Building champions in wrestling and in life
Rising Above Wrestling (RAW Rochester) is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to empowering youth across Greater Rochester through the sport of wrestling.
RAW provides structured training, mentorship, and consistent support in a safe, positive environment where young athletes can grow physically, mentally, and personally.
"[Rising Above Wrestling] is not your ordinary wrestling club... This is a pipeline to success. It takes a village. Be apart of the village."
— Frank Gissendanner, Head CoachWrestling teaches accountability, work ethic, and mental toughness. Every practice reinforces respect, perseverance, and personal responsibility.
Our coaches are more than trainers — they are mentors committed to helping each athlete reach their potential, regardless of experience level.
RAW reinforces that success in the classroom and on the mat go hand in hand — supporting each young athlete's full development.
A safe, structured space where youth build routine, show up consistently, and learn what it means to be part of a team.
Wrestling creates deep bonds. RAW gives Rochester's youth a community to belong to and a reason to show up every single day.
From their first takedown to their first tournament, RAW athletes learn that growth happens through challenge — not despite it.
Every golfer, every sponsor, every dollar raised on August 17th goes directly back into Rochester's youth. Here's what that means in practice.
RAW removes financial barriers so that no child is turned away from training due to inability to pay for equipment, fees, or travel.
Funding supports experienced coaches and mentors who dedicate their time to developing young athletes on and off the mat.
Tournament fees, travel, and gear costs are covered so RAW athletes can compete, grow, and represent Rochester with pride.
Structured programming gives at-risk youth a positive outlet, a sense of purpose, and a community that holds them accountable.
Whether you're swinging a club or sponsoring a hole, your participation on the course translates directly into opportunity for Rochester's youth. Every round played is a step forward for Rising Above Wrestling.
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1150 University Ave, Rochester, NY, United States, New York
