The inaugural Sebolt Wrestling Academy “Swing For Success” fundraiser on Friday at Lakeside Golf Course serves a purpose that extends far beyond the man behind the brand.

While founder, owner and lead coach TJ Sebolt is the face of the franchise, so to speak, this outing is functioning independently as a way to back the newly-formed “Sebolt Wrestling Syndicate” and its mission: to support SWA athletes and assist families with expenses along the way.

“This is our inaugural fundraising event, and our primary objective is to raise awareness and generate momentum for the syndicate,” said Grant Ruge, a SWA coach and former Fort Dodge Dodger standout. “We chose Fort Dodge as the location for this event because many of our athletes and their families are based there. The community’s passion for wrestling and their willingness to support our cause make it an ideal location for our first major fundraiser.

“We believe the community’s enthusiasm will greatly contribute to the success of this event.”

Ruge is on the Sebolt Wrestling Syndicate board with his wife, fellow FDSH graduate Taylor (Fellers) Ruge, as well as Sam Ayala, Adam Fellers, Matt Boleman, Justin Robbins, Ashley Rathjen, and numerous other SWA parents. The short-term goal of the group, according to Ruge, is to “establish a solid foundation for the syndicate and begin assisting families with expenses, such as singlets, gear, entry fees, and travel costs.”

“It’s important to clarify that the funds raised by the Sebolt Wrestling Syndicate are managed by an independent board, separate from TJ’s control,” Ruge added. “The syndicate was set up as a completely independent entity from Sebolt Wrestling Academy to ensure transparency and prevent any external influence on TJ’s coaching and academy operations. This structure guarantees that all donations are used solely to support the athletes and the syndicate’s mission. Our long-term vision is to significantly elevate the level of support we provide, ensuring our athletes have all the tools they need to succeed in their wrestling careers and beyond.”

The “Swing For Success” golf outing begins with a 12:30 p.m. shotgun start on Friday at Lakeside. Registration starts at 11:30.

A happy hour and silent auction follows the tournament, with dinner and awards wrapping up the evening.

Cost is $300 per team for the four-person best shot. A $500 cash prize goes to the winning squad.

Additional dinner-only meals are also available at $20 per ticket for non-golfers who would like to attend the post-tourney festivities at the Bob Heun Shelter inside Kennedy Park in Fort Dodge.

The silent auction is open to the public.

“The Sebolt Wrestling Syndicate was established this year to provide additional support and resources to the talented athletes at Sebolt Wrestling Academy,” said Ruge, who currently lives in Waukee with Taylor and their six children. “After seeing the success of similar initiatives, such as the non-profit associated with Chow’s Gymnastics, my wife (who is the vice president of the booster club at Chow Gymnastics) and I decided to create a similar organization for SWA.”

The syndicate is the next step in the growth of the SWA organization and its ability to support as many of its athletes and families as possible.

“Sebolt Wrestling Academy is already one of the premier wrestling clubs in the country,” said Ruge, a Managing Partner of Vesel Technology in Clive. “The syndicate aims to amplify this success by providing financial assistance, mentorship, and additional resources to our young athletes.

“Our goals are to foster sportsmanship, enhance skill development, and build a strong sense of camaraderie among wrestlers and their families. We are committed to supporting our wrestlers’ growth and success both on and off the mat.”

Ruge’s family has been both directly and indirectly involved with SWA for years. He was first introduced to Sebolt through his brother-in-law, Adam Fellers – also a former FDSH standout – and Fellers’ son, Nolan.

“Witnessing TJ’s passion, dedication, and commitment to his athletes was and is inspiring,” said Ruge, a multi-time Dodger placewinner who wrestled collegiately at the University of Northern Iowa. “My oldest son joined SWA a couple of years ago, and the academy has played a significant role in shaping the person he is becoming.”

Ruge and many members of the Sebolt Syndicate are also still loyal to their Dodger roots, which is why this event will be back home.

“I will always be grateful to all the community members and coaches in Fort Dodge who have helped me along the way,” Ruge said.

The Sebolt Wrestling Syndicate is actively seeking more corporate and individual sponsors both for this golf event and future endeavors. For more information, please contact Ruge at (515) 570-6379.

Friday’s golf outing still has openings through www.eventbrite.com, under the title, “SWA 1st Annual Swing For Success Fundraiser.”