Waynesburg University Athletics

The Waynesburg College wrestlers received some fan support from a group that has been in the same position, perhaps even on the same mat. The Yellow Jackets had the alumni group Murdock Men in attendance as they faced off against Muskingum College, Rochester Institute of Technology, Wilkes University and Thiel College in team duals at the Rudy Marisa Fieldhouse on Jan. 26, 2002.

The Murdock Men, a group that consists of all former wrestlers as well as those interested in the school's wrestling program, held their annual reunion to reminisce and take in the current wrestling action. In 1993, the Murdock Men group was established to help revive a then floundering wrestling program. President of the Murdock Men, John "Buzz" Walters, said the group looks to "somehow help the wrestling program at the college and keep guys coming back and interest going."

The group is named in honor of Raymond F. "Bucky" Murdock, a member of the NCAA, NAIA and PIAA Halls of Fame. A class of 1948 graduate from Waynesburg, Murdock coached six undefeated teams during his time with the Yellow Jackets from 1947-1963. Murdock was one of the first helicopter pilots in World War II, where he rescued a downed pilot from the jungles of hostile Burma. He was also Waynesburg Central High School's first state champion when he captured the 85-pound title in 1939.

Former head coach Dave Thomas, who gave a short speech, updated the Murdock Men on the team's progress during a luncheon held for the occasion. The alumni were pleased to know that the team's goal for the season is to win the Presidents' Athletic Conference and that each weight class is fully represented by the 21-member team.

"It's good to look to the past, to inspire the future," said Waynesburg wrestler Josh Cooper. As in previous years, James "Fuzzy" Randolph, the campus museum Curator, will have wrestling memorabilia on display for the alumni. Among the items of Waynesburg College wrestling history presented at the luncheon will be the black and orange warm-up robe donated at last year's reunion by 1952 graduate George Lewis.

Before presenting the robe to the museum, Lewis donned the heavy garb that he wore during his days at Waynesburg. Penny Ketchem, director of annual giving and events planning, is responsible for bringing this event together and expected no fewer than the 40 men and women who attended the event the previous year.

"I have always been a wrestling fan and this is one of my favorite events to set up," Ketchem said. "They know how to have a good time. The fellowship of the group is special as they reminisce about the good ole days."

Though the wrestlers participating in the tournament must watch their weight rigorously, the alumni informed Ketchem that they do not. "While selecting the menu, I have been warned that they no longer have to watch their weight," Ketchum said, "and pie is a must for dessert." As is the case with all of the college alumni, the Murdock Men are encouraged to support their alma mater.

A key concern for these former wrestlers is helping the college through donations, the wrestling program itself, or by interest in the program. Walters wants to get as many people to contribute to this college as possible. He elaborates that though the name may be misleading; the group is not merely for those whom were under the tutelage of Coach Murdock during his time here. Walters explains that anyone ever involved in wrestling at the school is welcome to join the Murdock Men and support not only the current and future wrestlers, but all of the students at Waynesburg.