The Gainbridge
Experience

Great post Andy! So sorry you, your wrestlers, families, and wrestling community had such a bad experience! Thank you for being the voice of the many.

— Rod Williams

Call me a rule breaker or whatever but my kid wasn't nor will my kids ever be separated from their families. My assistant faced resistance to taking him to his family and he told them “his family is in there and he is going to see them” to that they backed down. To be fair it's not the attendants fault they're just following orders from someone but that someone is who needs to be addressed. Whoever put it together this year needs relieved of their responsibilities. To me honestly if felt money motivated. Like they were concerned about coaches and kids gain access to paid areas but do they not know that everyone there is there bc of the wrestlers? Those athletes should be given ultimate access and treated as the star of the weekend bc that's what they are!! A few things that need addressed and I'm not one that like to complain without a solution so here it is: 1: Kids gaining access to stadium on both days. Let the kids get in earlier and not stand outside. Solution: just use the main entrance for the athletes and coaches to come in so they are not out in the cold 2: Practice area. Kids have zero space to warm up. Solution: Put warm up mats in aux gym in the main building, across the street in the main practice facility or wherever else there is space. 3: Athlete and coaches seats: no we shouldnt be stuffed in the rafters where they put us. Solution: every parent should be given a code for them to use to get a free ticket next to the ones they buy: coaches section should be lower level to be able to enjoy the state tournament in which they've spent endless giving to! 4: Floor access: we literally had to go through a maze to get to the floor. Solution: have multiple access points with an attendant checking credentials.

— Anton Payne

Biggest match of my kids life to this point (state finals) he has 18 mins to warm up. Was yelled at by Bankers Life workers for going on the mat.

— Casey Bradley

My son was medically injured Friday during his match and these idiots thought they were going to keep me from getting to my son, I can promise you that didn’t happen. IHSWCA need to fix many issues or they need to step aside and let new faces fix these problems. Ever since Covid the experience has got worse and worse very said these people are ruining such a strong tradition in our great state!!!! You better send any army if you think your going to keep me from getting to one of my children (that’s a promise) #DoBetter #FixThismess

— Shawn Thacker

The unfortunate part is no one made us aware of this before the fact either. We were told once we got there that wrestlers were not allowed to be on any floor other than 1 or 5. We are doing the lords work keeping minors away from their parents at the venue… it’s just not acceptable

— Jacob Stephenson

Well said Andrew L. Oberlin! To say that I am happy that I no longer have kids wrestling in HS is an understatement. I’m even more excited to not be coaching in it. The IHSAA and Gainbridge have been making this a miserable experience for coaches and wrestlers for years. It’s like they get together every year to see what they can add to make it worse than the previous year. As I type this and look around Gainbridge, I can’t remember the last time I saw this many empty seats. The kids should always be the focus and unfortunately that hasn’t been the case for years.

— Clint Gard

everything said here is real, saturday i got on an elevator to go see my family after my last match of the 2nd session, i had a lady scream at me that i should be ashamed for riding the wrong elevator and that i am putting her job at risk…it was going up one story and i couldn’t even use the stairs because they blocked those off for us. couldn’t watch any matches and was forced all weekend to sit in a back tunnel.

— Sean Harris

Well said Andy. I was wondering where all the kids were

— Chris Dove

My son and a teammate almost missed weigh ins because they were told to leave their tag on their bag and to leave their bag in the nosebleeds. So they took their items out of their bag to go weigh in only to be told that they couldn’t go weigh in because they didn’t have their tag. They finally found a gentleman who let them get on a freight elevator. They were sprinting to make it. They also had to sit in section 225 (nose bleeds) until they were in the hole. So my son couldn’t start getting ready for his match until 190 and then when he did make it to the tunnel to get ready he was told that he had to move because he was in the way.

— Sara Baker

Year's ago when i was coaching Freestyle we wrestled in the old basket ball field house. I can't remember name of it. That place was a zoo back then. If you left your seat someone would come along and move it. Put them on the floor or what ever. I was on the board of directors back then. We tried to get it moved to Fort Wayne. Allen county coliseum has the most floor space by cubic foot then any place in Indiana. Thats including pro football and basketball. Had a vote on it and got voted down. Was not happy. But none of these wrestler's or coaches should be treated like this. I think its time for a new place. !!! Just my thoughts. Mark Lopez

— Debbie Lopez

These were similar to the issues we had during the football state championship games.

— Mandy Harris

My son got told he couldn't come down to his family and he had a ticket. And if he went down he couldn't go back up to his stuff. Our coach got in an argument with the staff. 2 police officers were involved. My son and his teammate had to be escorted back to the hotel by another coach. I had to meet him at the gate to let him in with his ticket. I couldn't go get him from the hotel because if I left I couldn't get back in!

— Kristen Elizabeth Endsley

I honestly have not been to any wrestling events since 1998, it was always about the wrestler and the fight they endured to get to The State Championship. We had a close friends son make the well hard fight on his road to State. Unfortunately the road ended at Semi-State here in Evansville. The wrestlers were treated with honor, and they were the show that day. But after he lost his match that day, there was only one person he wanted to be in the arms of, and that was his mother, in which he came off the floor, into the stands and was in her arms shortly after his match. I’m sure the Ford Center in Evansville would be more than happy to host an event of this magnitude! My son is turning 5 this year, and has so much excitement built up to wrestle and make it to the top, we as parents would be devastated if what you have described would be his experience in the future.

