Cleveland State Wrestling could be on the chopping block.

The University announced today they will cut funding to the wrestling program in Fall of 2016 to support a new men's Lacrosse team.

John Parry, Cleveland State's Athletic Director had this to say on the decision:

"The decision to no longer fund wrestling at CSU was a very difficult one. The athletes, coaches and support staff have shown exceptional dedication to their sport and the university. We will be working to raise external funds, and if necessary, to provide transition support."

The program exists in the wrestling hotbed of Cleveland and has been in existence for 52 years.  It looks like the tradition will come to an end at year 53. 

This decision represents a continuing and distressing trend within the Division 1 ranks where wrestling programs are being dropped almost on a yearly basis.  We saw Boston University roll up its mats last year, now we will see CSU do the same next March.  In 2011 Liberty University and UNC-Greensboro cut their programs.  In 2010 we lost UC Davis and Duquesne. 

CSU had 2 athletes ranked during the 2014-2015 season in Ben Willeford (125) and Riley Shaw (285).   Both wrestled in the NCAA tournament but failed to obtain All American Status.  Willeford knocked off All-American Jordan Conaway this year at the Southern Scuffle.