The New Jersey Chapter of the NWHOF mourned the recent passing of one of its finest, Mr. Gerry Bandola, longtime coach and founder of the Cedar Ridge High School wrestling program. Gerry was inducted into the 2009 Class of the New Jersey Chapter.

Gerry was one of the Top 25 winningest Coaches in the State of New Jersey finishing his career with 286 victories. Twice garnering "Coach of the Year" honors, he was inducted into the Region 5 Wrestling Hall of Fame, and recipient of the prestigious Harry E. Lake Award for his contributions to New Jersey Wrestling. Coach Bandola was regarded as a pioneer in the state, but especially for his contributions to the growth and development of the wrestling in Middlesex County.

Gerry was very popular amongst his wrestling colleagues, serving as President of the Middlesex County and Region 6 Coaches Association, and also as Vice President of the NJ State Wrestling Coaches Association.

Retired in Florida the past several years with his wife Charlotte, Gerry was also the proud father of his two daughters Jodi and Kavi.

Gerry Bandola will long be remembered as teacher, coach and friend to all who knew him through New Jersey wrestling.