— Raymond Holden

I totally agree with all of this! Also from a fans perspective, it was dirty to do the heavier weights first Friday… just so they wouldn’t lose revenue. And made us wait each weight class to finish wrestling to watch the next weight class, then they made us wait another hour and a half to start the little guys. And what the heck was up with the pricing of the damn tickets!? My family didn’t even go Friday with me because the damn tickets were so expensive. It’s time for a new venue.

— Tony McGinley

Four years ago, our wrestler had an amazing experience, one he’ll cherish for the rest of his life. I wonder where the planning process changed to make it such a poor experience. They need to figure that out so it doesn’t happen again. These things start with the IHSAA committees and GameBridge leadership during the planning process.

— Martha Buchanan

My son was there in 2023 and it wasn’t like that. However my daughter’s boyfriend was there this year for state wrestling and stated exactly what you said! How awful and not respectful.

— Stacie Housholder

I witnessed one of my wrestlers getting harassed by the staff. A senior who just lost and wanted to see his parents. He was in tears. I went over and ask what was wrong. Coach, they won’t let me go see my parents. Well,… 3 min later, 2 cops and 3 more event staff was treating me to kick me out bc I was trying to help. Those rules simply suck! a total joke. They don’t give in and the wrestler was it able to see his parents

— Jeff Brown

At the end of the day I was standing near the steps going down to the main entrance getting ready to leave Gainbridge. I was told by an usher I needed to leave the facility or at least get behind the ropes while I waited on my wrestler. He was a heavier top eight placer, so his pictures were toward the end of the evening and I wasn’t sure where he was at the moment. I told the lady instructing me to leave that I would not be going anywhere until I knew where my son was. And mind you, once you’re outside of the ropes, you’re not allowed back inside Gainbridge. The usher rolled her eyes and said they had a Pacers game they needed to get ready for and that everyone needed to get behind the ropes then proceeded to tell other families this same thing. Absolutely ridiculous. I am not leaving any venue and as a result losing access to my child, and it was inappropriate for the staff to be instructing parents to do so.

— Rachael Cooper

Excuses and reasonings aside- wrestling is already a mental game. These kids already feel isolated with the weight of the entire world on their shoulders. And we as parents/coaches can try our best to train them through it. But honestly the only people who truly understand it are those teammates and past wrestlers. But we have a venue that wants to isolate them even further from the only things that can strengthen that mental war they are fighting? With the excuse for it to cut back on the tensions & aftermath of results? Sounds to me like thats ass backwards. We can not forget that these are children. With big ass children emotions. Fears. Wishes and wants. Not everyone wants isolation to process. I've spent the last 13 years teaching my son that he's so much more than an athlete. This is just part of him. Not his entire story. Then there's a venue teaching that I have lied to him, they are nothing more than a show and the rest doesn't matter. Excuse my language, but- I think the fuck not.

— Jaimie Lyne Sanderson

The times I’ve gone to support my cousins the ushers made it a nightmare every time. Entire families and schools buy tickets in the same section and we’ve been threatened to be kicked out because we’re talking to family or friends and not in the literal seat our ticket says; when every single person in that section are friends and family and we’re all there to celebrate our wrestlers. I’ve said for years and I know it may not be popular but: move the State Finals to Hinkle Fieldhouse. The place will be packed and have a much more intimate and exciting environment.

— Lucas Macke

Sorry, no sympathy here, my son competed there during Covid, they had EVERYTHING taken from them.

— Jennifer Leman-Nuest

Extremely well said. This was my first experience coaching in the finals and the entire time it felt like my kid was treated like a criminal. Craziest part was they let coaches in the concourse areas, but gave my kid a hard time. IHSAA rolled over to Gainbridge Fieldhouse and should fight for their athletes more.

— Nathan Wynn

Agreed. Our AD bought our wrestlers and coaches front row seats for them to be comfortable and enjoy the event while waiting. Instead these tickets went unused because they were forced to sit in the nosebleeds. Our wrestlers were not allowed to leave the area for food etc. Our coach went to get them food. Kids couldn't come down to see their parents to calm their nerves at the biggest event of their career. Pitiful experience.

— James Scott

Lauren Carro is the head of guest experience at the Fieldhouse and from my personal interactions with her, she would have to improve to be incompetent at her job. I asked her to address several issues that I experienced including but not limited to * Losing my application for Turner's Block and by the time it was cleared up I was moved from the front 1/4 of the audition line to almost the end, then starting the event 35 minutes after the listed start time. * Having the box office close early and the Fieldhouse worker that I dealt with tell me, "Well you can just buy them online". When I explained that in buying online I would literally have been paying as much in service fees as I was for the ticket. He offered no explanation or apologies for the box office closing early. * Having a Fieldhouse employee standing outside of a restroom stall waiting for me to finish so I could be escorted out of the section so they could close it down TWELVE minutes after the final buzzer of a Pacers game. I asked via email for an explanation of how those things (as well as a couple other minor issues) happened and what steps would be put in place to make sure they didn't happen again. I was asked to give her a week to follow up. I gave her 2, and had to write her back. I got more of a runaround. I followed up another month later. At that time instead of presenting an explanation and a future action plan, she tried to bribe me with good tickets for an upcoming Pacers game I explained that the tickets I buy for Pacers games are very affordable and I like where I sit, I preferred to have the issues addressed. At that point in time she stopped responding to my emails. They are a group of people who exist in a bubble down there, which is something that I told her in one of my messages. Most of those people that I've encountered there lack a modicum of common sense and very little in the way of authentic people skills. I work at a successful entertainment venue and interact with thousands of people each week. I can assure you that any of us on staff would be fired for treating a patron the way that the Fieldhouse staff does on the regular. A beautiful venue with a lot of not so great people involved with it.

