The Beast of the East tournament, featuring the nation's top high school wrestlers, is set to take place at the University of Delaware's Bob Carpenter Center this weekend, with close to 900 wrestlers from over 20 states competing in 14 weight classes.

Why It Matters

The tournament is considered the "gold standard" in high school wrestling events, and it serves as a platform for wrestlers to showcase their talent as big-time college prospects, while also significantly impacting the local economy and providing scholarships to Delaware wrestlers.

By the Numbers
  • Close to 900 wrestlers from about 165 teams in more than 20 states
  • 14 weight classes and 14 mats
  • 200-plus state and national prep place-winners and 58 nationally ranked wrestlers
  • A Delaware Sports Commission study once determined the Beast provides a $1 million annual boost to the local economy
State of Play
  • A professional atmosphere in the competition with sold-out attendance and significant economic impact
  • Significant contributions to local economy and scholarships to Delaware wrestlers
  • Establishing and growing girls wrestling competition at high school level
What's Next

The tournament will continue to promote the growth of girls wrestling at the high school level and maintain its impact on college prospects and the local economy.

Bottom Line

The Beast of the East tournament stands as a pivotal platform for high school wrestlers to shine as college prospects, significantly contributing to the local economy while fostering the growth of wrestling as a sport, particularly for female athletes.