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csu.president@csuohio.edu;CSUDirectorOfAthletics@csuohio.edu;david.reynolds@jpmorgan.com;tcosgrove@cjlawpolicy.com;alan.starkoff@icemiller.com;vlwhiting@aesmgmt.com;ddowning@sayyescleveland.org;pdolan@cleguardians.com;BOTSecretary@csuohio.edu;Stephanie.McCloud@governor.ohio.gov;Jim.Jordan@mail.house.gov;bernie@berniemoreno.com;Sara@mail.house.gov;
Save Cleveland State Wrestling
I am writing to express my deep concern and disappointment regarding the abrupt defunding of Cleveland State University’s wrestling program. This unexpected change has left many in our community disappointed and searching for answers. As a longstanding pillar of CSU’s athletic and academic excellence, the wrestling program has not only fostered discipline, resilience, and leadership but has also played a crucial role in strengthening our university’s community ties.
Wrestling is more than a sport—it is a transformative experience that shapes the character of student-athletes and contributes to the broader university culture. CSU’s wrestling team has been an invaluable asset, generating over half a million dollars in donations since 2018—more than any other athletic program at the university. The program has also attracted top-tier student-athletes, many of whom now face the difficult choice of transferring to other institutions, taking their academic excellence and nearly $442,000 in annual tuition payments with them.
Notably, the wrestling team has ranked 2nd nationally in Division I team GPA for the past two seasons—second only to Harvard—highlighting the program’s commitment to academic success as well as athletic achievement. CSU wrestling cultivates scholar-athletes who excel in academics and leadership, embodying the work ethic that makes wrestlers top employees. With 80% of CSU graduates staying in Greater Cleveland and nearly half securing jobs before graduation, the program directly supports the university’s mission. Eliminating wrestling would undermine CSU’s commitment to developing future-ready leaders and strengthening Northeast Ohio’s workforce.
Despite this, the administration has not provided a transparent explanation for its actions, leaving student-athletes, parents, and supporters in the dark. This decision not only undermines the financial well-being of CSU but also diminishes its athletic reputation and community engagement. Schools such as Penn State and Ohio State have leveraged wrestling to elevate their campuses—why should CSU not do the same?
The potential for reinstating wrestling at CSU is undeniable. Beyond its proven financial contributions, the program fosters school spirit, strengthens alumni engagement, and builds vital connections with local high schools and businesses. Wrestling generates the second-highest ticket revenue of all CSU sports, proving that its impact extends far beyond the mat.
Now is the time to act. I urge you to support the reinstatement of CSU wrestling and stand with our student-athletes, alumni, and community members who recognize the value of this program. Please join us in advocating for its return by reaching out to university leadership, state officials, and federal representatives. Your voice can make a difference in ensuring the next generation of CSU wrestlers has the opportunity to compete, represent, and bring pride to our university.
I appreciate your time and consideration of this urgent matter. I look forward to your response and to seeing Cleveland State University embrace this opportunity to strengthen its legacy and community ties.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Contact List:
Cleveland State University Leadership
Dr. Laura Bloomberg, University President
csu.president@csuohio.edu
(216) 687-3544
@CSU_President
Kelsie Gory Harkey, Director of Athletics
CSUDirectorOfAthletics@csuohio.edu
(216) 687-4539
@CSU_Athletics
Cleveland State University Board of Trustee
David M. Reynolds, Chair
david.reynolds@jpmorgan.com
Timothy J. Cosgrove, Vice Chair
tcosgrove@cjlawpolicy.com
Alan G. Starkoff, Treasurer
starkoffag@gmail.com
Vanessa L. Whiting, Executive Committee Member
vlwhiting@aesmgmt.com
Diane M. Downing
ddowning@sayyescleveland.org
Paul J. Dolan
pdolan@cleguardians.com
Office Contact Information
BOTSecretary@csuohio.edu
(216) 687-3777
Government Officials
Mike DeWine, Governor of Ohio
Email (Contact form)
614-466-3555
Christine Morrison - Governor’s Chief of Staff
Christine.Morrison@governor.ohio.gov
Jim Jordan, Ohio Congressman
Jim.Jordan@mail.house.gov
(202) 225-2676
@Jim_Jordan
Bernie Moreno, Ohio Senator
bernie@berniemoreno.com
(202) 224-2315
@berniemoreno
Nickie J. Antonio, Ohio State Senator – District 23
Email (Contact form)
614-466-5123
Terrance Upchurch, Ohio State Representative – District 20
Email (Contact form)
614-466-7954
Sarah Robertson, Communications Director – U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Education & Workforce
Sara@mail.house.gov