Category: USSSA Major Slow Pitch

1994 USSSA Men’s Major Slow Pitch World Series

1994 held at Daytona Beach, Florida.


Champion – Converters/Vernon’s/TPS, Kinston, North Carolina
Runner Up – Spectrum/Easton, Golden Valley, Minnesota


  • MVP – Jimmy Powers, Convertors (16-23, .696, 2 HR, 9 RBI)
  • Home Run Leader – Hank Garris, Bell Corp. (11-20, .550, 19 RBI) – 9
  • Batting Leader – John Whaley, O&S (14-19, 7 HR, 19 RBI) – .734
  • Defensive MVP – Randy Romagna, Converters/ Vernon’s/TPS

ALL WORLD TEAM

P – Butch Ovens, Convertors/Vernons
C – Rick Weiterman, Ritch’s/Superior
EH – John Whaley, O&S/TPS
EH – Mike Macenko, Ritch’s/Superior
1B – Hank Garris, Bell Corp.
1B – Dirk Androff, Ritch’s/Superior
1B – Dennis Graser, Spectrum/Easton
2B – Dewayne Nevitt, Converters/Vernons
2B – Andy Alvis, Spectrum/Easton
3B – Rusty Bumgardner, Converters/Vernons
3B – Todd Volkers, Spectrum/Easton
SS – Todd Joerling, Bell Corp.
SS – Randy Romagna, Converters/Vernons
OF – Scott Othoudt, Spectrum/Easton
OF – Jimmy Powers, Converters/Vernons
OF – Jeff Franks, Spectrum/Easton
OF – Larry Carter, Labtec/Demarini
OF – Dan Schuck, Bell Corp.
OF – Scott Elliott, Converters/Vernons
OF – Todd Martin, Converters/Vernons
MGR – Elvin Herring, Converters/Vernons

FINAL STANDINGS

1. Converters/Vernon’s/TPS, LaGrange, NC (5-1)
2. Spectrum/Easton, Crystal, MN (6-2)
3. Ritch’s/Superior/TPS, Windsor Locks, CT (3-2)
4. Bell Corp., Tampa, FL (4-2)
5t. O&S/TPS, Burnsville, MN (3-2)
5t. Hague/Ohio Transport/Four Star, Columbus, OH (2-2)
7t. Labtec/Demarini, Vancouver, WA (2-2)
7t. Dan Smith Plastering, San Jose, CA (2-2)
9t. Bunca/Worth, Kalamazoo, MI (1-2)
9t. Steele’s/Sunbelt Hitmen, Brook Park, OH (1-2)
9t. Riverside/RAM/Taylor Brothers/TPS, Louisville, KY (1-2)
9t. Williams/Worth, Spring, TX (1-2)
13t. Lighthouse/Worth, Stone Mountain, GA (0-2)
13t. Herb’s/Dynasty/TPS, San Diego, CA (0-2)
13t. RSH/Deep South/Worth, Jackson, MS (0-2)
13t. Shen Valley/DJ’s Sports/TPS, Atchison, KS (0-2)

1993 USSSA Men’s Major Slow Pitch World Series

1993 held at Daytona Beach, Florida.


Champion – Bell Corp, Tampa, Florida
Runner Up – Williams/Worth, Houston, Texas


  • MVP – Dan Schuck, Bell Corp. (16-30, .533, 9 HRs, 19 RBIs)
  • Home Run Leader – Dan Schuck, Bell Corp. – 9
  • Home Run Leader – Carl Rose, Williams/Worth – (18-26, .692, 21 RBIs) – 9
  • Home Run Leader – Larry Friedieu, Vernon’s – (16-21, .762 , 23 RBIs) – 9
  • Batting Leader – Dirk Androff, Ritch’s/ Superior (8-10, 4 HRs, 6 RBIs) – .800
  • Defensive MVP – Greg Cannady, Bell Corp.

USSSA MAJOR WORLD SERIES ALL WORLD TEAM

  • Pitcher – Greg Cannedy – Bell Corp.
  • Catcher – Brian Ward – Bunca/Worth
  • Extra Hitter – Wendell Rickard – Williams/Worth
  • First Base – Ricky Huggins – Vernon’s
  • First Base – Jeff Arnold – Bell Corp.
  • Second Base – David Pohl – Bunca/Worth
  • Third Base – Rusty Bumgardner – Convertors/TPS
  • Third Base – Dewayne Nevitt – Vernon’s
  • Third Base – Jon Meyers – Williams/Worth
  • Third Base – Scott McDaniel – Bunca/Worth
  • Shortstop – Todd Joerling – Bell Corp.
  • Shortstop – Mark Martin – Bell Corp.
  • Outfield – Ed Starcher – Williams/Worth
  • Outfield – Scott Flood – DJ’s Sports/TPS
  • Outfield – Phil White – Bell Corp.
  • Outfield – Carl Rose – Williams/Worth
  • Outfield – Larry Fredieu – Vernon’s
  • Outfield – Hank Garris – Williams/Worth
  • Outfield – Dan Schuck – Bell Corp.
  • Manager – Terry Perryman – Bell Corp.

FINAL STANDINGS

1. Bell Corp., Tampa, FL (7-1)
2. Williams/Worth, Spring, TX (4-2)
3. Vernon’s, Jacksonville, FL (3-2)
4. Bunca/Worth, Kalamazoo, MI (4-2)
5t. Convertors Unlimited/TPS, LaGrange, NC (3-2)
5t. DJ’s Sports/TPS, Atchison, KS (2-2)
7t. Herb’s Synasty, San Diego, CA (2-2)
7t. Dan Smith Plastering, San Jose, CA (2-2)
9t. Ritch’s/Superior, Windsor Locks, CT (1-2)
9t. Steele’s/Sunbelt, Brook Park, OH (1-2)
9t. Pace/Worth, Rochester, NY (1-2)
9t. TPS/AJD Softball, Richmond, VA (1-2)
13t. Taylor Brothers, New Kingston, RI (0-2)
13t. Spectrum/Easton, Crystal, MN (0-2)
13t. New Construction/TPS, Shelbyville, IN (0-2)
13t. St. Louis/Worth, St. Louis, MO (0-2)

1992 USSSA Men’s Major Slow Pitch World Series

1992 held at Daytona Beach, Florida.


Champion – Ritch’s-Superior/TPS, Windsor Locks, Connecticut
Runner Up – Williams/Worth, Houston, Texas


Ritch’s-Superior became the first team in Softball History to win the Grand Slam of Softball. They won the ISA, NSA, ASA and now the USSSA World Championships. They finished the season with an 80-9 record and will always be mentioned when considering the greatest teams of all time. The R-S Express won without their leading hitter, big Jim Fuller, who broke the single season batting average record sent by Mike Nye back in 1976. Nye batted .769. Fuller ended the season with a .774 batting average. Dave Steffen had 12 HRs among his 15 hits, was named the MVP. Ritch’s defeated Williams/Worth 25-22 in the championship game. Britt Hightower, who always comes up big in championship games, was 4-5 with 2 HRs. Ron Parnell hit 3 HRs, while Rick Weiterman, Doug Roberson and Darrell Beeler all had 3 hits in the game. Sterlin Ibrom was 4-4 for Williams/Worth. Carol Rose, Jon Meyers and Freddie Johnson all added two HRs each. Ritch’s out-homered Williams 12-11 and out hit them 24 to 23. Williams eliminated Spectrum 27-13 in the loser’s bracket final as John Grissom had 5 Home Runs in the game. A word of note; this was Cecil Whitehead’s 7th USSSA World Series Championship, more then any other player.


  • MVP -Dave Steffen, Ritch’s-Superior (15-24, .625, 12 HRs, 25 RBIs, 17 Runs)
  • Home Run Leader – Dave Steffen, Ritch’s-Superior – 12
  • Home Run Leader – Carl Rose (18-27, .667, 25 RBIs, 23 Runs), Williams/Worth – 12
  • Batting Leader – (min. 15 ABs) – Curtis Williams, Vernon’s (19-22, 7 RBIs, 13 Runs) – .864
  • Defensive MVP – Carl Rose, Williams/Worth

USSSA MAJOR WORLD SERIES ALL WORLD TEAM

  • Pitcher – Paul Drilling – Ritch’s/Superior (13-25, .520, 4 HRs, 12 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Catcher – Freddie Johnson – Williams/Worth (17-26, .654, 9 HRs, 17 RBIs, 16 Runs)
  • Catcher – Rick Weiterman – Ritch’s/Superior (18-27, .667, 5 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Catcher – Tim Magner – Spectrum (16-24, .667, 8 HRs, 14 RBIs, 15 Runs)
  • First Base – Dennis Graser – Ritch’s/Superior (11-21, .524, 5 HRs, 7 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Second Base – Jon Meyers – Williams/Worth (16-27, .593, 11 HR, 21 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Third Base – Charles Wright – Ritch’s/Superior (10-17, .588, 8 HRs, 19 RBIs, 19 Runs)
  • Shortstop – Ron Parnell – Ritch’s/Superior (14-23, .609, 11 HRs, 18 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Outfield – Curtis Williams – Vernon’s (19-22, .864, 7 RBIs, 13 Runs)
  • Outfield – Kent Johnson – Slo-Pitch News (10-17, .588, 1 HR, 6 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Outfield – Doug Berfeldt – Spectrum (13-24, .542, 4 HRs, 14 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Outfield – Cecil Whitehead – Ritch’s/Superior (13-21, .619, 5 HRs, 5 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Outfield – Carl Rose – Williams/Worth (18-27, .667, 12 HRs, 25 RBIs, 23 Runs)
  • Outfield – Roy Eppley – Vernon’s (10-18, .556, 2 HRs, 19 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Outfield – Britt Hightower – Ritch’s/Superior (17-25, .680, 9 HRs, 19 RBIs, 16 Runs)
  • Utility – Dave Steffen – Ritch’s/Superior (15-24, .625, 12 HRs, 25 RBIs, 17 Runs)
  • Utility – John Grissom – Williams/Worth (17-27, .630, 11 HRs, 16 RBIs, 16 Runs)
  • Utility – John Whaley – Spectrum (15-20, .750, 6 HRs, 10 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Utility – Ted Larsen – Spectrum (10-18, .556, 4 RBIs, 7 Runs)
  • Utility – Kenny Pruitt – Nanny’s (15-19, .789, 6 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Manager – Buddy Slater – Ritch’s/Superior

