I am thrilled to report that the inaugural Pinning Down Autism event at Dana College in Nebraska was a great success!! Members of the local community who had never been exposed to wrestling turned out and saw our sport for the first time in the most positive possible way. Here is what those in attendance had to say:

"my wife is a pretty tough critic of long days at wrestling meets (particularly Sundays).....and she felt the Dana folks put together a great wrestling activity."

"Dana wrestling did their homework in planning and running this event. She was impressed by the fact that among many things, they had games/things for little kids to do when they were not wrestling or awaiting their friends to finish their matches."

"Coach Vest and the guys from Dana did a great job in holding the first annual Pinning Down Autism tourney. It was great for the kids to wrestle against talent from other parts of the state, midwest, and nation. The highschool kids had just as much fun wrestling the college guys as they (college guys) did wrestling younger guys for fun. Games, Inflatables, and a great raffle were just part of the great day. I hope more TEAMs attend next year...Millard West brought over 35 guys...Great Job Coach B."

"KUDOS to Dana College Wrestling for this great event. Looking forward to send my kid again next year.
Hoaah!"



On Saturday, November 7th, Event director Denis Ryan teams up with Sunkist Kids, Shawn Charles and crew as the tradition begins at Arizona State University. Big props to the Sun Devils in demonstrating exactly why their program is an indispenable part of the university.

Ryan is reporting a tremendous early response from teams around the state. Says Ryan, "Sunkist kids and ASU wrestling have stepped to the forefront to promote Autism awareness. these two organizations are the best corporate and community citizens."

Action will take place at the Riches Wrestling Center in Tempe, AZ, Weigh-ins from 7:30-8 am, a clinic conducted by ASU wrestling staff from 8-9 am. Competition to start at 9:15.

Yours in wrestling and autism awareness.
Jason Bross