Chicago Youth visit Chicago's Big Ten Team

Guest author: Ben Bergen

Big week for the Beat the Streets Chicago kids! A crew went up to Northwestern University to take part in a four day technique-based camp. The kids were able to stay on campus in dorms which for some was their first time away from home, and for all was their first time experiencing what college life and athletics have to offer.

Besides learning from some of the best in the nation, the kids also had some amazing guest speakers. Maria Sanchez who is the associate athletic director at Northwestern spoke to them about the recruitment process.  Mason Phelps is a major financial investment expert and talked about responsible money management.

This trip was made possible by Gary Sagui and Bill McKenna who are generous supporters of the sport of wrestling and Northwestern Wrestling. Beat the Streets Chicago also received a grant from Sam’s Club Evanston and the Walmart Corporation so that we could bring even more "city kids" to the camp. We very much appreciate these amazing benefactors.

Beat the Streets Chicago would also like to thank Head Wrestling Coach Matt Storniolo and the entire NU wrestling program for hosting this amazing camp!

Editorial note from Mike and Cathy: Special shout out to our Beat the Streets Chicago summer interns Ben Bergen, Jake Murrie, and Bobby Campos who accompanied our young wrestlers and helped them feel comfortable and navigate a new environment.

It takes a City!

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