University of North Carolina Athletics
Wrestling Gives Back At Ronald McDonald House
October 3, 2025 | Wrestling, Student-Athlete Development
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. – Carolina's wrestling program spent time volunteering at Chapel Hill's Ronald McDonald House this week, packaging meals for patients and their families. It was a great opportunity for Tar Heel student-athletes to step outside of their daily routines and connect with the broader Carolina community, which they do many times throughout the year.
"Community service means a lot to me," freshman Mikey Calcagno said. "I like being able to help people, and I like to make a difference. It hits me in the core, being able to help people who are going through something, and it's much more than just giving back."
For families navigating the emotional and physical toll of a child's serious illness, the Ronald McDonald House offers more than just a place to stay, but also a sense of home during an incredibly difficult time.Â
"It is something that is very close to me, as my family had to spend an extended time at a Ronald McDonald House and the care and comfort they provide is something that will stick with us forever," Associate head wrestling coach Tony Ramos said. "My team understands what we went through and has been great in wanting to give back to a place that does so much good for the patients in our community."
Over the years, Carolina's wrestling team has demonstrated a strong commitment to community service through meaningful partnerships and individual volunteer efforts. The team has collaborated with TABLE Inc., an organization that provides nutritious meals to the homes of over 1,100 children every week. It has also built a lasting relationship with Team Impact, a multiyear program that connects children facing serious illnesses and disabilities with collegiate athletic teams, offering mentorship, support and inclusion.
In addition to these team initiatives, individual wrestlers have spent time volunteering at local organizations such as the Neumann Center and Big Brothers Big Sisters.
"Our goal as a program is to win on the mat, in the classroom, and in our community," Ramos added.
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Players Mentioned
