I’m excited to share an important evolution of The On the Mat Foundation, a newly formed nonprofit connected to the MAT CLASH brand.
Our mission remains clear:
expanding year-round, affordable access to wrestling training through accessibility, inclusion, mentorship, and community development.
But wrestling doesn’t exist in a vacuum.
To truly serve student-athletes—especially in underserved and rural communities—we are building a whole-athlete support model that goes beyond the mat.
This includes plans for:
• On-site tutoring at training locations to support academic success and eligibility
• Clothes closets at locations, providing practice gear and essential apparel with dignity
• Meals and nutrition support tied to training and team activities
• Mentorship and character development, grounded in discipline, accountability, service, and faith-informed values
Our first pilot location will launch in Chattanooga, Tennessee, leveraging strong coaching leadership and community partnerships.
From there, our long-term vision is to expand this proven model into rural communities across the country, where access to training, academic support, and basic resources is often limited.
The On the Mat Foundation is currently focused on:
• Awareness building
• Volunteer recruitment
• Advisory board development
Fundraising and donations will begin after IRS 501(c)(3) approval.
This is about more than building better athletes.
It’s about removing barriers, strengthening families, and creating opportunities where they don’t always exist.
If you’re passionate about youth development, education, athletics, or community impact—and want to be part of something meaningful at the ground level—I’d love to connect.
— Jesse Drennen
Founder, The On the Mat Foundation