— Derrick Guynn

Production value for the finals has decreased considerably as well. Would not be sad at a change of venue.

— Bryan Bell

I have been saying it for a few years now, let’s take the show on the road nothing better than putting it on a big time college campus / venue. I think that the kids would like better.

— Kevin P. Jolas

This is horrible, back on my 2 trips I felt that it was a little controlling but not this bad. The IHSAA needs to find a new venue!

— Keegan Schlabach

I could not believe all the OPEN seats. That place was once FULL for every session without assigned seats. FW Coliseum sounds like a winner. Good enough for the best run IHSWCA Team State tournament.

— Jason Hunter

It was a disgusting treatment from the venue

— Kris Cleveland

Sad account on how this venue treated our athletes. The governing body needs to find a better venue. Please treat wrestlers like the champions they are.

— Robert Rathgaber

So sorry this happened. We have had very similar experiences at Lucas Oil for State Marching Band Finals. It is disgusting and insulting!

— Peter Jacobs

Corteva where the girls have theirs is basically a free for all and it’s amazing! The girls can be right down there watching teammates and everyone else! Parents can sit where they want. Yes we buy tickets and it’s not as packed for finals, but we can move as we please! Maybe it’s time to change venues for the boys!!!

— Angie Keene

I placed at state in 2004. Long time ago... I remember watching Blane Culp and Dillon Deutsch wrestle from almost mat side. I remember going to see my parents in the stands who were sitting with our whole group of fans that could all give words of encouragement and congratulations along the way between matches. I remember walking around the venue with wrestling shoes on seeing everyone there without their shoes on still, look at you with envy and respect. These moments to have life long memories were not awarded to the kids who made it to state this year. Something needs to change. Change only happens when someone calls out the problem. Thank you Coach Oberlin for being that guy.

— Kyle Meinika

Would love to see this be held at the War Memorial Coliseum in Fort Wayne.

— Ty Stoppenhagen

Ft. Wayne Coliseum!! Some of the stories I've heard, and my own experience from the last two days are unacceptable. For Semi- State at the coliseum, the staff is always friendly and accommodating to the wrestlers. Let's make it happen.

— Amy Wicker

What a shame and disappointment for these kids who have worked so hard. Hopefully if you all band together you can get the venue changed. So glad it wasn't like this back in the day when you wrestled. I remember that weekend as being one of the highlights of the year.

— Carol Franze

I bet the War Memorial Coliseum in Fort Wayne would treat everyone better!

— Bobbi Shane

Move it to Ball State University!

— Nick Richards

There are so many new venues that have been built that they can use. Marching Band has used Lucas oil and treat the kids so kind the four years we have went to the state finals it’s been amazing. 

— Christina Conyers

Move it to Corteva Coliseum!! The NCAA DII National Tournament was held there last year and it was awesome!

— Jennifer Hayse

Could the new Fishers Event center host? 7500 seat venue, centrally located and there’s plenty of food and hotels in Fishers.

— Alex White

State Volleyball finals were moved from Ball State and held at Gainbridge this year and our players had very similar issues. They were not allowed to leave their designated area after their game to come up to the main floors and see friends and family. They either had to be escorted to a seat to watch the following games if staying or they were escorted out of the building to the bus in the parking lot with no re-entry allowed.

— Lorie Smith Barber

Bring it to Fort Wayne at the Coliseum

— Tyrell Swain

Move it to a large high school venue their are many in central indiana New Castle an many others

— Mike Fleeger

Move it to a different venue.

— Kevin Cairns

This is terrible. I’m sure another venue would love to host!

— Trisha Hardy-Atkins

Gainbridge Fieldhouse I don’t have a wrestler, but after reading this, I’ll never buy a ticket at your venue again!

— Teresa Taylor

If this was a football or basketball state championship there would have been police escorts and red carpet to the locker room…what shame and disrespect to these kids and their parents.

— Eldon Byler

Can this be moved to a different venue? Money is the only thing that gets people’s attention these days sadly

— Paula Beck

This is so typical of any "venue" . I will not pay alot of money for any sporting event as it's out of control and TV is well on it's way to PFV . They should have a participants block near the floor and for God's sake give the kids a slice of pizza .

— Joe Novy

This venue has been a nightmare since at least 2003— the GREEN VEST staff has been very rude to the wrestlers & the spectators. MOVE IT.!!!!

— Linda Denstorff

I can’t believe what the kids have to pay just to cheer on their teammates! I vote a different venue OUT OF INDY!!

