Resistance Pro's POP Is Making A Difference

Last Thursday, Resistance Pro wrestlers performed in front of the students of Taft School in Lockport. Despite the day being centered on the ring, this is not a story about wrestling. This is the continuing story of RPro’s POP (Positive Outreach Program).

I have often heard RPro’s C Red describe POP as his baby. There is no doubt about that. There also is no doubt that C Red (like a good father) is nurturing it and helping it grow and become increasingly more successful.

Right from the debut of RPro three years ago, C Red had a vision. He was already a manager, a broadcaster and a director for RPro, but he wanted to do something to reach out to the youth of today. That goal was realized over a year ago with the debut of POP.

I vividly remember that first POP event. We were all a bit nervous and excited to connect with the students. A few hours later, we left with smiles on our faces. I think we got as much out of it as the students did (maybe even more).

Since then, there have been several more POP events. All of us at RPro take these events seriously, including RPro co-owners Jacques and Gabe Baron, who are at virtually every event. You usually see at least a dozen other RPro workers. Even Creative Director Billy Corgan participates, when his schedule allows. This isn’t just lip-service. This is a company-wide mission.

I am not a wrestler, but C Red always includes me (and other non-wrestlers) in the POP event. He also individually thanks everyone for participating. He is the leader, but C Red makes sure we are all included in everything.

At this last POP event, there were two separate sessions, each having a few wrestling matches, followed by a short talk and a Q&A. The students were loud, excited and captivated, while being very well-behaved.

While the activities at POP events differ, the overall message is the same. C Red encourages every student to follow their dream, stay focused and make their own choices. Nobody should stop them. They can do anything. It is the stuff of afterschool movies, but it is real-life and inspiring to all, including the RPro representatives, many of whom have followed their dream to RPro.

C Red always says the goal is to make a difference. If we make a difference in one child’s life, we have succeeded. I am certain we affected more than one of the hundreds of students in the gym that day. I also know, I always walk away looking at things a little differently, too.