The Escalon Wrestling Club (EWC) is hosting its fifth annual Texas Hold ‘Em Fundraiser on Sunday, Oct. 16 at the Azores Band Hall on First Street in Escalon with registration at 1 p.m.
“Along with our Steak and Oyster Dinner every April, we hold this fundraiser in order to ensure a comfortable level of financial stability at every level of wrestling in Escalon,” said EWC President Derek Scott, a Special Education Teacher at EHS, also serving as the head coach of the Cougar wrestling team.
“We use all of the money raised to make sure all of the kids who want to come out for wrestling have the opportunity to succeed. We provide good gear where necessary, facilities, and the ability to compete in solid tournaments and camps without the stress of wondering how to afford it,” added Scott. “We had about 18 in the Club in 2010. After that we focused on stabilizing the programs and we now have 130-plus kids at all levels so you can see the obvious need for additional funding.”
Scott advised the EWC wanted to offer the Hold ‘Em Tournament donors a low-cost, friendly and relaxing atmosphere with food and beverage provided along with the chance for them to come away with something to show for their generosity if they place at tournament.
“The donations from the community as a whole are really a key factor in allowing us to maintain and build on the kids’ success this decade,” stated Scott.
He noted the Club has a very solid, stable volunteer coaching staff, dedicated parents, many who often continue to give their time even after their kids have left the program, along with very strong school and community support. EWC members have seen success at the youth level with their highest number ever of SCWAY state placers in 2016; growing participation and undefeated teams at the Jr. High level; and at EHS, they’ve enjoyed multiple league championships, section titles, state tournament berths and success beyond that at the collegiate level.
For more information, contact EWC President Coach Derek Scott at (209) 499-3941 or descott@sjcoe.net.