— Paige Butler

We love the sport of wrestling and to hear this is horrible! We’ve not been to the state finals for three years mainly because of cost. We’ve agree a new more friendly and high school sport venue needs to be found.

— Vickie Foran

They had the TVs on with matches playing but coaches weren’t allowed to stand in that area and watch the TVs. It was bizarre

— Maurice Swain

Athletes should not be separated from their families once their match has concluded. Post competition is an important emotiona...

— Jon Austin

It really was unfortunate, I understand they need to have control and there are rules, but the athletes should have had some t...

— Irma Kincaide

I agree it was ridiculous. My son couldn’t come to the suite after he finished competing on Saturday because he had his wrestl...

— Melinda Haines

This is downright appalling. ...

— Rochelle Revor

It was bad. They treated the athletes very poorly downstairs. They made the wrestlers, and coaches feel very uncomfortable.

— Jake Allard

That is heart wrenching. Time for a new venue.

— Jenny Brown Harris

IHSAA needs to make changes and hold Gainbridge accountable to standards set by IHSAA. Some kids have anxiety and need to spea...

— James Scott

Wow. Never have I ever heard of such a thing. I’m sad to hear of this poor treatment. It’s unacceptable. I wonder if every ind...

— Josh Rose

What can all the coaches and families do

— Lana Grubbs Richmond

Really a heartbreaking weekend for how Gainbridge Fieldhouse treated these young men. Shoving the kids in the freight elevator...

— Andy Uhl

Really a heartbreaking weekend for how Gainbridge Fieldhouse treated these young men. Shoving the kids in the freight elevator...

— Gainbridge Fieldhouse

Would love to see the state finals at the new arena made for the Noblesville Boom.

— Noah Sattison

Our son wrestled in the championship heavyweight match, which just happens to be the last match of the night. While waiting fo...

— David Hartleroad

Good for you guys!

— Neal Reidford

What a shame. The state championship hasn’t been the same since they tore down market square and moved it to gainbridge

— Cindy Winter Mallory

Man so sorry hope he’s ok

— Daren Sutton

Hope he is ok! Prayers

— Chris Briggs Brown

This is so sad. Some of our best wrestling memories were at the Wrestling State Finals. Prayers for Caden that he recovers qui...

— Janet Mallory Siemers

I didn’t get to go this year. But, if that’s all true it’s absolutely disgusting.

— Mark Douglas

Wow. I used to follow it pretty religiously since my family has two state champions. This is super disheartening and I'm sorry...

— Lori Wildeman Nottingham

Terrible! Pray he’s ok!

— Debbie Stiles Hipsher

Hopefully he is doing better

— Mike Reiser

That’s awful, they should never use that venue again! The wrestlers worked very hard to get there and the should be treated wi...

— Sandra Dennis

This is so sad! Robin Olry I'm sorry that state qualifying wrestlers and their coaches and families were treated this way. Eve...

— Maria Herrera Norman

This is unacceptable and should be something that all schools make clear that won’t be tolerated as Gainbridge will not be con...

— Joyce N Vance Kyle

Zach was telling me about this last night. Absolutely insane.

— Madison Wells

Wow, just not right…..

— Karen Blanchette White

This is awful! They definitely need to do better!

— Jonia Rashel

Reading this makes me mad !!!! Shame on the Ihsaa for this they need to do a lot better this would never happen if it was bask...

— Justin Coratti

Completely awful...uncalled for and ridiculous

— Adam Grover

Wow that’s crazy

— Billy Kraus

Surprised they dont move it to the state fairgrounds David Wroblewski. The coliseum is for the most part bot used unless for trade shows etc.

— Daniel Jaworski

Im honestly worried for my sons sports journey. Its not what it use to be. I hope change comes soon

— Nicole Caputo

Holy hell, how flipping awful! I can not imagine all that. They need to find another venue that will support wrestling. Th...

— Melissa Pearson Cole

MJ was one of the ones the cops came for… I was disgusted…

— KT Staples

Makes me so angry. As someone who understands enough about the sport to know how special these wrestlers are. Superstars in th...

— Michael Brooks

Was this your experience as well?

— Logan David Ables

This makes me so sad.

— Courtney Harreld

I absolutely hate this

— Lauren Montes

What a disappointment on such a monumental weekend for these athletes

— Tina McMaken Gaines

Beyond disappointing for the wrestlers and their families.

— Allie Gaines

I agree! Absolutely terrible!

— Kendra Noble

Wow this upsetting. Pray this is fixed for next year

— Donna Yarema

That is awful I would been upset. Especially for a mom it bad enough your nervous as heck but can not even say a word to my so...

— Tracy Kantner

That’s absolute BULLSHIT!!

— Mimi Holsinger

Very disappointing!!!

— Carol Skinner

That is just ridiculous!! This should have been a great experience for them all the way around!! They do work so hard and give...

— Judith Speer

IHSAA needs to fix a lot of things. Time for a change. If the current representatives are unwilling maybe we clean house and put people in charge that actually want what’s best for the kids!— with IHSAA (Indiana High School Athletic Association, Inc.).

— IHSAA (Indiana High School Athletic Association, Inc.)

#carverforcommissioner

— Mathew Kelly

The kids we treated like DIRT!!!!! It was BAD!!!!! I told the people, treat us (the coaches) like dirt…. We can Handel it….but...

