Posted on Feb 15, 2012 15:14 | Edited by Wrestling Dad on Feb 15, 2012 20:15
I'm not from Woodford, but I remember those "Woodford vs. the World" days. It was not that people hated Woodford, it was that they were a dominant program and their kids had that little "swagger" when they arrived in the auditorium. Something like the Miami Heat right now. People just like to root for the underdog and root against the heavily favored. It often made for an electric atmosphere in the finals and a very energetic crowd...including that large contingent of Yellow Jackets with their glowing necklaces.
By the way, I remember some of those same fans who were rooting against Woodford at state down in Nashville rooting FOR them to beat kids from Father Ryan, Baylor and Clarksville, since we were all representing Kentucky against tough out of state competition.
Look, this is good for the sport, increases participation and makes the state wrestling tournament a premier high school event.
And, it makes the tournament a lot more fun!
I do think Campbell County may face that crowd reaction, since they will now be favored to win.
...better not overlook Larue and Union County folks. 3 or 4 champions might not win the team title this year...