Category: ASA

2021 ASA Gold Girls 18-Under Fast Pitch Nationals

2021 held in Salem, Virginia on July 18-25.


Champion – Windermere Wildfire Paulson, Windermere, Florida
Runner Up – Florida Storm National Shepherd, Oviedo, Florida


FINAL STANDINGS

1. Windermere Wildfire Paulson, Windermere, FL (9-1)
2. Florida Storm National Shepherd, Oviedo, FL (5-2)
3. Rock Gold Waye, Holland, PA (4-2)
4. Clearwater Lady Bombers Mason Gold, Tampa, FL (6-2)
5t. NJ Gators Biasi, Sewell, NJ (3-2)
5t. Lady Lightning Gold Elite Jones, Rocky Mount, NC (3-2)
7t. Virginia Unity Linder, King George, VA (3-2)
7t. Ohio Hawks National, Centerville, OH (3-2)
9t. Sarasota Heat, Sarasota, FL (2-2)
9t. Outlaws Premier, Allentown, PA (2-2)
9t. Louisiana Voodoo Gold, Kenner, LA (3-2)
9t. Turnin2 Robeson Long, Fenton, MI (4-2)
13t. Oregon Red Heat, Hillsboro, OR (2-2)
13t. Orion Hunter Elite Murphy Inman National, Chesapeake, VA (2-2)
13t. Gold Coast Hurricanes Sac National, Fort Meade, MD (3-2)
13t. NJ Fight Delgado, Bloomfield, NJ (2-2)
17t. Richmond Storm, Richmond, VA (1-2)
17t. Firecrackers NC Wright, Reidsville, NC (1-2)
17t. Delaware Cobras, Bear, DE (1-2)
17t. Team Virginia Mizuno Harrington, Warrenton, VA (2-2)
17t. Lady Gators Jackson, North Palm Beach, FL (2-2)
17t. Angels 02 Reynolds Gold, Rincon, GA (1-2)
17t. Southern Power Degroat, Juliette, GA (1-2)
17t. MS Thunderbolts Groves, Biloxi, MS (1-2)
25t. Wagner’s Gold 18U, Baltimore, MD (1-2)
25t. TNT Maryland National, Annapolis, MD (1-2)
25t. Indiana Gators Rupert, Jasper, IN (1-2)
25t. Newtown Rock Hutchins Cipolloni, Newtown, PA (1-2)
25t. 3N2 Gold Haynes, Ocala, FL (0-2)
25t. Heartbreakers Gold, Woodsboro, MD (0-2)
25t. Illinois Bash, Elk Grove Village, IL (0-2)
25t. KC Rebels Elite Ingle, Overland Park, KS (0-2)
33t. New Mexico Suncats, Rio Rancho, NM (0-2)
33t. Gold Coast Hurricanes Stoicheff, Lewistown, PA (0-2)
33t. Richmond Diamonds, Richmond, VA (0-2)
33t. Lady Lightning Gold Nova, Fairfax, VA (0-2)

Ivan “Ike” Wheeler

Ivan “Ike” Wheeler

Ivan “Ike” Wheeler (1935-2021)

“Ike’s career spanned 50 years. He retired from the United States Air Force with 21 years of service. He worked for 30 plus years for the City of Shreveport Parks and Recreation department serving as Athletic Director, as well as numerous community efforts in sports, charities and beyond.”

At the time of his induction into the National Softball Hall of Fame in 2012, Ike was a registered umpire for over 56 years and served as District Commissioner in the Shreveport, La. area, Player Representative, and Louisiana Umpire-in-Chief. In addition to these positions, Wheeler was a member of the National Indicator Fraternity (1988) and a member of the ASA/USA Softball of Louisiana Hall of Fame (2010). Some of his accomplishments he achieved since joining ASA/USA Softball include: recipient of the Region 6 Award of Excellence (2009) and umpire for four National Championships (1982, 1987, 1988, 1997) in addition to serving as either Tournament Director, Umpire Coordinator, or Housing Authority for 17 National Tournaments. Since 1978, Wheeler had successfully registered every team in the Shreveport Parks and Recreations Department for ASA/USA Softball, and has attended every Umpire-in-Chief clinic and ASA/USA Softball National Convention since 1982.

