For the fourth consecutive year, Beat the Streets National has launched the Gear Up Initiative under the leadership of BTS National Executive Director, Ben Reiter. Donating more than $1 Million in NEW wrestling and workout gear to more than 5,000 youth nationwide in years prior, BTS National is aiming to “Gear Up” 1,500 more student-athletes from underserved communities again this year!
“At Beat the Streets, we strive to make sure that every young wrestler has what they need for success on the mat, in school, and in life,” said Ben Reiter, Executive Director of BTS National.
The Gear Up! Initiative provides BTS student-athletes with the essentials they need to confidently step onto the mat and practice: Wrestling shoes, athletic shoes, socks, workout apparel, mouthguards, sports bras and more. With help from our partners at ASICS, Gear2Compete and Bras4Girls along with sponsors such Resilite, Beat the Streets National is able to stretch a $50 donation to $200 worth of new gear for one student-athlete.
As Beat the Streets organizations continue to grow nationwide, serving 6,000 youth in 2021 and now serving 10,000+ youth in 2024, BTS National is determined to ensure each child has the tools they need to step onto the mat confidently. Youth in poverty are 6x more likely to quit sports due to associated costs; we never want that to be the case for our resilient student-athletes. “We will continue to share the Gear Up Initiative with anyone who will listen, in hopes they too realize the message their support sends to our youth,” explained Gina Perry, BTS National Director of Communications and Development, “Each donation reminds our youth the entire wrestling community believes in them and is standing in their corner! Every single dollar makes a lasting impact!”
You can learn more and support the Gear Up Initiative today, or share it with a friend by clicking here.
