[Bluegrasscard]

I am not sure the exact definition of a 'Holdback'.

Kentucky law allows students to start 1st grade at an age when they will graduate when they are 17. As usual, this is counter to the national trend of starting kids later - by law - so that when they are 'on-schedule' they will graduate when they are 18.

While a lot people get bragging rights through their kids sports activities some parents get bragging rights about how well their 'younger' student is doing grade-wise when they are very young.

From direct and anecdotal experience- boys who are on the 17 path vs. 18 path struggle - both academically and sometimes, depending on the sport, athletically. They are emotionally and physically less mature than their peer group - on average.

Thus, 'holding back' a boy from the 17 path to the 18 path should not be viewed a such a negative thing. If it is done it should be done as early as possible. By middle school it may be more difficult to rationalize.

Since Kentucky allows 19 year olds to play the question of holding back to go from the 18 path to the 19 path is another question. Personally, this one is harder to justify, especially during middle school.

Having talked to recruiters and national level figures who have come to Kentucky I will say they are amazed about the issue of hold back for athletic purposes. It is not at all a common practice nationally. And, as pointed out, many states have changed their starting dates to students so that they can not start 1st grade until they are 6 years. Thus, by law, students are 'held back' at the start and all of them will graduate when they are 18 or older.