The family would like to commemorate his life by offering a visitation on Tuesday, March 9, 2021 from 11:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m. at Rose-Neath Funeral Home (1815 Marshall Street, Shreveport, Louisiana). A private service and internment for immediate family only will follow the visitation.

Angelo Frannicola

Angelo Frannicola

Angelo Frannicola (1942-2021)

Mr. Angelo R. Frannicola, 78, of Nutley, NJ, passed away on Monday, February 22, 2021, at St. Barnabas Medical Center, Livingston. Visitation will be at the Biondi Funeral Home of Nutley 540 Franklin Avenue on Sunday, February 28th from 1:00 p.m. until 5:00 p.m. There will be a funeral mass celebrated at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, 89 Ridge Street, Newark on Monday, March 1st at 10:30 a.m. The interment will be at Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington with military honors.

Angelo was born in Newark, NJ and resided in Nutley for the past 42 years. He attended Sacred Heart School and had the honor of being a Page Boy when the Cathedral Basilica opened in 1954. Angelo was a graduate of St. Benedict’s Prep in 1960. He served his country proudly in the United States Army 101st Airborne Division during the Vietnam War. He earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Montclair State University in 1974, and a Master’s Degree in Education from Seton Hall University, in 1981.

Angelo spent 27 years as a Physical Education teacher/Athletic Director in Newark, working at both the old Vailsburg and Weequahic High Schools. He was the Athletic Director of Nutley High School from 2001-2006 before his retirement. After that he served on the Nutley Board of Education from 2007-2010.

Angelo was an ASA/USA Softball Metro Newark Commissioner for 40 years. He was a football and basketball official as well as a baseball and softball umpire for over 50 years. Most recently, he was a mentor for student teachers under the direction of Montclair State University and Caldwell College.
Angelo’s hobbies included collecting Lionel Trains and enjoying a nice meal followed by a “good” cigar.
He is survived by his beloved wife of 48 years, Toni (nee Ciccolini) Frannicola; his devoted children, Robert Frannicola and his wife Alicia, and Antoinette Giglio and her husband Joseph; his cherished grandson Michaelangelo; his dear brother-in-law Jack Kopidlowski, and his dear sister-in-law Loretta Kopidlowski. He is also survived by his loving nieces and nephews Anthony and Ruth Sgobbo, Anita and Jose Rodriguez, Joseph Kopidlowski and his fiancé Christina Hunter, and Peter and Jaclyn McKenna; his great-nieces and nephews Brooke Sgobbo, Jake Kopidlowski, Peter and Loretta McKenna; and also his loving furry companion Bella.
Angelo is predeceased by his parents Nicholas and Virginia (nee Fiaella) Frannicola, and his sister Annette D’Angelo.

There will be visitation at Biondi Funeral Home on Sunday, February 28 from 1 – 5 p.m., while the Funeral Mass will be held at Cathedral Basilica of The Sacred Heart on Monday, March 1 at 10:30 a.m. The Internment will follow at Holy Cross Cemetery & Mausoleom at 12 p.m.

2003 ASA Men’s C Slow Pitch Nationals

2003 held at Lancaster, California.


Champion – MediaTrac/Roto Rooter, Vallejo, California
Runner Up – SportsDiamond.com, Fridley, Minnesota


  • MVP – N/A
  • Batting Leader – N/A
  • Home Run Leader – N/A

2003 FIRST TEAM ALL AMERICANS

P – Kelly Wheelock, S.W.A.C.
C – Steve Gibson, S.W.A.C.
1B – Travis Benway, Sportsdiamond.com
2B – Lou Peterson, Sportsdiamond.com
3B – Daryl Allen, Mediatrac/Roto Rooter
SS – Matt Pesso, Aw Hell
OF – Lance Dalbey, Sportsdiamond.com
OF – Dax Crabbe, Mediatrac/Roto Rooter
OF – Doug Joseph, Sportsdiamond.com
UTIL – Rush Chamblin, Bully’s
UTIL – Robert Morales, Aw Hell
UTIL – Paul Gose, S.W.A.C.
UTIL – Richard Agostini, Mediatrac/Roto Rooter
UTIL – Ricky Garnett, Sox
UTIL – Ron Espinosa, Bully’s

