Wednesday marked the beginning of public nominations for the World Series of Poker’s 2013 Poker Hall of Fame. From a list of candidates, provided by both public submission as well as a nominating committee, there will be two members of the poker community who will be honored with induction during the World Series of Poker Final Table of the Main Event this November.
Once the public voting is tabulated, submissions conclude on August 15, and the entire list of individuals that meet the criteria will be turned over to a committee. Entrants will be reviewed, the list will be pared down, and additions of overlooked players will be introduced.
The list from the Nominating Committee is then turned over to current Hall of Fame members, as well as a select group of the poker media, in order to vote on and determine a finalist ballot. The finalist ballot is a short list from which HOFers and select media are asked to rank those they deem worthy of inclusion. The Governing Council then reviews the selections, and the two finalists with the most votes will join the 40 (19 living) other members of the Poker Hall of Fame in enshrinement.
The criteria for consideration for the Hall of Fame are as follows:
- Player must have played, for high stakes, against top competition
- At least 40 years old before August 15, 2013
- Gain the respect of their peers through consistently good play
- Stood the test of time
Non-players are also eligible based on their contribution to the growth of the game of poker, with positive and lasting effects.
