Once Mort Geller made up his mind to become a wrestling official, nothing would stand in his way of becoming one of the very best.

In just 10 years, Mort worked his way to the international scene and established himself as an outstanding clinician. After becoming a FILA Exceptional Official, he officiated for Israel at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. In 1999, he was named the USWOA Official of the Year.

Although international acclaim gave Mort a great sense of accomplishment, nothing made him more proud than receiving an award given for outstanding leadership and contributions in the training of new officials and the development of young athletes. The award, the Phil Portuese Memorial Award, was named in the memory of his very dear friend. Mort was considered to be the foremost teacher of young mat officials around the country.

He passed away in July of 2000. His presence has been -- and will be -- sorely missed.