Over the past several months, a simple idea has grown into something real.
The On the Mat Foundation was created with one core belief: access to opportunity should not depend on zip code, income, or circumstance.
Wrestling is the entry point — but it is not the end goal.
Why We Started
Through MAT CLASH Wrestling, we’ve seen firsthand how powerful the sport can be in shaping confidence, discipline, and resilience. We’ve also seen the barriers that keep too many young athletes from fully participating: cost, transportation, academic struggles, lack of resources, and lack of consistent mentorship.
The On the Mat Foundation exists to help remove those barriers.
What We’ve Built So Far
Since forming the nonprofit in Tennessee, we’ve taken intentional steps to build this the right way:
- Formed The On the Mat Foundation as a nonprofit corporation
- Assembled a Board of Directors rooted in wrestling, leadership, and community
- Defined a clear, charitable mission centered on:
- Established Chattanooga, Tennessee as our first pilot location
- Filed the IRS Form 1023-EZ to obtain 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status
We are currently in the waiting period for IRS approval.
Where We’re Going
Our long-term vision is to build a whole-athlete support model that can be replicated in underserved and rural communities across the country.
That means:
- Wrestling training paired with academic and life support
- Local partnerships instead of one-size-fits-all solutions
- Strong governance, transparency, and sustainability
- Growth that is earned, not rushed
This isn’t about building something fast. It’s about building something that lasts.
How the Community Fits In
Right now, we are not fundraising.
What we are doing is:
- Building awareness
- Connecting with volunteers and advisors
- Engaging educators, coaches, business owners, and community leaders
- Laying a strong foundation before scaling
We’ll need help — a lot of it — and we’re grateful for every conversation, share, and introduction along the way.
Gratitude
I’m thankful for the board members, coaches, families, and community supporters who have encouraged this vision from the beginning. This work doesn’t happen in isolation, and it won’t move forward without people who care deeply about the next generation.
This is just the beginning.
If you believe in youth development, education through sport, mentorship, and community-driven solutions, I invite you to follow along, share the mission, and stay connected as we take the next steps.
— Jesse Drennen Founder, The On the Mat Foundation
