I think we all understand that the level of accomplishments/accolades isn't a "must" in order to be successful. I can't even remember what comment(s) I was reading from you that made me wonder what your level of success was in the sport. I think it dealt with your take that most of us that don't like the "fall" of the program isn't as bad as we think or we should be more grateful for what we still have. We are a top tier program but we're not THE top tier program. And I'm going to talk out of both sides of my mouth here but I completely respect what every Hawkeye wrestler has given to the program, I never got close to even what the "room guys" have accomplished. I think like most, there are many problems/factors that need to be addressed and also feel like I understand most of the "advantages" other programs (that are ahead of us) have over us. I know there are logical reasons of why the program isn't winning "like the old days."
BUT as someone else then wrote....losing like this (and this much) isn't acceptable for Iowa Wrestling! Point blank, that's just not the standard. The standard is the standard....."The Iowa Way". It's "sad" that it's that way but Gable set the standard and those that follow have to uphold it. "Excuses are for wussies". I'm sure TnT would agree. I love TnT, I'm not even saying they should be replaced...but they aren't upholding the standard and if they can't get us going upward (sooner than later) then they need to be replaced. Lets be honest, if we don't get it going...it's going to continue to get harder and harder to right the ship.
I respect, admire, and am grateful for all the effort every coach puts into the program and can still think changes need to be made. As they say, "business is business". That is, if you have that sort of mindset...which many do.
All that to say, I'll be here probably bi*ching and cheering every damn match and wishing for 10 national champions....as a fatter, washed up wrestler and coach that couldn't do any better. In the end I try and remind myself that I really can't judge someone/something unless I've been in the exact situation.