How OCGA is Powering Confidence and Connection Through After-School Wrestling
Why After-School Programs Matter
Many low-income youth experience isolation, boredom, or even risk during after-school hours. But thanks to the Ontario Charitable Gaming Association (OCGA)'s support, Beat the Streets turned those hours into something powerful: a place to grow.
From October 2024 to today, four after-school wrestling programs supported by OCGA ran across the city. The result? Over 80 youth found confidence, physical strength, friendships, and resilience both on and off the mat.
High-Level Highlights:
“They couldn’t do front rolls when we started. By the end, they were leading drills. ”
School Spotlights: Real Stories from the Mat
Dixon Grove | Coach: Aidan McVeigh | 20 boys
Coach Aidan described this group as "always excited to come in." That energy translated into consistent engagement, especially in an after-school setting. Students grew from being unable to perform basic forward rolls to confidently leading drills. Behaviour improved over time as the structure of wrestling helped balance energy with focus. Most impressively, students formed new friendships through partner drills and the popular "winner stays in" games that encouraged peer learning and healthy competition.
"The biggest highlight? Seeing them grow from scattered to focused, from unsure to proud."
Joseph Brant | Coach: Braxton Stone | 22 youth (13 girls, 9 boys)
Joseph Brant made history: more girls than boys participated, a rare and exciting trend in wrestling. Scrimmaging brought the sessions to life, igniting energy and purpose. Students grew in resilience and coordination, with push-ups that once seemed impossible becoming achievable through repetition and support. Respect and focus grew as students began to understand the structure of the sport, and friendships flourished through trust-based drills. Five students competed in a local tournament, with four winning medals.
"They think it's so cool, they get to wrestle and learn something new."
SATEC / W.A. Porter | Coach: Braxton Stone | 28 youth (4 girls, 24 boys)
This group began with little experience, but through tough drills and consistent effort, they transformed. Thirteen students made it to the first OFSAA qualifier, seven advanced to cities, two made it to OFSAA, and one of those students won the whole thing. The group grew into a team, with students holding each other accountable and pushing themselves. Their request? More advanced training.
"They went from hesitant to hungry for the sport and growth."
Westview Centennial | Coach: Jamaal Richer | 10 boys
Though small in number, the Westview group showed up with heart. Coach Jamaal noted their consistent engagement and high level of respect from day one. The students improved physically and emotionally, showing stronger technique and deeper commitment each week. Their emotional investment was clear; they didn’t want the season to end.
“One of the students was able to complete a set of moves without any reminders — it was amazing to see how far they’d come.”
A Word from Westview
“We have students that have credited wrestling with helping to save their lives… We have seen a huge improvement in students with challenges that have participated in the program. ”
Principal Griffith’s words speak volumes. What started as a fledgling program without a coach became a source of transformation, pride, and belonging for students who needed it most.
"On behalf of our entire school community, I wish to say thank you to all of the organizers, donors, and coaches who made this possible."
Why OCGA's Support Matters
OCGA funding creates access. These programs are free, high-impact, and built for students who need them most. This isn’t just about sports, it's about transformation. It's about giving youth something to be proud of and a team to which they can belong.
"Thanks to OCGA, after-school hours aren’t idle anymore—they’re a launching pad for growth."
To OCGA and its network, thank you. You’re not just funding programming; you’re funding possibility.
Stay tuned as we spotlight more schools and stories throughout the season.
About Beat the Streets:
At Beat the Streets, our mission is to advance the education of low-income children and youth in the Greater Toronto Area through fun and unique wrestling, life skills, and employment-based development programs. Since 2015, we have served over 28,000 young individuals through our Wrestle 4 Fun, Level Up, You Grow Girl, Work it Girl, After-School and Open Mat Sessions programs, providing them with opportunities to develop their physical, mental, and social well-being. We believe in empowering the next generation by breaking down barriers and creating pathways to success.
Join us in our mission to impact youth:
Join us in making a difference by supporting our cause and learning more about how you can contribute to the education and growth of children and youth in need. Together, we can shape a brighter future for all.
