Last year B.U. wrestlers competed as if it were their last season.  In October the University informed its athletes that the team was being discontinued due to budget cuts.  However, those that have yet to graduate will be getting a second chance as newly allocated funds will be bringing the team back.

Money has been allocated by Governor Pataki to restore the team for the 2005-2006 season.  State Senator Thomas Libous worked with the Governor and wrestling alumni to make sure that the program recieved enough funding to continue for future seasons as well.

Athletic Director Joel Thirer says the reinstatement of the team is not just beneficial to Binghamton Students but also to local high school students wishing to pursue wrestling at the collegiate level.  During the coming year Thirer will be involved in such activities as scouting for coaching and wrestling talent in order to reinstate the program.

Binghamton reinstates intercollegiate wrestling program
9/17/2004
Lois B. DeFleur/President, SUNY-Binghamton

A statement from Lois B. DeFleur

President, State University of New York at Binghamton

Binghamton University has just been informed by the State University of New York that $230,000 in additional funds, specifically earmarked for the intercollegiate wrestling program, have been allocated to Binghamton’s operating budget by Governor George Pataki. I am grateful to the Governor for his support. I would also like to thank Senator Thomas Libous for his support in obtaining these funds to reinstate our program.

The decision made last fall to discontinue wrestling at the end of the 2004 season was budget driven and based on our commitment to make academics our top priority during challenging times. Now, this funding will enable the University to preserve our commitment to our academic priorities, while providing support to continue our wrestling program.

Wrestling supporters at the local and national level, including some of our alumni, have been advocating with government representatives requesting funding for wrestling. SUNY has told us that the designated funds will sustain the program for the foreseeable future. This is a positive outcome for the sport of wrestling, and will provide opportunities for Binghamton University student-athletes. Our goal is to build a program that is as good as – or better than – ever. I have asked our Athletic Director, Dr. Joel Thirer, to develop plans for reinstatement for the 2005-2006 season.