OTHERS

  • Mark Baker, Bell Corp (9-11, .818, 3 HRs, 5 RBIs, 5 Runs)
  • Mark Martin, Bell Corp (10-13, .769, 2 HRs, 4 RBIs, 7 Runs)
  • Sylvin Little, Nanney’s (11-15, .733, 7 HRs, 23 RBIs, 13 Runs)
  • Tim Millette, Dan Smith (8-11, .727, 3 HRs, 5 RBIs, 7 Runs)
  • Jason Kendrick, Datom-Argus (7-10, .700, 1 HR, 5 RBIs, 5 Runs)
  • Todd Martin, Nanney’s (11-16, .688, 5 HRs, 11 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Cody Wyatt, Starpath (10-15, .667, 3 HRs, 11 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Dan Schuck, Bell Corp (8-12, .667, 4 HRs, 7 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Danny Williams, Steele’s Sunbelt (5-8, .625, 3 Runs)
  • Doug Roberson, Ritch’s-Superior (15-25, .600, 8 HRs, 18 RBIs, 13 Runs)
  • Bruce Meade, Starpath (9-15, .600, 4 HRs, 9 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Greg Whitlock, Starpath (9-15, .600, 5 Runs)
  • Steve Craven, Steele’s Sunbelt (3-5, .600, 1 RBI, 2 Runs)
  • Donnie Rardin, Starpath (10-17, .583, 10 Runs)
  • Darrell Beeler, Ritch’s-Superior (14-24, .583, 9 HRs, 14 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Larry Carter, DJ’s Sports (7-12, .583, 3 HRs, 5 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Doug Brown, AJD (4-7, .571, 1 HR, 2 RBIs, 2 Runs)
  • Jimmy Powers, Steele’s Sunbelt (4-7, .571, 4 HRs, 5 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Mike Macenko, Steele’s Sunbelt (4-7, .571, 2 HRs, 3 RBIs, 3 Runs)
  • Dirk Androff, Ritch’s-Superior (13-23, .565, 7 HRs, 15 RBIs, 17 Runs)
  • John Keigley, Williams/Worth (13-23, .565, 5 RBIs, 13 Runs)
  • Derek Oliver, Nanney’s (9-16, .563, 4 HRs, 12 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Phil White, Nanney’s (10-18, .556, 3 HRs, 7 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Kenny Carver, Williams/Worth (14-25, .560, 9 HRs, 16 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Mark Heirlmeier, DJ’s Sports (6-11, .545, 4 HRs, 8 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Ed Berg, Dryden (6-11, .545, 2 HRs, 6 RBIs, 4 Runs)
  • Hank Garris, Bunca (6-11, .545, 2 HRs, 9 RBIs, 5 Runs)
  • Sterlin Ibrom, Williams/Worth (14-26, .538, 4 HRs, 11 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Doug Burns, DJ’s Sports (7-13, .538, 7 HRs, 12 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Ken Dain, Slo-Pitch News (8-15, .533, 7 HRs, 14 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Dewayne Frizzell, Vernons (12-23, .522, 6 HRs, 12 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Ron Ford, Vernons (10-20, .500, 3 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Mike Nye, Vernons (3-6, .500)
  • Rick Plante, Starpath (7-14, .500, 2 HRs, 8 RBIs, 7 Runs)
  • Monty Tucker, Steele’s Sunbelt (2-4, .500, 1 RBI)
  • Robbie Ergle, Vernons (12-25, .480, 7 HRs, 15 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Mike Jacobs, Vernons (10-21, .476, 3 RBIs 10 Runs)
  • Greg Harding, Dryden (4-9, .444, 1 HR, 3 RBIs, 2 Runs)
  • Larry Fredieu, Bell Corp (5-12, .417, 4 HRs, 6 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Todd Joerling, Bell Corp (5-12, .417, 4 HRs, 7 RBIs, 4 Runs)
  • Don Clatterbaugh, Dryden (4-10, .400, 2 Runs)
  • Rick Scherr, AJD (2-5, .400, 2 HRs, 5 RBIs, 2 Runs)
  • Craig Elliott, AJD (2-5, .400, 1 RBI, 1 Run)
  • Tot Powers, Steele’s Sunbelt (2-5, .400, 2 HRs, 6 RBIs, 2 Runs)
  • Wendell Rickard, Datom-Argus (3-8, .375, 2 HRs, 4 RBIs, 4 Runs)
  • Ricky Huggins, Vernons (8-22, .364, 5 HRs, 11 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Dewayne Nevitt, Starpath (5-14, .357, 3 HRs, 3 RBIs, 5 Runs)
  • Bill Blake, Bell Corp (4-12, .333, 2 HRs, 4 RBIs, 3 Runs)
  • Rick Wheeler, Bell Corp (2-10, .200 2 HRs, 4 RBIs, 2 Runs)
  • Mike Bolen, Datom-Argus (1-5, .200, 2 RBIs, 1 Run)
  • Clyde Guy, AJD (1-6, .167, 1 HR, 3 RBIs, 2 Runs)

FINAL STANDINGS

1. Ritch’s/Superior/TPS, Windsor Locks, CT (5-0)
2. Williams/Worth, Spring, TX (4-2)
3. Spectrum/Easton, Golden Valley, MN (4-2)
4. Vernon’s, Jacksonville, FL (4-2)
5t. Slo-Pitch News, Seattle WA (3-2)
5t. Nanney’s Office Supply, Spartenburg, SC (2-2)
7t. DJ Sports, Atchison, KS (2-2)
7t. Starpath, Monticello, KY (2-2)
9t. Bunca Car Wash/Worth, Kalamazoo, MI (1-2)
9t. Bell Corp., Tampa, FL (1-2)
9t. Dan Smith Plastering, San Jose, CA (1-2)
9t. Dryden/Ragtop Pizza/Harrison, Newport News, VA (1-2)
13t. AJD/Wilson Sportign Goods, Richmond, VA (0-2)
13t. Datum Argus, Lebanon, TN (0-2)
13t. Pace/Worth, Rochester, NY (0-2)
13t. Steele’s/Sunbelt, Brook Park, OH (0-2)

1991 USSSA Men’s Major Slow Pitch World Series

1991 held at Daytona Beach, Florida.


Champion – Ritch’s-Superior/TPS, Windsor Locks, Connecticut
Runner Up – Starpath/LeAlCo, Monticello, Kentucky


Starpath, the second ranked team, most of the season put Ritch’s-Superior in the losers bracket with a 29-24 win in which they hits 21 Homers. Starpath then beat Sunbelt 28-17 in the winner’s bracket finals. Ritch’s won games in the losers bracket by scores of 6-5 and 13-11. Then in the loser’s bracket finals, their bats came alive as they defeated Sunbelt 24-3. The R-S Express then defeated undefeated Starpath twice to win the Championship. The scores were 29-6 and 18-8. In the final victory, Jim Fuller was 4-5 with 3 RBI. Dirk Androff, Britt Hightower, Dave Steffen and pitcher Paul Drilling all had 3 hits. Bruce Meade was 3-3 with 3 homers for Starpath. Big Dirk Androff, the regular First Basemen, had to play in the outfield when Cecil Whitehead went down with an injury, he was named the MVP for his play in the field and also for his clutch hitting as he went 23-34 (.696) with 13 HR and 27 RBI.

The Stottler Stagg team met for its morning meeting to talk softball and swill coffee.

But neither words nor caffeine could awaken the team. “I kept telling them that the fire and intensity weren’t there,” manager Dick Landress said. “I saw it in the first game [a 10-9 loss]. For some reason, we didn’t come here wanting to win badly enough. “I told them we lacked spirit [Thursday night]. I talked to them about it over our team meeting this morning, and they agreed. If we didn’t turn it around, we knew this game could be our last.” This game was Stottler Stagg’s last. The team, based in Cocoa, was eliminated from the United. States Slowpitch Softball Association Men’s Major World Series, 16-13, by Murfs (Colo.) before an estimated crowd of 600 Friday morning. Other scores from the second day of the tournament: Coors/Atkins (Kan.) beat Sports Hero’s (Minn.). 11-6; Neuse Sand and Gravel (N.C.) defeated AJD/Russell (Va.) 18-3; and Gooslin Construction (Ohio) topped Spectrum (Minn.), 12-5.

The only team from Florida left in the series is Bell Corp. of Tampa. Today’s games of the double-elimination tournament begin with the losers’ bracket pairings at 3:30 and 5:30 p.m. The winners’ bracket games are scheduled for 6:30 and 8 p.m. Stottler Stagg, ranked ninth by Softball USA, wasn’t expected to win, but Landress said his team should have done better. Three players had hit 50 home runs or more during the season. And the team had chances but failed to capitalize. Stottler Stagg was beaten by Bunca in extra innings in its opening game. Then Muris scored five runs in the top of the seventh (last) inning to score a comeback victory in its last. “We didn’t play half as well as we could have,” said Landress, whose Stottler Stagg team has competed in three consecutive USSSA World Series. “We have six months apart in the off-season. “I’d like to have these same guys next year. They’ve been too good for too long not to come back and try again.”


