IKWF Cancels This Weekend’s State Tournament At BMO In Rockford

Advice from state officials has led to the cancellation of a major tournament in Rockford set for this weekend.

The Illinois Kids Wrestling Federation (IKWF) website and BMO Harris Bank Center on Facebook shared this information.

In coordination with the Winnebago County Health Department, and upon the advice of state health officials, the Illinois Kids Wrestling Federation State Tournament for this weekend has been canceled.

While the risk remains low in our region at this time, out of an abundance of caution for athletes, their families, and general public, it was determined that the tournament should be canceled.

IKWF and the BMO Harris Bank Center sincerely apologize for any inconvenience to spectators, especially those who may have traveled a great distance to Rockford for the event.

This decision is in the best interests of public health. The safety of our athletes and our community remains our top priority as we navigate the challenges of this worldwide, rapidly evolving pandemic.

According to the USA Wrestling website, the tournament was to kick off today and wrap on Sunday, March 15.

There are three other tournaments on the schedule for Illinois wrestling clubs that may also be halted.

• Illinois Girls Folkstyle State Championships
• 20th Annual Illinois Midget Championship
• USAW National Middle School Duals

All three are to be held in different locations in Illinois. No word if they will be canceled too.

The financial ripple effect of the IKWF canceling will be felt by the BMO Harris Bank Center, their employees, Rockford area hotels and vendors who planned on working the event.

No word if the IKWF and or BMO Harris Bank Center plan on rescheduling for a later date.

Sweet Lenny is the brand manager of 97ZOK, Q98.5, and Operations Manager for Townsquare Media Rockford. Catch him afternoons 3 to 7 on 97ZOK. Follow him on Twitter, Instagram and like his page on Facebook.