SOURCE: suffolktimes.timesreview.com

February 29, 2016

It is where some dreams are made and others are crushed.

The so-called "blood round" in the New York State Public High School Athletic Association wrestling championships is the consolation quarterfinals. While the winner of that bout is assured of at least sixth place and a place on the podium with a medal and all-state status, the loser receives condolences.

Winners at that stage can be exuberant, hugging their coaches and gesturing wildly to fans in the stands, as was seen Saturday at Times Union Center in Albany. Walking back into the bowels of the arena, out of sight of the spectators, one may find some of the losers of those "blood round" contests, crying inconsolably over having come so far, only to fall short of their goals.