— Michael Weimer

100% agreed and long overdue!! Faulkens needs to go!!! He is the root cause of all their problems!

— Wally Cunuo

Let's go to Lucas Oil!!!

— Christopher Clark

They need to move the venue for sure sound to me they dont get these kids deserve better treatment its a special moment in the...

— Ronnie Haste

I read the entire post you linked. None of that behavior makes sense under normal circumstances, how unfortunate for the wrest...

— John JC May

Totally agree. This year sucked

— Tony McGinley

Sad to see and hear from everyone posting these problems! Dissapointed and saddened for sure !

— Jamie Brueche

This is disappointing. As I said the other night, this is one of the best high school events there is. It’s special in a way, ...

— Eric Hartz

Sounds like it was a horribly managed disrespectful cludterfuck.

— David A Deal

Full support state finals NOT being played in the pro arenas. It’s too big, too spread out and not like HIGH SCHOOL at all!! K...

— Bryan Kaylor

This is terrible. Hopefully they change these stupid rules for the sake of the kids and coaches.

— Marcy Koons

Absolutely ridiculous. I guess the days of MSA are truly over.

— Aimee Zumbrun Myers

If you have had kids compete at State since 2020, you have experienced the issues below.

— Andrew L. Oberlin

What can be done to change this nonsense?

— Ernie Bartlett

if this has been going on for that long it is past time for coaches, athletic directors, school principles and superintendents...

— Jim King

Disgusting.

— Charles R. Pettibone

I agree. The schools need to ban together to get the venue changed. Does anyone realize how much money that event generates in...

— Ron Levitz

This has always been such a special event. Sad to see this post.

— Renea Boots

YIKES! This is terrible. Totally unacceptable!

— Chrissie Barnes Saunders

Has it been this way in the past Brady?

— Greg Mow

Time to write the CEO of the Gainbridge!

— Tasha Godsey

This is so sad

— Michelle Eggering

Hope someone in the Gainbridge management is made aware of this.

— Julie Kurtz Carmicheal

Awe man. This makes me sad. This is supposed to be an experience full amazing memories.

— Lindy Munson

We have been to Gainbridge twice now for an IWU basketball game (NYE - college games played after a Pacers game) and both year...

— Sasha Wygant Frazier

Well said. I’m truly sorry that happened:-( i hope Gainbridge Management is notified and will make necessary adjustments or St...

— Elizabeth Lash

Watch the basketball state finals. I bet the teams not playing have great seats and can move about freely to see parents and f...

— Steve Keck

I’m so sorry these kids weren’t welcomed and celebrated the way they deserve to be, Mel. And what a shame for the senior that ...

— Crystal Everage

I’m sorry the coaches and kids were treated like this. Is there a contact email for the IHSAA we can send emails to? Athleti...

— Carissa Prater

This is definitely not what these elite athletes and families deserved! So sorry they all now have this as part of the experience

— Susan George Lawrence

It’s a joke how they treat the participants and coaches.

— Sam Temples

Where is it usually held? Was this the first time at Gainbridge?

— Rachelle Belle

WOW, THAT IS SO SAD, Carolina Rig, was your daughter there?

— James Bolin

OMGosh tax payers and events keep that building going along with the owners. Maybe taxes and events to help should stop!!! Ha...

— Kitna Austin

Those kids and their coaches and families absolutely deserve to be celebrated and supported. I hope things change as a result ...

— Sarah Lundell

I remember a time when those athlete/coach passes would get you into anywhere in the building other than the concession stands

— Logan D Aldrich Sr.

This should be forwarded to Faulkens and the rest of the IHSAA execs.

— Jim Wadkins

So not a wrestler parent (yet) but has state always been at Gainbridge? If not why did they change locations? If yes, why the ...

— Amber Marie

I hate all of that for the kids parents snd coaches

— Jamie Rodriguez

How disappointing… my heart breaks for these athletes, coaches and families. I can’t imagine what it would be like not to have...

— Falishia Mae Wind

That is unbelievable how the coaches athletes were treated. IHSAA should be ashamed. I've been involved in sports for years an...

— Howard Ester

This is similar to how they were treated during the COVID year as well! Terrible

— Heather Haseman

Congrats buddy

— Chris Jordan

That's sounds like a bad experience for the kids that made it to state.

— Kelly Harner

It was awful this year even for spectators

— Mike Williams Sr.

That's crazy .

— David Burnham

Wow that's not cool. Maybe it should be at the Fort Wayne Coliseum in the future

— Josh Arnold

Josh Arnold they ran the Semi State very well. I vote for that as well.

— Sarah Myers

What a horrible experience to have had maybe look else where for state next year .

— Donna S. Dudelston

This is tragic for the wrestlers. I guarantee the basketball players would not be treated like this. I’m not sure how it is in...

— Tony Hollenbaugh

Have the big dogs get involved ,, change or change venues

— Len Luken

You tell’em O!

— Judy Ungerer

This is crazy! And sad

— Kt Pro

That gets worse the more you read it holy shit that's crazy

— Dawn Kratzer

It’s not Gainbridge it’s IHSAA I work part time for Gainbridge so Ik trust me it’s frustrating

— Ðion Rogērs

Lisa still talks about how impressive it was when u went to State

— Pam Smith

This is absolutely NOT a good thing. My goodness these kids have devoted so much of their lives to wrestle. Even though we don...

