The poker world has a hall of fame and is quite proud of those that are inducted, but many people – even very advanced and long time poker players – are unaware that there is an official Women in Poker Hall of Fame that regularly inducts members to enshrine in ceremonies each September. Founded by the Ladies International Poker Series with sponsors including Card Player Magazine, the hall of fame is designed to honor the females who have not only achieved a high level of success in the world of poker, but who have done a lot to contribute to the community in a positive way. The first members were inducted back in 2008 and since then, the group has gone a long way towards recognizing the contribution of women in the gaming industry. In order to qualify for an induction, potential candidates must undergo very rigorous scrutiny and then be voted in. Not only must they have been involved in the industry for more than 15 years, but they must also have given to the industry in a meaningful way. It could come as a win in a big event, or through business leadership.
Many feel that this hall of fame could help push forward the goal of bringing more talented ladies into the world of poker and for this reason, part of the induction criteria is that the lady in question, either through playing poker or not, must be supportive of the women’s poker events around the world. However, the strict requirements mean that big names like Annette Obrestad and Vanessa Selbst are not yet eligible to be considered. Currently, the women who are being considered include Annie Duke and Jennifer Harman.
