Wilmington College recently announced the return of wrestling as the school's 19th intercollegiate varsity sport beginning in the 2018-19 season. Many have asked questions since the announcement, so here are some answers.
Why did WC decide to stop the program and why bring it back now?
In 2011, the decision was made to place wrestling on hiatus. This challenging decision was made due to the fact that the College did not have a dedicated practice facility which had become almost a standard for a program of excellence in the OAC. Without this facility, it was challenging to convince potential athletes to choose Wilmington to continue their wrestling career.
Wilmington College acquired the former YMCA facility that sits directly adjacent to Hermann Court in 2016. This addition provided the College with the necessary space to create a practice facility solely dedicated to returning the program to a level of excellence. In addition, WC has begun the search for a full-time wrestling coach to guide the program and begin immediately recruiting the next generation of Fightin' Quaker wrestlers.
When will the program start?
The program has already been accepted onto the OAC schedule and will begin competition during the 2018-19 academic year.
How can I help build the tradition?
Wilmington College has had a strong tradition of excellence in wrestling; including 2002 National Champion and tournament Most Outstanding Wrestler, Jimmy Wallace '03. It is now time to rebuild this tradition and we need your help! There are many ways that you can be involved. Do you know a potential wrestler? What about a potential coaching candidate? How about helping fund a wrestler or underwrite the cost of the necessary equipment? No matter what you level of involvement we want to hear from you!
I know a good student who might be interested in the program. How can I get them information on the program and college?
Our Admission Office and our future coach would be glad to take your recommendation for a potential wrestler. Please visit here to provide us some contact information on the student and our recruiting team will follow up.
I know a coach who might be a good fit for the position. How do I suggest them to the Athletic Department.
Our Athletic Department wants to hear from you. Please click here and send us information about the potential candidate.
I am interested in making a donation to support the program. How would my money be used?
Wilmington College is very appreciative for all of the wonderful support that we receive from our loyal alumni and friends. Your gifts to our athletic programs are instrumental in giving our student athletes a competitive edge on the playing field. There are several areas that your gift can have an impact on the wrestling program and all contributors will have the opportunity to be honored with a special commemorative plaque. (Giving Page)
Your gift of would provide for:
- $50,000 The cost of constructing the new wrestling room. For this gift you the
wrestling room would be named in your honor. (1 available) - $10,000 The cost of the competition mats. For this gift you would receive
special recognition in all game day materials. (1 available) - $5,000 The cost of the practice mats (2 available)
- $1,000 The cost of outfitting a wrestler with: Uniform, shoes, headgear,
warmups (20 available) - $500 The cost of a team meal when on the road
- $250 The cost of warmups and bags