Princeton University Athletics
Princeton Wrestling Alumna Appointed To National Wrestling Hall of Fame Board of Governors: Audrey Pang ’05
November 09, 2023 | Wrestling
PRINCETON, NJ - This week, the National Wrestling Hall of Fame made the announcement that Audrey Pang, a Princeton alumna from the class of '05, received unanimous approval to become a member of the Board of Governors.
Pang, the first woman in the Princeton wrestling program, was named co-captain of the team her senior year and remains the only female wrestler to compete in dual meets in a Princeton singlet and at an NCAA Division I men's wrestling conference tournament.
Nearly two decades after stepping out of her Princeton singlet, she now stands before an opportunity to enhance her wrestling legacy by joining the esteemed National Wrestling Hall of Fame Board of Governors.
"I'm excited to be involved with the National Wrestling Hall of Fame, which is a great organization that aims to preserve, recognize, and inspire - critical to the continued growth and development of the sport," said Audrey. "Moreover, near and dear to my heart, they have been a leader from the front in their allyship and advocacy of women's wrestling."
The National Wrestling Hall of Fame is an institution dedicated to the sport of wrestling. It serves as a hall of fame and museum that honors and celebrates the achievements and contributions of individuals and organizations in the world of wrestling.
The board of governors plays a significant role in promoting and preserving the sport of wrestling by organizing events, exhibitions, and educational programs that aim to inspire and educate people about wrestling.
When asked about her dedication to wrestling, Audrey expressed, "I fell in love with wrestling 30 years ago and am extremely honored to be able to continue to help grow and celebrate the sport from this new seat on the National Wrestling Hall of Fame Board."
In her time at Princeton, she discovered that there was a robust career support system that existed within the Princeton wrestling community. This network included alumni, current athletes, and parents of fellow teammates, all offering their assistance. Although competing against Division I men posed a significant challenge, the encouragement and backing from alumni and other Princeton parents were a source of motivation. During moments of disappointment over losses, she drew strength from the unwavering support of the Princeton community, encouraging her to persevere.
"I am forever indebted to Princeton Wrestling, which has shaped the person that I am today," said Audrey. "PFW has always been a family to me, from welcoming me on my very first day on campus right up through throwing me a bachelor party this year, separate from my bachelorette party, which I also had, but with less cauliflower ear. I am especially grateful to Coach New, who in creating a space for me in the Princeton Wrestling room, was decades ahead of his time."
Audrey shared that she had a distinct sense of being unique but never encountered differential treatment. Throughout her tenure at Princeton, she actively participated in wrestling against the men and engaged in practice sessions with the team every year. She felt just as much a part of the team as any other member. In her fourth season, she even secured a place on the roster and competed wearing the orange and black.
"Wrestling gave me the tools to be successful in my life. I'll always be thankful for what the sport has given me," said Audrey
Long after her Princeton graduation, Audrey reflected on how the PFW community has remained a steadfast presence in her adult life, offering guidance, support, encouragement, and opportunities.
Audrey envisions young female wrestlers, such as Princeton's Chloe Ayres, currently a junior, to serve as pioneers in advancing the sport and fostering increased opportunities. She looks forward to her recent appointment opening up further opportunities for her to advocate for women's wrestling and contribute to the sport's expansion.
Princeton Athletics and the Princeton Wrestling Community wish Audrey the best of luck in her new appointment.
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