The Upstate New York Chapter of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame held its annual banquet & induction ceremony on Sunday, September 27th at the Double Tree Inn in Syracuse.

Seven individuals from across the upstate New York region were honored at the 2026 banquet to include six Lifetime Service to Wrestling honorees and one Outstanding American honoree all recognized and inducted to the NWHoF.

The Upstate New York Chapter is proud to recognize these outstanding men and women for their service to wrestling in upstate New York as part of the 2026 Hall of Fame class!

Congratulations!

Lifetime Service to Wrestling – Wayne Bleau – coach, Section III

Lifetime Service to Wrestling – Dave Grazul – official, Section V

Lifetime Service to Wrestling – Mark Gumble – coach, Section IV

Lifetime Service to Wrestling – Elaine Krum – coach, administrator, supporter, Section II

Lifetime Service to Wrestling – Gene Nighman – wrestler, coach, administrator

Lifetime Service to Wrestling – Howard Weller – wrestler, coach, supporter, Section II

Outstanding American – Lt. Col (ret.) Todd Messitt – official, administrator, Section IX