Folk-style wrestling, also known as collegiate or scholastic wrestling, is a highly dynamic and technical sport with a unique set of rules and scoring systems. Understanding these rules is essential for both wrestlers and fans alike. In this article, we will break down the fundamental rules and scoring criteria of folk-style wrestling, shedding light on how points are earned, matches are won, and athletes succeed in this exhilarating sport.

The Basics of Folk-Style Wrestling

1. Weight Classes:

Folk-style wrestling organizes competitors into specific weight classes to ensure fair competition. Wrestlers weigh in before matches, and they must compete within their designated weight class.

2. Match Duration:

Folk-style wrestling matches consist of three periods, each lasting two minutes at the collegiate level. High school matches often consist of three periods of two minutes each, although there can be variations in duration.

3. Points of Contact:

In folk-style wrestling, points are scored by establishing control over an opponent. The main points of contact that lead to scoring are the following:

A. Takedown (2 points): Wrestler takes their opponent down to the mat from a standing position and establishes control.

B. Escape (1 point): Wrestler who is on the bottom escapes from their opponent’s control and gets to a neutral position.

C. Reversal (2 points): Wrestler on the bottom reverses the position, gaining control over their opponent who was in the top position.

D. Near Fall (Back Points, 2-4 points): Awarded when one wrestler nearly pins their opponent by exposing their opponent’s back to the mat. The number of points depends on the duration of control and exposure.

4. Additional Points:

A. Riding Time (1 point): In collegiate wrestling, if a wrestler accumulates one minute more of “riding time” than their opponent, they are awarded an additional point at the end of the match.

B. Penalty Points (1-2 points): Points may be awarded to the opponent if one wrestler commits infractions such as stalling or unnecessary roughness.

5. Pin (Fall):

A pin, also known as a fall, is the ultimate way to win a match in folk-style wrestling. A pin occurs when a wrestler holds both of their opponent’s shoulders on the mat simultaneously for a specific duration, usually one to two seconds, depending on the level of competition. A pin results in an immediate victory for the wrestler executing it.

Match Outcomes

In folk-style wrestling, matches can conclude in several ways:

1. Decision: The wrestler with more points at the end of the match wins by decision.

2. Technical Fall: If a wrestler accumulates a lead of 15 points or more over their opponent during the match, it results in a technical fall, leading to an automatic win for the dominant wrestler.

3. Major Decision: A wrestler wins by a major decision when they accumulate a lead of 8-14 points over their opponent.

4. Forfeit: If a wrestler cannot continue the match due to injury or other reasons, their opponent wins by forfeit.

Conclusion

Folk-style wrestling is a dynamic sport with its own set of rules and scoring criteria. Wrestlers earn points by taking down, escaping, reversing, and controlling their opponents, with pins being the ultimate goal. Understanding these key rules and scoring in folk-style wrestling is crucial for both participants and spectators to fully appreciate the skill and strategy involved in this exciting sport.