The lowering of shoulder straps while on the mat is considered an act of
unsportsmanlike conduct. The only time it would not be penalized is if the
wrestler received permission from the official to do so. Should this
infraction occur before wrestling has started or after the completion of
wrestling, it would be a deduction of one team-point from the offender’s
squad. However, if the offense takes place during the match, the violator’s
opponent would receive a match point.
Note, there is a variation of the rule in West Virginia. The unauthorized
lowering of shoulder straps anywhere in the gym during competition is
considered unsportsmanlike.
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What is everyone’s take on this rule? Is it different from state to state?
Have you seen it enforced?
Wrestling Gear
