WARRENSBURG, Mo. – The University of Central Missouri wrestling program announced major pledges towards the Mules wrestling locker room project Tuesday, Feb. 25, as Dan and Shirley Power and Gary and Lisa Ervin each pledged $500,000 ($1 million total) towards the endeavor. These commitments bring the project two-thirds of the way to its $1.5 million goal.

"With the recent opening of the Roger Denker Wrestling Facility, we have laid the foundation for continued success, but the journey is not yet complete," UCM Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Matt Howdeshell said. "We have identified a space adjacent to the Roger Denker Wrestling Facility that is ready to be repositioned as a retreat for our Mules wrestlers. This untapped potential presents an opportunity for UCM to enhance the student-athlete experience by creating a dedicated locker room and student lounge."

"We cannot thank Dan and Shirley Power and Gary and Lisa Ervin enough for believing in our shared vision for excellence, and their willingness to support our student-athletes and coaches, now and into the future," Howdeshell said.

The commitments from the Power and Ervin families provide a significant step toward making that vision a reality. Dan and Shirley Power are both UCM alumni. Dan graduated from what was then Central Missouri State University (CMSU) in 1973 and 1974, while Shirley is a 1980 graduate. Dan Power was a MIAA champion, team captain, and most valuable wrestler. He was inducted into the UCM Athletic Hall of Fame as part of the 1972-73 wrestling team. After his time at CMSU, he forged careers in education, real estate and finance. He has been honored by UCM with the Distinguished Alumni Award and previously served on the Foundation Board of Directors. In 2022, Dan and Shirley were honored with the Founding Philanthropist Award by the UCM Alumni Foundation.

"The Mules' Wrestling practice facility was a dream come true and has been a part of a huge improvement for the whole Wrestling program," Dan Power said. "The next step is to create a first-class locker facility, lounge, offices, and an area for wrestlers to use for studying, using videos for improvement and scouting. There is every reason to believe that finishing this project will give another big boost in building the wrestling program, recruiting, and the facilities to be a perennial top competitor in the NCAA. We have momentum, so let's finish the job! I am extremely grateful for the progress Coach Garcia and his staff have made and the positive response from some outstanding alumni to finish what we have begun. Critical work and cooperation from President Roger Best, Athletic Director Matt Howdeshell and his staff, the UCM Alumni Foundation and some great support from Mules Wrestling alumni and friends will allow us to finish the dream. Go Mules!"

Gary Ervin was also a member of the Mules wrestling team under legendary Coach Roger Denker. Gary came to UCM from Kentucky, where the Ervin family helped shape a wrestling dynasty. He attended CMSU from 1976-80 and soon after established Ervin Cable Company. His competitive spirit has led him to climb numerous mountains and participate in The Amazing Race with his daughter, Mallory. While they have led an exciting life, Gary and Lisa's passion for UCM wrestling remains.

"Thank you to the Powers and the Ervins for making this contribution to the future of our program," UCM Wrestling Head Coach Cody Garcia said. "As coaches, we want to create an environment of excellence through expectation setting, dedication, and the resources available to create a championship atmosphere. Both the Powers and the Ervins embody that standard of excellence, and we thank them for being such great supporters of Mules wrestling."

To put this project in action and begin construction, additional philanthropic commitments are needed. If you are interested in being a part of this exciting initiative, contact Billy Ukrazhenko with the UCM Alumni Foundation at 660-543-4133 or ukrazhenko@ucmo.edu to learn more about opportunities such as sponsoring a locker for $5,000. Through a locker naming opportunity, donor generosity will be commemorated and serve as a testament to their commitment to UCM Mules Wrestling.* Opportunities are limited, so set up your gift here today. 

The UCM wrestling team will host the 2025 NCAA Division II Wrestling Super Regional IV Tournament at the Jerry M. Hughes Athletics Center in Warrensburg on Saturday, March 1. The regional tournament determines which wrestlers will be given the opportunity to compete at the NCAA-II National Championship meet in Indianapolis. Tickets to the regional meet are on sale now, and can be purchased here.

*All naming opportunities require approval of the UCM Board of Governors as outlined in University of Central Missouri policy 1.2.090.