  • MVP – Dirk Androff, Ritch’s-Superior (23-34, .676, 13 HR, 27 RBI, 19 Runs)
  • Home Run Leader – Bruce Meade, Starpath (18-23, .783, 23 RBI, 18 Runs) – 16
  • Batting Leader (15 ABs) – Gary Adams, Dan Smith (13-15, 7 RBI, 6 Runs) – .867
  • Defensive MVP – Larry Fredieu, Starpath/Le-Al-Co

USSSA MAJOR WORLD SERIES ALL WORLD TEAM

P – Andy Cook – Starpath (11-22, .500, 1 HR, 8 RBI, 6 Runs)
P – Paul Drilling – Ritch’s/Superior (13-28, .464, 3 RBI, 7 Runs)
C – Bruce Meade – Starpath (18-23, .783, 16 HR, 23 RBI, 18 Runs)
1B – Rich Plante – Wlliams/Finke (14-21, .667, 7 HR, 17 RBI, 14 Runs)
2B – Darrell Beeler – Ritch’s/Superior (15-29, .517, 10 HR, 15 RBI, 16 Runs)
2B – Dan Schuck – Larry’s Used Cars (14-20, .700, 11 HR, 20 RBI, 14 Runs)
3B – Charles Wright – Ritch’s/Superior (14-25, .560, 9 HR, 15 RBI, 21 Runs)
3B – Carl Rose – Sunbelt Plastics (15-20, .750, 7 HR, 14 RBI, 14 Runs)
SS – Greg Whitlock – Starpath (11-20, .550, 1 HR, 8 RBI, 6 Runs)
OF – Gary Jones – Starpath (12-17, .706, 2 HR, 7 RBI, 9 Runs)
OF – Larry Fredieu – Starpath (14-23, .609, 11 HR, 12 RBI, 13 Runs)
OF – Dirk Androff – Ritch’s/Superior (23-34, .676, 13 HR, 27 RBI, 19 Runs)
OF – Greg Schulte – Sunbelt Plastics (13-21, .619, 6 HR, 13 RBI,11 Runs)
OF – Jeff Peterson – Dan Smith (14-21, .667, 4 HR, 18 RBI, 14 Runs)
OF – Wes Lord – Dan Smith (14-19, .737, 5 HR, 15 RBI, 8 Runs)
OF – Sylvin Little – Sunbelt Plastics (12-21, .545, 4 HR, 7 RBI, 10 Runs)
UTIL – Jim Fuller – Ritch’s/Superior (22-33, .667, 8 HR, 21 RBI, 19 Runs)
MGR – Buddy Slater – Ritch’s/Superior


OTHERS

Hank Garris, Stottler Stagg (6-6, 1.000, 2 HR, 2 RBI, 5 Runs)
Randy Romagna, Neuse Sand & Gravel (11-14, .786, 1 HR, 10 RBI, 6 Runs)
Mark Heirlmeier, Bell Corp (11-15, .733, 5 HR, 8 RBI, 12 Runs)
Freddie Johnson, Larry’s Used Cars (14-20, .700, 4 HR, 11 RBI, 10 Runs)
Mark Baker, Bell Corp (11-16, .688, 3 HR, 7 RBI, 10 Runs)
Bob Louria, Bunca (2-3, .667, 1 Run)
Rick Weiterman, Ritch’s/Superior (14-22, .636, 6 RBI, 9 Runs)
Cliff Carpenter, Bell Corp (10-16, .625, 1 HR, 4 RBI, 8 Runs)
Dave Steffen, Ritch’s/Superior (17-28, .607, 8 HR, 21 RBI, 14 Runs)
Cecil Whitehead, Ritch’s/Superior (7-12, .583, 2 HR, 2 RBI, 3 Runs)
Doug Flynn, Bell Corp (8-14, .571, 2 HR, 7 RBI, 4 Runs)
John Keigley, Williams/Finke (9-16, .563, 5 RBI, 9 Runs)
Steve Craven, Sunbelt (12-22, .545, 7 HR, 13 RBI, 11 Runs)
Jeff Arnold, Williams/Finke (12-22, .545, 9 HR, 14 RBI, 11 Runs)
Chuck Maiorana, Bunca (6-11, .545, 2 RBI, 4 Runs)
Kenny Carver, Sunbelt (10-19, .526, 6 HR, 15 RBI, 11 Runs)
Danny Williams, Sunbelt (11-22, .500, 3 HR, 9 RBI, 9 Runs)
Ernie Montgomery, Larry’s Used Cars (10-20, .500, 5 HR, 10 RBI, 12 Runs)
Mike Martin, Bell Corp (7-14, .500, 5 HR, 8 RBI, 8 Runs)
Todd Martin, Neuse Sand & Gravel (4-8, .500, 2 HR, 4 RBI, 3 Runs)
Britt Hightower, Ritch’s/Superior (15-33, .484, 9 HR, 15 RBI, 15 Runs)
John Grisson, Williams/Fink (12-25, .480, 6 HR, 7 RBI, 11 Runs)
Bill Blake, Larry’s Used Cars (9-19, .474, 6 HR, 13 RBI, 11 Runs)
Doug Roberson, Ritch’s/Superior (15-33, .455, 9 HR, 17 RBI, 13 Runs)
Todd Joerling, Sunbelt (9-20, .450, 6 HR, 8 RBI, 11 Runs)
Mike Macenko, Sunbelt (10-23, .435, 2 HR, 4 RBI, 10 Runs)
Ron Parnell, Ritch’s/Superior (12-28, .429, 2 HR, 9 RBI, 14 Runs)
Doug Berfeldt, Sports Heros (3-7, .429, 1 RBI, 1 Run)
Clyde Guy, Sunbelt (6-14, .429, 5 HR, 11 RBI, 9 Runs)
Dave Allen, Starpath (8-20, .400, 5 HR, 9 RBI, 9 Runs)
Craig Elliott, Neuse Sand & Gravel (4-10, .400, 3 RBI, 4 Runs)
Rick Wheeler, Starpath (9-24, .375, 4 HR, 11 RBI, 10 Runs)
Doug Brown, Starpath (9-24, .375, 7 HR, 15 RBI, 8 Runs)
Jimmy Powers, Neuse Sand & Gravel (4-11, .364, 3 Runs)
Tot Powers, Neuse Sand & Gravel (4-13, .308, 2 HR, 4 RBI, 4 Runs)


FINAL STANDINGS

1. Ritch’s/Superior, Windsor Locks, CT (7-1)
2. Starpath/LeAlCo, Monticello, KY (4-2)
3. Sunbelt Plastics/Worth, Stone Mountain, GA (3-2)
4. Dan Smith Plastering, San Jose, CA (3-2)
5. Larry’s Used Cars/Capitols, Grand Prairie, TX (3-2)
6. Williams/Finke, Spring, TX (3-2)
7t. Bell Corp., Tampa, FL (2-2)
7t. Neuse Sand & Gravek, La Grange, NC (2-2)
9t. Coors/Atkins, Dodge City, KS (1-2)
9t. Murfs/Sonny’s/Worth, Denver, CO (1-2)
9t. Bunca Car Wash, Kalamazoo, MI (1-2)
9t. Gooslin Construction, Columbus, OH (1-2)
13t. Spectrum Screen Print Inc., Crystal, MN (0-2)
13t. AJD/Russell Athletics, Richmond VA (0-2)
13t. Stottler Stagg/Cocoa Express, Cape Canaveral, FL (0-2)
13t. Sports Heros Athletics, Eagan, MN (0-2)

1990 USSSA Men’s Major Slow Pitch World Series

1990 held at Greensboro, North Carolina.


Champion – Ritch’s/Kirk’s, Harrisburgh, North Carolina
Runner Up – Superior/Apollo, Windsor Locks, Connecticut


The big story was whether Steele’s Silver Bullets could complete the Grand Slam of Slow Pitch. They had previously won the ISA, NSA and ASA World Series and were trying to be the first to win all four Championships in the same year. Sports Heros of Minnesota stunned Steele’s in their first game by defeating them 21-18. After defeating the Las Vegas Aces and then Lighthouse of Stone Mountain, GA, the Men of Steele’s were eliminated by Bell Corp 29-28 on a 2-run walk off HR by Bell Corp’s Hal Harlan. The Grand Slam would have to wait. This tournament belonged to Cecil Whitehead and the Ritch’s/Kirk’s squad as they went undefeated and defeated defending champ, Superior/Apollo 35-14 in the Championship game. Whitehead was 4-5 with 2 HRs and 5 RBIs and made some of the most incredible catches in left field. He was the HR and Batting leader of the tournament. Britt Hightower (4-5, 2 HRs, 6 RBIs), Greg Whitlock (4-5, 2 RBIs), Charles Wright an Rick Wheeler (3 HRs each) led the R/K offense. Clyde Guy was 4-4 for Superior/Apollo in a losing effort.


  • MVP – Cecil Whitehead, Ritch’s/Kirk’s (18-23, .783, 15 HRs, 25 RBIs, 21 Runs)
  • Home Run Leader – Cecil Whitehead, Ritch’s/Kirk’s – 15
  • Batting Leader – Cecil Whitehead, Ritch’s/Kirk’s – .783
  • Defensive MVP – Richard Wilborn, Hinson Capitals

USSSA MAJOR WORLD SERIES ALL WORLD TEAM

  • Pitcher – Paul Drilling – Ritch’s/Kirk’s (13-24, .542, 3 HRs, 7 RBIs, 13 Runs)
  • Catcher – Brian Ward – Sunset (10-17, .588, 8 HRs, 19 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Catcher – Jim Fuller – Superior/Apollo (24-35, .750, 12 HRs, 26 RBIs, 25 Runs)
  • First Base – Freddie Johnson – Hinson Capitols (15-22, .682, 9 HRs, 15 RBIS, 13 Runs)
  • First Base – Bruce Rains – Ritch’s/Kirk’s (10-18, .556, 4 HRs, 8 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Second Base – Dennis Graser – Superior/Apollo (16-24, .667, 5 HRs, 11 RBIs, 21 Runs)
  • Third Base – Mike Cuellar – Hinson Capitols (16-23, .696, 9 HRs, 11 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Shortstop – Greg Whitlock – Ritch’s/Kirk’s (16-23, .696, 5 HRs, 8 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Outfield – Mike Gunnels – Hinson Capitols (15-24, .625, 8 HRs, 13 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Outfield – Richard Wilborn – Hinson Capitols (12-21, .571, 7 HRs, 13 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Outfield – Cecil Whitehead – Ritch’s/Kirk’s (18-23, .783, 15 HRs, 25 RBIs, 21 Runs)
  • Outfield – Britt Hightower – Ritch’s/Kirk’s (17-27, .630, 7 HRs, 19 RBIs, 18 Runs)
  • Outfield – Cody Wyatt – Ritch’s/Kirk’s (13-23, .565, 4 HRs, 12 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Outfield – Rick Wheeler – Ritch’s/Kirk’s (12-24, .500, 9 HRs, 19 RBIs, 15 Runs)
  • Outfield – Dave Steffen – Superior/Apollo (20-31, .645, 10 HRs, 20 RBIs, 22 Runs)
  • Outfield – Andy Sanzaro – Superior/Apollo (18-28, .643, 8 HRs, 13 RBIs, 17 Runs)
  • Utility – Chuck Drewicz – Sunset (9-14, .643, 4 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Manager – Buddy Slater – Ritch’s/Kirk’s