2003 SECOND TEAM ALL AMERICANS

P – Matt Cardenas, Aw Hell
C – Angel Macias, Drunkn Munky
1B – Wes Archie, Bully’s
2B – Steve Otaguro, Mediatrac/Roto Rooter
3B – Chris McMahon, Sox
SS – Darren Cooper, Mediatrac/Roto Rooter
OF – Darren Hansen, Sportsdiamond.com
OF – Steve Fong, Mediatrac/Roto Rooter
OF – Brent Rieck, Sportsdiamond.com
OF – Ron Webb, M.A. Clary Construction
UTIL – Brent Miller, S.W.A.C.
UTIL – Dave Burice, Bully’s
UTIL – Steve Carpenter, Woods/Albatronix
UTIL – Pete Asselin, Mediatrac/Roto Rooter
UTIL – Freddie Lopez, Sox


FINAL STANDINGS

1. Mediatrac/Roto Rooter, Vallejo, CA (7-0)
2. Sportsdiamond.com, Fridley, MN (6-2)
3. S.W.A.C., Ceres, CA (7-2)
4. Bully’s, Reno, NV (5-2)
5t. Sox, Visalia, CA (4-2)
5t. Aw Hell, Simi Valley, CA (5-2)
7t. M.A. Clary Construction, San Carlos, CA (6-2)
7t. Woods/Albatronix, Anaheim, CA (6-2)
9t. Who’s Your Daddy, Orange County, CA (3-2)
9t. Drunkn Munky, El Monte, CA (5-2)
9t. Choppers/Lefty’s, Brainerd, MN (5-2)
9t. Navarro Electric, San Francisco, CA (3-2)
13t. Twisted, Sierra Vista, AZ (3-2)
13t. KC Wingnuts, Kansas City, MO (4-2)
13t. Xtreme, Tustin, CA (3-2)
13t. Sports Connection, Brookings, SD (3-2)
17t. Something Unique/Chariton Merchants, Chariton, IA (2-2)
17t. A-1 Truck Parts, Portland, OR (3-2)
17t. Spancky’s Sports Bar, Rohnert Park, CA (2-2)
17t. Galindo/SCS, Buena Park, CA (2-2)
17t. Griff’s/3 Bag/Ideal Floors, Des Moines, IA (2-2)
17t. Jonny’s Saloon/Eagles #2228, Rochester, MN (3-2)
17t. Panic, La Palma, CA (3-2)
17t. Impact, Hastings, MN (2-2)
25t. Lee’s Pro Shop/Worth, Pine City, MN (2-2)
25t. Energy Link, Orange County, CA (2-2)
25t. Jersey’s, South St. Paul, MN (2-2)
25t. Team Gorilla/Rawlings Silverback, National City, CA (2-2)
25t. Double Play/Miken, Fairmont, MN (2-2)
25t. Mizuno Braves, Bloomington, CA (2-2)
25t. Team Dickies/Easton, Diamond Bar, CA (2-2)
25t. J&H Wall/Advanced/Jersey’s, Inver Grove Heights, MN (2-2)
33t. Club Shots, Des Moines, IA (1-2)
33t. Team Hara’s/Dallwig Bros., Salem, OR (1-2)
33t. Excel, Coeur d’ Alene, ID (1-2)
33t. Dream Team/Mizuno, Walnut, CA (1-2)
33t. Knights, Bend, OR (1-2)
33t. Imperial Custom Molding, Albertville, MN (1-2)
33t. Code Red, Simi Valley, CA (1-2)
33t. Gary’s Carpet, Caldwell, ID (1-2)
33t. MN Burn, Anoka/Coon Rapids, MN (1-2)
33t. Prime Source/Tejano, Owatonna, MN (1-2)
33t. Junkers, North Mankato, MN (1-2)
33t. Buffalo Wild Wings/Tanel 360, Apple Valley, MN (1-2)
33t. Arizona Worth, Tucson, AZ (1-2)
33t. Frontier Excavating, Portland, OR (1-2)
33t. Guido’s Pizza, Anchorage, AK (1-2)
33t. So What/All Star Appraisal, Aurora, CO (1-2)
49t. Sting Sports Bar, Great Falls, MT (0-2)
49t. Mudcats, Minneapolis, MN (0-2)
49t. H&R Trucking, Minneapolis, MN (0-2)
49t. Hard Rock Block, Lake Havasu, AZ (0-2)
49t. Spikes Mortgage Depot, Faribault, MN (0-2)
49t. JJ’s Sports Lounge/Anaconda Sports, Anchorage, AK (0-2)
49t. Brewskies/Midwest Auto, Winona, MN (0-2)
49t. North Dallas Integrated Health, Dallas, TX (0-2)
49t. Imperial Room, Minneapolis, MN (0-2)
49t. N.E. Yankees, Minneapolis, MN (0-2)
49t. Blackshirts, Blair, NE (0-2)
49t. Team Casteels, Mead, OK (0-2)
49t. Tealey’s Land Surveying, Boise, ID (0-2)
49t. Zephyrs, Lewiston, ID (0-2)
49t. Happy Joes/NDAD, Grand Forks, ND (0-2)
49t. Rumpleminze/Hooters, Windsor Heights, IA (0-2)

