SAU wrestling fundraiser raises money for football program

LAURINBURG — If the hootin’ and hollerin’, and booing, going on were any indication, the crowd at the St. Andrew’s University gym was having a rousing good time.

Saturday night, C.A.G.E (Coastal Atlantic Grappling Entertainment) and Atlantic Coast Wrestling (ACW) teamed up with St. Andrews University football player and wrestler Sam Dial, and his teammates, to present a pro wrestling event to raise money for the St. Andrews University football team.

“The proceeds will be used to buy equipment for the football team,” Dial said. “We need new jerseys and girdles, helmets; those sorts of things.”

St. Andrews University head football coach Bob Curtin went on to say,” This avoids creating undue costs for the university, while helping us get what we need.”

Dial, a Laurinburg native, is also ACW’s current heavyweight champ — a title he successfully defended Saturday night. Other wrestlers in attendance included Chief Red Thunder, Nathan Cross, Quick City Assailants, Champagne, and New Breed.

“The event is a fun way to raise money and involve the community,” Curtin said. “We want the community to become familiar with St. Andrews University football. Scotland County is a football mecca; people here love it. We want everyone to come to the games and support the team.”

The show started at 7 p.m. and approximately 300 community members, students, alumni and staff attended. Admission was $8 for adults, $4 for students, and kids under 10 years of age were free with a paying adult.

“We raised around $3000 dollars to help the football team,” Dial said. “Special thanks to C.A.G.E, ACW, the St. Andrews University football program, and St. Andrews University. Thanks to the community for coming out.”