— Debbie Mitchell Carney

Wow sounds like I picked the right year to save my money... I've only missed one other state tournament 2015 my first year goi...

— Jim Callis

Sounds like state needs to be switched to somewhere else next year! Lucas Oil Stadium sounds neutral!

— Brandi Ary McClure

I would loseeeeeeeee my absolute shit if I couldn’t get to my kid or vise versa! This sounded awful!

— KayLee Wiley

It’s called greed!

— Tina Mitchell

Oh that’s not good. I’m sorry it wasn’t a good experience.

— Kim Dyer Bennett

This is so infuriating, these wrestlers should be treated better !

— Bonnie Baumgartner

Thats extremely disappointing!

— Stephanie Hisey

Wow! That is just crazy and very disappointing!!!

— Melissa Towne

That’s terrible, what would they have done if someone’s kid got injured, the tell parents to meet the at the nearest er, that ...

— Michelle Jaeger

That is absolutely unacceptable! I hope it is picked up by state media outlets or there will be no change.

— June Strayer

Sounds horrific. Like maybe they were trying to produce failure.

— Sharon Kerr

I got mad just reading this! And to make them stand outside?

— Eileen Hall

I would look for a new venue and contact IHSAA. This is absolutely ridiculous and disappointing. The kids and their families d...

— Linda Krieg Leonhard

That’s terrible. Imagine not being able to see your teammates compete at the top competition you all worked so hard to get to!

— Mary Hollabaugh Diehl

In 2000 we were treated like kings in the same venue

— Huston Smith

I say move it to the fairgrounds like the girls. The staff there was great for the most part

— Cameron Warren

Ticket master needs to go away and be done with. ...

— Brennan Cosgrove

Did they film it? Vision Quest’ssque??? Sounds old school. Shall we never lose the feeling…of being disrespected….for isn’t th...

— Pat Mckee

Screw Gainbridge. I’ll boycott every show I’ve wanted to see there this year because of this. It’s disgusting.

— Tyler Humphrey

This makes me sick to my stomach as a wrestling momma

— Amanda Jo Williams

Couldn’t agree more!!!

— Stefanie Ann Rohr

Sad to hear

— JoeBrenda Solis

That’s so shitty!!

— Chris McClain Wilson

So very sad

— Laurie Love Bush Kosharek

Wow! So sad to hear the way they were treated after working so hard to make it that far!

— Amber Woebbeking Yoder

My uncle Don Weeks set on the Board IHSAA back in the day! That old farm boy would turn over in his grave!

— Stanley Kostielney

Thank you Andy for posting this! After taken time to decompress from the situation. That was absolutely an horror!! I ask everyone please share this post! Make the ihsaa do better for the wrestlers. Thats what it’s all about. Let’s not let this just get forgotten till next year when it happens again. The ihsaa should be embarrassed over this!

— Rex Moore

Thank you Andrew L. Oberlin. I have already submitted a complaint to my AD. We should never be treated like this.

— Ed Shenefield

What a well-written message about the need for change. Sounds unbelievably frustrating, but I read this as a caring coach and parent advocating immensely for his athletes and their families. Kudos to you for taking the time to fight for them off the mat. We hear you.

— Tim Beaumont

I agree!! Staff keeps making us show our tickets to enter our seat each time we get up to buy food & bathroom breaks. I have 5 family members tickets on my phone. They would not let our HS Wrestler come down to his seat that I paid for because he didn’t have his phone. His phone was up in the 500 section. So frustrating!! Suggestion…Parents should get a complementary seat for their wrestler when they purchase their tickets. Another suggestion. Assign schools a section to purchase tickets together for a day before it is open to the public. Teams are like families & Families want to sit together to support each other.

— Melissa Ottenweller Fielden

I agree totally Andy. I think the IHSAA needs a shake up in leadership…. Maybe people who actually understand the sports they are governing.

— Robin Rob Lear

Well stated! I sure hope the parties who are deciding all these frustrating rules are reading this and they make some major changes,and I think a huge apology is necessary to these young Hoosier men and all persons involved coaches, trainers, etc. And to he parents, siblings, and all family members and to the fans!!!

— Gary Oberlin

Gainbridge is too comfortable with this event being theirs…I believe the wrestling community of IN schools should have a say in the running and flow of the event. I thought I’d dislike Evansville 2 years ago and although it wasn’t convenient for all - they really tried to handle the event and did a nice job! Maybe it’s time to have a forum of coaches with Gainbridge. Or find someplace who appreciates the event and ALL the work effort and energy these athletes and families put in to be there. Respect the Sport!!

— Kim Doudt Doster

Well said, Andy. Joel had the same experience with our 4 wrestlers. You put it into perfect words.

— Melinda Pippenger

It is ridiculous this year. It takes a lot of the excitement away keeping the wrestlers in the top level, away from their teammates and family. Not sure who the genius was that thought this up. They appear to enjoy micromanaging. Maybe the facility doesn’t want to his wrestling. This is my thought after being there this year

— Aaron Arnold

I have been saying it all season. DEFUND THE IHSAA. if they can defund the department of education, why do we need the IHSAA what a joke? 