OTHERS

  • Rick Scherr, Superior/Apollo (1-1, 1.000)
  • Craig Elliott, Stewart’s (5-6, .833, 4 HRs, 8 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Todd Joerling, Steele’s (12-17, .706, 8 HRs, 9 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Mike Macenko, Steele’s (14-20, .700, 9 HRs, 15 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Howard Copeland, Bell Corp (13-19, .684, 4 HRs, 6 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Greg Fuhrman, Superior/Apollo (8-12, .667, 1 HR, 6 RBIs, 5 Runs)
  • Ernie Montgomery, Steele’s (10-15, .667, 5 HRs, 8 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Chuck Maiorana, Sunset (9-14, .643, 1 RBI, 6 Runs)
  • Scott Virkus, Steele’s (7-11, .636, 3 HRs, 9 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Roger Snatchko, STewart’s (7-11, .636, 2 RBIs, 2 Runs)
  • Ron Parnell, Superior/Apollo (19-30, .633, 11 HRs, 21 RBIs 21 Runs)
  • Rich Plante, Superior/Apollo (17-27, .630, 8 HRs, 14 RBIs, 20 Runs)
  • Mark Martin, Bell Corp (13-21, .619, 6 HRs, 16 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Clyde Guy, Superior/Apollo (15-25, .600, 9 HRs, 23 RBIs, 15 Runs)
  • Doug Roberson, Superior/Apollo (9-15, .600, 8 HRs, 14 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Kerry Everett, Bell Corp (13-22, .591, 4 HRs, 7 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Dirk Androff, Steele’s (10-17, .588, 7 HRs, 13 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Bill Blake, Steele’s (10-17, .588, 5 HRs, 10 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Wendell Rickard, Lighthouse (5-9, .556, 3 HRs, 5 RBIs, 5 Runs)
  • Charles Wright, Ritch’s/Kirk’s (12-23, .522, 9 HRs, 14 RBIs, 15 Runs)
  • Cliff Carpenter, Bell Corp (12-22, .545, 1 HR, 5 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Mark Heirlmeier, Ritch’s/Kirk’s (12-22, .545, 9 HRs, 16 RBIs, 16 Runs)
  • Darrell Beeler, Superior/Apollo (17-32, .531, 10 HRs, 25 RBIs, 16 Runs)
  • Monty Tucker, Steele’s (9-18, .500, 5 HRs, 6 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Doug Brown, AJD (9-18, .500, 5 HRs, 15 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • John Beasley, Bell Corp (9-18, .500, 3 HRs, 9 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Steve Craven, Lighthouse (6-12, .500, 4 HRs, 6 RBIs, 5 Runs)
  • Curtis Williams, Lighthouse (5-10, .500, 3 RBIs, 2 Runs)
  • Danny Williams, Steele’s (7-15, .467, 3 HRs, 6 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • John Keigley, Superior/Apollo (12-27, .444, 6 RBIs, 13 Runs)
  • Rick Weiterman, Steele’s (7-16, .438, 1 RBI, 7 Runs)
  • Bob Louria, Sunset (3-7, .429, 3 Runs)
  • Carl Rose, Lighthouse (5-12, .417, 4 HRs, 5 RBIs, 5 Runs)
  • Jon Meyers, Hinson Capitols (9-22, .409, 3 HRs, 7 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Chic Downing, Coors Atkins (4-11, .364, 1 RBI, 4 Runs)
  • Dan Schuck, Steele’s (4-12, .333, 2 HRs, 4 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Mike Cellura, Starpath (2-6, .333)
  • Mike Parrott, Hinson Capitols (6-19, .316, 5 HRs, 11 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Ron Ford, Stewart’s (4-13, .308, 2 HRs, 5 RBIs, 2 Runs)
  • Dewayne Frizzell, Lighthouse (3-10, .300, 1 HR, 2 RBIs, 3 Runs)
  • Ricky Huggins, Lighthouse (3-11, .273, 1 HR, 2 RBIs, 3 Runs)
  • Ted Larsen, Sports Heros (3-15, .200, 1 RBI, 4 Runs)

FINAL STANDINGS

1. Ritch’s/Kirk’s, Harrisburg, NC (5-0)
2. Superior/Apollo, Windsor Locks, CT (4-2)
3. Hinson/Capitols Softball Club, Houston TX (4-2)
4. Sunset Technology, Warren, MI (3-2)
5. AJD Moody’s/Russell, Richmond, VA (3-2)
6. Bell Corp., Tampa, FL (3-2)
7t. Sports Hero Athletics, Eagan, MN (2-2)
7t. Steele’s Silver Bullets, Grafton, OH (2-2)
9t. Stewart’s Lounge, Pittsburgh, PA (1-2)
9t. Coors/Atkins, Dodge City, KS (1-2)
9t. Lighthouse, Stone Mountain, GA (1-2)
9t. Stottler Stagg, Cape Canaveral, FL (1-2)
13t. Williams & Thompson, Spring, TX (0-2)
13t. Las Vegas Aces, Las Vegas, NV (0-2)
13t. VIP/Express Transport, Cincinnati, OH (0-2)
13t. Starpath, Lexington, KY (0-2)

1989 USSSA Men’s Major Slow Pitch World Series

1989 held at Omaha, Nebraska.


Champion – Superior/Apollo, Windsor Locks, Connecticut
Runner Up – Ken Michael’s-Franny & Parr, Rockville, Maryland


The championship game was not even close as Superior/Apollo defeated Ken Michael’s/Fanny & Parr 65-16. Ken Michaels, in high spirits after knocking off powerful Steele’s 32-20. Steele’s was sent to the loser’s bracket by Superior/Apollo in the winner’s bracket final 32-31. In the Championship game, Dave Steffen set a record by hitting 9 Home Runs in the game. Steffen was 9 for 9 with 9 HRs and 13 RBIs. MVP Clyde Guy was 8-9 with 5 HRs. Rick Scherr (7-9, 6 HRs), Doug Roberson (8-8, 3 HRs), Rich Plante (8-8, 6 HRs, 11 RBIs), Darrell Beeler (7-8, 3 HRs) and winning Pitcher Greg Fuhrman 4-7 with 4 HRs) led the offensive explosion. In the game where Ken Michaels eliminated Steele’s, Rick Wheeler and Ted Cox both had 4 home runs and combined for 14 RBIs. Mike Macenko was 4-4 for Steele’s in the loss.


  • MVP – Clyde Guy, Superior/Apollo (25-29, .862, 18 HRs, 25 RBIs, 28 Runs)
  • Home Run Leader – Mark Baker, Bell Corp. (23-28, .821, 32 RBIs, 24 Runs) – 19
  • Batting Leader – Clyde Guy, Superior/ Apollo .862
  • Defensive MVP – Lou Page, Ken Michael’s

USSSA MAJOR WORLD SERIES ALL WORLD TEAM

  • Pitcher – Greg Fuhrman – Superior/Apollo (17-25, .680, 11 HRs, 16 RBIs, 28 Runs)
  • Pitcher – Paul Drilling – Ken Michael’s (18-28, .643, 7 HRs, 13 RBIs, 15 Runs)
  • Catcher – Dave Steffen – Superior/Apollo (24-31, .774, 18 HRs, 29 RBIs, 22 Runs)
  • Catcher – Hal Harlan – Bell Corp. (21-27, .778, 13 HRs, 28 RBIs, 22 Runs)
  • First Base – Mike Macenko – Steele’s (19-26, .731, 10 HRs, 15 RBIs, 18 Runs)
  • First Base – John Grissom – Ken Michael’s (23-29, .793, 13 HRs, 27 RBIs, 26 Runs)
  • Second Base – Mark Baker – Bell Corp. (23-28, .821, 19 HRs, 32 RBIs, 24 Runs)
  • Third Base – Ted Cox – Ken Michael’s (22-32, .688, 10 HRs, 16 RBIs, 17 Runs)
  • Third Base – Rick Scherr – Superior/Apollo (26-32, .813, 17 HRs, 32 RBIs, 26 Runs)
  • Shortstop – Darrell Beeler – Superior/Apollo (21-32, .656, 10 HRs, 17 RBIs, 20 Runs)
  • Outfield – Rick Wheeler – Ken Michael’s (21-33, .636, 15 HRs, 25 RBIs, 22 Runs)
  • Outfield – Rich Plante – Superior/Apollo (24-32, .750, 14 HRs, 23 RBIs, 23 Runs)
  • Outfield – Lou Page – Ken Michael’s (23-35, .657, 4 HRs, 9 RBIs, 18 Runs)
  • Outfield – Clyde Guy – Superior/Apollo (25-29, .862, 18 HRs, 25 RBIs, 28 Runs)
  • Outfield – Ken Loeri – Steele’s (14-21, .667, 9 HRs, 18 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Outfield – Doug Roberson – Superior/Apollo (24-33, .727, 15 HRs, 32 RBIs, 26 Runs)
  • Manager – Frank LaTeano – Superior/Apollo

