What is the optional offensive starting position?
By the Smart Wrestler team · Written from hosting and scoring the events this software runs · Updated 2026-10-20
In NCAA folkstyle the top wrestler may restart with both hands on the back instead of the usual position. See how it is chosen and what is allowed.
Quick answer
The optional offensive starting position is an NCAA men’s alternative restart in which the top wrestler places both hands on the defensive wrestler’s back, thumbs touching, instead of one hand on the elbow and one on the navel. The wrestler must tell the referee before taking it, and the referee informs the defender. The offensive wrestler cannot place a foot or knee between the opponent’s legs or straddle them.
How does it differ from the usual top start?
In the usual offensive starting position, the top wrestler is beside the defender with at least one knee on the mat to the outside of the near leg, the head on or above the midline of the back, one arm loosely around the body with the palm at the navel and the other hand on the near elbow. In the optional start the offensive wrestler places both hands on the back, between the neck and waist, with thumbs touching.
| Feature | Usual position | Optional position |
|---|---|---|
| Hands | One at the navel, one on the near elbow | Both on the back, thumbs touching |
| Position | Beside the defender, knee outside the near leg | Either side or the rear; weight on both feet, one knee or both knees |
| Notice | None required | Intent told to the referee first |
How does a wrestler choose it?
A wrestler selecting the optional start must indicate their intent to the referee before taking the position. The referee informs the defensive wrestler of the intention and allows the defender to adjust, then directs the offensive wrestler to assume the position.
Only the hands of the offensive wrestler are to be in contact with the defender.
What is not allowed?
The offensive wrestler may not place feet or knees between the opponent’s feet or legs or in front of the forward starting line or its extension, and may not straddle the opponent. The rules book shows an improper optional start in an appendix illustration.
Once the correct position is assumed, both wrestlers remain motionless and the referee waits at least one second before the whistle.
What is the alternative of granting an escape?
Before assuming an offensive starting position, the offensive wrestler may signal the referee for the neutral position. In that case the defensive wrestler is awarded an escape and wrestling begins from neutral. The two options are different choices at the same restart.
The mat start is described under referee’s position. Read referee’s position.
How should families follow the choice?
The referee announces and directs the start, so there is little for a spectator to decide. The choice appears on the mat, not on the scoreboard.
Smart Wrestler records the points awarded afterward, not the type of start.
Why a wrestler might choose it is a coaching question the rules do not answer. The book lists neutral, offensive, defensive and optional offensive as the only allowable start and restart positions, so any other arrangement, such as a modified grip on the defender, is not permitted. A parent who sees the top wrestler place both hands on the back is watching a permitted restart, not an infraction, as long as the position meets the conditions above.
Frequently asked questions
What is the optional start?
Both hands on the defender’s back, thumbs touching, as an alternative top start.
Must the wrestler tell the referee?
Yes, before taking the position.
Can the top wrestler straddle the opponent?
No. That is not allowed.
Can the top wrestler grant an escape instead?
Yes, by signaling the neutral position before the start.
Sources
Sources checked 2026-10-20.
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