

yes, this is a sort of preview before the updated rankings come out next week.

Are the rankings ready?

5 hours ago, wildcatswrestling said:

Are the rankings ready?

I was dead from a busy long weekend in Chapel Hill. Will try to get them posted tonight or tomorrow. 

With all the matches finalized and we can start thinking about some of these battles, I have to give a few big thank yous to some guys who have helped a ton over the years and continue to support the event this year.

Chad Greenwell has helped with fliers and great graphics

Joe Burroughs is always the largest donor each year; one of the best all around coaches to walk the planet who has been critical to the growth of FCA wrestling in Ky.  Everyone should check out FCA camp each summer and the No-Ox wrestling club.

Isaac Knable another faithful supporter of the event.  Check out Invicta wrestling club and the Footwork trainer.

This year Nathan Boston and the ETC crew really proved to be the key in reviving the All Star classic

Mike Sullivan at Legends stepped up huge this year with the facility and handling all of the gear

And finally, if you are looking for a place to grab a bite to eat while in Louisville, my favorite burger spot in the world is WW Cousins on Dupont.  Owned by a great wrestling guy Marty Johnson (father of Trent and Josh).

On 9/1/2022 at 4:50 PM, Ranger123 said:

Union is simple.  They have 100% not participated in the past.  A couple guys who did accept invites over the years dropped out before the event.  So until I have reason to believe anything different will happen I don't waste what little time I have on tracking them down. 

Kind of silly to say you’re trying to put #1 versus #2 when Union Co isn’t involved isn’t it?  Why have this literally in the middle of football season?

12 hours ago, Nkawtg said:

Kind of silly to say you’re trying to put #1 versus #2 when Union Co isn’t involved isn’t it?  Why have this literally in the middle of football season?

All I can say is if you want to do something better knock yourself out.  Flo literally just did the same thing in the middle of football season and I've seen a couple other states as well.  Not sure when a better time would be.  Maybe you can hold your event in April?  And Union is what Union is.  They have many top guys, but if they choose not to participate the rest of the state isn't going to just lay down and quit. 

20 hours ago, Nkawtg said:

Kind of silly to say you’re trying to put #1 versus #2 when Union Co isn’t involved isn’t it?  Why have this literally in the middle of football season?

Now that is a great perspective. 

10 hours ago, Ranger123 said:

All I can say is if you want to do something better knock yourself out.  Flo literally just did the same thing in the middle of football season and I've seen a couple other states as well.  Not sure when a better time would be.  Maybe you can hold your event in April?  And Union is what Union is.  They have many top guys, but if they choose not to participate the rest of the state isn't going to just lay down and quit. 

Flo is national. That’s a bit different. Kentucky is a smaller state with probably a few dozen full teams.  To do this event knowing the best program in the state won’t participate is odd.  As you know numbers statewide are still kind of low. I’m just asking why don’t you put this on a month later when football winds down?  

And why so thin skinned about it?  I have to put on an event to ask questions and/or criticize your timeline?

What’s the beef you have with Union County?  Why do you think they don’t participate?

9 hours ago, Nkawtg said:

Flo is national. That’s a bit different. Kentucky is a smaller state with probably a few dozen full teams.  To do this event knowing the best program in the state won’t participate is odd.  As you know numbers statewide are still kind of low. I’m just asking why don’t you put this on a month later when football winds down?  

And why so thin skinned about it?  I have to put on an event to ask questions and/or criticize your timeline?

What’s the beef you have with Union County?  Why do you think they don’t participate?

I think we should all just appreciate Rangers time and effort he puts into this whole thing. It’s not like he has to do the rankings or the all star but he still does. He’s doing the best he can and I think we should be grateful for what ranger is doing and has done for Kentucky wrestling. 

1 hour ago, KYwrestling101 said:

I think we should all just appreciate Rangers time and effort he puts into this whole thing. It’s not like he has to do the rankings or the all star but he still does. He’s doing the best he can and I think we should be grateful for what ranger is doing and has done for Kentucky wrestling. 