— Elton Chavez

Sounds like a terrible experience. Those kids earn the right to be respected on that stage just like a business man earns the respect of doing solid business and making a name for himself and money for himself. That’s a disgrace to think those kids and coaches were treated that way this weekend. Let’s hope for the kids sake someone important gets in touch with someone important so these kids can have the best experience possible that they EARNED and weren’t just given!!!!

— Blair Alexander Dunning

It's been terrible ever since the COVID season. And it's gotten worse. Your post is spot on. The first year they put us in the nose bleed, I sat there for about 3 minutes and I couldn't do it. I don't do heights well. I've bought a ticket ever since, male or female, I have a ticket just in case. Unfortunately I haven't been back to the floor of boys state, but Ill still have a ticket just in case. And that sucks

— Blane Culp

So basically you are asking for how it was for decades? Absolute bullshit. Well said.

— Huston Smith

Couldn't have said it better. This year seemed very different then previous years attended.

— Sarah Myers

You’re an incredible advocate for the sport, Andy! IHSAA (Indiana High School Athletic Association, Inc.)

— Jason Heil

Andy - you don’t even mention how the kids who lost on Friday night were treated. From what you’re saying, it almost sounds like they had to buy a ticket in order to sit in the arena and watch the competition?

— Phil Gibson

100% agree with everything you said. There’s absolutely no reason for them to do that to the kids.

— Darren Schortgen

Congratulations for getting your kids to State. So sad they had to experience such a let down. Those kids should have been treated as special guests. Is there a letter going to the IHSAA? It can be hosted elsewhere for sure.

— Joe Updegrove

Andy, I completely agree with your post this being our first time here. It was heart breaking. They had me in tears shortly after scanning my tickets. I brought a poster for aiden because he was at 99 wins prior to this event. Mind you I did not know the poster rule here which was all but the size of two pieces of paper. That wasn’t the problem. The problem was that they asked me if I wanted to leave it at the gates to grab afterwards and they even pointed to where they would set it, or I could take it to my car/hotel. I opted to pick it up on the way out. If he couldn’t get his 100 wins pictures on the floor at least we could do it later was my thinking, for my poor planning of not knowing the poster size allowance (mine was 20”x30”). After leaving it and waiting to see if a coach would be allowed to grab it and bring it in, we noticed that they not only threw it in the trash. They destroyed it by breaking it half to put it in the trash. That was what was heartbreaking. The carelessness and blatant disregard of humility…. to a kid who had dedicated so much time and a mother who has been mat side for the entire ride that poster meant the world.

— Natasha Hunt

The event felt more focused on control than competition. Excessive restrictions, rigid enforcement, and inconsistent officiating contributed to an environment that was tense and adversarial rather than celebratory. It's all exhausting, not good for our sport.

— Jake O'Neill

That really sucks... It is a unbelievable and unforgivable of how they were treated.

— Jeff Treptow

Unfortunately, this is becoming more common with IHSAA events that are not football or basketball.

— Ryan Baker

Unfortunately its not just Gainbridge, Dr. Whats his nuts from IHSAA has ruined the state experience just before covid!

— Jake A. Rebone

That is so sad any of those kiddos were treated in this manner. Without these kids they would not have made thousands of dollars. Just sad

— Cassie Thompson Kleeberg

That is terrible for the kids Obe! Gainbridge should be ashamed of themselves and really should be investigated. Maybe something needs to be said to the local news in both Indy and Fort Wayne!

— Brad Dove

It was a terrible experience. I feel bad for the wrestlers. I definitely support change.

— Kristi Nacole

The athletes are the stars of the show. They should be catered too. Hopefully this will change in the future. This event is all about the athletes and their hard work.

— Bradley Rosman

The girls have it figured out right with the fairgrounds. Athletes watch from the floor in certain areas & kids can go up & see family in between matches. A huge warm up area too.

— Casey Holscher

Um…. Realize the State Finals is much different than other sports….. But….kids don’t get to see / talk to their parents and friends during halftime. These are amazing athletes, I believe they are on a different mental level and don’t need (or even want) to communicate with their parents. Let grow their wings and figure out how to deal with life….

— Jeff Longere

From Florida : need to go to double elimination. You have a grueling system to get to the state tournament-one state champion ., give the person who lost in the first round an opportunity to fight back to get to third .. you see a lot of “heart”wrestling in those wrestle back rounds . By the current bracket structure .. 1/2 the kids are eliminated in the first round that’s terrible .. been involved here in Florida for almost 30 yrs.. 4 yrs high school competition -16years FHSAA contest official - 9 years as a coach . Been following a team from my families home town of Rochester ,IN .. but this year didn’t see it on track . You all have fans that follow your states tournament all over the country why not showcase the student athletes?!!? Hope there’s some positive moves going forward to try to improve and/or rectify this . It’s about the kids !!! Best wishes !!

— Bryan Irwin

EVERYONE needs to say something or comment or nothing will be HEARD. Find ways to be heard!

— Brandon Butz

I applaud you for speaking up. I am not associated with Wrestling, however I am involved in both club and IHSAA sports on a volunteer level. I appreciate the honesty and respect the thoughtfulness behind this post. This isn’t an easy position and it takes courage to speak up.

