WRESTLING: A game changer

Thousands of current, future and past wrestlers will be negatively affected by the discontinuation of wrestling at Boise State University. If BSU ceases its varsity wrestling program, there will be no NCAA Division I programs in Idaho.

Wrestling is a unique sport that allows individuals of all sizes to participate against an opponent of similar weight. The skill, determination, fitness, physical courage and discipline required to excel in wrestling is well documented. In fact, to paraphrase a famous announcer, “Wrestling is the oldest and greatest sport.” Wrestling can be traced back thousands of years to the original Olympics. Certainly wrestling in some form is as old as mankind.

Wrestling has positively affected me and countless others. I have been a teacher since 1986. My career began at Boise State University where I earned my degree in 1986. During my time at BSU, I participated in wrestling along with my twin brother, John. Through great effort, cooperation from fellow team members, coaching and personal sacrifice, I was able to pursue my dreams as an athlete and a scholar. During my time at BSU, I earned several academic and athletic awards. I am living testimony that athletics and academics can and should be valued and that individuals involved in collegiate athletics should be encouraged to succeed in all aspects of life. In many ways, I am a better person.

BILL BAUMAN

Post Falls