McAdoo and Rowe Win At The Ohio Tournament Of Champions

by Ron McAdoo

On November 14th, three Maryland wrestlers traveled to Columbus, Ohio to test themselves against some top notch competition at the fall version of the Ohio Tournament Of Champions. This tournament draws wrestlers from many states throughout the mid-west such as Pennsylvania, Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Illinois, Nebraska, Wisconsin, Minnesota and others. The tournament has an unusual format in that it is primarily folkstyle but it has a freestyle flavor.

Here's how it works... All matches are one continuous three minute period and there is no referee's position, in other words, you always start on your feet. For example, if you were to score a takedown at the edge of the mat just before going out of bounds... when the whistle blows, you have your two points but you immediately go back to the center and start on your feet again. Also, although there are still two and three point near-falls, the referee will give you approximately fifteen seconds to turn your opponent when wrestling on the mat or you'll be brought back to your feet again. Finally, unlike freestyle, the bottom man can score an escape. This format obviously favors the wrestler who is good on his feet as the emphasis is on takedowns.

Matt Rowe, a seventh grader from Calvert County and Scott McAdoo, a high school senior who is also from Calvert County, both went 5-0 to take first place in their respective age/weight classes. Rowe won the 75 pound weight class while McAdoo was victorious in the 165 pound weight class. Gary Miller, a senior from Charles County, also attended the tournament and placed fourth. Congratulations guys, you represented Maryland well.

Note: There is a spring version of the tournament also that is even larger than the fall version. It is scheduled for April 24, 1999 and is billed as the largest one day tournament in the world. I've been there and it is quite a thrill as 2600 wrestlers go head-to-head under one roof. If you really want to test yourself this spring, consider making room for this one on your schedule. More information is available at www.ohiotofc.com.