Fireworks stolen from Apex high school wrestling fundraiser

"We had all been working hard and we all had been wanting to raise a lot of money because I remember last season we didn't have much money," said Rawad Nasrallah, a wrestling team member.

Nasrallah and his wrestling teammates are among many of the volunteers who are in disbelief that someone would steal $500 worth of fireworks.

"Automatically, that is off our bottom line," said Dana Emberland, who has a child on the wrestling team.

Emberland said the money was going to be used next season for tournaments, equipment and other needs.

"It's hard for the boys in the beginning, but they understand. They are working hard," he said. "We are working hard to make it back if we can."

Emberland said the theft happened even though the wrestling coach was sleeping in a nearby camper. The coach now sleeps in a tent, and his team is using the discipline they bring to the mat to get through the disappointment.

"If we all work as a team, I guess we can all get through this easier," said Nasrallah. "It is way easier for all of us to push through and make money in the end, and in the end have it as successful as we can."

Emberland says the theft happened even though the wrestling coach slept in a nearby camper; the coach now sleeps in the tent and his team is using the discipline they bring to the mat to get through this disappointment.

The students and volunteers will keep the stand open until July 5, or while supplies last.