Nah. It’s still a free country. I’m just asking simple questions. What’s the beef Jason has with Union County and why have this match in the middle of football season?

Really appreciate everything Ranger does. I don't know if union would do it If it was scheduled different. They have a full schedule already. 

4 hours ago, Nkawtg said:

Nah. It’s still a free country. I’m just asking simple questions. What’s the beef Jason has with Union County and why have this match in the middle of football season?

He’s already talked about it. I’m sure if they (Union) would agree to come ranger would definitely allow them to. In my opinion ranger has made it clear that it’s not ranger it’s Union. 

I too am a little confused as to why we are unable to provide feedback. In fact, not too long ago, we had several people on this board call out the KHSAA, coaches association, etc. and that was infinitely more aggressive than this scenario. While I appreciate the effort Ranger has invested in to Kentucky wrestling, he is not immune to feedback. 

Maybe when it’s done we can take all the winners and do a Ky vs Union dual. That would be interesting. 

7 hours ago, Nkawtg said:

Nah. It’s still a free country. I’m just asking simple questions. What’s the beef Jason has with Union County and why have this match in the middle of football season?

It's not all that complicated.  As I have said before and if you took a few minutes to research LOTS of Union County kids have been invited to this over the years.  They have chosen not to participate.  Reach out to Robert Ervin and he will confirm there is absolutely no beef.  As for pushing it back another month?  How about this.  If we push it back just another week the season has officially started and this becomes a scrimmage or possibly at an even later date an official weigh in for each of these teams.  Imagine how that goes over trying to get all of the coaches and teams to accommodate this event in the schedule for possibly 1 kid.  Yeah, that's likely not happening.  Not sure what Flo being national has to do with anything.  If kids are playing football, kids are playing football.  And yes a good number of national level kids are playing football.  And you know what?  Even flo has some top ranked kids turn them down and you know what they do?  They still show up and have the event.

3 hours ago, Old wrestler said:

I too am a little confused as to why we are unable to provide feedback. In fact, not too long ago, we had several people on this board call out the KHSAA, coaches association, etc. and that was infinitely more aggressive than this scenario. While I appreciate the effort Ranger has invested in to Kentucky wrestling, he is not immune to feedback. 

There is a difference between providing feedback and just being a pain in the backside.  Another major difference is the the KHSAA guys are collecting a big fat paycheck to provide a service for our kids.  I have volunteered hundreds of hours a year on this stuff for the last 20+ years.  If someone wants to shoot me a pm and really discuss ideas for improvement I am 100% open to it.  It happens nearly every day.  Open fishing for an argument about "leaving out" Union County or the timing is not trying to do anything constructive for wrestling in the state.

4 hours ago, Ranger123 said:

There is a difference between providing feedback and just being a pain in the backside.  Another major difference is the the KHSAA guys are collecting a big fat paycheck to provide a service for our kids.  I have volunteered hundreds of hours a year on this stuff for the last 20+ years.  If someone wants to shoot me a pm and really discuss ideas for improvement I am 100% open to it.  It happens nearly every day.  Open fishing for an argument about "leaving out" Union County or the timing is not trying to do anything constructive for wrestling in the state.

Not only do you volunteer your hours, but you also made a post regarding the countless others that helped get this event done. Some people are just silly.

22 hours ago, Nkawtg said:

Nah. It’s still a free country. I’m just asking simple questions. What’s the beef Jason has with Union County and why have this match in the middle of football season?

TN is doing a Who's #1 in the middle of FB season too. 

Union hasn't participated in any of them if memory serves correctly. 

15 hours ago, Ranger123 said:

There is a difference between providing feedback and just being a pain in the backside.  Another major difference is the the KHSAA guys are collecting a big fat paycheck to provide a service for our kids.  I have volunteered hundreds of hours a year on this stuff for the last 20+ years.  If someone wants to shoot me a pm and really discuss ideas for improvement I am 100% open to it.  It happens nearly every day.  Open fishing for an argument about "leaving out" Union County or the timing is not trying to do anything constructive for wrestling in the state.

