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Updated Youth Wrestling Rules - In Effect for 2026 West Coast Open Primary Divisions
New rules, same great wrestling!
BC Wrestling has introduced updated Youth Competition Rules, aligned with the WCL Long-Term Athlete Development (LTAD) Model, to establish consistent provincial standards and support safe, positive and developmentally appropriate competition for our youngest athletes.
These rules will be in effect for the Primary divisions at the West Coast Open and apply to all BC Wrestling-sanctioned youth competitions across the province.
A few important things to familiarize yourself with:
Age Divisions: Tykes (U7), Junior (U9), Youth (U11) and U13.
Novice & Advanced Classification: Updated criteria based on lifetime match and tournament experience.
Prohibited Techniques: Clear guidelines around techniques that are not permitted in youth competition, with athlete safety as the priority.
Equipment & Attire: Approved singlets or rashguards with above-knee shorts, properly secured/taped wrestling shoes, and no jewellery, metal, zippers or pockets. Hair must be secured with soft ties only.
The goal is to create a consistent, safe and positive wrestling environment while supporting progressive technical development and a pathway from novice to advanced competition.
Calling all officials across BC! Please take some time to review the updated rules and familiarize yourself with the changes ahead of the upcoming competition season. Consistency in how we interpret and apply these standards is essential to creating the best possible experience for our young athletes.
Let's keep developing great wrestlers while making sure they're learning, competing and having fun safely!
Review the updated Youth Competition Rules before West Coast Open.
West Coast Open
Registration is open for the 2026 West Coast Open, taking place November 28–29 at Simon Fraser University!
Coaches, athletes, and officials, please review the Technical Package for important tournament details, including registration requirements, competition rules, and Team BC selection information for the 2027 Jurassic Classic and Dino Duals.
A few important summary notes:
BCWA Membership: All Participants must hold a valid 2026/2027 BCWA Membership
Coaches: All coaches and support staff must register at no cost and hold a valid 2026/2027 BCWA membership.
Open Event: All athletes and teams are welcome! Athletes may compete as club athletes or register as 'independent'
Intermediate & Elite: Wrestlers may register for both tournaments, subject to the requirements outlined in the technical package.
New: Please note that, due to anticipated high registration numbers and to accommodate space for the primary division, the Elite division will run across both days of the West Coast Open, beginning Saturday, November 28, and concluding Sunday, November 29, 2026.
We look forward to seeing everyone on the mat!
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