OTHERS

  • Baxter Burris, Ritch’s Salvage (9-10, .900, 2 HRs, 9 RBIs, 7 Runs)
  • Phil Higgins, Joe Black’s Softball (7-8, .875, 3 HRs, 10 RBIs, 4 Runs)
  • Dennis Graser, Superior/Apollo (11-13, .846, 4 HRs, 6 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Rick Weiterman, Steele’s (14-17, .824, 5 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Britt Hightower, Ritch’s Salvage (8-10, .800, 3 HRs, 7 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Tony Dedonatis, Coors Light (11-14, .786, 6 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Steve Skladany, Stewart’s (17-22, .773, 11 HRs, 23 RBIs, 15 Runs)
  • Jim Fuller, Superior/Apollo (25-33, .758, 12 HRs, 24 RBIs, 27 Runs)
  • Steve Blanchette, Stewart’s (18-24, .750, 7 HRs, 20 RBIs, 17 Runs)
  • Ted Larsen, Century/Worth/Coors (18-24, .750, 7 RBIs, 13 Runs)
  • Mike Ambers, Bell Corp (18-25, .720, 5 HRs, 12 RBIs, 19 Runs)
  • Leland Nelson, Century/Worth/Coors (15-21, .714, 2 HRs, 8 RBIS, 14 Runs)
  • Chuck Maiorana, Coors Light (9-13, .692, 6 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Ed Berg, Stewart’s (17-25, .680, 9 HRs, 20 RBIs, 18 Runs)
  • Scott Virkus, Steele’s (16-24, .667, 7 HRs, 11 RBIs, 17 Runs)
  • Cliff Carpenter, Bell Corp (18-27, .667, 6 HRs, 12 RBIs, 19 Runs)
  • Roger Snatchko, Stewart’s (18-27, .667, 1 HR, 3 RBIs, 18 Runs)
  • Cody Wyatt, Starpath/Kirk’s (12-18, .667, 4 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Myles Schexnaydre, Ken Michael’s (21-32, .656, 10 HRs, 21 RBIs, 19 Runs)
  • Andy Cook, Superior/Apollo (17-26, .654, 11 RBIs, 15 Runs)
  • Larry Fredieu, Steele’s (15-23, .652, 9 HRs, 16 RBIs, 19 Runs)
  • Jon Meyers, Bell Corp (18-28, .643, 7 HRs, 17 RBIs, 17 Runs)
  • Mark Cauley, Bell Corp (18-28, .643, 9 HRs, 18 RBIs, 15 Runs)
  • Bruce Rains, Starpath/Kirk’s (9-14, .643, 8 HRs, 14 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Scott Jones, Starpath/Kirk’s (9-14, .643, 4 HRs, 8 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Phil Jobe, Budweiser/San Francisco (10-16, .625, 3 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Greg Whitlock, Ritch’s Salvage (6-10, .600, 6 RBIs, 5 Runs)
  • Dirk Androff, Steele’s (14-24, .583, 7 HRs, 12 RBIs, 15 Runs)
  • Craig Elliott, Steele’s (15-26, .577, 13 HRs, 23 RBIs, 16 Runs)
  • Bruce Meade, Ken Michael’s (20-35, .571, 12 HRs, 27 RBIs, 21 Runs)
  • Doug Flynn, Starpath/Kirk’s (8-14, .571, 1 RBI, 9 Runs)
  • Dave Allen, Starpath/Kirk’s (8-15, .533, 6 HRs, 13 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Butch Ovens, Ken Michael’s (17-32, .531, 8 HRs, 13 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Mike Nye, Ritch’s Salvage (4-8, .500, 3 Runs)
  • Charles Wright, Ritch’s Salvage (5-10, .500, 3 HRs, 5 RBIs, 5 Runs)
  • Ron Parnell, Steele’s (14-28, .500, 6 HRs, 9 RBIs, 15 Runs)
  • Bill Blake, Steele’s (13-26, .500, 10 HRs, 20 RBIs, 13 Runs)
  • Cecil Whitehead, Steele’s (10-21, .476, 6 HRs, 7 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Bill Gatti, Ritch’s Salvage (4-9, .444, 4 Runs)
  • Bob Louria, People’s Choice (4-10, .400, 1 RBI, 2 Runs)
  • Tim Linson, People’s Choice (4-10, .400, 3 HRs, 7 RBIs, 3 Runs)
  • Dan Schuck, Starpath/Kirk’s (5-16, .313, 1 HR, 2 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Don Clatterbaugh, Starpath/Kirk’s (4-16, .250, 2 HRs, 4 RBIs, 2 Runs)

FINAL STANDINGS

1. Superior/Apollo, Windsor Locks, CT (5-0)
2. Ken Michael/Franey & Parr, Rockville, MD (5-2)
3. Steele’s Silver Bullets, Grafton, OH (3-2)
4. Bell Corp., Tampa, FL (3-2)
5t. Stewart’s Lounge, Pittsburgh, PA (3-2)
5t. Century Worth/Coors/Atkins, St. Louis, MO (3-2)
7t. Budweiser, San Francisco, CA (2-2)
7t. Starpath/Kirk’s Glass, Lexington, KY (2-2)
9t. Coors Light, Warren, MI (1-2)
9t. Capitols, Austin, TX (1-2)
9t. Joe Black’s Softball Club, Highland Park, IL (1-2)
9t. Premier Sports, Tempe, AZ 0-2
13t. King’s Auto/Ford & Lloyd, Lynchburg, VA 0-2
13t. Budweiser of Omaha, Omaha, NE 0-2
13t. Ritch’s Salvage, Mooresville, NC 0-2
16. *People’s Choice TV/Glass, Champaign, IL (1-2)

* Forfeited out for illegal player and placed last

1988 USSSA Men’s Major Slow Pitch World Series

1988 held at Long Beach, California.


Champion – Steele’s Silver Bullets, Grafton, Ohio
Runner Up – Kirk’s Glass/Ritch’s Salvage, Hampton, Virginia


Steele’s finally broke the USSSA jinx and won their first World Series. They didn’t waste no time this year. In the final, they scored 10 runs in the first inning and never looked back. The final score was 31-12. Steele’s pitcher Rick Weiterman, considered one of the best pure hitters of all time was the emotional leader all weekend for Steele’s. They wanted no repeat of last year’s “Waterloo” disaster. The Men of Steele’s hit 15 homers in the game. Steele’s was led by Ken Loeri (5-5 with 4 HRs and 8 RBIs) and Craig Elliott was 4-5 with 3 Homers. Weiterman continued his hot hitting, saving his best for when it counted as he was 4-5 to help his own cause. Kirk’s/Ritch’s gained the finals by upsetting powerful Howard’s/Western Steer in the loser’s bracket final. Howard’s lost their very first game of the tournament 19-15 to Apollo/Lower East Side. They went on a loser’s bracket run. Rick Scherr led the surge with an 18-20 run and 12 HRs. Howard’s scored more runs than anybody in the tournament and they were eliminated in the loser’s bracket final 10-3 by Kirk’s/Ritch’s. Kirk’s/Ritch’s Pitcher Andy Cook held Howard’s to just 8 hits and gave up no home runs. Cook was 4-4 with 5 RBIs in the game also. Sadly, this would turn out to be the very last time Howard’s/Western Steer would play in the World Series as Sponsor Richard Howard decided not to sponsor the team in 1989. It was the end of one of the greatest Slow Pitch teams in softball history.


  • MVP – Rick Weiterman, Steeles’s (13-17, .765,1 RBI, 9 Runs)
  • Home Run Leader – Rick Scherr, Howard’s (23-29, .793, 38 RBIs, 22 Runs) – 15
  • Batting Leader – Rick Scherr, Howard’s (23-29, 15 HRs, 38 RBIs, 22 Runs) – .793
  • Defensive MVP – Kelly Stanley, Kirk’s/Ritch’s

USSSA MAJOR WORLD SERIES ALL WORLD TEAM

  • Pitcher – Rick Weiterman – Steele’s (13-17, .765, 1 RBI, 9 Runs)
  • Pitcher – Andy Cook – Kirk’s/Ritch’s (14-24, .583, 7 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Catcher – Darrell Misenheimer – Kirk’s/Ritch’s (10-18, .556, 6 HRs, 13 RBIs)
  • Catcher – Craig Elliott – Steele’s (13-18, .722, 11 HRs, 15 RBIS, 15 Runs)
  • First Base – Mark Heirlmeier – Bell Corp/First Associates (15-25, .600, 9 HRs, 19 RBIs, 13 Runs)
  • First Base – Bruce Rains – Kirk’s/Ritch’s (14-24, .583, 7 HRs, 14 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Second Base – Mark Cauley – Bell Corp/First Associates (12-22, .545, 6 HRs, 16 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Second Base – Ernie Montgomery – Steele’s (10-17, .588, 3 HRs, 5 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Second Base – Mark Oxford – Apollo (9-12, .750, 2 RBIs, 3 Runs)
  • Third Base – Rick Scherr – Howard’s (23-29, .793, 15 HRs, 38 RBIs, 22 Runs)
  • Shortstop – Steve Williams – Howard’s (15-26, .577, 5 HRs, 11 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Shortstop – JW Mitchell – Kirk’s/Ritch’s (14-23, .609, 1 HR, 6 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Outfield – Curtis Williams – Howard’s (16-27, .593, 4 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Outfield – Bill Blake – Steele’s (12-20, .600, 8 HRs, 16 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Outfield – Ken Loeri – Steele’s (10-16, .625, 9 HRs, 21 RBIs, 13 Runs)
  • Outfield – Doug Roberson – Steele’s (12-20, .600, 3 HRs, 7 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Outfield – Kelly Stanley – Kirk’s/Ritch’s (11-21, .524, 2 HRs, 8 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Outfield – Cody Wyatt – Kirk’s/Ritch’s (15-23, .652, 4 HRs, 6 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Utility – Mike Bolen – Howard’s (17-30, .567, 6 HRs, 14 RBIs, 15 Runs)
  • Manager – Dave Neale – Steele’s

