Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

About the Program

Q: What is Manchester Wrestling?
A: Manchester Wrestling is a Junior League Wrestling program based out of Manchester, Maryland. The team is part of the North Carroll Recreation Council and competes in both the Maryland Junior Wrestling League (MJWL) and the Carroll County Wrestling Association (CWA). The MJWL includes about 24 teams across Maryland, while the CWA includes roughly 4 local Carroll County teams.

Q: How long has Manchester Wrestling been around?
A: The program was founded in 1974 by Ken Kiler, now a member of both the National Wrestling Coaches Hall of Fame and the Carroll County Sports Hall of Fame. From humble beginnings with taped-together gymnastics mats, the program has grown into one of Maryland’s premier youth wrestling programs, producing NCAA Division I wrestlers, state champions, and national champions.

Q: What is your mission?
A: Our mission is to teach young athletes the fundamentals of wrestling while building integrity, discipline, humility, and mental toughness. We strive to develop not just great wrestlers, but strong individuals who carry these values beyond the mat. 

Registration & Eligibility

Q: When does registration open and close?
A: Registration for the 2025–2026 season is open now and closes on November 9, 2025.

Q: Who is eligible to join?
A: Wrestlers must be 5 years old or older by November 1, 2025 to participate.

Q: How much does it cost to register?
A: Registration is $200 per wrestler. Families receive a $25 discount for each additional sibling after the first registrant is paid in full.

Q: What’s included in the registration fee?
A: Your registration covers:

  • Use of a singlet for matches (CWA/Navy Lehigh)

  • Uniform shorts and t-shirt to keep

  • All practices with instruction

  • All scheduled matches and tournaments (amount TBD based on availability)

  • End-of-season picnic

Q: How do I register?
A: Registration is completed online https://www.stonealley.com/program/NorthCarroll/group/Wrestling

Teams & Practices

Q: What are the different team levels?
A: We offer two programs:

  • CWA Team – Designed for beginner wrestlers, competing within Carroll County.

  • Navy/Lehigh Team – For advanced wrestlers, competing both inside and outside the county at individual and team events.

Q: When and where are practices held?
A: Practices take place at North Carroll High School / Panther Plex.

  • CWA Team: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 6:00 – 7:30 PM

  • Navy/Lehigh Team: Mondays & Wednesdays, 6:00 – 8:00 PM

Q: When does the season run?
A: The 2025–2026 season begins the week of Monday, November 3, 2025, and runs through February / early March 2026.

Equipment & Requirements

Q: What equipment does my wrestler need?
A: Each wrestler will need:

  • Wrestling shoes

  • Headgear (required)

  • Mouthguard (optional but recommended)

  • Knee pads (optional)
    A team singlet will be provided for matches, and wrestlers will receive uniform shorts and a t-shirt to keep.

Q: Is headgear required?
A: Yes. Headgear is required for all practices and matches to ensure safety.

Matches & Tournaments

Q: When do matches begin?
A: Dual meets and tournaments begin once the season starts in November. The full schedule will be announced closer to the season’s start date.

Q: What leagues do you compete in?
A: Manchester Wrestling competes in the Maryland Junior Wrestling League (MJWL) and the Carroll County Wrestling Association (CWA).

Q: Are tournaments mandatory?
A: Attendance at tournaments is highly encouraged but not mandatory for all levels. CWA wrestlers primarily compete in local county matches, while Navy/Lehigh wrestlers may travel for regional or invitational events.

Refunds & Policies

Q: What is your refund policy?
A:

  • Full refunds are available before November 22, 2025

  • 50% refunds are available before December 20, 2025

  • No refunds will be issued after December 20, 2025
    Please note: a $10 administrative fee may apply to all refunds to cover non-refundable expenses.

Communication & Contacts

Q: How will we receive updates during the season?
A: All major updates will be posted on our website and Facebook page. Families will also receive communication via email for practice changes, tournament details, and weather cancellations.

Q: Who do I contact if I have questions?
A: You can reach out to our program coordinators: