"Each of these wrestlers has made a significant contribution to the wrestling community far beyond their excellence on the mat in competition and been invaluable in the success of WWB and its member clubs," said WWB Chairman Roger Brigham. "All of them have proven track records as respected coaches and competitors in the mainstream sports world that translates into acceptance and legitimacy for LGBT wrestling. Manfred's success at the Gay Games, Outgames and EuroGames has been the most consistent and unifying theme in recent years and his leadership was key to European success at the Gay Games in Cologne. Carlis and Calvin both had dazzling scholastic careers, have been tireless fundraising leaders, and have provided inspiration and technical advice to scores of wrestlers. Peter supplied a framework under which Gay Games wrestling has been run so successfully the past decade, and Drew has been tireless in his coaching and organization efforts for more than 20 years."

The Don Jung WWB Hall of Merit is named in honor of Don Jung, organizer of the first Gay Games wrestling tournament in 1982. It was founded in 2007, and there are 28 previous members. It honors those "who have displayed sacrifice and selflessness to encourage other to achieve as much as they could and to create safe and supportive wrestling opportunities for athletes regardless of skill level, gender, orientation or age." Inductions are made in none-Gay Games years.

For more information on the WWB Hall if Merit, visit our Legacy section.

For information on regsitering for the tournament, click here.