A new fundraising initiative called "Fuel the Dream" has been launched that will give all Americans the opportunity to give our wrestling Olympians a leg up as they approach the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China.

On May 6, 2008 Dave Jedlicka of Washington State went online to www.fuelthedream.org and officially became the first American to contribute directly in support of America's 2008 Wrestling Olympians.

"As a wrestler in my youth, and now the Official Photographer for the State of Washington, I have given, and continue to give much of my time to the sport of wrestling," said Jedlicka. "My motivation for doing what I do, and for donating to the 'Fuel the Dream' fund is to see USA Wrestling reach the highest level of success it possibly can. Our Olympic-caliber athletes dedicate their lives to succeed on an International platform that few can attain."

"It is up to each of us as individuals to do whatever we can to make this dream come true. Because it isn't just the athlete's dream, it is all of our collective hope.  Please give to be part of our nation reaching the highest goal possible, and so that our countries' athletes can step up to their potential wrestling accomplishments on the world's stage," said Jedlicka.

The program has been launched, and citizens from all across the nation are getting involved.

"No amount is too small," said Larry Nugent the Director of Development for USA Wrestling. "If everyone that reads this contributes even one dollar, our Olympians will feel the strength of the support for them and their supporters will feel like a part of the competition later this August in Beijing!"

When you contribute to Fuel The Dream, 50% of your donation will go, without any reductions, to the individuals who have qualified for the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team by winning the U.S. Olympic Team Trials in Las Vegas, Nev., June 13-15 at the Thomas & Mack Center. The other 50% goes to help train athletes that will be on future World and Olympic Teams.

Go to www.fuelthedream.org and see the various levels you can contribute and make a difference! 

USA Wrestling is a 501 (c) (3) and your contribution is tax deductible. Donors that contribute over $25 will receive a unique Olympic Games pin!

Be a real part of our Olympic effort. It only happens once every four years. Do it now. 

Go to www.fuelthedream.org and give as much as you can. Be an important member of our Olympic effort. 

Fuel The Dream.