Shoe & Headgear Program
Every Wrestler Deserves the Opportunity to Compete
"Money should never be the reason a child cannot wrestle."
That belief has guided the Middle Tennessee Wrestling Officials Association (MTWOA) for more than two decades.
Since 2004, the MTWOA Shoe & Headgear Program has helped remove financial barriers by providing essential wrestling equipment to student athletes, families, and school programs throughout Middle Tennessee. Wrestling teaches discipline, accountability, perseverance, and confidence. Every athlete deserves the chance to experience those life changing lessons, regardless of financial circumstances.
Through the generosity of our officials, coaches, schools, sponsors, and the success of the annual MTWOA Grand Championships, we continue to ensure that young wrestlers have the equipment they need to step onto the mat with confidence.
Our Mission
The MTWOA Shoe & Headgear Program exists to:
- Provide wrestling shoes and headgear to athletes who otherwise could not afford them.
- Assist new and emerging wrestling programs with limited equipment budgets.
- Support schools and community organizations serving disadvantaged student athletes.
- Remove financial barriers so every child has the opportunity to participate in wrestling.
- Strengthen the future of wrestling across Middle Tennessee through service and community investment.
Making an Impact Since 2004
More Than Equipment. Creating Opportunity.
For over 20 years, MTWOA has proudly invested back into the wrestling community.
Program Highlights
- Over 20 years serving Middle Tennessee wrestlers
- Approximately 1,500 pairs of wrestling shoes donated
- Hundreds of pieces of wrestling equipment distributed, including headgear and other essentials
- Equipment provided to athletes, schools, and developing wrestling programs
- Entirely funded through fundraising, donations, and the annual MTWOA Grand Championships
Every pair of shoes represents one more athlete who gets the opportunity to compete, belong, and grow.
A Legacy of Giving
The Shoe Program was created in 2004 through the vision of Tennessee Wrestling Hall of Famers P.A. Bowler, Rick Lowry, and Tim Able.
Their goal was simple:
Use the success of the MTWOA Grand Championships to directly benefit the young wrestlers who need it most.
That vision continues today through the dedication of MTWOA officials who volunteer their time both on and off the mat to grow the sport they love.