Are the members of the coaches association compensated for their time? I understand they’re a governing body and are elected officials, but I am unclear if they’re compensated for their time. Genuine question, I know text doesn’t always provide context. 
 

Regardless, this is a public message board and others are allowed to share conflicting views. The message board is filled with Ranger apologists, and while I appreciate his unparalleled dedication, it’s odd to me that we can openly blast certain elements of the Kentucky wrestling community, while other segments are off limits. If it’s because Ranger is not compensated for his time, I guess that makes more sense, but given the majority of this board relies on Rangers knowledge/insight to generate conversation, I fear this board will continue to lose interest if opposing thoughts are considered ‘silly’ or told to just be grateful. 

Quite an interesting view of our wrestling world.  Our only hope for survival is conflict.  I prefer to have a more positive outlook.  If we can instead work together to generate more interest in the sport and yes, even sometimes working with people and agendas we don't always agree with, that we might actually be able to grow the sport a little.

Speaking of coaches association, I was the president of the MS association for a number of years.  Tim Lange from Oldham County was doing a great job before me, but I decided rather than just be a keyboard hero with all of the criticism and doing little of the work, I ran for the office and feel like myself along with John Roth and Adam Lantman did a pretty darn good job of helping build MS wrestling in the state.  Tyler Baines took over after and did a fantastic job as well.  I didn't agree with everything the board did to change things up, but they did what they thought was best and I wasn't willing to be in there making something else happen, so in my opinion the last thing I should do is publicly criticize the guys doing all the hard work.

The bottom line is this.  Yes it is a public forum and people are virtually free to say whatever they want behind the screen.  But conflict just for the sake of conflict is pretty dumb to me.  And to be honest that is what will likely eventually run me away from this.  This site likely represents 90% of the conflict in my life and maybe 1% of the value added.  Maybe the people who know me and all that I have going on are on to something when they ask why in the world I continue to do this.  I'll tell you why.  It is the private messages I regularly receive of appreciation.  The kids, parents, and fans who take it for what it is and not a reason to be mad at the world.

The Coaches association representatives do not receive compensation. Like Ranger, we do it for the love of the sport and the kids. Cant thank him enough for all he has done for the sport, as well as countless other coaches and people who have supported Kentucky wrestling over the years. 

1 hour ago, Ranger123 said:

Quite an interesting view of our wrestling world.  Our only hope for survival is conflict.  I prefer to have a more positive outlook.  If we can instead work together to generate more interest in the sport and yes, even sometimes working with people and agendas we don't always agree with, that we might actually be able to grow the sport a little.

Speaking of coaches association, I was the president of the MS association for a number of years.  Tim Lange from Oldham County was doing a great job before me, but I decided rather than just be a keyboard hero with all of the criticism and doing little of the work, I ran for the office and feel like myself along with John Roth and Adam Lantman did a pretty darn good job of helping build MS wrestling in the state.  Tyler Baines took over after and did a fantastic job as well.  I didn't agree with everything the board did to change things up, but they did what they thought was best and I wasn't willing to be in there making something else happen, so in my opinion the last thing I should do is publicly criticize the guys doing all the hard work.

The bottom line is this.  Yes it is a public forum and people are virtually free to say whatever they want behind the screen.  But conflict just for the sake of conflict is pretty dumb to me.  And to be honest that is what will likely eventually run me away from this.  This site likely represents 90% of the conflict in my life and maybe 1% of the value added.  Maybe the people who know me and all that I have going on are on to something when they ask why in the world I continue to do this.  I'll tell you why.  It is the private messages I regularly receive of appreciation.  The kids, parents, and fans who take it for what it is and not a reason to be mad at the world.

I will also say this as a coach... Ranger does a lot of the hard work for some of us who are on an island in the west that do not know who 3/4 of the kids in the north. I have always appreciated Ranger's work. The year we all did it together was challenging but a lot of fun. 

Do you think that maybe why this is organized during football season is that after that it is wrestling season and other teams are traveling to other states to compete? 