E. Scott Southworth

Longtime ASA Umpire and Central Virginia Player Rep has passed away. When more details become available we will post them. Below is an article about Scott from 2009 and his passion for our sport.


Scott Southworth is known throughout the county as “Mr. Softball.”

Whether he’s behind home plate as a softball umpire or organizing a softball tournament, Scott Southworth does it with one thing in mind.

“I know to the people who are playing, it’s like a national tournament to them, so I have to treat it accordingly,” said the 61-year-old county resident. “I have to do a good job so the people who are participating can have a good time. I want them to enjoy it as much as I do.”

The personable Southworth has been in the softball game for 44 years, first as a player, then as a coach and now as an umpire and an official with the Amateur Softball Association (ASA).

“In Chesterfield, he is considered our head umpire and ‘Mr. Softball.’ He lives, eats and breathes the game,” said Kelly Thompson, recreation coordinator with the Chesterfield Department of Parks and Recreation.

“It’s his life,” added Drew Walker, a coed player for the Free Choice Act team. “The players appreciate his good-natured approach to the game. He knows everyone by name and genuinely cares for all the players. As an umpire, his No. 1 concern is for the safety of the players. When it’s blazing hot on Sunday afternoons, he’s always checking to make sure people are drinking water and staying hydrated. I’ve seen him stop a game because someone didn’t look well; he made them go cool off.”

Southworth is a nominee for the ASA Hall of Fame this year and says he’s loved every minute of his softball sojourn. “I love the camaraderie with the people, I enjoy the exercise, and I love the game itself so much.”

Southworth started in baseball at John Marshall High School. He then played semi-pro baseball. “It died out, then I started playing softball,” he said.

He has had an illustrious career in softball. In 1965, he started playing in church leagues. He played first base on the Samuel’s Grocery team in 1973 that “was the only team from Richmond to ever win Class A nationals,” Southworth said. He organized the Disco Sports team that finished fourth in nationals. Southworth also coached the AJD team at the AA level from 1980 to 1989 that finished in the final 16 seven years.

Southworth is in his 39th year as an umpire. He won the Indicator Award for umpiring in three national tournaments, and was the representative for two teams that played in national tournaments in Florida.

He’s back in the umpiring saddle this summer after undergoing hip surgery last year.

Dawn Vaughan, a player with the coed Balch Alignment team, said of Southworth, “He is one of the most knowledgeable and fairest umpires I have ever had a chance to play with. If something comes across that he has never experienced before, he will do all he can to make sure that he finds out the answer and fully explains what it is. I absolutely love him as an umpire, and better yet as a person.”

Southworth, who is married with three grown children, umpires 14 games a week in the Chesterfield Coed Softball League on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Harry G. Daniel Park at Iron Bridge and on Sundays at L.C. Bird High School.

A 19-year ASA employee who also owns an insurance agency, Southworth organizes 15 to 20 tournaments a year in the Central Virginia area as senior deputy commissioner with the ASA. “I try to have one tournament every other weekend,” he said. He also organizes two senior tournaments a year.

Among his larger projects, he organizes the Midnight Madness tournament that had about 60 teams participating in July. He also organized the Turkey Shoot tournament the past two Novembers that attracted 102 teams.

During the week, he can be found umpiring coed games. “As long as the good Lord blesses me with my health, I hope to continue doing it,” he said.

That’s good news for the many players who have found enjoyment playing their games under the sharp, caring direction of Mr. Softball.

