For Immediate Release
September 10, 2025
PRESS ALERT
VETERAN WRESTLING LEADER TO GUIDE ORGANIZATION INTO NEXT PHASE OF GROWTH AND IMPACT
Trenton Youth Wrestling and Learning Center (TYWLC) today announced that Brendan Buckley has been appointed Executive Director, bringing more than two decades of coaching, leadership, and nonprofit management experience to the role.
Buckley joins TYWLC after a distinguished nine-year tenure as Executive Director of Beat the Streets New York, where he oversaw unprecedented program growth, raised more than $15 million through fundraising campaigns and high-profile events, and empowered thousands of student-athletes across New York City. Under his leadership, Beat the Streets secured a permanent training center, expanded opportunities in girls wrestling, and enhanced academic and wellness programming. The organization also celebrated competitive success with multiple high school state champions, a two-time national champion, and numerous All-Americans. Buckley also guided the flagship annual benefit to record success in 2023, raising $1.3 million and drawing more than 8,000 attendees.
At TYWLC, Buckley will lead the implementation of the organization’s ambitious strategic plan, working alongside Board Chair Dr. McLaughlin, the board of directors, and Director of Operations Ray Bethea. Buckley will play an integral role in advancing the Be the Bridge Campaign, focusing on expanding partnerships, strengthening board capacity, and supporting the move into a new, state-of-the-art facility that will serve as a hub for training, mentorship, and academic support.
“As the organization embarks on an ambitious strategic plan, I’ve been deeply impressed by the vision of Board Chair Dr. McLaughlin, the commitment of the board, and the leadership of Director of Operations Ray Bethea,” said Buckley. “From securing a dynamic new facility for training and mentorship, to expanding partnerships, strengthening board capacity, and celebrating their 10th anniversary gala—TYWLC is clearly on the rise. I’m honored to help lead these efforts and grateful for the opportunity to join a team so deeply committed to empowering youth through wrestling and mentorship.”
Buckley’s appointment comes as TYWLC celebrates its 10th anniversary, marking a decade of providing Trenton youth with access to wrestling, academic enrichment, and life skills development. The organization continues to serve as a vital resource for young people in the community, using wrestling as a vehicle to build resilience, confidence, and leadership.
“Brendan’s track record speaks for itself,” said Dr. McLaughlin, TYWLC Board Chair. “He has built programs at the highest levels of the sport, while never losing sight of the power wrestling has to change lives. We are thrilled to welcome him to Trenton and excited for the future of the organization under his leadership.”
Prior to his time at Beat the Streets, Buckley served as head wrestling coach at Cal Poly (2011–2016) and Columbia University (2000–2011), and as an assistant coach at Virginia and UC Davis. He was a two-time NCAA qualifier during his career at Clemson and Fresno State, earning All-America honors in 1997.
Contact: Ray Bethea
Director of Operations
Tel: (609) 553-8150
E: rbethea@trentonyouthwrestling.org
