Class of 2024 Hall of Fame

For Minga Batsukh ’06, wrestling championships are more than a personal victory.

Minga Batsukh ’06 lived a nomadic life as a child in Western Mongolia and serendipitously arrived at St. Benedict’s when the National Mongolian Wrestling team competed in New York. Overcoming significant cultural differences and language barriers, Mr. Batsukh thrived at The Hive and achieved two All-American titles in wrestling.

His wrestling career continued at St. John’s University in Minnesota. Mr. Batsukh won three consecutive NCAA Division III National Wrestling championships: his overall college record stands at 96-17.

“This moment is special to me because it is a significant milestone that started far from here,” said Mr. Batsukh, who flew more than 6,000 miles to attend the Hall of Fame. He described the three NCAA championships that went beyond personal victories. “They were a tribute to those who believed in me and supported me.” He had many people to thank for helping him acclimate to life in the U.S., overcome language barriers, and learn the rules and methods of America wrestling.

To his Benedict’s coach, Mike DiPiano, Sr. H ’82 (who was also athletic director at the time), Frank DiPiano ’01 and the DiPiano family, he said, “Thank you. You guys have been there for me every step of the way. I appreciate everything you did for me even today.”

Mr. Batsukh returned to Mongolia, assuming the role of Secretary General of the Mongolian Wrestling Federation. His primary focus now is nurturing and supporting the next generation of young wrestlers and advancing the sport of wrestling in his home country.