'Match for the Mat' aims to raise funds for ASU wrestling

Long time Arizona State wrestling supporters have joined together to start a fundraising drive called "Match for the Mat." The drive, which will be matched dollar-for-dollar, up to $12,000, is an effort to raise funds for the wrestling program to purchase a new competition mat.

Sun Devil wrestling supporters Lance Patrick and Bobby Williams, the foundation for the "Match for the Mat" program, both expressed similar goals for the program, including the desire of creating a strong fan base.

"ASU wrestling has produced big names from its program," Lance Patrick expressed. "Our goal is to keep this trend moving forward."

Bobby Williams, Arizona State `71, has been following the wrestling program since he attended ASU.

"Once I was presented the need for a new competition mat, I wanted to get involved," Williams said. "Increasing support and getting more people involved in the wrestling program is key. We want to reach out to former wrestlers to get a broader base of contributors."

"Bobby's and my goal for the 'Match for the Mat' is to challenge the alumni and wrestling community to support ASU wrestling," Patrick added. "We want this program to be successful and stay around."

Along with Patrick and Williams, former ASU wrestler Pat Pitsch has made a commitment to the "Match for the Mat" program. Pitsch is a former three-time Pac-12 Conference Champion for the Sun Devils.

The ASU Wrestling program has produced the likes of NCAA champion Anthony Robles, former UFC heavyweight champion Cain Velasquez and current UFC fighters, such as Aaron Simpson, Ryan Bader and C.B. Dolloway. They are just some of many who have gone on to make their names known outside of the collegiate wrestling community.

For more information on the "Match for the Mat" or for more information on supporting the ASU Wrestling program, contact T.J. Isaacs, Sun Devil Club, at 480-727-8349.