The Old Dominion University Wrestling Program has been a part of the institution for 63 years. The Wrestling Program demonstrates class and excellence at the most elite level, and embodies the definition of success in academic and athletic endeavors. The affiliates of this program, throughout its 63-year span, have mentored, motivated, and uplifted countless individuals to reach success. These efforts not only target the immediate Hampton Roads community, but has a vast reach across the United States. The Program is a National Contender in the NCAA Division I, the highest prestige of collegiate athletic competition, year after year. Children in High School train for years with the hopes and aspirations to become a Monarch and represent the institution at the highest level. Their desire to be a part of this tradition is not only due to the Program's athletic success, it is primarily to place themselves in the best atmosphere to achieve their academic goals. This has been illustrated for several years, as the athletes of the Wrestling Program exceed academic expectations and demonstrate their diligence to curriculum, hoisting the highest ranking Grade Point Averages and Annual Passing Rates at the national level.

As of April 2nd, the Old Dominion Athletic Department announced they are eliminating their Wrestling Program. This has a significant and detrimental impact not only to the institution's students, but to the future of the Hampton Roads and Wrestling Communities. In order to continue building a better tomorrow, and continue to offer an atmosphere where the future generation can surpass legacy, we must take immediate action.

In the latest announcement from the Old Dominion Athletic Department, it was determined that funding is a significant factor in their decision to terminate the Wrestling Program. While the majority of us come from a background where values and intrinsic rewards supersede financial gain, we need to understand that the discontinuation of the Wrestling Program are solely the institution's business decision. With this in mind, it is imperative that our voices are heard and we have the continued support of our community. Our voices collected together is more valuable than our weight in gold.

The immediate course of action to fight the University's decision requires us to come together and support. This is what we do best. YOUR VOICE MATTERS. This petition is our first step in making everyone's voice heard. We ask that you join us in signing this petition so that we can continue building a future we are all proud to represent.