Clarissa Chun, born on August 27, 1981, is a distinguished figure in the world of amateur wrestling, currently serving as the head coach of the Iowa Hawkeyes Women's wrestling program. Her impressive career includes a notable tenure as the USA Wrestling assistant National coach, where she contributed significantly to the development of female wrestlers in the United States.
Chun made history as the first female wrestler from Hawaii to earn an Olympic medal, competing in the women's freestyle 48 kg (105.5 lbs) category. Her achievements have not gone unnoticed; she was inducted into the Hawaii Sports Hall of Fame in two thousand eighteen and the National Wrestling Hall of Fame as a Distinguished Member in two thousand twenty-two, marking a significant milestone for female athletes.
In a groundbreaking moment for women's wrestling, the year two thousand twenty-two saw Chun and fellow wrestler Sara McMann become the third and fourth women to be inducted into the National Wrestling Hall of Fame as Distinguished Members, joining the ranks of Tricia Saunders and Kristie Davis. This recognition highlights the growing impact of women in the sport.
Further solidifying her legacy, Chun was also honored as part of the 2023 class of the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) National High School Hall of Fame. Her journey in wrestling continues to inspire many, as she leads the next generation of female wrestlers at the University of Iowa.