Before a full-fledged rainbow, strong storms await, always. Imagine a scenario: you’re working tirelessly for a dream—pushing yourself beyond limits, sacrificing, and building a legacy only to find out that all of it is going to vanish soon. This has turned into a reality for Cleveland State University, as it is facing a major setback due to financial issues, which has put certain sports programs at risk, including its wrestling team. This news has left current athletes and alumni in survival mode.

But wait, this is not where it ends, there is still a ray of hope for CSU’s wrestling team. In order to protect their program, a unified movement has begun, and it is continuously growing to save it. Now, the question in concern is: will it be enough to change what’s already been decided? The fight has just started, and even though the outcome stands vague, there’s still a what-if. What if they survive this storm?

Why is the cut happening?

To put it plainly, Cleveland State University’s financial troubles are no longer in the dark. CSU is trying to make an effort to close the $40 million deficit by 2029, and their Board of Trustees passed the difficult notice on January 23, which is to cut three programs—wrestling Division I, softball, and women’s golf—at the end of the 2024-25 academic year.

Athletic Director Kelsie Gory Harkey in a statement issued on January 23 has said, “The student-athletes and coaches in the impacted programs have been an important part of the Cleveland State community, and the decision today is not a reflection of the commitment or passion they, our staff, or our alumni have to our program. It is a tough day for Cleveland State Athletics.” Even after this decision, CSU has committed to honoring scholarships for the affected student-athletes and helping them during their transition, possibly transferring to other schools.

For the wrestling team, this will be exceptionally heartbreaking, because of its long history of success and pride. Wrestling at CSU has been an essential part of the university’s identity since its revival in 1962 by legendary coach Richard Bonacci. Since then the program has never failed us. It produced NCAA qualifiers and All-Americans year after year. Last year, athletes Ben Smith and Daniel Bucknavich qualified for the NCAA championships, continuing the team’s tradition of excellence. The loss of the wrestling program would mean the end of an era, not just for these athletes, but for the legacy built over time.

However, Joey Lyons, an essential part of CSU’s wrestling program has said, “Today, we refuse to let this rich legacy be erased without a fight. Cleveland State Wrestling is more than just a sport—it’s a family.” On behalf of CSU’s wrestling team, Lyons has started a GoFundMe campaign with a target of $16k, hoping that alumni, fans, and the broader community would partake in the cause, but more than 16 hours have passed and only 14 donations have been made, amounting to $814. With this amount and such few donations, the reality of the situation is getting tough to ignore. But hats off to their spirit and of course, the fight must go on, cause we never know!

The fight for survival

The CSU wrestling program has stood strong for over six decades, sending at least one athlete to the NCAA championships in 54 out of the last 60 seasons. The program has produced many stars, including Tony Cavanaugh, who was a runner-up at the 1973 College Division National Championships, and Toby Matney, who placed fifth at the 1979 NCAA Tournament. The wrestling program has a rich history of excellence, and losing it would not only erase the opportunities for current athletes but would also rob CSU of a piece of its proud tradition.

“The decision to cut these programs isn’t just a financial one—it’s an emotional blow to the athletes and the community who’ve supported them for years,” said Coach Josh Moore, who has been with the team for years and is actively working to save it, even David Taylor sent a strong message out there. The effort to save the program has garnered some support, with alumni and current athletes, including Joey Lyons, trying to keep the momentum going. It’s not just about the money; it’s about ensuring that the hard work of athletes like Ben Smith and Daniel Bucknavich doesn’t go to waste. 

Now is the time to show the power of community and step up for this very cause. And trust me, each donation means something, it truly doesn’t matter if it’s $5 or $500, your mere support can make a real difference in their lives. If you’re someone who believes in giving student-athletes the chance to compete, grow, and represent their school, head over to the GoFundMe page and donate today. Together, we can keep Cleveland State Wrestling on the mat and make sure these athletes have the chance they deserve to continue their legacy. Let’s fight for CSU wrestling before it’s too late!