MANHEIM, PA – The National Wrestling Coaches Association (NWCA) has announced the 2025 Division III Men's Hall of Fame class, featuring eight distinguished coaches, contributor, officials, and wrestlers. The honorees will be inducted at the Honors Banquet on Friday, August 1, at the Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa in Ponte Vedra Beach, FL.
The 2025 inductees are Brian Anderson (Wabash College), Minga Batsukh (St. John's University), Ken Daws (Official), Riley Lefever (Wabash College), Brian Manzi (Official), John Oostendorp (Coe College), Joe Rau (Elmhurst College), and Mort Zifferer (York College of Pennsylvania).
Brian Anderson (Wabash College – Coach)
Brian Anderson led Wabash College to national prominence after he took over as head coach in 2004. Under his leadership, Wabash produced multiple All-Americans, national champions, and top team finishes, including a runner-up finish at the 2022 NCAA Division III Championships. He has been named NCAA DIII Coach of the Year, Regional Coach of the Year, and D3wrestle.com Coach of the Year. Anderson also developed numerous Scholar All-Americans, cementing Wabash as both an athletic and academic powerhouse in Division III wrestling.
Minga Batsukh (St. John's University – Wrestler)
Minga Batsukh became one of St. John's University's most decorated wrestlers, capturing three consecutive NCAA Division III national titles from 2009 to 2011. He was known for his dynamic style and relentless attack, compiling an outstanding career record. Batsukh's dominance on the mat helped elevate St. John's wrestling program to national recognition, making him one of the most successful athletes in school history.
Ken Daws (Official)
A dedicated official for over three decades, Ken Daws, has officiated at multiple NCAA Division III Championships, as well as EIWA and D1 National Championships. A former Marine, Daws has been an influential mentor and evaluator for officials, working alongside the NCAA to improve officiating standards. He has been inducted into multiple halls of fame, including the National Wrestling Hall of Fame's Pennsylvania Chapter.
Riley Lefever (Wabash College – Wrestler)
Riley Lefever is one of the most dominant wrestlers in Division III history. He finished his career undefeated against DIII opponents (129-0) and became only the second DIII wrestler to win four NCAA titles. He was named NCAA Most Dominant Wrestler in 2017 and earned NWCA Most Outstanding Wrestler honors. An Academic All-American and three-time NWCA Scholar All-American, Lefever set a new standard for excellence in Division III wrestling.
Brian Manzi (Official)
A former New York state champion, Brian Manzi transitioned from a successful wrestling career to officiating, where he became a respected referee at the Division III level. Manzi officiated multiple NCAA Championships and was instrumental in mentoring young officials. His contributions have left a lasting impact on the sport, helping maintain high standards of fairness and integrity in collegiate wrestling.
John Oostendorp (Coe College – Coach)
John Oostendorp has built Coe College into a perennial Division III powerhouse, consistently producing national qualifiers and All-Americans. His teams have earned multiple top-10 finishes at the NCAA Championships, and he has been recognized as a Regional Coach of the Year. A former All-American himself, Oostendorp has dedicated his career to developing student-athletes both on and off the mat.
Joe Rau (Elmhurst College – Wrestler)
Joe Rau captured an NCAA Division III national title in 2013 for Elmhurst College before going on to a successful international career in Greco-Roman wrestling. Rau became a U.S. World Team member and national champion, showcasing the potential of Division III wrestlers on the world stage. His journey from NCAA champion to international competitor has inspired many within the wrestling community.
Mort Zifferer (York College of Pennsylvania – Contributor)
Mort Zifferer has been a vital figure in York College's wrestling program for decades, serving as a coach, administrator, and mentor. His leadership helped grow the program into a competitive force in Division III, fostering success both athletically and academically. His lifelong commitment to wrestling has made a lasting impact on York College and beyond.
NWCA Division III Men's Hall of Fame Info
Location: Sawgrass Marriott Golf Resort & Spa (Ponte Vedra Beach, FL)
DATE: Friday, August 1
TICKETS: https://www.nwcaconvention.com/shop/product/386557
