Julie Stoll’s connection to Panther wrestling spans decades — first as a young fan in the stands, then as a student assistant working alongside coaches and athletes, and now as a donor supporting the program’s future.

Growing up in Cedar Falls, Stoll was captivated by the energy of Panther wrestling meets — intimate, loud and unforgettable experiences that sparked a lifelong connection.

“I started going to the home UNI wrestling meets when I was four or five years old,” she said. “UNI has always had a great program, with great coaches, great wrestlers and amazing fans.”

As a student, Stoll became one of a select group of UNI wrestling mat aides. The mat aides,  student volunteers, worked closely with coaches and staff, assisting with both day-to-day operations and tournament events. Stoll served under coaches Chuck Patton and Don Briggs and remembers the experience as both formative and fun.

“They gave us a lot of responsibility in that role,” she said. “We would work in the coach’s office answering phones, writing letters to recruits, giving tours to potential recruits. That was a great experience as a young student. We learned great communication skills, but also a lot of pride for the team.”

“My freshman year, I think there were about 200 that applied to be a mat aide, so it was an honor to be selected,” she added.

Now, Stoll is one of many loyal alumni and fans stepping up to bring the new Wrestling Training Facility to life — a key initiative of UNI’s Our Tomorrow campaign. Together, this growing community of supporters is helping ensure Panther wrestlers have the dedicated space they need to train, grow and compete at the highest level.

“The West Gym was a great home for a long time for our wrestlers. The fans loved to come, and our competitors — not so much!” she said. “We were loud and proud in that facility. I want this to continue in the future for our wrestlers and fans.”

Her support also reflects the example set by her parents, lifelong Panther fans and alumni themselves. 

“I follow the direction of what my parents did throughout life,” Stoll said. “They always gave what they could to support UNI Athletics. My dad was on the UNI Athletic Board of Directors for years and did fundraising for athletics. I just want to continue to support this sport.”

For Stoll, the wrestling training facility reflects both a proud tradition and a promising future. 

 “UNI wrestling is one of the top programs in the United States,” she said. “We need to provide a facility that will help us stay at this elite level.”