(CAMDEN, NJ) -- Olympic Gold Medalist and six-time World Champion Jordan Burroughs, the G.O.A.T. (Greatest of All Time) of American wrestling, held a free wrestling clinic for Camden youth at The Salvation Army Camden Kroc Center on Saturday, August 19, 2023 – marking a special return to his home state of New Jersey and to the organization that touched his life while growing up.

Born in Camden and raised in nearby Sicklerville, NJ, Burroughs began wrestling at just six years old and is now the most decorated American wrestler of all time. At this special event at Camden’s Kroc Center, Burroughs introduced the sport of wrestling to boys and girls in the community, teaching them techniques and skills in the full day “Wrestling for All” clinic. Most importantly, Burroughs shared important life lessons on overcoming adversity and striving for peak performance, resiliency, respect, and leadership.

“I’m so excited to partner with The Salvation Army. Whenever I can align with someone who has similar goals, it helps me to empower the next generation through faith and wrestling,” said Burroughs. “I get a chance to be in the community where it all began for me, and that means a lot to me. There are a lot of hidden gems in this area of individuals who, once introduced to the sport, they can really change their lives and put themselves in a position to do special things.”

Burroughs' inspirational visit aligns with the Camden Kroc Center’s vision of providing hope and transforming lives within the community.

“Part of our mission statement talks about meeting human needs. Sports instill confidence, a feeling of security, and self-esteem. Jordan visiting the Kroc Center is important because he is helping the children find that esteem, confidence, and security, and this is so needed for the youth growing up in the Camden community,” said Major Richard Sanchez, the Camden Kroc Center administrator.

To help ensure that The Salvation Army can continue to provide vital services and programs throughout New Jersey, supporters can donate online at www.SalvationArmyNJ.org. Every donation provides help and hope to those in need, and all gifts stay within the community in which they are given.  

Opened in 2014 to enhance The Salvation Army's ministry in the City of Camden since 1880, The Salvation Army Camden Kroc Center is a 125,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art community center where opportunity meets potential. With over 25,000 annual visits, the Camden Kroc Center provides recreational, health, educational, cultural, and holistic spiritual programming for the entire family. From first time swimmers to experienced athletes, the Kroc Center has hosted over two million visits since opening, striving to transform the Camden community in body, soul, and spirit. Visit www.camdenkroccenter.org to find out how you can help empower families, youth, and seniors in the Camden region.