After reading several of the comments about the IHSAA situation I am sadden by those who are in favor of the IHSAA being replaced by a state controlled body. Yes, I realize you have your right to make that decision. Let's not make it too quick. The IHSAA is a governing body that has been in existence for almost 100 years. One of the first of its kind in the United State. Sure there have been some bumpy rides along the way in that tenure. What do you think will happen if the state government gets hold of it and makes a change of leadership every four years based on politics? Do you think the person in charge at the DOE will understand athletics or even care at all? Yes, the IHSAA is the governing body that represents all sports, school, and coaches as equal as possible. Will that be the case if the DOE takes over? Yes, the IHSAA listens to the principals, athletic directors, and coaches and coaches associations throughout the state. Sometimes not very well. Will that be the case if DOE takes over? Sure you can call your sport rep at the IHSAA on the day of a IHSAA tournament about an interpretation. Will that be the case if DOE takes over? Yes,I can see nothing but negative coming for all high school athletics if politics take over. As mentioned earlier, the IHSAA has been recognized throughout the US for its outstanding athletic innovations, tournament set ups, governing rules, athletic calendars, etc. I have been involved with Indiana high school athletics since 1958 either as an athlete, a ref, or a coach. During that time I have watched the IHSAA grow from an all male organization to one that includes numerous sports for both male and female. They have stood head and shoulders above other states for years. Check out the others and see if they haven't modeled themselves after the IHSAA. The IHSAA handles or deals with 100's of legal and non legal issues weekly. They have made some real lousy decisions from time to time and great ones also. As a coach I have had my share of conflicts with the IHSAA. I written praised letters as well as letters of anger to several of the commissioners during that time period. Was I always happy with their comments or answers? NO! That is the beauty of the IHSAA. You are writing or communicating with people who understand sports. They understand Indiana high school sports. You are trying to get rule changes from people who have constant contact with others at the IHSAA headquarters who understand how athletics work. This may not and possibly will not be the case with the DOE. The the DOE is mainly concerned with education. You can bet on that. I think all coaches, not just wrestling coaches, should be thankful they have the best at this time with the IHSAA.