I am making the following post at the request of the Haysville Wrestling Club.
I became aware Monday Evening, as did numerous others of another tragedy to hit the wrestling community. At that time, although names were not released, I knew of the effect this tragedy would have on many within the wrestling community but refused to post anything due to the respect to the family and the Haysville Wrestling Club.
For those that don’t know the tragedy in Haysville on Monday involving a murder / suicide involved two individuals within the wrestling community. When I first heard of the tragedy, and now, I don’t believe the forums should be a place to speculate or comment on the nature of this particular event or the events surrounding it. I do believe it to be appropriate though to request prayers for the children directly involved. Dylan and Jessie Samuels, as well as a wrestling club that I have a great deal of respect for, Haysville, and members of their immediate families. Others to keep in your thoughts and prayers include family that is also involved in wrestling in both Augusta and Emporia. Everyone is going through this tragedy. I also know there is a great deal of confusion, anger, hurt, and any variety of other emotions.
A Trust Funds has been set up for the children, Dylan and Jessie in the name of Mat Samuels at Prairie State Bank in Haysville, and in the name Sheri L Samuels Memorial Children’s Benefit Account. C/O Bank of America, 645 State St. Augusta KS 67010, Attn. Linda Foltz, 316-775-2227.
Sometimes these forums are fun, informational, and even at times confrontational. I think all of those are appropriate. This year, like no other to my memory, the forums have also been a source of individuals coming together. Right now as I type this, Tyler Graebner from Buhler’s Team Lightening is going through another round of chemo in Kansas City. The Morrow Family of Derby is still grieving and dealing with the loss of a sister as a result of a drunk driver. Now we are affected by the tragic loss of an assistant coach and his wife. These tragedies and others illustrate to each of us the importance of life and love. While it is true that we are involved in a brutal, combative sport, the love and care for each other is of far more value than any thing that we can take from the sport. It is sad that we have had to respond to each others tragedies so much this year.
Again, I only responded after the request was made by the Haysville Club. I want you to know that my prayers and thoughts are with each of you. I know how you willingly helped out Tyler at your tournament and now you and yours are in need of love and prayers. Know that mine have been with you through the week and will continue to be so. May each of us take something of value from the tragic events of the year. May each of us also remember this club and these children as we and they go through the remainder of the year.
