WARRENSBURG, Mo. -- The University of Central Missouri wrestling program announced another major pledge for the Mules wrestling locker room project on Friday, April 11, as Chris and Heather Heckadon and Jeron and Rebecca Quincy pledged a total of $250,000 towards the endeavor. These commitments, among others, bring the project within $200,000 of its $1.5 million goal.

"We are incredibly grateful for Chris Heckadon and Jeron Quincy's belief in our shared vision for excellence," UCM Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Matt Howdeshell said.  "Chris & Jeron's pledge is a testament to the power of UCM Athletics and Mules Wrestling to connect and inspire lifelong relationships. Their combined investment to support the Mules Wrestling locker room and lounge project will provide a space for future Mules Wrestlers to advance their athletic abilities and develop lifelong friendships."

"With their commitment and the earlier generosity from the Power and Ervin families, this project is nearing the finish line. Thank you again to Chris and Jeron for their willingness to support our Mules student-athletes and coaches," Howdeshell added.

Chris Heckadon is a 1997 graduate of UCM (then CMSU).  Born in San Diego and raised in Kansas City, he was a two-year co-captain for Mules wrestling and a two-time NCAA National Qualifier.  After his time in Warrensburg, Heckadon went on to found Summit Pointe Financial Group (SPFG).  He continued his athletic pursuits after graduation, using the lessons he learned in dedication, motivation and discipline to become the 2001 World FIAS Sombo Champion. 

"Central's wrestling program allowed me to get an excellent education and to wrestle for a storied program," Heckadon said. "That led me to owning a firm, Summit Pointe Financial Group, and our advisors can now help others with financial planning and asset management. SPFG sponsors the MIAA Ken B. Jones award, which is given to the male and female senior athletes of the year."

"My wife, Heather, and I, want to give back to the program to help build it for the future. Jeron Quincy and I are teaming up to help the locker room and lounge get built, and to provide a place for the team to be together when not on the mat," said Heckadon.

Jeron Quincy grew up in Wisconsin assuming he would be a dairy farmer.  However, with the encouragement of his mother, he met with the UCM wrestling coach on a campus visit with a friend. Jeron initially walked on to the UCM wrestling program but worked diligently to earn a scholarship. He ultimately became a two-time All-American and a National Runner-Up his senior year. He holds the Mules wrestling record for career wins with 136, and his 43 wins in 1996-97 are among the all-time best by a Mules wrestler. He was inducted into the UCM Athletic Hall of Fame in 2015. 

After his wrestling career ended, Jeron went on to work in the safety management field and currently holds the position of Vice President of Health, Safety and Security and Environment for Saber Power Services.

"UCM and athletics in general have each played a huge role in my life," Quincy said.  "Rebecca and I are happy we can support the Mules wrestling program in their vision for the future. Wrestling is an extremely difficult sport, and it requires you to push yourself beyond what you thought was possible both physically and mentally. Competing as a wrestling student-athlete at UCM gave me the opportunity to learn this mindset. I continue to have this mindset in my professional career, and I want more individuals to have the same opportunity that was given to me.  I have no doubt the UCM Wrestling program is destined for great things. Good luck!"

Heckadon and Quincy were roommates at UCM and formed a lifetime bond. They are ecstatic to help further Mules wrestling with this joint support.

"Thank you to the Heckadons and Quincys for their dedication to our program," UCM Wrestling Head Coach Cody Garcia said. "Chris and Jeron embodied what it means to be Mules wrestlers during their excellent careers here. They continue to embody those values today.  They are outstanding supporters and role models for our guys."

Mules Wrestling alum Kel Denker, '88, also committed $25,000 toward the project.  Cory Bloodgood and Caleb Hulse, both alums of the UCM wrestling program ('09, '10), pledged a combined $25,000 as well.  Those contributions, combined with those of the Heckdons and Quincys, as well as earlier pledges of $500,000 each from the Power and Ervin families, bring the project to within $200,000 of its $1.5 million goal.

Additional philanthropic commitments are needed to reach our fundraising goal and begin construction of the locker rooms. Supporters who are interested can contact UCM Assistant AD for Major Gifts Billy Ukrazhenko at ukrazhenko@ucmo.edu or 660-543-4133 to learn more or sponsor a wrestling locker for $5,000 (payable over five years). 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 pledge your support here today! 

The Mules Wrestling program recently competed at the NCAA Division II National Championships where they achieved a program best seventh place finish. Jakason Burks won an individual National Championship at 125 pounds, while John Ridle (157 pounds) and Damon Ashworth (184 pounds), each achieved All-American status.

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