State Chapters
Purpose of the State Chapters
The Board of Governors of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum established the State Chapter program in 1993.
The purpose is to pay tribute to those coaches, officials and contributors who represent the best qualities of what the sport of wrestling has to offer and who share those characteristics with young people day in and day out.
Nomination Information
Lifetime Service To Wrestling
Given in recognition of 20 years or more of dedication to the development of leadership and citizenship in the youth through the sport of wrestling.
Outstanding American
Given to former wrestlers who are highly successful in other walks of life and use the disciplines learned in wrestling in their profession.
Medal of Courage
A former wrestler who has overcome what appear to be insurmountable challenges, which may be physical, mental or other disabilities that make their achievements all the more uplifting.
State Chapter Director
Krista Graff
State Chapter Office
405 West Hall of Fame Avenue
Stillwater, OK 74075
Phone: (405) 742-4470
Email: kgraff@nwhof.org
Latest State Chapter News
Oklahoma Chapter to Induct Seven in October
The Oklahoma Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame will honor seven outstanding individuals at its 2025 induction ceremonies in Edmond in October.
Coaches Jack Hornbuckle, Michael Lightner, Dan Pettigrew and John Smith, as well as longtime wrestling sports reporter Mac Bentley will receive the Lifetime Service to Wrestling Award. Colonel Kelly Laughlin will be presented the Outstanding American Award and former highway patrolman Robert Nale, Jr. will receive the Medal of Courage.
Pennsylvania Chapter Will Honor Class of 2026 On April 26
The Pennsylvania Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame will be hosting its 32nd Annual ceremony on Sunday, April 26, 2026.
The Class of 2026 is Jeff Byers, Tom Corey, Dale Franquet, Paul Gilbert, John Kreamer, Rob Lorence, Mike Sernoffsky, Ralph Voit, Rob Waller Jr., and Bryan Zeamer.
Washington Chapter Announces Class of 2026
The National Wrestling Hall of Fame Washington Chapter are proud to announce their Class of 2026 that will be honored on Saturday, May 2, 2026 at the Federal Way Performing Arts and Event Center in Federal Way, Washington.
Florida Chapter Class of 2025
The Florida Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame hosted its annual ceremony and honored Lifetime Service to Wrestling recipients Terry Brockland, Frank Fuder, Brian K. Jones, Michael Madry, Jonathan Vogt, Jeremy Walton, and Medal of Courage recipient Christopher Brent Hixon.
Our Mission: Preserve wrestling history, recognize extraordinary achievement and inspire greatness
Our Vision: Be the definitive steward and champion of wrestling history and achievement
Our Values: Integrity, Excellence, Collaboration and Service