OTHERS

  • Tony Dedonatis, Stroh’s (6-6, 1.000, 2 RBIs, 1 Run)
  • John Keigley, Oklahoma City Hunters (5-6, .833, 1 RBI, 4 Runs)
  • Greg Whitlock, Starpath (7-10, .700, 1 HR, 4 RBIs, 3 Runs)
  • Rick Wheeler, Broken Drum (12-18, .667, 6 HRs, 9 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Darrell Beeler, Superior (10-15, .667, 5 HRs, 10 RBIs, 7 Runs)
  • Dan Schuck, Larry’s Used Cars (8-12, .667, 6 HRs, 20 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Doug Berfeldt, Sports Heros (5-8, .625, 1 RBI, 2 Runs)
  • Mike Nye, Apollo (8-13, .615, 4 RBIs, 2 Runs)
  • Mike Jacobs, Bell Corp/First (8-13, .615, 1 RBI, 9 Runs)
  • Dave Steffen, Apollo (9-15, .600, 6 HRs, 11 RBIS, 9 Runs)
  • Greg Fuhrman, Superior (9-15, .600, 2 HRs, 8 RBIs, 7 Runs)
  • Wayne Pyrtle, Kirk’s/Ritch’s (12-20, .600, 2 HRs, 8 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Britt Hightower, Broken Drum (10-17, .588, 6 HRs, 9 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Danny Williams, Bell Corp/First (14-24, .583, 4 HRs, 8 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Doug Brown, AJD Caps (6-11, .545, 2 HRs, 7 RBIs, 3 Runs)
  • George Marshall, Howard’s (13-24, .542, 1 HR, 9 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Bruce Bailey, John Hanson (8-15, .533, 3 HRs, 7 RBIs, 5 Runs)
  • Jim Fuller, Broken Drum (9-17, .529, 5 HRs, 10 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Dan Griffin, Howard’s (13-26, .500, 4 HRs, 9 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Mark Martin, Bell Corp/First (11-22. .500, 3 HRs, 6 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Scott Virkus, Steele’s (10-20, .500, 2 HRs, 3 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Fred Trice, Steele’s (9-18, .500, 5 HRs, 9 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Paul Drilling, Bell Corp/First (7-14, .500, 3 RBIs, 5 Runs)
  • Mike Macenko, Steele’s (9-20, .450, 6 HRs, 14 RBIs)
  • Clyde Guy, Howard’s (12-27, .444, 6 HRs, 14 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Russell Bradley, Howard’s (11-25, .440, 4 HRs, 15 Runs)
  • Ron Parnell, Steele’s (8-19, .421, 5 HRs, 10 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Greg Schulte, Bell Corp/First (10-24, .416, 8 HRs, 14 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Dennis Graser, Starpath (4-10, .400, 1 HR, 2 RBIs, 4 Runs)
  • Rich Plante, Apollo (6-16, .375, 2 HRs, 5 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Bill Gatti, Maroadi Transfer (3-8, .375, 1 HR, 2 RBIs, 3 Runs)
  • Ron Ford, Maroadi Transfer (3-8, .375, 2 HRs, 4 RBIs, 3 Runs)
  • Mike Cellura, Broken Drum (6-16, .375, 3 HRs, 6 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Harold Kelley, Bell Corp/First (7-19, .368, 1 HR, 5 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Chuck Maiorana, Stroh’s (2-6, .333, 2 RBIs, 1 Run)
  • Don Clatterbaugh, Kirk’s/Ritch’s (6-18, .333, 3 HRs, 10 RBIs, 4 Runs)
  • Stan Harvey, Howard’s (9-29, .310, 4 HRs, 9 RBIs, 8 Runs)

FINAL STANDINGS

1. Steele’s Silver Bullets, Grafton, OH (5-0)
2. Kirk’s Glass/Ritch’s Salvage, Hampton, VA (4-2)
3. Howard’s/Western Steer, Denver, NC (5-2)
4. Bell Corp./First Associates, Tampa, FL (4-2)
5t. Apollo Lower East Side, West Palm Beach, FL (2-2)
5t. Superior/Spalding, Windsor Locks, CT (2-2)
7t. John Hanson/Franey & Parr, Rockville, MD (2-2)
7t. Broken Drum Insulation, Northridge, CA (2-2)
9t. AJD Caps/Russell Athletics, Richmond, VA (1-2)
9t. Larry’s Used Cars, Grand Prairie, TX (1-2)
9t. Stottler Stagg, Merritt Island, FL (1-2)
9t. Starpath, Monticello, KY (1-2)
13t. Sports Heros Athletics, Eagan, MN (0-2)
13t. Oklahoma City Hunters, Oklahoma City, OK (0-2)
13t. Maroadi Transfer, Pittsburgh, PA (0-2)
13t. Stroh’s, Detroit, MI (0-2)

1987 USSSA Men’s Major Slow Pitch World Series

1987 held at Waterloo, Iowa.


Champion – Smythe Sox, Houston, Texas
Runner Up – Steele’s Sports, Grafton, Ohio


The Smythe Sox defeated Steele’s 38-34 in the winners bracket final. Steeles beat a tough Marlton Trucking team 16-9 in the losers bracket final to gain a rematch with Smythe. The Men of Steele’s won the first final 24-20 behind Craig Elliott (4-5, 4 HRs, 6 RBIs) and Ron Parnell (4-4, 2 HRs, 5 RBIs) and appeared to gain the edge going into the winner take all deciding game. Leading 22-9 after three innings, Steele’s was on the verge on winning their first USSSA World Series. It was then, in the cold and rain that Steele’s met their “Waterloo”. Smythe scored 21 runs in the fifth inning and then scored another 17 more runs in the final two innings to come out on top of a 50-31 final. Ricky Huggins (5-5, 2 HRs), Doug Roberson (4-5, 3 HRs), Craig Elliott (4-6, 3 HRs), Mike Bolen (4-5, 2 HRs) and Jeff Stamps (4-5, 1 HR) led the Steele’s attack in the final game. Those were impressive stats, but Smythe Sox had some mind boggling numbers: Bill Gatti (8-8, 3 HRs, 8 RBIs), Cecil Whitehead (7-8, 5 RBIs), Bruce Meade (7-8, 6 HRs, 9 RBIs), Bill Blake and Doug Brown combined for 10 hits and 14 RBIs. Rick Wheeler and Mark Heirlmeier were both 5-7. Heirlmeier had 4 HRs and 7 RBIs. They out homered the men of Steel’s in the game 20-17. For the tournament, Steele’s smashed 140 total HRs as a team and batted .650. Smythe batted .641 and hit 85 HRs, but won when it counted. A word of note; Cecil Whitehead of Smythe, who is considered one of the best clutch performers of all time, played three games against Steele’s, all pressure packed games and all he did was go 15-18 (.833) with 5 HRs and 15 RBIs. Whitehead and teammate Bill have now won four USSSA World Series in a row (Elite; 1984-1985 and now Smythe 1986-1987).


  • MVP – Bill Blake, Smythe Sox – (23-31, .742, 18 HRs, 37 RBIs, 22 Runs)
  • Home Run Leader – Doug Roberson, Steele’s (25-33, .758, 27 RBIs, 30 Runs) – 19
  • Home Run Leader – Craig Elliott, Steele’s (26-38, .684, 26 RBIs, 24 Runs) – 19
  • Batting Leader – (based on 18 ABs) Jim Fuller, Marlton Trucking (26-32, 18 HRs, 29 RBIs, 26 Runs) – .813
  • Defensive MVP – Ron Parnell, Steele’s Sports

USSSA MAJOR WORLD SERIES ALL WORLD TEAM

  • Pitcher – Craig Elliott – Steele’s Sports (26-38, .684, 19 HRs, 26 RBIs, 24 Runs)
  • Catcher – Bill Blake – Smythe Sox (23-31, .742, 18 HRs, 37 RBIs, 22 Runs)
  • Catcher – Dave Steffen – Marlton Trucking (23-34, .676, 15 HRs, 21 RBIs, 22 Runs)
  • First Base – Mike Bolen – Steele’s Sports (21-31, .677, 8 HRs, 10 RBIs, 21 Runs)
  • First Base – Rich Plante – Marlton Trucking (23-33, ..697, 10 HRs, 22 RBIs, 20 Runs)
  • First Base – Rick Scherr – Howard’s/Western Steer (18-28, .643, 14 HRs, 27 RBIs, 19 Runs)
  • Second Base – Bill Gatti – Smythe Sox (20-27, .741, 7 HRs, 19 RBIs, 19 Runs)
  • Third Base – Doug Brown – Smythe Sox (21-31, .677, 9 HRs, 23 RBIs, 22 Runs)
  • Third Base – Jim Fuller – Marlton Trucking (26-32, .813, 18 HRs, 29 RBIs, 26 Runs)
  • Third Base – Tim White – Howard’s/Western Steer (17-25, .680, 10 HRs, 22 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Shortstop – Ron Parnell – Steele’s Sports (23-36, .583, 13 HRS, 21 RBIs, 23 Runs)
  • Outfield – Bruce Meade – Smythe Sox (21-27, .778, 14 HRs, 22 RBIs, 22 Runs)
  • Outfield – Ricky Huggins – Steele’s Sports (21-28, .750, 9 HRs, 18 RBIs, 19 Runs)
  • Outfield – Doug Roberson – Steele’s Sports (25-33, .758, 19 HRs, 27 RBIs, 30 Runs)
  • Outfield – Dan Schuck – Marlton Trucking (21-32, .656, 15 HRs, 25 RBIs, 22 Runs)
  • Outfield – Rick Wheeler – Smythe Sox (15-25, .600, 10 HRs, 16 RBIs, 19 Runs)
  • Outfield – Cecil Whitehead – Smythe Sox (23-31, .742, 8 HRs, 18 RBIs, 23 Runs)
  • Utility – Stan Harvey – Howard’s/Western Steer (18-29, .621, 17 HRs, 23 RBIs, 20 Runs)
  • Utility – Buddy Slater – Smythe Sox (8-18, .444, 1 RBI, 10 Runs)