The History of Balls & Strikes

Through many name and format changes, the current “Balls and Strikes” magazine has been a mainstay throughout the growth of the organization. It was started in 1933 by the founders and continued through the efforts of countless ASA staff.

When Leo Fischer and M.J. Pauley founded the Amateur Softball Association 75 years ago, they – and in particular Fischer – wanted a way to communicate with the handful of commissioners of the newly-formed organization. In time the organization would peak at 110 local association commissioners.

Fischer, then a sportswriter who would eventually become sports editor of the Chicago American, suggested that a bulletin be mailed each month to the commissioners to keep them informed on what was going on in the Association. The name of this bulletin was “Soft-Balls and Strikes.”

Originally in mimeograph form, this bulletin became a newspaper in 1938 when it was included in a publication called “Softball” that was printed by the Michigan Softball Association, Lansing, Mich., and sold for $1 per year. “Softball” was printed twice each month during June, July and August and once each the remaining months of the year.

In 1937 and 1938, however, the ASA produced the first printed issues of “Softballs and Strikes” and distributed 5000 copies each of these souvenir issues, which highlighted the respective national championships. Each 32-page issues contained pictures and articles about the national championship. These two issues sold for 25 cents each plus 5 cents for mailing. “Softball” eventually became “Softball News” and continued to devote a page to “Soft-Balls and Strikes” until June of 1942 when it discontinued the publication. This resulted in the ASA switching back to the mimeograph machine to produce “Soft-Balls and Strikes”. And, in 1947, the name “Soft-Balls and Strikes” was shortened to its present name “Balls and Strikes”.

In April of 1947, the Balls and Strikes format was changed to a 7-column newspaper with four pages each issue and the subscription price still $1 per year. “Balls and Strikes” remained a 7-column newspaper until increasing costs forced the publication to go back to the mimeograph following the August, 1948 issue. In that issue, M.J. Pauley wrote an editorial about the swan song of Balls and Strikes and himself as editor of the ASA’s official publication. Just prior to the January 30, 1949 annual meeting in Chicago, Pauley resigned as ASA executive secretary, ending 16 years of service to the ASA.

Balls and Strikes remained a mimeograph, however, only a few months because in Nov-Dec., 1948, it was changed to a 4-column tabloid and remained a tabloid until the ASA changed to a slick magazine in 1980.

ASA switched Balls and Strikes back to a four-column tabloid in 1982 and the publication remained in that form until 1996 when another attempt at a magazine was made.

The evolutionary circle continued because of rising costs and a lack of advertising, in 1999 Balls and Strikes was changed from five issues to two—a season preview in February and a national championship/ season recap issue in the fall. On March 1, 1999, the ASA launched its first issue of Balls and Strikes on its website. Little did Fischer and the other people involved with the formation of the ASA realize the strides softball and Balls and Strikes would make together.

And, from all indications, it appears that the best is yet to come for softball and the ASA, which celebrates its 75th anniversary in 2008 with the National Council meeting scheduled in Oklahoma City.

You can find current issues of Balls & Strikes magazines at https://www.teamusa.org/usa-softball/media/balls-and-strikes-online-magazine.

Ty Stofflet

Is Ty Stofflet the Greatest Pitcher of All Time?

Ty Stofflet

  • Over 1500 wins and less than 300 losses.
  • 650 shutouts 172 no hitters 500 one-hitters 58 perfect games.
  • Won 71 straight games clocked at 104.7 mph.
  • ASA national record 14 consecutive wins 76 2/3 consecutive innings without giving up an earned run.

MVP – Most Valuable Player
OPA – Outstanding Pitcher Award
ShO – Shutout
NH – No Hitter
PG – Perfect Game
IP – Innings Pitched
K – Strikeouts

