When many people hear the term "professional wrestling," they picture the ostentatious get-ups and dramatic performances associated with companies such as World Wrestling Entertainment (WWE). The professional wrestling promotion is notorious for hosting extravagant shows that combine athleticism with intense theatrics, the likes of which have turned eccentric characters like Hulk Hogan into household names. Although most people view professional wrestling as nothing more than a display of impressive stunts, Lancaster residents Jesus Rodriguez and Chris Dreisbach see the art form as a means to impact the community in a positive way.

Rodriguez has been active in the world of wrestling for many years, serving as both a wrestler and an announcer for organizations such as WWE and Combate Global during his career. After his time in the ring, Rodriguez worked as a trainer in wrestling academies across the United States, and he has traveled to nearly every continent on the globe as an instructor. Rodriguez first visited Lancaster to receive treatment at Blueprints for Addiction Recovery, a local rehabilitation center owned by Dreisbach. Dreisbach had also previously worked with WWE to benefit addiction recovery programs, and he and Rodriguez connected over their shared love of wrestling.

In September 2022, Rodriguez and Dreisbach founded Three Legacies Wrestling, a professional wrestling outfit located on South Centerville Road in Lancaster. In addition to training local wrestlers, Three Legacies Wrestling has reintroduced the sport to the Lancaster community by regularly hosting shows across the county. One of Three Legacies' main goals is to change the public's perception of substance abuse disorders, and Rodriguez and Dreisbach regularly use the organization as a platform to raise money for recovery programs. "As we grow, we can also educate people on the recovery process and what it entails," Rodriguez said. "We also have a couple students in recovery. (Wrestling) motivates them to stay clean and to push forward."

In addition to fighting the stigma that surrounds drug addiction, Three Legacies Wrestling has made an effort to reverse the public's perception of professional wresting as a whole. "Wrestling has become an underground community because of how it's perceived," said Rodriguez. "People come together every month for their love of wrestling, even if they come from different backgrounds and lifestyles." Three Legacies also ensures that its shows are family-friendly to allow families to bring their children without worrying about crass performances. "It's nice to see people who are skeptical when they come to a show, but by the end, the adults are usually cheering louder than the kids," added Rodriguez.

Three Legacies seeks to strengthen its bond with the community by frequently coordinating toy drives, food drives, and giveaways via partnerships with local businesses. The organization also offers discounted tickets for students in the Penn Manor School District and those who attend Millersville University, where Three Legacies will host its next show on Saturday, Jan. 20, at 5:30 p.m. Three Legacies hopes to continue its partnership with the university by creating internship programs for video production students in the future.

To learn more about Three Legacies Wrestling or to purchase a ticket for the next show, visit http://www.threelegacieswrestling.com.