On 9/11/2022 at 7:31 PM, Ranger123 said:

There is a difference between providing feedback and just being a pain in the backside.  Another major difference is the the KHSAA guys are collecting a big fat paycheck to provide a service for our kids.  I have volunteered hundreds of hours a year on this stuff for the last 20+ years.  If someone wants to shoot me a pm and really discuss ideas for improvement I am 100% open to it.  It happens nearly every day.  Open fishing for an argument about "leaving out" Union County or the timing is not trying to do anything constructive for wrestling in the state.

So now I’m a “pain in the backside”!?  All for asking why you conduct an “All Star” match in the middle of football season in a relatively small state?  An “All Star” match without including (for whatever reason) the top program in the state with many of the top kids!?

It’s criticism.  Not sure why you think you should be immune from it.  

Well, let's think about this for a second.  There are essentially 2 reason for criticism.  One is to provide constructive feedback and help improve.  Two is to just be a pain.  Given your level in really getting involved and helping this event I feel pretty safe in assuming you aren't all that interested in the first option.  The Union situation has been covered.  Timing is fairly simple as well; football is busy starting in mid July so should we do this in June? 

5 hours ago, Ranger123 said:

Well, let's think about this for a second.  There are essentially 2 reason for criticism.  One is to provide constructive feedback and help improve.  Two is to just be a pain.  Given your level in really getting involved and helping this event I feel pretty safe in assuming you aren't all that interested in the first option.  The Union situation has been covered.  Timing is fairly simple as well; football is busy starting in mid July so should we do this in June? 

I think you, and people like you, who push and push to make Kentucky wrestling a year round endeavor are hurting the sport in general. Your sons seem to have excelled and done well in the sport. Good for you and them. Maybe they didn’t play other sports?  Maybe they didn’t like football?  I don’t know. But doing this All Star event in Oct just takes away from the wrestlers who do other fall sports. Your attitude towards anyone questioning anything you do just reveals your “little man syndrome.”

I love the sport. My kids are in college and med school so I have no skin in the game. Play the victim all you want. 

2 hours ago, Nkawtg said:

I think you, and people like you, who push and push to make Kentucky wrestling a year round endeavor are hurting the sport in general. Your sons seem to have excelled and done well in the sport. Good for you and them. Maybe they didn’t play other sports?  Maybe they didn’t like football?  I don’t know. But doing this All Star event in Oct just takes away from the wrestlers who do other fall sports. Your attitude towards anyone questioning anything you do just reveals your “little man syndrome.”

 

I love the sport. My kids are in college and med school so I have no skin in the game. Play the victim all you want. 

Whatever dude.  If you love the sport so much then actually do something more productive than your worthless posts about how horrible people like me are for the sport.  Statements like that show exactly how truly ignorant you are about the topic.

If you want to continue this nonsensical tangent regarding this event destroying the foundation of Ky wrestling, start another thread. 

38 minutes ago, Ranger123 said:

Whatever dude.  If you love the sport so much then actually do something more productive than your worthless posts about how horrible people like me are for the sport.  Statements like that show exactly how truly ignorant you are about the topic.

If you want to continue this nonsensical tangent regarding this event destroying the foundation of Ky wrestling, start another thread. 

I won’t defend points I never made. Ignorant because I have a different opinion than yours?  Fathom the possibility that you’re not as right about everything as you think you are. 
 

Go rank some 11 year olds. 

12 hours ago, Nkawtg said:

I think you, and people like you, who push and push to make Kentucky wrestling a year round endeavor are hurting the sport in general. Your sons seem to have excelled and done well in the sport. Good for you and them. Maybe they didn’t play other sports?  Maybe they didn’t like football?  I don’t know. But doing this All Star event in Oct just takes away from the wrestlers who do other fall sports. Your attitude towards anyone questioning anything you do just reveals your “little man syndrome.”

 

I love the sport. My kids are in college and med school so I have no skin in the game. Play the victim all you want. 

This is absolutely discussing. For you to go at ranger like that is unreal. Anyone that is that upset over a pre-season event has nothing better to do with there life than complain must have "little man syndrome". Come on man find something better to do with your time than throw shots at ranger and complain about the all star. I think we can all agree that we are tired of your comments and don't really care what you have to say at this point. 

