RICHMOND, Virginia – The Virginia Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame is honored to announce five inductees for the Class of 2023 who have made a lifetime of outstanding contributions to the sport of wrestling in the commonwealth of Virginia. 

Johnny Blevins, David Olah, Ed Rawlins, Dean Shew, and Bill Turner will receive the Lifetime Service to Wrestling award. The honor is presented to coaches, officials and contributors who have dedicated a lifetime serving Virginia’s youth through the sport of wrestling.

Johnny Blevins is a former Commissioner of the Appalachian Officials Association and one of the longest serving officials in Virginia history, now in his 51st year.

Dr. David Olah built an imposing program at Deep Creek High School as part of the dominant Eastern Region, winning 8 district, 2 regional and the AAA state championship in 1983. He also won Coach of the Year at the state and national levels.

Lt. Col. Ed Rawlins is a retired combat vet and Army Ranger, exactly the type of role model our kids need. He's now in his 25th year of officiating. He has refereed 10 VHSL state championships, 22 district and region tournaments and serves as the Commissioner for the Northern Virginia Wrestling Officials Association.

Dean Shew was a motivator whose inspiration was evident every day on the mat. He led Stonewall Jackson Middle School to 11 undefeated seasons then picked up the charge at Lee-Davis High School to win eight district and six regional championships.

Bill Turner has done it all. He coached at the legendary Granby High School for seven years, Green Run for 19 years, a stop at Lake Taylor High School, 13 seasons at Lynnhaven Middle School, six seasons at Salem Middle School and has been officiating since 2002. He's refereed 19 district, 13 regional and nine state championships.

The Class of 2023 will be honored on April 15th, 2023, at the Virginia Crossings Resort and Conference Center in Glen Allen, VA. There will be a reception at 4:30pm followed by a banquet and induction ceremony at 6:00pm.

Tickets are $85 per person and can be purchased at https://va-nwhof.ticketleap.com/2023-honors-banquet/