MARC JACOBS
Hutch Post
The Hutchinson Kids Wrestling Club is pressing forward with renewed determination after uncovering earlier this season that its former director had inappropriately misused funds from the club’s account for personal expenses, leaving the organization without the financial resources needed to operate.
The loss affected nearly every aspect of the youth wrestling program, including tournament entry fees, uniforms, and warm-up gear that families had already paid for. Many parents who believed their fundraising efforts would carry the club through the remainder of the season were instead forced to absorb unexpected additional costs to ensure their children could continue competing.
Despite the financial setback, club leadership, families, and community supporters have rallied to keep the program alive. A key moment in that effort will come Saturday, Jan. 25, when the club hosts a home wrestling tournament that has become critical to the program’s survival.
Proceeds from the tournament will be used to replace the lost funds, purchase new singlets, cover tournament fees, and help the club complete the remainder of the season.
“This situation has been incredibly difficult for our families and our athletes,” said Andrew Frieze, president of the Hutchinson Kids Wrestling Club. “But the resilience of our parents, volunteers, and supporters has been remarkable. Our kids deserve stability and the chance to compete, and we’re committed to giving them that.”
Club officials are encouraging the community to attend the Jan. 25 tournament at the Salthawk Activity Center, emphasizing that every ticket sold, donation made, and sponsorship secured will go directly toward supporting local youth athletes.
The club is also seeking volunteers and additional support for the tournament. Those interested in helping or donating are encouraged to contact Andrew Frieze or Lindsey Windell by email at [email protected].
In addition, the Hutchinson Kids Wrestling Club expressed gratitude to the businesses and individuals who stepped up during one of the most challenging seasons in the organization’s history. Their support has helped cover essential costs and eased the financial burden on families.
Sponsors recognized by the club include:
- Big Iron Realty
- Bubba's Burgers
- C & C home Improvement
- Jose Garcia
- HTeaO
- Mi Tierra
- Idrive
- Conklin Automotive Group
- TY Contracting
- Conzalez Construction
- Frieze Family LLC
- JACAM Catalyst
- Sugar Sweet Bounce House
- D & D Towing
- Sutton Kauffman
- Pelkey Trucking
- Superior Boiler Works
- Hutchinson High School
- Dane Edwards
- Kyle Campbell
- Finchers Finding
- 37 Print
Club leaders say the generosity of those sponsors and the broader community has made it possible for young athletes to continue training and competing, even amid unexpected adversity.
The Hutchinson Kids Wrestling Club has set up a Cheddar fundraiser. You can make donations at this link.