Maybe the All Star classic is an event to put on exciting matches before the start of the season. There are always people complaining around this time of year anyway. It never fails. 

Agreed! This event has always brought excitement before the beginning of the season. More people than not want this event to take place and are just fine with the timing of it. The matches are the top 5 ranked for each weight class so should make for an exciting dual. I for one appreciate everything that Ranger does and has done for this sport. 

Ranger thank you first off for all you do for all the kids and fans across the state. As for this debate or disagreement I don't see how on one hand someone can complain that this event is trying to make wrestling step on anyone. From where I sit its football and other sports that are always going on. From 7 on 7 to now travel leagues during all seasons. Now that doesn't so much effect me but does step on each other all the time. Lets be honest here we might not like it but all sports in high school overlap and run extra off-season stuff that sometimes leaves dual sport kids out. They all have to pick which to play at certain times. Weather it be travel baseball or summer Basketball, 7 on 7 football or Baseball or summer basketball or Fargo is it fair. Yes it is and some will decide not to do this sport and do that one its the way it is year around. Kids that love them all find a way to make it work and they will miss this or that sometimes move on. So it might not be true #1 vs #2 and so on but it is some of the best in the state getting their time in the show. Thanks again Ranger.

Unfortunately we have to announce our fist substitution of the event.  And interestingly enough, a football player will be stepping in and is excited to step up and pull double duty.  Joshua Strayer of Great Crossing will be taking Lane Kiser's spot at 190.

19 minutes ago, panthers said:

Ranger thank you first off for all you do for all the kids and fans across the state. As for this debate or disagreement I don't see how on one hand someone can complain that this event is trying to make wrestling step on anyone. From where I sit its football and other sports that are always going on. From 7 on 7 to now travel leagues during all seasons. Now that doesn't so much effect me but does step on each other all the time. Lets be honest here we might not like it but all sports in high school overlap and run extra off-season stuff that sometimes leaves dual sport kids out. They all have to pick which to play at certain times. Weather it be travel baseball or summer Basketball, 7 on 7 football or Baseball or summer basketball or Fargo is it fair. Yes it is and some will decide not to do this sport and do that one its the way it is year around. Kids that love them all find a way to make it work and they will miss this or that sometimes move on. So it might not be true #1 vs #2 and so on but it is some of the best in the state getting their time in the show. Thanks again Ranger.

I really like this post.  I am one to agree with Nkawtg about the year round thing. But individuals have the right to make their own decisions on this.  This event cannot occur on or after Oct 15th. It would then be an in-season event.  Football starts on July 10 (Helmets) Baseball ends around June 17th.  Kentucky dead period was June 25 through  July 9th. 

That would only leave a small opening from June 18th to June 24th for no conflicts in Ky.  I have no idea if something nationally is occurring during this time. 

I always thought this was just a preview event.  Trying to get the top ranked kids to participate if they can.  Something to get our juices flowing going into the season.  I have been around for a very long time and have seen the sport grow tremendously, all due to people like Ranger who have put their own time in to make it grow.  I personally have not attended this event (I barely have enough time to take care of my own business) but I follow to see the results. 

Take it for what it is.  Try to improve it, try to promote it, try to attend it. Or just sit back and let it happen.  Really doesn't matter which you do or don't do, in the end it only helps wrestling in the state of KY.  Would be awesome if each area of the state held their own to make a culminating event at the end with all the winners. 

2 minutes ago, Ranger123 said:

Unfortunately we have to announce our fist substitution of the event.  And interestingly enough, a football player will be stepping in and is excited to step up and pull double duty.  Joshua Strayer of Great Crossing will be taking Lane Kiser's spot at 190.

Oh no what happened to Kiser. I was hoping to see him at 190. Strayer is a great kid so congrats to him though. 
 

You have to have this during football season every state I know does this during football season. You would Not have anyone able to do it if you wait till wrestling season except small teams without full line ups. The rest of us have to get matches for the whole team. 
 

