In 2011, the wrestling world was shaken when the International Olympic Committee announced that wrestling would be removed from the Olympic Games. This decision struck at the heart of the sport, sparking a global movement to reinstate wrestling. Among the passionate advocates who stepped forward were Stephanie and Cliff Fretwell, founders of Compound Sportswear. What began as a grassroots effort to raise awareness for Save Olympic Wrestling quickly evolved into a major force in the wrestling apparel industry.
The Birth of Compound Sportswear: A Passion-Driven Solution
Cliff Fretwell, a dedicated wrestling coach and club owner, was no stranger to the challenges facing the wrestling community. As the owner of Compound Wrestling Club, he experienced firsthand the frustration of dealing with poor-quality teamwear, uninspired designs, and subpar customer service. Wrestling teams across the country were forced to settle for mediocre products that didn’t meet their needs. This industry-wide problem pushed Cliff and Stephanie to take matters into their own hands.
During the Save Olympic Wrestling campaign, the Fretwells began selling t-shirts to raise funds and draw attention to the cause. The success of their initiative brought Compound Sportswear significant notoriety and respect in the wrestling community. What started as a small-scale operation to support the sport they loved quickly became a full-fledged business. Recognizing the demand for high-quality, custom wrestling uniforms and teamwear, the Fretwells seized the opportunity to turn their passion project into a solution for the wrestling industry.
Solving the Teamwear Problem
As wrestling club owners, Cliff and Stephanie had long been dealing with the hassle of ordering teamwear for their athletes. The market was saturated with unreliable suppliers that offered inconsistent quality, late deliveries, and limited customization options. To address these issues, the Fretwells launched Compound Sportswear—a brand that would not only solve the pain points of teamwear ordering but also revolutionize the industry with innovative designs and superior service.
From the very beginning, Compound Sportswear focused on producing custom wrestling uniforms, performance apparel, and teamwear that would meet the unique demands of wrestlers. By controlling the design and manufacturing process, they could guarantee the highest standards of fit, function, and durability. This hands-on approach set Compound Sportswear apart and positioned it as a leading name in wrestling apparel.
Growing with the Wrestling Community
Compound Sportswear’s growth is deeply rooted in the sport of wrestling. Unlike other brands, Compound has always remained closely connected to the athletes and the wrestling community through Compound Wrestling Club. The club serves as both a training ground for elite athletes and a testing ground for new products. Every piece of gear is rigorously tested by real wrestlers, ensuring that it performs under the toughest conditions. This unique integration of a wrestling club and an apparel company allows Compound Sportswear to continuously improve its offerings based on feedback from the athletes they serve.
Through this partnership with the wrestling community, Compound has grown into a brand that is trusted by thousands of teams across the country. In fact, Compound Sportswear has proudly serviced over 6,000 teams, providing them with custom wrestling uniforms, team gear, and exceptional customer service. Whether it’s outfitting national champions or developing gear for youth programs, Compound is dedicated to supporting wrestlers at every level.
Supporting the Growth of Wrestling
At the core of Compound Sportswear’s mission is a commitment to the growth and development of wrestling. From grassroots efforts to national sponsorships, Compound has been a driving force in promoting the sport. Their hands-on involvement in the Save Olympic Wrestling movement not only helped reinstate wrestling into the Olympics but also raised the profile of the Compound brand within the wrestling community.
Compound’s innovation extends beyond apparel. Through running training camps, hosting national events, and sponsoring athletes, Compound continues to support the sport in meaningful ways. One of the most notable athletes sponsored by Compound Sportswear is Pifer Fowler, a world champion who represents the next generation of wrestling talent. This direct involvement in the sport ensures that every decision made at Compound Sportswear is “rooted” in wrestling culture.
Built Different: Leading the Industry in Innovation
Over the past decade, Compound Sportswear has emerged as a leader in design and product innovation. The company’s slogan, “Built Different,” reflects its commitment to excellence and innovation in wrestling apparel. Compound continuously pushes the boundaries of what’s possible in custom wrestling uniforms and performance apparel, offering cutting-edge designs that cater to the evolving needs of athletes.
What truly sets Compound Sportswear apart is its relentless dedication to understanding the real-world demands of wrestlers. By staying connected to the athletes they train, sponsor, and support, Compound ensures that every product delivers superior performance. From custom singlets to training gear, every piece of Compound Sportswear is designed with the wrestler in mind.
A Decade of Success and Beyond
As Compound Sportswear looks to the future, its commitment to wrestling remains as strong as ever. What began as a passion project to save wrestling from being removed from the Olympics has transformed into one of the most respected brands in the wrestling apparel industry. With nearly two decades of experience through Compound Wrestling Club and over 6,000 teams outfitted, Compound continues to lead the way in custom wrestling uniforms and performance apparel.
Whether you’re looking for high-quality gear for your team or want to support a brand that’s deeply ingrained in the sport of wrestling, Compound Sportswear is the go-to choice for wrestlers and teams across the globe.
Contact us today at sales@cmpsportswear.com to learn more about our custom wrestling teamwear solutions and how Compound Sportswear can help elevate your program with gear that’s truly “Built Different.”
