What Are the NCAA Wrestling Rules?

NCAA Wrestling rules differ from that of high school and the professional ranks. The rules must be followed or the wrestler or team will be given penalties either in score or any punishment deemed necessary by the NCAA. The rules are consistent whether it is in pre-season or tournament matches.

Weight

Wrestlers must must maintain a certain weight in order to wrestle. If the wrestler does not maintain weight he forfeits the match.

Placement

Both wrestlers must be stationary in the offensive position facing each other. Failure to do so will result in a point deduction.

Scoring

There are a number of ways to score, including takedowns, reversals, near falls, or imminent scoring when a wrestler stops a match with an injury.

Guaging or Headbutting

Under no circumstances is gouging or headbutting acceptable. These moves can cause injury or death to a wrestler. If either of these instances occur, the wrestler risks suspension of his scholarship or suspension from the team.

Stalling

Stalling causes disruptions in the match and is grounds for point deductions. Stalling occurs when a wrestler forces himself out of the center of the mat so the other wrestler lessens their chance to score.

Walk-On Athletes

Walk-ons can wrestle, but must start the season on the team. If a walk-on athlete came aboard in mid-season, he must wait until the following season to wrestle.

Uniform

Full uniforms must be worn during a match which includes headgear, kneepads, mouth piece and, in some instances, goggles.