By Zane Turnipseed : 

As a lifelong wrestling enthusiast, coach, and former competitor, I have witnessed firsthand the passion and talent that Florida has for this sport. For 24 years, I've been part of this community that has worked tirelessly to grow and improve wrestling in our state. Despite our progress, there is still one major hurdle we face - the lack of opportunities for our male athletes to compete at the Division 1 collegiate level within their home state and for females to compete at any level outside of the NCWA. Florida produces numerous talented wrestlers who are forced to leave their home state due to limited opportunities. They join college rosters all over the country when they could be representing Florida with pride while benefiting from in-state tuition.

This not only impacts these young athletes but also deprives our state of showcasing its local talent on a national stage. Just this year alone 40 different Division 1 men's programs had a wrestler from Florida on their roster. Moreover, as a father of two daughters who may wish to pursue wrestling in future years, it is disheartening that there isn't even one NCAA women's wrestling program in Florida.

Our female athletes deserve equal opportunities as their male counterparts. Therefore, we urge prospective colleges and universities to adopt men's and women's wrestling in Florida. This would not only provide more opportunities for our local athletes but also contribute significantly towards gender equality within sports. Let us work together towards making this dream a reality for all aspiring wrestlers across Florida! Please sign this petition today!"