Island Park, New York may be a small village on Long Island, but it has made a significant impact on the world of professional wrestling. Comedian and podcaster Tim Dillon, raised in Island Park, has brought attention to the area through his unique blend of humor and cultural commentary. In 2022, Vice TV launched a series titled Tim Dillon's Backyard Wrestling, where Dillon explored the subculture of backyard wrestling, highlighting its grassroots appeal and the passionate individuals involved. This series not only entertained but also shed light on the DIY spirit that characterizes much of independent wrestling. Dillon attended Nassau Community College in Garden City, a venue that has hosted live events by major promotions like the WWF and independent organizations such as Create A Pro Wrestling, as shown within the "Garden City" section of this LibGuide.
Island Park is also home to Patrick Fitzpatrick, known in the ring as DJ Phat Pat. Fitzpatrick has been a prominent figure in the New York wrestling scene, particularly within promotions like New York Wrestling Connection (NYWC) and Create A Pro. As a member of the tag team QGTM, he has held multiple championships, including the NYWC Tag Team Championship and the CEP Tag Team Championship with Jey Mesias. More on Fitzpatrick can be found within the "Floral Park" section of this LibGuide.
Additionally, Island Park's influence in the wrestling community is reflected in the charitable efforts related to firefighter Michael Fischer. Fischer, an Island Park resident, was the focus of a charity event held in Baldwin's American Legion Post 246 in 2023, as featuring talent from the ECPW Wrestling Academy in Lake Hiawatha, New Jersey, Create A Pro Wrestling school of Hicksville, and the New York Wrestling Connection in Deer Park.
Researched by Darren Paltrowitz on June 18, 2025.