Wrestling 101
Spectating
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A match is composed of three one-minute periods. There are no ties in wrestling. Overtime periods continue until there is a winner.
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The first period always starts with both wrestlers on their feet. This is called the neutral position.
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For the second and third periods, each wrestler gets a chance to pick whether to start in the neutral position or on top or bottom, which is called the referee’s position.
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Points are awarded for a take downs, reversals, escapes, illegal holds, or near fall (see the chart below)
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The referee signals to the score keeper by raising his arm with a red or green wrist band as points are awarded to the wrestler wearing the red or green ankle band.
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The matches end when there is a pin or decided based upon points when the clock expires.