ISC CAREER WORLDS/NATIONALS

  • 1963 Allentown Patriots – 14th Place, 0-1; 10 IP, 18 K
  • 1964 Allentown Patriots – 10th Place, 2-2; 31 IP, 48 K, 2 ShO
  • 1965 Allentown Patriots – 3rd Place, 4-2; 42 IP, 47 K, 3 ShO
  • 1966 Allentown Patriots – 4th Place, 4-2; 41 IP, 60 K, 4 ShO
  • 1967 Allentown Patriots – 2nd Place, 4-2; 52 IP 85 K, 3 ShO, PG, All World, MVP
  • 1968 Sal’s Lunch – 4th Place, 3-1; 35 IP, 71 K, 2 ShO, NH, All World
  • 1969 Sal’s Lunch – 1st Place, 5-0; 42 IP, 86 K, 5 ShO, NH, PG, All World, MVP, OPA
  • 1984 Bank of PA Sunners – 7th Place, 6-2; 64 IP, 83 K, 2 ShO, All World, OPA
  • 1985 Bank of PA Sunners – 5th Place, 3-1, 31 IP, 46 K, 2 ShO
  • 1987 Saskatoon All-O-Matic A’s – 25th Place, 0-1, 7 IP, 10 K
  • 1989 McD/Jimmy Macs, Baltimore – 25th Place, 1-2, 19 IP, 21 K
  • 1990 TW Perry, Baltimore – 25th Place, 1-1, 15 IP, 22 K
  • 1991 Class Walls, Whiteford, MD – 17th Place, 1-1, 18 IP, 28 K
  • 1992 Class Walls, Whiteford, MD – 13th Place, 4-2, 42 IP, 36 K, All World

ISC PENNSYLVANIA STATES

  • 1958 St. John’s, Allentown – Local Church League
  • 1959 St. John’s, Allentown – Local Church League
  • 1960 St. John’s, Allentown – Local Church League
  • 1961 St. John’s, Allentown – Local Church League
  • 1962 St. John’s, Allentown – Local Church League, 2nd ISC East Church States, 0-1, 7 IP, 9 K
  • 1963 Allentown Patriots – Won ISC States, 3-1, 28 IP, 46 K, OPA
  • 1964 Allentown Patriots – Won ISC States, 2-0, 18 IP, 25 K, OPA
  • 1965 Allentown Patriots – Won ISC States, 2-0, 14 IP, 30 K, NH, OPA
  • 1966 Allentown Patriots – Won ISC States, 1-1, 16 IP, 25 K
  • 1966 Mack Trucks – Won ISC Industrial States, 1-1, 14 IP, 21 K
  • 1967 Allentown Patriots – Won ISC States 2-0, 14 IP, 24 K, 2 PGs
  • 1966 Mack Trucks – Won ISC Industrial States 1-0, 7 IP, 19 K, PG
  • 1968 Allentown Patriots – 2nd ISC States 2-1, 17 IP, 30 K, MVP
  • 1968 Mack Trucks – Won ISC Industrial States 3-1, 30 IP, 66 K, 2 NHs, MVP
  • 1969 Sal’s Lunch – Won ISC States 4-0, 28 IP, 54 K, OPA
  • 1971 Mack UAW Local – Won ISC Industrial East States 3-0, 21 IP, 54 K, MVP
  • 1984 Bank of PA Sunners – Won ISC States 1-0, 7 IP, 9 K
  • 1985 Bank of PA Sunners – Won ISC States, 1-0, 7 IP, 10 K, NH

ISC TOTALS

  • Nationals – 38-20, 449 IP, 661 K, 2 MVP, 2 Outstanding Pitcher Award, 5 All Worlds
  • States – 26-6, 229 IP, 422 K, 3 MVP, 4 Outstanding Pitcher Awards

ASA NATIONALS

  • 1971 Rising Sun, Reading – 3rd Place, All American, MVP 3-2; 43 IP, 79 K
  • 1974 Rising Sun, Reading – 4th Place, All American, MVP, OPA, 2-1; 36 IP, 64 K
  • 1975 Rising Sun, Reading – 1st Place, All American, MVP, OPA, 6-0; 53 IP, 88 K
  • 1976 Billard Sunners – 5th Place, All American, 3-2; 33 IP, 54
  • 1977 Billard Sunners – 1st Place, All American, 5-0; 35 IP, 49 K, MVP, OPA
  • 1978 Billard Sunners – 1st Place, All American, 4-0; 29 IP, 61 K, MVP, OPA
  • 1979 York Barbell Sunners – 2nd Place, 5-1; 46 IP, 76 K, All American, OPA
  • 1981 Reading Sunners – 3rd, 4-1; 41 IP, 69 K, All American
  • 1982 Bank PA Sunners – 13th Place, 1-2; 23 IP, 25 K
  • 1983 Bank PA Sunners – 4th Place, 5-1; 48 IP, 58 K, All American
  • 1984 Bank PA Sunners – 13th Place, 0-2; 16 IP, 16 K
  • 1985 Bank PA Sunners – 4th Place, 4-2; 40 IP, 46 K, All American
  • 1986 Allentown Sunners – 5th Place, 3-2; 38 IP, 45 K, All American
  • 1987 Annapolis Radiator – 25th Place, 0-2; 13 IP, 10 K
  • 1989 Riverside Lasers – 17th Place, 1-1; 14 IP, 14 K
  • 1992 Class Walls, MD – 33rd Place, 0-2; 10 IP, 8 K

