We want to thank you for your support for this year’s state wrestling tournament. Since we began holding the event at The Palace of Auburn Hills, the tournament’s attendance has increased. This is due to the vast number of people that have stepped up to make a difference. Every aspect of the tournament has improved. The wrestlers are what we are here for. We hope everyone leaves feeling like they are part of the greatest state wrestling tournament in the country. The Palace goes out of their way to make sure we are satisfied. They would like us to continue to hold the tournament at their venue and we concur.

Friends of Wrestling was developed to help raise money to offset the cost of the wrestling state tournament. It takes 160 people to run this event and everyone does more than expected to ensure its success. This format is different than any other sporting event the MHSAA has. There are certain areas, however, that the MHSAA cannot pay for. The gifts for the wrestlers, the clothing for the workers, the regional newspaper and other special areas are not covered by the MHSAA. Our goal is to raise enough money by December each year so we can pay for the tournament without the financial worries.

Our  “Friends of Wrestling” website will feature all members’ names and our corporate sponsors. A newsletter will go out quarterly keeping you posted on future events like the golf outing and the Texas hold-em tournament.

We would like to thank you for your support and participation. We hope to see you soon.  

Coaches, kids and schools: Wrestling officials are an important part of the sport. We officiate with of our hearts and with pride for the sport. We enjoy the sport and would do anything to see its success, even battle what some would say aggressive situations on the mat. This is not only challenging but sometimes heartbreaking. Most of us have wrestling backgrounds and wrestling is in our blood. Lets keep in mind the reasons we serve the sport of wrestling. We are human just like the coaches and kids. We encounter situations, that often take its toll on us, as officials, but it is part of the job, and we have to live with our decisions. We come home after tournaments sometimes shaking our heads and wondering how can I improve my skills and the sport. We make phone calls we ask questions "we want to make your sport better" Officiating is not easy, in fact some officials will tell you, its the hardest thing they have ever done. Never forget "we do it for the sport"