USA Wrestling
December 7, 2011 |
THE TOTAL WRESTLING ORGANIZATION
USA Wrestling:
- Coordinates wrestling programs across the country and creates interest and participation at all levels of the sport from beginner to Olympic Champion. Our 175,000 members include coaches, officials, parents and athletes of all ages.
- Fosters expansion of wrestling through a strong volunteer network, chartered clubs, and sanctioned competitions in all 50 states. With events ranging from local tournaments to national championships, USA Wrestling truly has a place for everyone.
- Raises the profile of the sport through TheMat.com, which averages nearly a quarter of a million unique visitors from 135 countries and more than a million page views each day.
- Increases the visibility of our sport by broadcasting events on television and the internet. Last year alone, USA Wrestling provided more than 150 hours of live streaming video coverage of more than 25 high school, college, and international competitions to 200,000 unique viewers.
- Selects and trains teams that represent the United States in international competition, including the World Championships and Olympic Games.
- Serves as the National Governing Body for amateur wrestling in the United States, and is the representative to the United States Olympic Committee (USOC).
LEADERSHIP
As a non-profit organization, USA Wrestling is accountable to its membership. It is governed by a national board of directors, undergoes annual audits of its financial statements, and is subject to federal laws regulating tax-exempt organizations.
USA Wrestling’s Board of Directors, led by President James Ravannack, is comprised of leaders from all segments of the wrestling community representing every age group, style of wrestling, geography, and function. With every constituency actively involved, the Board reflects well-balanced leadership.
USA Wrestling’s staff, under the leadership of Executive Director Rich Bender, is responsible for the day-to-day operations of the grassroots, elite development, and elite programs. Les Gutches leads a team providing support to the 50 state organizations in all areas of club administrations, coaching, and program development. Mitch Hull oversee the national team and elite developmental programs, including coordinating domestic and overseas training and competition. USA Wrestling’s national headquarters are in Colorado Springs, Colorado, just a few minutes from the United States Olympic Training Center.
USA WRESTLING BY THE NUMBERS
153,000 member athletes – becoming the best they can be
20,000 member coaches – serving as mentors and role models to young athletes
2,000 member officials – ensuring a safe and fair competitive environment
3,700 chartered clubs nationwide – teaching our athletes wrestling and life skills
1,900 events annually – offering athletes of all skill levels the opportunity to compete in USA Wrestling sanctioned events in a variety of styles
305 Olympic and World medals – a testament to the success of our elite development programs
BENEFITS OF MEMBERSHIP
Direct support for your state and local associations
When you join USA Wrestling, part of your membership dollar goes to support wrestling in your state.
Dedicated State Services Department
USA Wrestling staff in Colorado Springs is available for a variety of services, including answering questions about membership, event sanctions, and club charters, in addition to assisting with background checks and insurance claims.
Access to unique national programs
As a part of USA Wrestling, your state and local associations can benefit from the Elite Athlete Appearance programs, the State Leader’s Summit, and the National Convention.
Comprehensive sports accident and liability insurance
USA Wrestling’s industry leading insurance covers member athletes, coaches, and officials. See the summary of insurance benefits for more information.
Top-flight competition
Access to over 40 regional and national events sponsored by USA Wrestling
Coaches education and certification
USA Wrestling’s education and certification program exposes coaches to cutting-edge technique and training methods.
An annual subscription to USA Wrestler Magazine
A feature-oriented publication providing information and content to coaches, fans, and wrestlers of all ages.
Free wrestling video
Each member receives $35 of free downloads at TheWrestlingGreats.com.
