The wrestling career of Pete Chakmakas began in 1964 on the mats of Guilderland high in Albany, New York. It was then on to Cortland State where he wrestled for 4 years and graduated in 1972.

Upon graduation, Coach Chakmakas began a 30 year coaching career with the Junior Varsity Wrestlers at Milford Mill High School. After 5 years with the JV Chakmakas took over the varsity program in 1977. Two years later he took over the helm of the wrestling program at Overlea High School where he compiled a dual match record of 120-60 over the next 13 years. While at Overlea he brought the legendary Hall of Fame Coach Elmer Dize aboard, and together they developed a team, which was to become a dominant force in the State of Maryland with 7 individual State Champions.

Then in 1992, Coach Chakmakas, always ready for a new challenge, moved on to Dulaney High School where he led another wrestling success story until his retirement from coaching in 2001, thereby completing 30 years of service to the sport.

1n 1990, Pete Chakmakas was recognized as the distinguished All Metro Coach of the Year, and, in 1993, he received the Contribution to Wrestling Award from the Maryland Wrestling Officials Association; and in 1995 he was named Baltimore County Coach of the Year.

With his humble unassuming attitude, Pete is a "Class Act". With statistics aside, it has been his sincere dedication to hundreds of young people and the influence he has had upon them has provided Coach Chakamas with his outstanding success.

Pete has served on the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, Maryland Chapter Executive Board for 13 years. During this time served as an Treasurer for this organization.

At present Pete Chakmakas is now retired from Dulaney High and lives with his wife Maria in Baltimore, Maryland.