On this episode of the Circuspreneur Podcast, host Shenea Stiletto interviews World Acrobatics Society Secretary and Chairperson for the Gallery of Legends Hall of Fame Stacie Hansen.
The World Acrobatics Society (WAS) is an exciting, growing world-wide organization whose members share a love of acrobatics. Their mission is to advance the education, communication and cooperation among all individuals and organizations interested in fostering the growth, development and safety of the various acrobatic disciplines along with preserving their histories. Shenea Stiletto and Stacie Hansen discuss the nomination process in the lead up to the upcoming Hall of Fame Class of 2025 announcement in April. Tune in to learn how you can nominate an Acrobatic Legend for 2026, and attend the Induction Ceremony happening in Las Vegas Sept. 2025.
What is the World Acrobatic Society (WAS) and what makes its Hall of Fame unique?
The World Acrobatic Society honors athletes from a wide range of acrobatic disciplines—including artistic gymnastics, acrobatic gymnastics, diving, tumbling and trampoline, professional acrobatics, and action sports. What makes WAS unique is its inclusivity. Unlike many Hall of Fame institutions that focus on a single sport, WAS brings together legends from across disciplines—Olympians, circus families, action sports pioneers—all in one community. The annual induction ceremony, held at Tuscany Suites in Las Vegas, includes not just the gala, but also panels and meet-and-greets, fostering dialogue and connection between disciplines and generations.
Who can attend and participate in the WAS Hall of Fame weekend?The weekend is open to everyone—from fans to athletes, professionals, and families. It’s not just about watching a black-tie ceremony; it’s about connection. Attendees can join the welcome party, sit in on panels where inductees share personal journeys, and engage in Q&A sessions. You’ll find Olympic gymnasts seated next to circus families, Red Bull divers chatting with parkour stars. It’s that blend that makes the weekend unforgettable.
What are the criteria to nominate someone for the WAS Hall of Fame?Criteria vary by discipline but typically include at least five years of competitive activity, with national and international participation for athlete categories. Nominees should also demonstrate lasting impact on their sport. Nomination forms and criteria are listed on worldacro.com, and while we offer guidelines, they’re not rigid rules. Submissions are reviewed by committees of experts in each discipline. Once the vetting process is complete, final votes are cast by the board, and inductees are announced in late April each year.
To nominate someone, you must be a WAS member ($35 annually). Nominators should include as much supporting material as possible—photos, videos, and historical records—to strengthen the application. Anyone passionate about a nominee’s legacy can submit, whether they’re family, friends, or fans.
What disciplines and awards are recognized by the World Acrobatic Society?
- WAS celebrates six main disciplines:
- Artistic Gymnastics
- Acrobatic Gymnastics
- Tumbling & Trampoline
- Diving
- Professional Acrobatics (including circus performers)
- Action Sports (like freestyle motocross, parkour, and extreme sports)
In addition, there are four auxiliary awards:
- Charlie Pond Service Award – for contributions to the organization
- Lifetime Achievement Award – for extraordinary careers
- Golden Achievement Award – for athletes who have used their discipline to impact the world positively
- Acrobatic Excellence Award – recently inaugurated, with the Blue Angels as its first recipients
Each award reflects a different facet of how acrobatics shapes lives and communities, both in and outside of sport.
Can someone be nominated posthumously or by someone outside their family or team?
Absolutely. Nominations can be made posthumously, and nominators don’t need a direct relationship to the nominee. In fact, many nominations come from admirers or professional peers. As long as the nomination criteria are met and there’s sufficient supporting documentation, the committee will evaluate the case fairly.
Once someone is nominated, the materials are reviewed by discipline-specific committees (made up of experts in that area), scored, and presented to the board for a final vote. We’re all volunteers, so it’s a passion project—but one we’re deeply committed to, ensuring that legends of acrobatics are remembered and celebrated properly.
Key Takeaways:
- Why WAS matters
The organization provides historical context and recognition to disciplines that are often overlooked or undocumented, especially in the U.S. where circus and acrobatic traditions are less institutionalized than in Europe. - Historical Highlights
Stacey fondly remembers when Olga Korbut and Svetlana Boginskaya were inducted. Another favorite is the Flying Caballeros family and action sports icon Travis Pastrana, illustrating the depth and variety WAS encompasses. - On the future
With disciplines evolving—like the increasing acrobatic elements in synchronized swimming—WAS remains open to updating categories as long as they align with the core value of “aerial flipping and balancing.” - On community
WAS has become more than an organization; it’s a family. As Stacey puts it, “Gymnastics was always my safe space. Being part of WAS made me realize that safe space is global.”
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This post was last modified on May 10, 2025 10:12 pm