Every year I go down to state and have an absolute blast. It goes beyond just the wrestling too, being with friends in hotels and such makes it feel like a mini vacation. Throw in the fact that spring break is the following week and you get me in a great mood.

The Arnold Classic is also a pretty fun thing that I try to go to for at least one day and there has been a UFC fight the same weekend the last few years in Columbus (think there is a WEC one this year instead). I'm sure the restaurant industry in Columbus loves state weekend.

Edit: I realized I forgot to include a question. What is your favorite part about state weekend?

We have a hotel as well. This a second vacation for me. Getting with friends and past coaches is awesome.

You say "one of the best..." To me it is the best and second place is very, very distant. I've been to Final Fours, ALCS, World Series games and Ohio State vs. Michigan football...and nothing comes close to the OHSAA State Wrestking Tournament. It is the best show on earth. I'm in my seat for the first match of DIII and don't leave on Saturday until the team awards are given out and the OW is awarded. I don't get up to eat or use the restroom. Every year I debate the virture of intalling a colostomy bag before Thursdays prelims.

Good point.

I know I'm in the minority here but the district tournament is my gem. 2 days of blessed wrestling.

I am positive that 99.9% of this comes from following and in some cases interacting with these young men and then getting to see them up close and personal at Darby. It always seems at the state tournament that it is just too overwhelming. That being said, I like the state finals over it all. Only three mats at that point.

- State finals
- District tournament
- The Cruiser Invitational
- State semis
- Open mats at our place
-
- Technique Tuesdays (which is RAPIDLY falling on my list)
-
- I'm sure I can think a few more but the trip to Solon is engraved in my heart.

I like sectionals more than districts because the sectional is at home and I work it (soda/food police, don't try to take it in the gym) which is nice and get to eat tasty foods in the coaches/workers area. Also it's a 12 minute drive to the school vs around an hour to Firestone.

Yeah, but the Akon Firestone District is one of the best in the state. I'd gladly drive an hour to be back in my old stomping grounds. That District was a meat grinder. In my day, the brackets there were often tougher than the ones a week later.

I still love Firestone, don't get me wrong.

cruiser_96 wrote: I know I'm in the minority here but the district tournament is my gem. 2 days of blessed wrestling.

I am positive that 99.9% of this comes from following and in some cases interacting with these young men and then getting to see them up close and personal at Darby. It always seems at the state tournament that it is just too overwhelming. That being said, I like the state finals over it all. Only three mats at that point.

- State finals
- District tournament
- The Cruiser Invitational
- State semis
- Open mats at our place
-
- Technique Tuesdays (which is RAPIDLY falling on my list)
-
- I'm sure I can think a few more but the trip to Solon is engraved in my heart.

The Cruiser Invitational was for sure my most beloved tourney of the season so far. Awesome wrestling, and very nice tourney. I'm sure District and State will be the top, but for the average wrestler Groveport Cruiser Invitational gave the kids a great opportunity. Very Nice Awards too. You should be lucky if you get invited to this tourney next year.

mmmmmm. Tommy's Pizza and STATE (no s) wrestling! This really is a great three days.

Did someone say.....Dip N Dots????




On a side note, over the last few years i have started a new "Must Do".....Eddie George's before Finals.

Dip

N .

Dots

Just bought my tickets.