Folkstyle Wrestling Scoring Primer

• Takedown - (2 points)
  The scoring wrestler must take the other to the mat, and control him.
• Escape - (1 point)
  The scoring wrestler must move from a "controlled" position, to a "neutral" position.
• Reversal - (2 points)
  The scoring wrestler must move from a "controlled" position, to a "controlling" position.
• Near Fall - (2 or 3 points, also called "back points")
  The scoring wrestler must hold the other wrestler so that both shoulder blades are within 4 inches of the mat, or one shoulder is on the mat and the other is within a 45-degree  angle to the mat.  If a near fall last for 2 seconds, you get 2 points; if it lasts for 5 seconds, you get 3 points.

• Penalty Points - (1 point for your opponent)
  Your opponent gets one point when you commit one of the following:

- Illegal Hold
A referee might stop the match for a "potentially dangerous" hold - this is not necessarily an illegal hold, and points may or may not be awarded.

- Technical Violation
Examples are: intentionally leaving the mat, grabbing headgear, an incorrect starting position, locking your hands on your opponent if you are on top and NOT in a pinning position, or stalling.

- Unsportsmanlike Conduct
If the conduct is extreme, the referee will stop the match and the offender will forfeit.