STANFORD, Calif. - The Stanford University Department of Athletics announced today the establishment of the Vern Jones Wrestling Program Endowment Fund, effective immediately. The endowment will help offset the Stanford wrestling program's annual expenses.    The fund was established by Vern Jones, who graduated from Stanford in 1950 and is one of the greatest wrestlers in the history of the program. Jones, who competed in the 136, 145, and 147-pound weight classes, did not lose a regular season match during his four year career. He also served as student-volunteer coach for the 1947 and 1948 seasons.    "For Vern Jones, wrestling has played a largely important role in his life," Stanford head wrestling coach Steve Buddie said. "He truly appreciated every aspect of his collegiate wrestling experience. His generous gift has now opened the door of opportunity to many young wrestlers who hope to have that same positive experience at Stanford. His gift has also lent instant credibility to this aggressive and highly important endowment campaign. We are forever grateful for Vern Jones' lifelong relationship with Stanford Wrestling."    The establishment of the operating endowment will enable the Cardinal wrestling program to travel to the most competitive events in the country, in addition to expanding its recruiting efforts and capabilities.    "When your program becomes financially self-sufficient, the coach and his  staff can turn their focus to coaching, recruiting, marketing and developing a better product for everyone," Chris Horpel, who served as Stanford wrestling head coach from 1980-2001, said. "Coach Buddie and his staff are doing an excellent job in every aspect and I am glad to have been   part of this program for so many years."