1988 was a bellwether year for Florida High School wrestling. For the first time in its FHSAA sanctioned history, the combined 4A and 3A State Championships were under one roof. The event was held at the Manatee County Civic Center in Palmetto, Florida.  From 1965 through 1977 wrestling had only one  classification.  In 1978 - 79 season two classes were created and for 10 years 4A and 3A championships were hosted separately in different high school gyms.  During this time some host schools included, Palatka, Naples, Ft  Myers, St Pete Osceola, Haines City, and Hillsborough Leto.

Wrestling Coach Phil Upton of Manatee High and Wrestling Coach Bart MacGregor of Bayshore High hatched the plan to host this first ever event. Bradenton Herald sports writers Bob McComas and Tad Reaves compiled this program as a way to bring the history of Florida High School Wrestling into one place. With an army of volunteers Manatee County set the standard for all future FHSAA Championships.  Enjoy!