A quick reference to the rules that govern every match we wrestle. Based on NFHS folkstyle regulations.
A high school dual match consists of three periods. The first period is two minutes from the neutral position. Periods two and three are two minutes each, beginning with a coin-flip choice of top, bottom, neutral, or defer. Overtime adds a one-minute sudden victory period followed by 30-second tiebreakers if needed.
Takedown — 3 points: taking your opponent from neutral down to the mat with control. Escape — 1 point: getting from the bottom position back to a neutral standing position. Reversal — 2 points: going from underneath directly to a position of control over your opponent. Near-fall — 2 points when the opponent's shoulders are held within 45 degrees of the mat for 2 seconds, 3 points when held for 3 seconds, 4 points when held for 4 seconds or more. Pin (fall) — both shoulder blades touching the mat; ends the match immediately. Technical fall — awarded when a wrestler builds a 15-point lead, ending the match.
Stalling, illegal holds, unnecessary roughness, and unsportsmanlike conduct draw warnings then points. After two stalling warnings, opponent is awarded points on each subsequent call. Five points of penalty results in disqualification.
106, 113, 120, 126, 132, 138, 144, 150, 157, 165, 175, 190, 215, 285 lbs. Weigh-ins occur within one hour of the dual or tournament start. A two-pound growth allowance is added after Christmas break. Massachusetts allowances: a one-pound allowance is granted for school-day weigh-ins (matches held on a regular school day), and an additional one-pound allowance is granted when a team competes on back-to-back days.
Approved one-piece singlet or two-piece uniform, wrestling shoes, and headgear are required. Fingernails trimmed, no jewelry. Mouth guards are required for any wrestler with braces or other orthodontic appliances and optional for everyone else. Skin checks are mandatory before competition.