What Moves Are Illegal in High School Wrestling?By Coder| August 30, 2023 Wrestling High school wrestling is a physically demanding sport that requires discipline, skill, and adherence to rules. To ensure fair competition and the safety of all participants, there are specific moves that are considered illegal in high school wrestling. It is important for wrestlers, coaches, and spectators to be aware of these illegal moves to prevent accidents and injuries during matches. 1. Full Nelson The full nelson is a move where a wrestler locks their hands behind their opponent’s head while applying pressure. This move is strictly prohibited in high school wrestling due to the potential risk of serious neck and spinal injuries. 2. Suplexes A suplex involves lifting an opponent off the mat and throwing them backward or sideways forcefully. This move is not allowed in high school wrestling as it can lead to severe impact injuries, especially if the wrestler being thrown lands on their head or neck. 3. Pile Drivers Pile drivers are moves where a wrestler lifts their opponent upside down and drives them head-first into the mat. These moves are considered extremely dangerous and can cause significant neck injuries, paralysis, or even death. Consequently, pile drivers are strictly forbidden in high school wrestling. 4. Eye Gouging Intentionally poking or jabbing an opponent’s eyes with fingers or thumbs is a flagrant foul in any combat sport, including high school wrestling. Eye gouging poses a severe risk of permanent eye damage and can lead to immediate disqualification from a match. 5. Strikes In high school wrestling, strikes such as punches, kicks, elbows, or any other form of intentional striking are strictly prohibited. Wrestling focuses on grappling techniques rather than striking maneuvers found in other combat sports like boxing or MMA. 6. Hair Pulling Pulling an opponent’s hair for any reason is considered unsportsmanlike conduct and is not tolerated in high school wrestling. Hair pulling can cause pain, discomfort, and may lead to injuries such as pulled muscles or strained necks. 7. Biting It should go without saying that biting is completely unacceptable in high school wrestling. Any wrestler found biting their opponent will be immediately disqualified from the match and potentially face further disciplinary action. In summary, High school wrestling has strict guidelines in place to ensure the safety and fair competition of all participants. Moves such as the full nelson, suplexes, pile drivers, eye gouging, strikes, hair pulling, and biting are all illegal and can result in serious injuries or disqualification. It is crucial for wrestlers to familiarize themselves with these rules and for coaches to emphasize good sportsmanship and safe techniques during training. Remember, wrestling is a physically demanding sport that requires skillful technique without compromising the safety of oneself or others. By adhering to these rules and regulations, wrestlers can fully enjoy the sport while minimizing the risk of injury.
