Dream Big Grants in Action: QHS, QJHS, & Youth Wrestling

Grant-Funded Wrestling Surface Elevates Quincy Programs from Youth to Varsity

By: Katie Rodemich ’02

Quincy’s wrestling program has long been rooted in discipline, grit, and tradition. This past year, a bold addition to the gym floor is helping carry that legacy into the future.

Thanks to a $13,547.52 grant from the Quincy Public Schools Foundation, Quincy High School, Quincy Junior High, and the local youth wrestling program now share a regulation-size, high-quality mat—one that enhances safety, improves performance, and visually unites athletes across all levels under a single symbol of pride.

Featuring a bold Blue Devil logo and the QPS Foundation’s “Dream Big” emblem at center mat, the new surface has quickly become a standout in both practice and competition. But to Head Wrestling Coach Phillip Neally, it’s more than just equipment—it’s a message.

The mat supports more than 150 student-athletes, from wide-eyed kindergarteners learning their first takedowns to seasoned high school competitors vying for state titles. It’s in use nearly year-round—for off-season training, in-season practices, dual meets, and tournaments.

“The new mat has been great for all levels,” Neally said. “We’re able to host all three levels at different times for off-season training, in-season practices, tournaments, and duals.”

Before the upgrade, the program relied on aging mats worn down over years of use. Those older mats are now used solely in the practice room. In contrast, the new mat—with its professional-grade surface and high-visibility graphics—has taken center stage both visually and symbolically.

“These mats have already made a meaningful difference in the program. Student-athletes love the new mats and enjoy training and competing on them. We’ve seen a clear boost in participation and energy,” emphasized Athletic Director Kris Klingle.

Competing on a surface that reflects school identity has instilled a stronger sense of belonging and motivation. For many students, it’s their first experience with equipment that mirrors their dedication and potential.

“The feedback from the wrestlers has been overwhelmingly positive,” noted Neally. “They’re excited and proud to compete on a brand-new mat that not only enhances their training environment but also boldly represents their school spirit with the Blue Devil logo front and center.”

Wrestling mats play a critical role in injury prevention. As mats degrade, they lose the shock absorption and grip that protect athletes. The new surface restores that confidence—boosting both safety and performance.

“The new mats have opened up more opportunities for our wrestling programs to host competitions right here on our campus. As with any athletic equipment, mats naturally wear down over time, and having new, high-quality mats not only enhances our program but also plays a crucial role in protecting the safety of our student-athletes,” shared Athletic Director Kiris Klingele.

Wrestling demands toughness and resilience—but having the right infrastructure can mean the difference between frustration and growth. The mat is just one part of a larger story about community investment.

The Quincy Public Schools Foundation has played a pivotal role in bridging the gap between what’s expected and what’s exceptional. Through its “Dream Big” grants, the QPS Foundation turns community generosity into meaningful, lasting impact across academics, the arts, and athletics.

“Through open communication and shared goals, we’re able to prioritize projects—like new wrestling mats—that directly benefit student-athletes. By combining insight from coaches and staff with the QPS Foundation’s resources, we ensure that every investment supports both program development and student success,” Klingele said.

With rising participation, however, space has become a pressing issue. The current wrestling room can no longer accommodate the full program—especially during peak season.

“As the wrestling program continues to grow, so do the needs of the program. Although the mats were a major step forward, we now face a new challenge—our wrestling room is simply busting at the seams and is too small. We need to expand. A larger facility would not only support our school’s wrestling programs but would also benefit our entire wrestling community. Although we do not have a plan currently for a new space, we hope that one day we’ll be able to provide this kind of space for all wrestlers in the Quincy area.” added Klingle.

At the heart of the vision is Quincy’s youth wrestling program, which serves as a pipeline for future success. Starting young not only builds skills but also instills character and confidence—traits that carry well beyond the mat.

“The youth wrestling program plays a vital role in feeding into junior high and high school successes over time. By starting at a young age, wrestlers develop the foundational skills, discipline, and passion needed for the sport. This early exposure builds confidence and helps create a strong pipeline of talent as athletes transition into junior high and high school. With consistent coaching, technique development, and increased competition, these young athletes have a solid base to excel in higher levels of the sport. “Shared Athletic Director Klingle.

And it all begins with that first step onto the mat—a space that represents not just performance, but possibility.

“When the community invests in our student-athletes, it sends a powerful message that their efforts matter and that they’re part of something bigger than themselves. It cultivates pride, unity, and a deeper connection between our schools and the people we serve. This kind of support not only funds equipment like the new mat, but also fuels motivation, tradition, and long-term success,” stated Coach Neally.

With every takedown, every drill, and every match, Quincy wrestlers carry more than just their school colors. They carry the pride of a program—and the strength of a community—driving them forward.

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