Also timing is good. A week before super 32. Now it would be nice if we get more kids doing national events. 

3 minutes ago, WVhighlander said:

Oh no what happened to Kiser. I was hoping to see him at 190. Strayer is a great kid so congrats to him though. 
 

You have to have this during football season every state I know does this during football season. You would Not have anyone able to do it if you wait till wrestling season except small teams without full line ups. The rest of us have to get matches for the whole team. 
 

Also timing is good. A week before super 32. Now it would be nice if we get more kids doing national events. 

I won't share any personal information about Kiser, but nothing major.  Just needs to address it before the season.

Ranger, from a parent who has a kid competing in this event, thank you.  We look forward to your rankings during the season and appreciate all of your hard work and energy.

1 hour ago, grappler-of-old said:

I really like this post.  I am one to agree with Nkawtg about the year round thing. But individuals have the right to make their own decisions on this.  This event cannot occur on or after Oct 15th. It would then be an in-season event.  Football starts on July 10 (Helmets) Baseball ends around June 17th.  Kentucky dead period was June 25 through  July 9th. 

That would only leave a small opening from June 18th to June 24th for no conflicts in Ky.  I have no idea if something nationally is occurring during this time. 

I always thought this was just a preview event.  Trying to get the top ranked kids to participate if they can.  Something to get our juices flowing going into the season.  I have been around for a very long time and have seen the sport grow tremendously, all due to people like Ranger who have put their own time in to make it grow.  I personally have not attended this event (I barely have enough time to take care of my own business) but I follow to see the results. 

Take it for what it is.  Try to improve it, try to promote it, try to attend it. Or just sit back and let it happen.  Really doesn't matter which you do or don't do, in the end it only helps wrestling in the state of KY.  Would be awesome if each area of the state held their own to make a culminating event at the end with all the winners. 

As far as the year round point, pretty much every high school sport has a percentage (which is growing) of those who participate on a year round basis. Wrestling is no different, and certainly isn't the worst. Football might be the worst of the all the sports, with a long season (July-November for everyone), spring ball, off season lifting programs, and June practices. Serious football only players get maybe December and a piece of January off. Ranger isn't pushing year round participation on anyone. He's simply there for those who want to take advantage of it. 

This event has always been fun, and for what it's worth, has always had a few football players participating. If a top wrestler is a football player, and they want to participate, they'll find a way to make it happen. The timing of the event is really perfect...close enough to the start of the season to generate interest and serve as a nice tune up to kick things off, but not so close that it doesn't interfere with anything. 

I will simply never understand the part of the wrestling community in this state that constantly find any and everything to complain about. 

I have to just laugh. 

On 9/15/2022 at 10:41 AM, Ranger123 said:

Unfortunately we have to announce our fist substitution of the event.  And interestingly enough, a football player will be stepping in and is excited to step up and pull double duty.  Joshua Strayer of Great Crossing will be taking Lane Kiser's spot at 190.

Thank you Ranger, Joshua is excited to compete and looks forward to the event!

On 9/14/2022 at 7:13 PM, Nkawtg said:

I think you, and people like you, who push and push to make Kentucky wrestling a year round endeavor are hurting the sport in general. Your sons seem to have excelled and done well in the sport. Good for you and them. Maybe they didn’t play other sports?  Maybe they didn’t like football?  I don’t know. But doing this All Star event in Oct just takes away from the wrestlers who do other fall sports. Your attitude towards anyone questioning anything you do just reveals your “little man syndrome.”

 

I love the sport. My kids are in college and med school so I have no skin in the game. Play the victim all you want. 

I don't understand how putting on a wrestling event, whatever time of year. Could be bad for the sport. 

Someone is going out of their way to put on an even to showcase out sport and people want to complain its during football season?  Who cares if it's during football season?  It's a preseason wrestling event.  It's wrestling preseason right now.  If you don't think it's right, then shut up and put on your own event some other time.  Every sport goes all year in some capacity, so why does wrestling have to worry about stepping on anyone's toes.  This event says growth to me...putting it on in the spring so we don't interfere with anyone else says to me that wrestling isn't important.

