Big fish in a little pond or …

The other day Frankfort Patch carried an article that . The article seemed innocent enough in reciting that the relatively new three class format for state wrestling finals would now see 16 state qualifiers for all three classes, which previously had only been allowed for Class 3A.

The announcement, though, raises the bigger issue of whether it’s better to have more champions or that only the best of the best are title holders, while the others receive accolades of being state or sectional qualifiers. Sports enthusiasts will recall the regular cries that a sport is devalued each time a professional expansion team is added, while those who follow Illinois high school football will remember the expansion to eight classes, which increased opportunities for many.  

In wrestling, the populous state of California pairs the best high school wrestlers throughout the state in a one-class meat-grinder. Yet the smaller inhabited state of Idaho crowns champions in five state classes. 

Stated in a familiar way: Is it better to be a big fish in a little pond (many state final classes) or a little fish in a big pond (only one or few state classes)? I guess it depends on what is sought to be achieved. If it’s to develop warm self-actualization and improved self-esteem, then let more champions in, provided the pool of champions doesn’t get so crowded that the award is worthless. 

Speaking of self-esteem and self-actualization, why not help your child realize his potential by signing him up with the Falcons Wrestling Club. The FWC is in its 11th year and has produced state and national champions, state placers and numerous state qualifiers. 

Registration is set for 3 to 5 p.m. Sunday, Sept. 25, and Sunday, Oct. 2, at . For further information, check the Falcons Wrestling Club website or call Ray Rossi at 815-272-5987.

And as for the big fish vs. little fish controversy, I shine my scales trying to be a medium fish in a medium pond.  You got to like symmetry.