ASA CENTRAL ATLANTIC REGIONAL

  • 1970 Rising Sun, Reading – 3rd Place, 2-0, 14 IP, 21 K
  • 1971 Rising Sun, Reading – 1st Place, 5-0, 40 IP, 65 K, 5 ShO, 2 NHs, MVP
  • 1972 Rising Sun, Reading – 2nd Place, 5-2, 49 IP, 77 K, 2 ShO, MVP
  • 1973 Rising Sun, Reading – 2nd Place, 3-2, 39 IP, 58 K, 3 ShO, NH, OPA
  • 1974 Rising Sun, Reading – 1st Place, 3-0, 21 IP, 41 K, 2 ShO, OPA
  • 1975 Rising Sun, Reading – 1st Place, 5-0, 44 IP, 82 K, 2 ShO, NH

ASA PENNSYLVANIA STATES

  • 1970 Rising Sun, Reading – 1st Place 7-1, 58 IP, 96 K, MVP
  • 1971 Rising Sun, Reading – 1st Place 3-0, 21 IP, 40 K, MVP
  • 1973 Rising Sun, Reading – 1st Place 3-0, 22 IP, 27 K
  • 1974 Rising Sun, Reading – 1st Place 2-0, 18 IP, 30 K, OPA
  • 1977 Billard Sunners – 1st Place 1-0; 7 IP, 18 K, NH

INTERNATIONAL CAREER

  • 1976 Rising Sun – 1st Place ISF World Championship, 4-2, 59 IP, 98 K, 3 ShO, 20 Inning No Hitter, MVP, OPA
  • 1978 Billard Sunners – 1st Place at US National Sports Festival, 4-0; 28 IP, 50 K
  • 1979 York Barbell Sunners – 1st Place at US National Sports Festival, 2-1, 21 IP, 30 K
  • 1979 Team USA – 2nd Place at Pan-Am Games, 4-1, 37 IP, 65 K, 2 ShO, NH
  • 1982 Bank PA Sunners – 2nd Place at US National Sports Festival, 2-2, 31 IP, 28 K
  • 1983 Team USA – 2nd Place at Pan-Am Games, 2-0, 14 IP, 22 K, NH
  • 1986 Allentown Sunners – 3rd Place at US National Sports Festival, 1-1, 14 IP, 21 K

ASA National Totals – 46-21, 518 IP, 762 K, 3 National Titles, 11 All Americans, 5 MVP, 5 Outstanding Pitcher Awards

ASA Region Totals – 23-4, 207 IP, 343 K, 3 Regional Titles, 3 MVP, 1 Outstanding Pitcher Award

ASA State Totals – 16-1, 126 IP, 211 K, 5 State Titles, 2 MVP, 2 Outstanding Pitcher Awards

NSF (Olympic Festival) Totals – 9-4, 94 IP, 130 K, 2 Festival titles

ISF Totals – 4-2, 59 IP, 98 K, 1 World title, 3 Shutouts, No Hitter, MVP, Outstanding Pitcher Award

Pan-Am Totals – 6-1, 51 IP, 87 K, 2 Shutouts, 2 No Hitters


When he broke the record in 1986 ASA Nationals beating Midland 1-0 with no hitter to win 45th career ASA National tournament game, he was 45-14 at the time. He lost his next two games at the 1986 Nationals and then went 1-5 in the next 3 Nationals he played in.

Statistics for just advanced play tournaments like states/regionals/nationals/worlds.