On 9/18/2022 at 4:25 PM, Coach Burton said:

Someone is going out of their way to put on an even to showcase out sport and people want to complain its during football season?  Who cares if it's during football season?  It's a preseason wrestling event.  It's wrestling preseason right now.  If you don't think it's right, then shut up and put on your own event some other time.  Every sport goes all year in some capacity, so why does wrestling have to worry about stepping on anyone's toes.  This event says growth to me...putting it on in the spring so we don't interfere with anyone else says to me that wrestling isn't important.

I think the greater point was that the top program in the state doesn’t participate. The fact this event is in the middle of football season was a close second though. 
 

What is really interesting is Jason being so think skinned about a critique. 

On 9/15/2022 at 8:42 AM, wwrestling121 said:

 

This is absolutely discussing. For you to go at ranger like that is unreal. Anyone that is that upset over a pre-season event has nothing better to do with there life than complain must have "little man syndrome". Come on man find something better to do with your time than throw shots at ranger and complain about the all star. I think we can all agree that we are tired of your comments and don't really care what you have to say at this point. 

Yes, we were discussing. Did you vote in Jason’s poll?  You should. 

On 9/14/2022 at 8:13 PM, Nkawtg said:

I think you, and people like you, who push and push to make Kentucky wrestling a year round endeavor are hurting the sport in general. Your sons seem to have excelled and done well in the sport. Good for you and them. Maybe they didn’t play other sports?  Maybe they didn’t like football?  I don’t know. But doing this All Star event in Oct just takes away from the wrestlers who do other fall sports. Your attitude towards anyone questioning anything you do just reveals your “little man syndrome.”

 

I love the sport. My kids are in college and med school so I have no skin in the game. Play the victim all you want. 

what you've just said... is one of the most insanely idiotic things I have ever heard. At no point, in your rambling, incoherent response, were you even close to anything that could be considered a rational thought. Everyone in this room is now dumber for having listened to it. I award you no points, and may God have mercy on your soul."

— High School Principal, Billy Madison

3 hours ago, Nkawtg said:

I think the greater point was that the top program in the state doesn’t participate. The fact this event is in the middle of football season was a close second though. 
 

What is really interesting is Jason being so think skinned about a critique. 

They shouldn't have to schedule around 1 program. 

This is a choice for wrestlers and their families. If you are selected to go, then you go. If it does not fit into your personal schedule you pass so the next available person is able to attend. You are trying to make this more than what it is if you feel Union is being shunned. They choose not to participate, so if you are upset and want t ask questions. You should probably direct those toward Union coaches so they can answer you, but you will probably get the same response as Ranger does: No thanks. Pretty simple

I can’t believe a voluntary preseason high school  wrestling event was scheduled during the middle school football season. And, Union is wrestling at a preseason dual meet during middle school football season as well?! The nerve of the high school wrestling community to disrespect middle school football is unreal. 

On 9/2/2022 at 1:36 PM, DrBaker said:

Ricketts is back. Union is wrestling In Wisconsin that weekend. 

I think its funny who the comment is "Scheduling a wrestling tournament during football season" and yet, see above.        

4 hours ago, plantmanky1 said:

I think its funny who the comment is "Scheduling a wrestling tournament during football season" and yet, see above.        

It is funny, until you realize people like this are serious about their position.  Explains a lot about the direction of our country.

On 9/15/2022 at 10:48 AM, WVhighlander said:

Oh no what happened to Kiser. I was hoping to see him at 190. Strayer is a great kid so congrats to him though. 
 

You have to have this during football season every state I know does this during football season. You would Not have anyone able to do it if you wait till wrestling season except small teams without full line ups. The rest of us have to get matches for the whole team. 
 

Also timing is good. A week before super 32. Now it would be nice if we get more kids doing national events. 

Lane had some hand surgery. He will be back for the regular season but will have to miss super 32 and the all star classic unfortunately.

good luck to Strayer and Burchett ,we will be there to watch all of the action!

Can’t wait for the All Star classic!!

thanks to Ranger and everyone else for making this happen!!!!

