PAINESVILLE, Ohio -- The Lake Erie College Athletic Department announces with great sadness the passing of long-time wrestling volunteer coach Andrew Bearden after a 2+ year battle with Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML).

Coach Bearden's love and passion for Lake Erie wrestling was unmatched!" said Storm wrestling head coach, Boomer Fechko. "I can't put a price tag on what he gave and did for me, the program, and the school. My heart hurts. I'm going to miss my friend."

Bearden started with the Storm wrestling program in 2014-15. During his 10-year tenure, he helped coach 35 national qualifiers, nine All-Americans, and was a vital part of four conference championships.

In leu of flowers, donations can be made in Andrew's name to the Lake Humane Society or The 24 in 24.