The season is approximately three and one half months in length. The season generally begins the end of October and ends with the state finals in the middle of March. The wrestling program consist students in grades of sixth through eighth and does not “cut” students from the activity. Varsity wrestlers represent Shabbona in the meets unless it is a novice tournament. Varsity wrestlers are number one in their weight category as determined by inter team matches. A varsity wrestler may be “challenged” for the varsity position by a team mate in the same weight category. “Challenges” may occur once a week if the wrestler makes the request to the coach. Exhibition matches may be held after the varsity matches are complete. Exhibition matches are an effort to give the other wrestlers experience. Exhibition matches may be conducted if the schools involved agree and time permits. A monthly practice schedule will be distributed to the players. With the exception of socks and wrestling shoes, the school provides the necessary equipment and uniform. Students are subject to both the Academic and Conduct Eligibility.