At Decatur Lakers Wrestling Club, we believe that wrestling is more than just a sport – it's a way of life. Our vision is to inspire the next generation of community leaders, wrestlers, and fans, and to create a lasting legacy in the Decatur community.
Our youth coaching experience has over 20 years of experience that span 3 states and date back to 2000. Each coach is certified through USA Wrestling (USAW), and we proudly have a USAW Teal certified coach on staff, specializing in female athletes. Our coaches personal backgrounds consists of a certified personal trainer with a specialization in sport nutrition, a Bachelor’s degree in Sports Management, and a Ph.D. in Curriculum Instruction, ensuring a comprehensive and enriching experience for all participants. For verification, our USA Wrestling Organization ID is 2400149502.
At Decatur Lakers Wrestling Club, we believe that wrestling is at its best when it brings people together. Our community is made up of passionate wrestling fans and talented wrestlers who share a love for the sport. We welcome everyone to join us and be a part of our growing community.
Our boys and girls grades Pre-K to 8th, get to learn the fundamentals of folk style wrestling. Through fun, and engaging practices we create an atmosphere that our participants want to be in. By being members of USA Wrestling and the I.K.W.F. we provide the opportunity for our kids to compete all across the midwest.
The anchor in our logo represents hope, steadfastness, and composure. By placing the anchor at the heart of our emblem, we signal to our wrestlers and fans that the Lakers will remain resilient in both victory and defeat.
Lake Decatur, a stunning feature of our city, is proudly highlighted in our logo as it cradles the anchor. As Illinois' largest artificial lake, Lake Decatur spans 2,800 acres with 30 miles of scenic shoreline. It offers a range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, sailing, and jet skiing. Surrounding Nelson Park Marina, you'll find miniature golf, a water park, an amphitheater, dining options, public gardens, and picnic areas, making Lake Decatur a vibrant hub for outdoor enjoyment and community gatherings.
Founded in 2024, the Decatur Lakers Wrestling Club is a nonprofit organization committed to nurturing champions in life. Spearheaded by founder Mark Glause, our mission is to empower youth through a structured wrestling program grounded in core values, unwavering commitment, healthy habits, and comprehensive skills development.
We are dedicated to providing this transformative experience at an inclusive cost, ensuring accessibility for all. Engaging in sports significantly reduces the likelihood of youth involvement in illegal activities such as substance abuse and crime. Moreover, students participating in after-school programs typically demonstrate enhanced academic performance.
Our objective is to foster a strong community among parents, participants, and local stakeholders, including law enforcement and educators, while instilling respect and camaraderie. At the Decatur Lakers Wrestling Club, we believe that wrestling is more than a sport; it is a vehicle for cultivating essential life skills. These include personal responsibility, mental and emotional resilience, leadership, self-defense, nutritional awareness, and a readiness to explore new experiences.
At Decatur Lakers Wrestling Club, we believe that coaching goes beyond teaching techniques and strategies—it’s about making the journey enjoyable and inspiring. Our approach to coaching integrates fun into every practice, ensuring that athletes not only develop their wrestling skills but also enjoy the process.
By incorporating engaging drills, interactive games, and team-building activities, we create an environment where learning is both effective and enjoyable. This blend of fun and focused training fosters a positive atmosphere, encourages consistent participation, and helps wrestlers build a genuine passion for the sport.
We understand that the best results come from a place of enthusiasm and excitement. That's why our coaching philosophy emphasizes a balance of hard work and enjoyment, making each practice a dynamic experience where athletes can thrive and grow.
Join us in our mission to develop young boys and girls into well-rounded champions and discover how our engaging and effective coaching can transform their wrestling experience, sparking a lifelong passion for the sport.
Registration for 2024-2025 IKWF competition begins in September.
Season operates from November to March.
A summer program will be available in 2025 for May and June.
When you sponsor a child, you will change a child’s future. Sponsoring children gives them opportunities to grow, learn and reach their potential. Your
support of $250 will provide USAW coverage, club membership of up to 80 hours of instructional time, IKWF post season fees, shoes, and headgear!!!
From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your generous contribution. Through your assistance you are helping to change the future.
IKWF Registration Begins
Current members should notify Mark Glause to renew their membership. Choose between a $125 Non-Compete Membership or a $200 Competition Membership to receive an electronic invoice. Alternatively, send a check for the appropriate amount made out to "Decatur Lakers Wrestling Club" to Mark Glause.
New members can obtain a USA Wrestling card at www.usawmembership.com. Following this, club fees will be billed via electronic invoice to the email address associated with the USA Wrestling card.
For inquiries about online registration, please email decaturlakers@gmail.com.
In person registration October 10th 5:00pm to 8:00pm
Central Christian Church
650 W. William St.
Decatur, IL
Parents meeting October 29th 5:30 MacArthur H.S. wrestling room.
(Northwest wing of building)
Executive Director
President
Vice President
Vice President
Secretary/Treasurer
Copyright © 2024 Decatur Lakers - All Rights Reserved.
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