Many of you know our story — the story of a husband, father, son, and brother gone far too soon.

My late husband, Matt Wornstaff, was a deeply passionate man and a devoted family leader. As a teenager, he loved the sport of wrestling, and years later that love was reignited when our son Dan chose to wrestle for the Pike County Pirates. From that moment on, we became a wrestling family.

At first, I watched with hesitation as these young men stepped onto the mat with fierce determination and focus. There were injuries. There was blood. There were heartbreaking losses and triumphant victories. But above all else, there was growth — growth in character, resilience, and heart. Wrestling builds young men who stand tall in the face of challenge, who learn compassion, discipline, and perseverance. Simply put, wrestling grows leaders.

Matt believed deeply in that mission. He knew he could pour lifelong lessons into each wrestler he coached and encouraged. He had a special heart for the kids who lacked support, and he wanted every athlete to know they mattered. Wrestling was more than a sport to him — it was a calling. And I believe many of the young men he mentored would say that Matt left a lasting imprint on the Pike County Wrestling family.

Our family is committed to continuing that legacy for as long as we are able.

Over the past five years, the Matthew Wornstaff Memorial has raised more than $7,500 in support of the Pike County Wrestling Team. These funds have provided scholarships each year to deserving wrestlers, ensured that no athlete is turned away due to financial hardship, and helped supply equipment not covered in the school’s annual budget.

Matt may no longer be here in body, but his spirit lives on in every young man who steps onto the mat with courage and character. If you knew Matt, you loved him. He was a true giver at heart.

It is our honor to carry his legacy forward by raising a love offering each year for the Pike County Wrestling Team.

Please join us in making a difference by honoring Matt’s life, his passion, and the young men he believed in!

Donations can be made here or sent directly to Pike County High School (please add Matthew Wornstaff Memorial to the memo) @ 331 Pirate Dr Zebulon Ga 30295