I coach both middle school and youth @ LaRue County. I will give my view on this subject since I sent in my ballot to Adam. After reading opposing views I'm not sure what side I fall on when it comes to middle school uniforms, but I voted to keep the singlet. I voted that way primarily because some middle school kids wrestle high school, even the ones that may not be very good or have body issues, and I don't want to mislead them. Until high school amends their rules(NFHS) I see no reason for middle school to change. IF high school amends the rule, middle school should follow. If you have a wrestler with body issues have them wear the appropriate compression shirt under a singlet, most(not all) officials will allow it if it is necessary. The 2 piece that gameface provided looks awesome. But what is the difference in that and a folkstyle singlet?(Besides the obvious sleeves). My point is the compression uniforms are imperfect. 2 examples, 65# kid that has noodle arms and legs or the 240# kid that is 5'3" good luck trying to find a size that fits compression style and will stay tucked in and tight for a whole day. Their compression gear is going to look like a worn out T shirt and boxer briefs after a game of softball when they are done. If you added the "fight shorts" (above on right) that would be cool, but they fall down, they rip/tear, and good luck untying and tying. I've never had to tie a singlet or had one come off and expose underwear. When it comes to youth however, I voted for basically come as you are as long as it is tight and doesn't go past the knee or the elbow. Primarily looking at the monetary aspect of it. I agree we need to grow the sport at all levels. A t shirt and shorts cost about $15 and they can wear them anywhere. A sublimated singlet costs at least double that and they only wear it on the mat for a season maybe 2. I have found that once a youth kid comes out and sees his friends and teammates are wearing practice gear that he will wear practice gear. And once he sees a friend wrestle in a tight shirt and shorts he will do the same. He gets used to it, it becomes normal. But if you tell them to practice in a t shirt and then wrestle in a singlet they will freak out.
If you want to pressure anyone to make a change, pressure the high school rules makers because as most of you know and have experienced what is done by the middle school association and board means absolutely nothing to the KHSAA.