OTHERS

  • Mike Nye, Marlton (14-18, .778, 1 HR, 6 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Kelly Stanley, Kirk’s Glass (14-18, .778, 5 HRs, 12 RBIs, 19 Runs)
  • Ken Dain, Steele’s (15-20, .750, 12 HRs, 20 RBIs, 15 Runs)
  • Ed Berg, Superior Bombat (14-19, .737, 8 HRs, 14 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Danny Robichaux, Athletic Shop (11-15, .733, 5 HRs, 9 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Larry Magee, Capitol (11-15, .733, 1 HR, 2 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Greg Fuhrman, Superior Bombat (13-18, .722, 5 HRs, 8 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Mike Wagner, Ritch’s Salvage (13-18, .722, 6 HRs, 11 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Hal Harlan, Athletic Shop (10-14, .714, 4 HRs, 8 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Jeff Stamps, Steele’s (21-30, .700, 11 HRs, 20 RBIs, 22 Runs)
  • Joey Raby, Howard’s (14-20, .700, 5 HRs, 8 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Dan Griffin, Marlton (19-28, .679, 9 HRs, 18 RBIs, 22 Runs)
  • Rick Weiterman, Steele’s (4-6, .667, 2 HRs, 4 RBIs, 3 Runs)
  • Scott Vikus, Steele’s (19-29, .655, 12 HRs, 15 RBIs, 20 Runs)
  • Braxton Speller, Hammond Glass (7-11, .636, 2 HRs, 6 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Don Clatterbaugh, Kirk’s Glass (13-21, .619, 4 HRs, 6 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Danny Williams, Athletic Shop (8-13, .615, 2 HRs, 2 RBIs, 7 Runs)
  • Darrell Misenheimer, Ritch’s Salvage (11-18, .611, 5 HRs, 10 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Mike Cellura, Capitol (11-18, .611, 5 HRs, 15 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Monty Tucker, Steele’s (20-33, .606, 12 HRs, 24 RBIs, 19 Runs)
  • Scott McManis, Howard’s (18-30, .600, 10 HRs, 15 RBIs, 16 Runs)
  • Richard Wilborn, Howard’s (15-25, .600, 1 HR, 6 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Clyde Guy, Howard’s (16-27, .593, 13 HRs, 17 RBIs, 23 Runs)
  • Fred Stahman, Superior Bombat (10-17, .588, 5 HRs, 8 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Ron Dorsey, Superior Bombat (11-19, .579, 6 HRs, 11 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Mark Heirlmeier, Smythe Sox (12-21, .571, 10 HRs, 19 RBIs, 15 Runs)
  • Dennis Graser, Steele’s (12-21, .571, 1 HR, 2 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Larry Neff, Marlton (17-30, .567, 7 HRs, 12 RBIs, 16 Runs)
  • Steve Williams, Howard’s (14-25, .560, 5 HRs, 11 RBIs, 14 RBIs)
  • Mike Macenko, Steele’s (21-38, .553, 18 HRs, 29 RBIs, 24 Runs)
  • Greg Whitlock, Smythe Sox (12-22, .545, 2 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Curtis Williams, Howard’s (13-24, .542, 7 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Greg Cannedy, RTS (7-13, .538, 1 HR, 3 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Darrell Beeler, Athletic Shop (8-15, .533, 4 HRs, 6 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Britt Hightower, Smythe Sox (15-30, .500, 9 HRs, 13 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Greg Schulte, Athletic Shop (8-16, .500, 4 HRs, 8 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Ken Loeri, Marlton (14-30, .467, 10 HRs, 14 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Larry Fredieu, Athletic Shop (6-15, .400, 4 HRs, 6 RBIs, 5 Runs)
  • Elby Bushong, RTS (3-8, .375, 4 RBIs, 1 Run)
  • Paul Drilling, Athletic Shop (4-11, .364, 2 RBIs, 2 Runs)
  • Bob Louria, Hammond Glass (3-9, .333, 2 Runs)

FINAL STANDINGS

1. Smythe Sox, Houston, TX (4-1)
2. Steele’s Sports, Grafton, OH (4-2)
3. Marlton Trucking, Portland, OR (4-2)
4. Howard’s/Western Steer, Denver, NC (4-2)
5t. Kirk’s Glass, Newport News, VA (2-2)
5t. Athletic Shop/Eaton Sports, Hammond, LA (2-2)
7t. Ritch’s Auto Salvage, Harrisburg, NC (2-2)
7t. Superior Bombat, Wildsor Locks, CT (2-2)
9t. Non-Ferrous Metal Fab, Cleveland, OH (1-2)
9t. RTS Enterprises, Phoenix, AZ (1-2)
9t. Capitol Softball Club, Northridge, CA (1-2)
9t. Starpath Softball, Lexington, KY (0-2)
13t. Budweiser Merchants, (0-2)
13t. Hammond Glass, Hammond, IN (0-2)

1986 USSSA Men’s Major Slow Pitch World Series

1986 held in Greensboro, North Carolina at War Memorial Stadium on September 12-14.


Champion – Smythe Sox, Houston, Texas
Runner Up – Howard’s/Western Steer, Denver, North Carolina


When Smythe Sox played Steele’s Sports in the winners bracket, it was billed as the Super Bowl of Softball. The top two ranked teams in the country squared off and Smythe came out on top by a 20-16 score. Smythe then beat Howard’s 32-13 in the winner’s bracket final. Meanwhile, Steele’s was coming up through the loser’s bracket and look strong like they were destined to play Smythe for the championship. But, in the loser’s bracket final, Howard’s scored 10 runs in the bottom of the 7th inning and eliminated Steele’s 30-28. That put Howard’s against Smythe for the championship. Smythe opened the season with 54 straight wins.


  • MVP – Doug Brown, Smythe Sox (16-23, .696, 13 HRs, 25 RBIs, 18 Runs)
  • HR Leader – Doug Brown, Smythe Sox – 13
  • Batting Leader – Monty Tucker, Tire Centers (17-19, 7 HRs, 23 RBIs, 16 Runs) – .896
  • Defensive MVP – Curtis Williams, Howard’s/Western Steer
  • Offensive Award – Monty Tucker, Tire Centers (17-19, .896, 7 HRs, 23 RBIs, 16 Runs)
  • Mr. Hustle Award – Doug Roberson, Steele’s Sports

USSSA MAJOR WORLD SERIES ALL WORLD TEAM

  • Pitcher – Buddy Slater – Smythe Sox (11-22, .500, 1 RBI, 11 Runs)
  • Pitcher – Craig Elliott – Steele’s Sports (15-25, .625, 11 HRs, 20 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Catcher – Monty Tucker – Tire Centers (17-19, .896, 7 HRs, 23 RBIs, 16 Runs)
  • Catcher – Don Clatterbaugh – Blanton’s (14-25, .560, 10 HRs, 25 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • First Base – John Grissom – Smythe Sox (11-18, .611, 6 HRs, 9 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Second Base – Bill Gatti – Smythe Sox (16-22, .727, 8 HRs, 17 RBIs, 20 Runs)
  • Third Base – Charles Wright – Steele’s Sports (20-25, .800, 12 HRs, 19 RBIs, 17 Runs)
  • Third Base – Doug Brown – Smythe Sox (16-23, .696, 3 HRs, 25 RBIs, 18 Runs)
  • Shortstop – Steve Williams – Howard’s/Western Steer (10-16, .625, 3 HRs, 5 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Outfield – Bruce Meade – Smythe Sox (18-25, .720, 8 HRs, 24 RBIs, 18 Runs)
  • Outfield – Cecil Whitehead – Smythe Sox (15-20, .750, 7 HRs, 13 RBIs, 15 Runs)
  • Outfield – Britt Hightower – Smythe Sox (18-25, .720, 9 HRs, 18 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Outfield – Fred Trice – Howard’s/Western Steer (14-22, .636, .12 HRs, 19 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Outfield – Curtis Williams – Howard’s/Western Steer (9-17, .529, 1 HR, 8 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Outfield – Dan Griffin – Steele’s Sports (16-21, .762, 6 HRs, 18 RBIs, 15 Runs)
  • Outfield – Cody Wyatt – Blanton’s (14-21, .667, 5 HRs, 11 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Utility – Tim Rhinehart – Howard’s/Western Steer (15-19, .789, 8 HRs, 16 RBIs, 13 Runs)
  • Utility – Mark Heirlmeier – Howard’s/Western Steer (15-23, .652, 7 HRs, 11 RBIs, 13 Runs)
  • Manager – John Cook, Smythe Sox

OTHERS

  • Steve Bugg, Starpath (14-18, .737, 4 HR, 14 RBI, 12 Runs)
  • Jeff Stamps, Starpath (13-18, .722, 6 HR, 16 RBI, 11 Runs)
  • Rick Wheeler, Smythe Sox (15-23, .652, 9 HR, 19 RBI, 16 Runs)
  • Dick Bartel, Smythe Sox (4-2, .667, 2 HR, 3 RBI, 3 Runs)
  • Doug Roberson, Steele’s (18-28, .643, 5 HR, 13 RBI, 15 Runs)
  • Mike Bolen, Steele’s (14-22, .636, 7 HR, 11 RBI)
  • Joey Raby, Howard’s (12-19, .632, 6 HR, 10 RBI, 11 Runs)
  • Herman Rathman, CDI (5-8, .625, 3 HR, 7 RBI, 5 Runs)
  • Darrell Beeler, CDI (5-8, .625, 2 HR, 4 RBI, 3 Runs)
  • Jim Fuller, Shubins (5-8, .625, 3 HR, 3 RBI, 4 Runs)
  • John Davide, Computerland (8-13, .615, 2 HR, 7 RBI, 3 Runs)
  • Ron Parnell, Capitol (9-15, .600, 2 HR, 7 RBI, 7 Runs)
  • Rich Plante, Capitol (9-15, .600, 4 HR, 10 RBI, 9 Runs)
  • Ken Dain, Capitol (9-15, .600, 3 HR, 4 RBI, 4 Runs)
  • Joe Young, Steele’s (13-24, .542, 5 HR, 7 RBI, 14 Runs)
  • Mike Cellura, Capitol (8-15, .533, 5 HR, 8 RBI, 5 Runs)
  • Stan Harvey, Howard’s (8-15, .533, 5 HR, 7 RBI, 7 Runs)
  • Dennis Graser, Steele’s (11-22, .500, 1 HR, 5 RBI, 11 Runs)
  • Dan Schuck, Steele’s (12-24, .500, 9 HR, 20 RBI, 12 Runs)
  • Ricky Huggins, Ardis Roofing (8-16, .500, 2 HR, 6 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Greg Whitlock, Steele’s (11-23, .478, 4 RBI, 7 Runs)
  • Mike Macenko, Steele’s (12-26, .462, 8 HR, 14 RBI, 12 Runs)
  • Clyde Guy, Howard’s (8-18, .444, 4 HR, 8 RBI, 9 Runs)
  • Dave Steffen, Shubins (3-7, .429, 2 HR, 2 RBI, 3 Runs
  • Richard Wilborn, Howard’s (4-10, .400, 1 HR, 6 RBI, 6 Runs)
  • Denny Jones, Capitol (4-10, .400, 3 Runs)
  • Chic Downing, CDI (3-8, .375, 1 HR, 3 RBI, 3 Runs)
  • Rick Scherr, Howard’s (7-20, .350, 5 HR, 11 RBI, 7 Runs)
  • Don Arndt, Howard’s (3-9, .333, 1 HR, 1 RBI, 3 Runs)

