4. Wrestlers & Officials
4.1 Weight Classes
NCAA Division I wrestling features ten weight classes (in pounds):
- 125 lbs (56.7 kg)
- 133 lbs (60.3 kg)
- 141 lbs (64.0 kg)
- 149 lbs (67.6 kg)
- 157 lbs (71.2 kg)
- 165 lbs (74.8 kg)
- 174 lbs (78.9 kg)
- 184 lbs (83.5 kg)
- 197 lbs (89.4 kg)
- 285 lbs (129.3 kg) — Heavyweight
A wrestler must weigh in at or below the weight class limit. A one-pound weight allowance is granted for competition on the second day of multi-day events. Each wrestler has a certified minimum weight established through the NCAA Weight Management Program.
4.2 Officials
NCAA wrestling uses a single-referee system, which is a significant departure from UWW's three-official crew (referee, judge, and mat chairman). The single referee is responsible for all scoring decisions, penalty calls, and match management.
- Referee: Controls the match from the mat, signals all scoring, awards points, calls penalties, and determines pins. The referee wears a green wristband on one arm and a red wristband on the other, corresponding to the assigned wrestler colors.
- Scorer/Timekeeper: Operates the scoreboard, tracks riding time, and manages the match clock from the scorer's table.
- Video review: Coaches may challenge scoring or near-fall situations using a coach's challenge (brick). Each coach receives one challenge per match; if the challenge is successful, the coach retains it.
4.3 Dual Meet Format
A dual meet consists of 10 individual matches, one at each weight class. The team accumulating the most points wins the dual. Points are awarded based on the manner of victory:
- Fall (pin): 6 team points
- Technical fall (15+ point lead): 5 team points
- Major decision (8–14 point margin): 4 team points
- Decision (1–7 point margin): 3 team points
- Forfeit: 6 team points
- Default: 6 team points
- Disqualification: 6 team points