Wrestling is a historical heavyweight among Olympic sports, and has a proud tradition in Ohio. From youth wrestling camps and high school meets, to NCAA tournaments, Ohio athletes have learned the strength, discipline, and focus that allow grapplers to succeed both on the mat and in life. The sport is accessible to anyone, regardless of their financial circumstances. But recently, the International Olympic Committee issued a misguided decision to eliminate wrestling from the Olympics beginning in 2020.

Citing “an effort to ensure the Olympic Games remain relevant to sports fans of all generations,” the International Olympic Committee (IOC)—the organization that controls the Olympics—voted to eliminate wrestling entirely after the 2016 games. Yet, the organization decided to keep many events that have a higher cost barrier to entry and less fan support.