Recently several Monmouth College students have begun the push to establish a wrestling program. Freshman Trevor Newton has lead the charge along with junior Jeremy Lawson.

Through his efforts, Newton has begun to gather support, including assistant professor of political science, Tobias Gibson.

Newton has had several meetings with Monmouth College President Mauri Ditzler, as well as one with newly appointed Monmouth College director of athletics, recreational sports and fitness, Roger Haynes.

Newton, who has been the point man from the beginning, has gathered over 200 student signatures in support of adding a wrestling program. Newton also said that between 16 and 20 students have expressed interest in wrestling.

Newton and his supporters have been told that after spring break there will be an intramural wrestling tournament. Also, according to Newton, the College has expressed interest in expanding wrestling to a full varsity sport.

There are obstacles to be cleared, however. Title IX issues will play a significant role in whether wrestling becomes a varsity sport. Also, the college is waiting on additional student and faculty support.

Of course, possibly the biggest obstacle is the almighty dollar. The cost of adding another program could be significant, and could detract funding from other athletic programs.

One of Newton’s former coaches, Jim Lateansky, has donated two wrestling mats for Monmouth to use. Lateansky is from Lemont, Ill., and is the president of the Lemont Bears Wrestling Club.

The mats are not expected in time for the tournament, so for now it’s scheduled to be held at a local school gym.

The next step for the interested individuals is to petition for the support of the faculty and even Monmouth graduates.

Newton has already contacted former Monmouth College wrestling coach, Mike Olsen. Olsen retired after the wrestling program at MC was terminated, and now lives in Monmouth. Olsen is also a member of the Monmouth College Hall of Fame.

According to Newton, Olsen has offered his 100 percent support of the push for renewing the wrestling program, and has even offered to come out of retirement to help get the program off the ground.

Newton, only a freshman, has already made a significant impact on the campus. He not only saw playing time as a freshman on the football team, serving as a defensive lineman, but has also become a Scots Ambassador, and is involved in several other activities.

“It is everyone’s campus, not just the upper-classmen’s. Freshmen have the opportunity to make an impact too,” said Newton.

He attributes his own desire to impact campus life to an inner drive: “When I came here, there was not a wrestling team, and I found out there were other students interested. I felt like it was the right thing to do.”

Newton went on to say, “Setting goals for myself and achieving those goals is important to me; I am a very goal-oriented person.”

For now, a varsity wrestling team is still just a discussion. However, Newton, Lawson and many others have made it clear that they want it to be a reality sooner rather than later.

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