Beginning his long wrestling career under the tutelage of Frank “Sprig” Gardner, George Munnich capped an exceptional win-loss record with the 1953 106 lb. SSAL Title.

During the 1954 season, a serious leg injury ended his high school career. He went on to compete for the United States Merchant Academy at Kings Point and was subsequently named to their Athletic Hall of Fame. Service in the United States Merchant Service and the United States Navy during the Vietnam War did not interrupt his commitment to wrestling; it just made it more global as he found wrestling in every port of call.

Upon his return to his home town of Bellmore, George embarked on a coaching career, training entry level kids for the two high schools in the community and continued his relationship with Coach Gardner by working at Sprig’s wrestling clinics at Gettysburg College. For over 35 years, George has volunteered at every free-style and scholastic tournament in the area. Coaching, supervising, weigh-ins, producing bracket sheets, George is always there to contribute any he can.

Perhaps the parents of the wrestlers he coached can sum up his most lasting contributions. They write. “His great enthusiasm and love for the sport of wrestling is always apparent. From the first encounter with Coach Munnich and for a 10-year period, we observed the same commitment from Coach Munnich. He always recognized the potential in every individual who came out for wrestling and took special pride in helping the beginners. While Coach Munnich’s knowledge for wrestling is immense, he did more for our children than just teach them how to wrestle. He shaped them into men eager to overcome any obstacles they would have to face in life. The lessons they have learned on the mat have been applied to real life situations.”

George Munnich is most deserving of induction into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame due to his lifetime service of Wrestling.