FINAL STANDINGS

1. Smythe Sox, Houston, TX (5-0)
2. Howard’s/Western Steer, Denver, NC (3-2)
3. Steele’s Sports, Grafton OH (3-2)
4. Blanton’s, Fayetteville, NC (4-2)
5t. Starpath Systems, Lexington, KY (3-2)
5t. Ardis Roofing, Greenwood, SC (2-2)
7t. Tire Centers, Richmond, VA (2-2)
7t. Capitol Insulation, Los Angeles, CA (2-2)
9t. Insulators of Nevade, Las Vegas, NV (1-2)
9t. Computer Land, Haywood, CA (1-2)
9t. Budweiser, Minneapolis, MN (0-2)
9t. Dallas, Dallas, TX (0-2)
13t. CDI, Oklahoma City, OK (0-2)
13t. Shubin’s Carpet, Los Angeles, CA (0-2)

1985 USSSA Men’s Major Slow Pitch World Series

1985 held at Greensboro, North Carolina.


Champion – Elite Coatings, Gordon, Georgia
Runner Up – Capitol Insulation, North Hollywood, California


The surprise team of the tournament, Capitol Insulation showed why they belonged in this World Series. Elite Coatings playing for the last time together as a team as owner Gary Hargis announced that he will no longer sponsor a team in 1986. The Elite players wanted to win this for their owner and they came back and defeated a very disappointed Capitol Insulation team twice, 22-10 and 23-7.  Elite received an opening round bye and then lost their first game to Morgan Boots of Texas on Friday night 23-8. Capitol beat Howards 21-9 in the winner’s bracket final and then sat back. Elite, meanwhile was winning 5 straight games in the losers bracket. They got to Howards in the loser’s bracket final. Rick Wheeler ht a 2-run Homer in the bottom of the 7th inning to win the game for Elite 25-23. Oddly enough, Wheeler started his career with Capitol and here he is, playing against them for Elite for the Championship. Charles Wright (3-4, 2 HRs, 7 RBIs) and Doug Brown (3-4, 2 HRs, 4 RBIs) led the offense in the first final. In the Final Championship game, it was Freddie Trice who came up big. He was 4-5, with 4 Homers and 7 RBIs. Wheeler and Cecil Whitehead chipped in with 2 HRs each. Mike Cellura hit 2 dingers for Capitol. Capitol hit 37 HRs total, Howards 68 and Elite 73.


  • MVP – Rick Wheeler, Elite (24-37, .649, 12 HRs, 24 RBIs, 21 Runs)
  • Home Run Leader –  Rick Wheeler, Elite – 12
  • Home Run Leader – Bruce Meade, Elite (21-33, .636, 26 RBIs, 30 Runs) – 12
  • Home Run Leader – Fred Trice, Elite (22-34, .647, 28 RBIs, 22 Runs)  – 12
  • Batting Leader – Dean Olson, Capitol Insulation (19-24, 4 RBIs, 13 Runs) – .792
  • Defensive MVP – Denny Jones, Capitol Insulation

USSSA MAJOR WORLD SERIES ALL WORLD TEAM

  • Pitcher – Ron Whittleton – Capitol Insulation (10-21, .476, 7 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Pitcher – Buddy Slater – Elite Coating (7-15, .467, 3 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Catcher – Bruce Butch Alleman – Morgan Boots (13-20, .650, 7 HRs, 11 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • First Base – Dean Olson – Capitol Insulation (19-24, .792, 4 RBIs, 13 Runs)
  • First Base – Fred Trice – Elite Coating (22-34, .647, 12 HRs, 28 RBIs, 22 Runs)
  • First Base – Rick Scherr – Howard’s/Western Steer (16-22, .727, 11 HRs, 23 RBIs, 19 Runs)
  • Second Base – Doug Brown – Elite Coating (24-35, .686, 11 HRs, 23 RBIs, 19 Runs)
  • Third Base – Mark Hierlmeier – Howard’s/Western Steer (11-18, .611, 7 HRs, 14 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Shortstop – Ron Parnell – Capitol Insulation (14-21, .667, 2 HRs, 12 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Outfield – Miles Schexnaydre – Morgan Boots (15-20, .750, 6 HRs, 16 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Outfield – Bruce Meade – Elite Coating (21-33, .636, 12 HRs, 26 RBIs, 30 Runs)
  • Outfield – Rick Wheeler – Elite Coating (24-37, .649, 12 HRs, 24 RBIs, 21 Runs)
  • Outfield – Clyde Guy – Howard’s/Western Steer (14-19, .737, 11 HRs, 21 RBIs, 16 Runs)
  • Outfield – Stan Harvey – Howard’s/Western Steer (13-21, .619, 6 HRs, 9 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Outfield – Denny Jones – Capitol Insulation (14-24, .583, 3 HRs, 12 RBIs, 11 Runs)

OTHERS

  • Ben Holt, Lilly Air (4-5, .800, 3 RBIs, 3 Runs)
  • Dennis Graser, Steele’s (10-13, .769, 2 HRs, 10 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Ron Olesiak, Lilly Air (6-8, .750, 3 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • John Keigley, CDI/Garretts (6-8, .750, 4 Runs)
  • Joe Young, Zimlinghaus (11-16, .688, 3 HRs, 8 RBIs, 13 Runs)
  • Dan Griffin, Steele’s (10-15, .667, 5 HRs, 9 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Britt Hightower, Smythe Sox (12-19, .632, 6 HRs, 15 RBIS, 12 Runs)
  • Darrell Misenheimer, Howards (12-19, .632, 8 HRs, 11 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Rick Weiterman, Steele’s (5-8, .625, 1 HR, 2 RBIs, 4 Runs)
  • John Grissom, Smythe Sox (13-21, .619, 5 HRs, 14 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Roger Wilt, Gregg Security (9-15, .600, 4 HRs, 15 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Danny Williams, Smythe Sox (6-10, .600, 2 HRs, 6 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Greg Whitlock, Steele’s (7-12, .583, 4 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Ken Dain, Capitol (15-26, .577, 7 HRs, 13 RBIs, 13 Runs)
  • Cecil Whitehead, Elite (20-35, .571, 8 HRs, 18 RBIs, 15 Runs)
  • Ricky Huggins, Steele’s 8-14, .571, 2 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Greg Fuhrman, Steele’s (4-7, .571, 1 RBI, 2 Runs)
  • Bill Blake, Howards (14-25, .560, 7 HRs, 10 RBIs, 13 Runs)
  • Tim Rhinehart, Howards (15-27, .556, 10 HRs, 16 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Curtis Williams, Howards (11-20, .550, 3 HRs, 10 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Mike Bolen, Steele’s (7-13, .538, 2 HRs, 10 RBIs, 7 Runs)
  • Mike Macenko, Steele’s (8-15, .533, 4 HRS, 12 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Doug Roberson, Zimlinghaus (9-17, .529, 3 HRs, 9 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Monty Tucker, Zimlinghaus (9-17, .529, 3 HRs, 9 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Don Furnald, Capitol (10-20, .500, 3 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Craig Elliott, Steele’s (6-12, .500, 2 HRs, 6 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Chuck Maiorana, Southwestern (5-10, .500, 2 RBIs, 3 Runs)
  • Bob Louria, Southwestern (2-4, .500, 1 Run)
  • Bill Gatti, Elite (15-32, .469, 2 HRs, 8 RBIs, 17 Runs)
  • Don Arndt, Howards (7-15, .467, 6 Runs)
  • Mike Cellura, Capitol (12-26, .462, 8 HRs, 16 RBIs, 14 Runs)
  • Dave Steffen, Lilly Air (5-11, .455, 1 HR, 4 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Cruz Martinez, Capitol (9-20, .450, 4 HRs, 11 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Darrell Beeler, CDI/Garrets (4-9, .444, 3 HRs, 7 RBIs, 4 Runs)
  • Charles Wright, Elite (15-35, .429, 7 HRs, 20 RBIs, 20 Runs)
  • Ken Parker, Lilly Air (4-10, .400, 2 HRs, 7 RBIs, 5 Runs)
  • Ron Ford, Elite (13-35, .371, 3 HRs, 10 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Jim Fuller, Smythe Sox (6-18, .333, 2 HRs, 7 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Harold Kelley, Zimlinghaus (5-15, .333, 2 HRs, 6 RBIs, 4 Runs)
  • Steve Williams, Elite (8-25, .320, 3 HRs, 4 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Phil Higgins, Lilly Air (4-13, .308, 1 RBI, 4 Runs)
  • Don Clatterbaugh, Blantons (2-9, .222, 2 Runs)

FINAL STANDINGS

1. Elite Coating, Gordon, GA (7-1)
2. Capitol Insulation, North Hollywood, CA (4-2)
3. Howard’s/Western Steer, Denver, NC (3-2)
4. Morgan Boots, DeSoto, TX (3-2)
5t. Smythe Sox, Houston, TX (2-2)
5t. Gregg Security, Pittsburgh, PA (2-2)
7t. Zimlinghaus Electric, Palm Bay, FL (2-2)
7t. Steele’s Sports, Grafton, OH (1-2)
9t. Southwestern, Detroit, MI (1-2)
9t. Starpath Systems Softball, Monticello, KY (1-2)
9t. Lilly Air Systems, Chicago, IL (1-2)
9t. Blanton’s, Fayetteville, NC (0-2)
13t. CDI-Garretts, Oklahoma City, OK (0-2)
13t. University Financial, Salt Lake City, UT (0-2)