The 1980s

The 1980s were a decade that saw an increase in both participation and the number of champions as the state public championships were split into two divisions of large and small schools.

From 1980 to 1988 the divisions were between the large schools -- AA-A and small school -- B-C. In 1989 the designation was changed to large schools -- 4A-3A and small schools -- 2A-1A.

Maryland in 1989 also saw changes in the weight classes. Beginning this year the weight classes will be 103, 112, 119, 125, 130, 135, 140, 145, 152, 160, 171, 189, 275

Beall High school of Allegany County had four championship wrestling teams in the 1980s. They were the 1982, 1983, 1984, and 1987 B-C state champions. In 2000 the school was consolidated with Mount Savage High School, and in 2007 consolidated again with Westmar High School. The new school is Mountain Ridge High School.