Behind the Whistle

Paul’s officiating journey has been both extensive and fulfilling. With 42 years as an OHSAA wrestling official, he has officiated at all levels, from youth leagues to high school competitions. While he no longer officiates at the college level, he has valuable experience from working in NCAA Divisions I, II, and III.

Throughout his career with OHSAA, Paul has had the privilege of officiating at 30 sectional tournaments, 29 district tournaments, and 20 state tournaments. These experiences have enriched his understanding of the sport and have allowed him to contribute meaningfully to the wrestling community.

Lets talk about “Getting The Juices Flowing Baby!!!

Another Season!!!

Preparation for New Season, New Rules, Getting In Shape, Pre-Season Tournaments, etc…

We should also talk about the NJWOA Pre-Season tournament that Vinny would love….

Also, going to see if we can get Vinny to get on a future podcast shortly

How long has "WOR" been around?

We talk about Barb Brummet, and give her a shout out, and share with the listeners the impact and our incredible contribution to our sport and her being the Pioneer of Women & Officiating to our sport, and her commitment, passion, mentoring, etc.

How many women are members?

How many years have Kim, Nadine, Kristin, and Susanna have been officiating?

What levels of officiating have the three of you experienced? High School, College, Freestyle?

What is your Mission, Goals, and Vision?

How can women around the country get started?

What opportunities and events around the country are available for women to go to, observe, and get started?

Let's share with the listeners, how they can get started.

Topic

• In its 2nd year

• Leaders, Pioneers, and

Core People of “WON”

• Goals::

-Build the Sport

-Support Women Wrestling

-Need more officials

-Impact on future of sport

-Attracting, Mothers and Fans to get involved in our sport

-We need more women to officiate men’s tournaments and matches

-They are very well organized, hold zoom meetings and have a website

Podcast Part II

-How has the sport changed over the last 40 years, since you started officiating?

-What changes would you like to suggest or would you like to see change wrestling?

-Share with us your pre-meet with coaches and teams before a dual meet?

-Share with us, your preparation for the postseason and the importance of being a good partner?

Podcast Part I

-How does the Cadet Program work?

-What’s the most important areas of officiating that you can share with young officials that are starting out?

-How and where can we get past wrestlers and/or more young officials interested in the sport?

-For any parents, coaches, and all the young people in our sport listening to this podcast how can they get started with the Cadet Program?

“Olympics or National Titles”

Where is the real priority?

Gold Medals vs Red-White-Blue ONLY?

Proposed rules changes to make us more competitive as a country on an international basis

1 - When wrestler gets out of the 10 foot circle area, “twice” to avoid contact and are not being aggressive, shall called for stalling immediately

2 - Wrestler who’s Two Feet get out of bounds first, will be called for a Technical Violation (1 pt), and will be part of the penalty chart that includes illegal holds.

3 - If the top wrestler does not earn Neft points after 30 seconds of being on top, we will stop wrestling, and put them back on their feet and the neutral position, without giving a one point escape

4 - Locking hands will ONLY be called when stopping his opponent from gaining a reversal. Wrestler will be allowed to lock their hands around the waist, if they are exhibiting that they are trying to go for a Near Fall. Gut Wrench like Freestyle.

-Staying in shape during the off-season, and being in shape during the season

•Look the part

• Helps with always being in good position (you never want to chase the action)

• Diet, Exercise

• Stretching before matches

-Tournament Officiating

• Preparation

• Handling coaches

emotions

• Being a good partner (position, watch the clock, support your partner with calls, etc)

In 40 years of officiating, Gary Kessel has refereed 16 NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships, including 12 finals, and eight NCAA Division III Championships, including eight finals. He has officiated 21 Eastern Intercollegiate Wrestling Association championships and 18 Virginia Duals while also refereeing nine National Duals and four National Wrestling Coaches Association All-Star matches. Kessel has also refereed 39 New Jersey state high school wrestling championships, including 11 finals, and has officiated 15 national high school tournaments.

For his long commitment and outstanding service to the sport of wrestling as a competitor, coach and referee, Gary Kessel is honored as the 2018 Meritorious Official by the National Wrestling Hall of Fame.