Thank You Ranger for everything you do!  Looking forward to the all star classic.  

What is the seating like?  Someone Said there wasn’t Alot of seating. Will we be a able to purchase a ticket at the event?

https://www.derbycitylegends.com/registration
 

link for tickets

Big day is tomorrow.  6:00 pm start time at Legends in Louisville, 4300 East Bluelick Rd.

A couple of last minutes scratches/changes due to injury/weight change/other stuff...

The first 132 prelim will be scratched as both Frazier and Trumble are out.  132 will only be 1 match now.

Campbell is out at 113 and Trent Cano from Great Crossing is stepping in to face McCloskey.

48 minutes ago, Ranger123 said:

Big day is tomorrow.  6:00 pm start time at Legends in Louisville, 4300 East Bluelick Rd.

A couple of last minutes scratches/changes due to injury/weight change/other stuff...

The first 132 prelim will be scratched as both Frazier and Trumble are out.  132 will only be 1 match now.

Campbell is out at 113 and Trent Cano from Great Crossing is stepping in to face McCloskey.

Hope these kids are Healthy for the season

Would love to drive down an watch but not sure on the seating says only 150 tickets 

....

Website doesn’t show tickets for sale, just says $10 for guests? Is it at the door now?

Is this going to be streamed? If so can someone provide a link

Results?

Check Alex Green out on Facebook he streamed it 

Results?

https://www.facebook.com/DifferentBreedP/videos/494038719256743/

17 hours ago, tiltfor3 said:

Results?

https://www.facebook.com/DifferentBreedP/videos/494038719256743/

Yes, go back and check out the video on Alex Green's Facebook page.  He did a fabulous job on the stream.  Really appreciate him traveling all the way in for the event.  Everyone should check out his State Championship review series.

Overall, a tremendous event.  Mike Sullivan had a perfect setup in the venue at Legends and there was awesome energy throughout the night.  I have heard a LOT of positive feedback and appreciate all of the kind words from coaches, parents, and fans.  We had a full house and saw a lot of very competitive matches; most of the matches that ended with falls were very tight battles up to the end.

Just a few words on the bouts...

Kellett over Lehman (injury default) - good battle back and forth until the injury happened; all indications are that Ayden is fine

Harris over Banfield (pin) - Banfield came out fast and looked slick on his feet, but Harris pushed the pace and it got to Banfield

Herron over Schweitzer (dec) - good back and forth match trading takedowns, but Herron was just a little better in this one

Strayer over Burchett (pin) - recovering from summer surgery and right off the football field the bigger Strayer had the edge

Birk over Valera (pin) - proving to be the top dog Birk was a little too much, but Valera showed he isn't quite as far behind as we thought

Krebs over Kubwimana (pin) - Kubwimana led most of the way before a wild scramble changed things late

Wimberly over Bertin (pin) - these guys let it fly from the opening whistle; not what I expected at 215, but that was a fun scrap

Isaacs over Armentano (pin) - one of the more decisive wins on the night, but we could see this one again a few times late in the season

McCloskey over Cano (dec) - very exciting, tight match that came right down to the end

Faucett over Dingus (pin) - crazy, crazy match; late scratch by Ferree resulted in Faucett coming out of the stands to fill the opening; Dingus seemed in control until a late exchange put him on his back

Reeves over Benner (dec-OT) - really, really exciting match; Rowdy went up late, but Reeves stormed back to force OT and won it with a takedown in OT

Davis over Vega (dec) - points were hard to come by as these guys have wrestled each other a lot this summer; hated to see it decided on a stalling point

Meyer over Hardin (dec) - definitely expect to see this one again late in the bracket at state

Johns over Kellett (dec) - good, hard battle; I wasn't sure how much Kellett would have in the tank after a tough prelim; he competed well, but Johns was just a little better

Harris over Herron (pin) - Harris solidified himself as the favorite at 150 with an MOW performance

There were a number of pins, but a number of those were by the guy losing the match on late comebacks or in very competitive matches.  Will be interesting to see how these matchups are previews of big time matches late in the season.