— Heather Dawn

Well said coach glad you shared your experience. Ours experience was very similar.

— Bill Tabler

I say take the finals to local colleges. I'm sure they will more than welcome the kids and coaches.

— Michael Ortman

This is my 6th year at State and this experience was as awful as that. This is a collective message from my coaching staff and athletes. The Gainbridge staff was extremely rude and conflictive making the experience completely unprofessional.

— Casey Bradley

You need to hand deliver this letter to the IHSAA top dogs and Everyone you can think of. Change needs to happen.

— David Miller

well said, you know it’s bad when the wrestlers say it feels like there being held hostage

— Cooper Glassford

IHSAA (Indiana High School Athletic Association, Inc.) Gainbridge Fieldhouse Take notes.

— Anita Huckaby

Great post, and it seems it’s gone from bad to worse. I would add that Gainbridge and the IHSAA don’t care about the fans either. Why is the Friday session split into two halves. I understand why they split it during Covid, but it makes no sense now. Fans were not allowed to go outside, and had to sit through an hour plus break. I guess Gainbridge wanted to make sure everyone had to pay for their overpriced concessions.

— Scott Mundell

People can smoke weed and drank alcohol in a concert there with no problem but wrestler are a problem this weekend enjoying there once in a lifetime experience smhh sad

— Jasper Cooper

Why not use the State Fairgrounds like they do for the girls?? Get out of Gainbridge for good!

— Joe Bergman

I heard alot of the same things today while at the Indy Nationals... which I felt was a bit too large of an event for Southport to host. Not enough parking, not enough food options and cramming all the high schools into the smaller gym for most of their matches was hetic... I will proudly share this post. And hope that a little more thought goes into State and other tournaments.

— Sarah Jones

Sounds like you have the same problems in Indiana as we do in Michigan, lack of leadership when it is required! When leadership is required here all we get is a bunch of overpaid middle managers who couldn’t lead ducks to water and are very unfamiliar with accountability or accepting personal responsibility! Coach, if you saw it, so did they! Those folk are not blind just a bunch of Pharisee’ who think it is all about them and their stupid uncaring rules so they keep their little paychecks. You are correct coach, it is supposed to be about the kids, their families, teammates, coaches and friends of the sport. Thanks for speaking up and I wish you all well for a better future.

— Rod Fuller

Couldn’t agree more. They did everything possible to make those kids uncomfortable at the highest stage. Sad. The security was a joke. What should have been an athlete first event was far from it.

— Jake Allard

So basically they will let people go there for concerts and smoke dope in the place but won't let these kids be with their families that is crazy work.

— Nikki Fleming

The IHSAA doesn’t stand up for its athletes. They believe they are the product, not the kids. Until the his changes, this will fall on deaf ears.

— Devon Brown

IHSAA STATE Wrestling Gainbridge Fieldhouse What do y’all have to say for yourselves?

— Morgan Nicole

I see nothing wrong with the way this year was run. Kids should be honored to get there they shouldn’t automatically be made comfy and happy. It’s no different than a high school keep them out the tunnels and keep them off vision unless they are next up!

— Cody Parkhurst

I cannot begin to express our frustration with our child not having access to us. This was my text communication with him after Friday’s Blood Round and his advancement into the Elite 8. I couldn’t even give him a hug. Extremely disappointed in Gainbridge.

— Anna Puchany

Thanks for expressing your concerns. Now use whatever clout you have to make your recommendations a reality.

— Shaun Shannon

This isn’t just a Gainbridge Fieldhouse issue. The IHSAA should be held accountable as well. I am not a big fan of IHSAA leadership.

— J.D. Longanecker

Also… 2006 vs 2026 TURN OFF THE LIGHTS! Nobody gives a damn about advertisements being spun around in LEDs during the finals. Give the kids the experience they deserve and the fans the experience they want.

— Robert Deventer

Why host an event for athletes if you aren't going make them comfortable? Don't host if you can't take care of the exact reason you're making money.

— Ricky Herrera

1000% accurate. From a mom of a senior with a 4x state player, this was the worst treatment we have experienced here. Spending well over $500 on tickets alone to be here with family to witness the last event of his high school career. I support change.

— Karey Lynn

Their staff is in general rude. We went their for winter jam couple weeks ago and the staff were beyond rude

— Liz Sensibaugh

Very well said. It was ridiculous and over the top. They even took the lids to any drinks purchased there! You literally were not allowed to keep the kid to your drink!!!! Smh.

— Megan Webb

Sounds like the announcer from the Crown Point regional matches was there this weekend. (I know it wasn’t him) but he was very demanding and rude as well. Threatened to stop the matches if teammates didn’t stay where he wanted them to stand. The guy was a jerk and pushed his authority like he wanted to be the lead man in charge.

— Sarah Clemons Selby

Dang man that’s ridiculous. Poor kids. And the parents need to be able to interact with their kids. It’s not just a championship or finals. These shape kids for life.

— Bandee Adam

So many dumb rules. I over heard a conversation from a gal ahead of us who purchased a clear purse from the actual Pacers Team store the day prior, and they wouldn’t let her bring it in Gainbridge. Then , they would let a gal bring in her popsicle stick face sign. Guess you can really do damage with a popsicle stick.! Derp.

— Paul Phenicie