He served his sport as a wrestler, a coach and an official. Even more impressive is having served his country.

Al Sidar, who passed in 1997, received his highest honor having been awarded the prestigious Mirshak Award for “Excellence in Officiating” in 1988.

He wrestled at Thomas Jefferson High School (now Elizabeth High), where he placed 4th in the states, then enrolled at Rutgers in 1940. He competed for the Scarlet Knights three seasons before entering the U.S. Army Air Corps, where he would be a single engine flying instructor and helicopter pilot. In 1945 he attained the rank of 2nd Lieutenant, then returned to Rutgers where he was named captain of the wrestling team as a senior.

Sidar began coaching immediately at Rutgers-Newark, then moved back to New Brunswick to coach the RU freshmen and jayvee. He embarked on his officiating career, which he would do from 1947 to 1963.

For 17 straight years he officiated the NJSIAA state finals. Beginning in 1950 officials were selected by the state coaches, and

Al was chosen to officiate the state finals every year until his retirement, in addition to countless dual meets.

In 1968 he was made an ‘Honorary Member” of the New Jersey Wrestling Officials Association.

Away from the mat, Al would be named Admissions Officer at Rutgers, was the Executive Director of the College Entrance Examination Board, President of the New Jersey Association of Colleges and University, Dean of Somerset County College, as well as Dean of Waynesburg College.

Adding to his legacy was the establishment of the National Higher Education Consultant Organization for scholarship programs for businesses and corporations.

Back in 1949 he had the honor of writing the first wrestling instructional article to be printed in the Scholastic Coach magazine. He would author a total of six articles.

His last coaching position was re-establishing the wrestling program at Gill-St. Bernard’s School.

No surprise he’s been recognized for Lifetime Service to Wrestling.

He and his wife Jean had three children: Alexander 3rd, Elizabeth and Thomas.