The Friends of Princeton Wrestling -- an association of alumni,
parents and other supporters of Princeton wrestling -- has successfully
concluded a campaign to establish an endowment of more than $3 million
for Princeton's varsity wrestling program, the University announced today.
The achievement comes just as the program is about to celebrate its
100th anniversary. "Many dedicated and loyal alumni, parents and
friends worked together to achieve this goal," said Princeton's Athletics
Director Gary Walters, "and as a result of their leadership and their
commitment, student-athletes will benefit far into the future."
Most unusual was the contribution of the renowned artist Frank Stella,
a member of the class of 1958. He designed a silk scarf that alumni and
friends could purchase, with the proceeds going to the wrestling
endowment.
Reflecting on the effort that went into raising the endowment funds,
Bill Fortenbaugh '58, the current chair of the friends group said, "Had
a single donor given the entire sum, we would have saved much time and
energy, but the result would not have been as satisfying. Working with
many supporters of Princeton wrestling and seeing the large number of
alumni and friends who contributed told me that wrestling has broad
support. People care, and that is not only nice to know but also
important for the future of the sport."
On Feb. 11-12, Friends of Princeton Wrestling will celebrate not only
their fund-raising achievement but also the centennial of their
program. A series of events is planned, including wrestling meets with
Rutgers and Franklin and Marshall and a gala dinner on the main floor
of Dillon Gymnasium.
