The Upstate New York Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame held its annual banquet & induction ceremony on September 27 at the Doubletree Inn in Syracuse.

Seven upstate New York region individuals were honored with Wayne Bleau, Dave Grazul, Mark Gumble, Elaine Krum, Gene Nighman, and Howard Weller receiving the Lifetime Service to Wrestling award and Lt. Col (ret.) Todd Messitt being recognized as an Outstanding American.

The Upstate New York Chapter is proud to recognize and congratulate these outstanding men and women for their service to wrestling.

Lifetime Service to Wrestling Recipients

Wayne Bleau, coach, Section III

Dave Grazul, official, Section V

Mark Gumble, coach, Section IV

Elaine Krum, coach, administrator and supporter, Section II

Gene Nighman, wrestler, coach, and administrator

Howard Weller, wrestler, coach and supporter, Section II

Outstanding American Recipient

Lt. Col (ret.) Todd Messitt, official and administrator, Section IX