The Illinois Kids Wrestling Federation (IKWF) will host the State Championship tournament at the BMO Center starting March 10 through March 11, 2023. This marks a nearly two-decade partnership with the IKWF, the Rockford Area Convention and Visitors Bureau (RACVB) and the BMO Center.

“The IKWF is proud to continue to bring our State Championship to Rockford,” said Gene Lee, IKWF Vice President of the Board of Directors. “It is a goal for all of our youth wrestlers to compete on the big stage in the BMO Center.”

The tournament will bring in 1,000 wrestlers, boys and girls. Another 4,000 people are expected to attend the competition. The economic impact of the event is projected to be over $1.3 million for the region, thanks to visitor spending in transportation, retail, food and beverage, lodging, and recreation.

“The RACVB is thrilled to partner with IKWF and the BMO Center to bring the IKWF tournament to Rockford,” said Lindsay Arellano, RACVB vice president of sales and service. “We appreciate the IKWF’s loyalty to Rockford and are elated to help deliver a memorable experience for thousands of visitors to downtown Rockford.”

All downtown businesses and commuters are advised that traffic will be heavy Thursday afternoon, March 9, the morning of Friday, March 10, and the evening of Saturday, March 11.Please be aware that there will be a St. Patrick’s Day Parade in downtown Rockford on Saturday, March 11 from 4:00PM until 7:30PM.RACVB is collaborating with the City of Rockford and the BMO Center to help direct traffic and minimize delays for both commuters and visitors. Parking will also be impacted by the tournament. All city lots and on-street parking will operate according to the posted time restrictions and daily rates (parking fees may apply to some lots and decks). Pre-pay parking is encouraged by visiting this PRE-PAY LINK.

Medals will be awarded to the top eight (8) place winners and trophies will be awarded to the top eight (8) teams in the Novice and Senior Divisions. Additional winners will receive recognition for the following awards:

• Marty Combes Award (Outstanding Novice Division Wrestler)

• Ron Urwin Award (Outstanding Senior Division Wrestler)

• Jim Didi Coach of the Year Award

Tickets for friends, family, and the general public can be purchased in-person at the BMO Center box office starting on Thursday, March 9.

Tickets for Single Session Pass:

$10/adult

$5/children ages 5-12

Free for Kids ages 4 and under

Tickets for 2 Day Pass:

$35/adult

$15/children ages 5-12

Free for Kids ages 4 and under