  • ASA Nationals – 46-21, 518 IP, 762 K, 3 National Championships, 11 All Americans, 5 MVP, 5 Most Valuable Pitcher
  • ASA Regionals – 23-4, 207 IP, 343 K, 3 Championships, 3 MVP, 1 Most Valuable Pitcher
  • ASA States – 16-1, 126 IP, 211 K, 5 Championships, 2 MVP, 2 Most Valuable Pitcher
  • NSF Festival – 9-4, 80 IP, 109 K, 2 Championships
  • ISF World – 4-2, 59 IP, 98 K, 1 Championship, 1 MVP, 1 Most Valuable Pitcher
  • Pan Am Games – 6-1, 51 IP, 87 K
  • ISC National – 38-20, 449 IP, 661 K, 1 Championship, 5 All Worlds, 2 MVP, 1 Most Valuable Pitcher
  • ISC States – 26-2, 229 IP, 422 K, 12 Championships, 3 MVP, 4 Most Valuable Pitcher

TOTALS – 168-55, 1733 IP, 2714 K, 26 Championships, 16 All American/World, 16 MVP, 14 Most Valuable Pitcher


In ASA National Play, he hurled close to 20 shutouts and 8 no hitters, including 4 perfect games.

In ISC World play, he had another 21 shutouts with 3 no hitters and 2 perfect games.

In State and regional play, he probably had another 15 no hitters and 10 perfect games.

He saved his best for the big stage.  In what is still considered the greatest pitching performance of all time in the 1972 ISF World Championships, he pitched an incredible 1-0 win over New Zealand and its ace pitcher, Kevin Herlihy, in 20 innings. For 18 2/3 innings Stofflet had a perfect game before a batter was hit by a pitch. Stofflet had two of the five hits off Herlihy including the game’s only RBI with a single in the top of the 20th inning. Stofflet finished with an incredible 32 strikeouts in a game.

He was a pitcher with no equal and what people fail to realize it that he also had a career batting average of over .300.

National Softball Hall of Fame 2010’s

The National Softball Hall of Fame is the ultimate goal for any player, coach, umpire or administrator who aspire to greatness in the sport. With over 400 inductees, the National Softball Hall of Fame is among the most difficult sports halls in the nation in which to gain membership.

Take a moment to browse through the Hall of Fame section and learn more about some of the sport’s greatest athletes and their accomplishments. If you get a chance to visit us in person while in Oklahoma City, please observe these hours of operation:

National Softball Hall of Fame and Museum
2801 Northeast 50th Street
Oklahoma City, OK 73111
(405) 424-5266
Monday-Friday: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Saturday-Sunday: Check USA Softball Hall of Fame Complex for weekend hours

The Hall of Fame and Museum does not charge, but donations are greatly appreciated and accepted. Your donations help keep this history of softball alive through exhibit updates, upkeep and restoration projects.

Link to Video of the National Softball Hall of Fame


The National Softball Hall of Fame and Museum was established in 1957. Once USA Softball moved to Oklahoma City January 1, 1966 after having its offices in Newark, NJ, the decision to establish a Hall of Fame Building in Oklahoma City was made in January of 1965. Groundbreaking ceremonies for the Hall of Fame were held December 19, 1970 in Oklahoma City. The late John Nagy, former Cleveland Metro commissioner, was USA Softball President at that time. Hall of Famers Harold (Shifty) Gears and Carolyn Thome Hart were among those attending the ceremonies.

The National Softball Hall of Fame was officially dedicated May 26, 1973 in Oklahoma City. The building was opened to the public July 1, 1973.

The first of two additions to the National Softball Hall of Fame/USA Softball Headquarters was started July 5, 1976 and completed July 13, 1977 for an additional 4,350 square feet of space. Dedication ceremonies for the expansion were held July 23, 1977. Counting the National Softball Hall of Fame/USA Softball Headquarters and the USA Softball Hall of Fame Complex, there is 28,406 square feet of space.

A second expansion was added July of 1980 for an additional 5,182 square feet of space, with total footage 18,140 square feet of space.

The National Softball Hall of Fame and Museum has over 400 members with two categories of membership: players and non players. Within the player category, there are five categories: Men’s/Women’s Fast Pitch, Men’s/Women’s Slow Pitch and Modified Pitch. Within the non player category, there are five different divisions one can be nominated in: Commissioner, Meritorious Service, Umpire, Managers and Sponsors. A nominee needs 75 percent (nine votes) of the votes cast by the 12 member Hall of Fame Committee to be elected. Annual inductions are held at the USA Softball Annual Meeting.


Through our vast collection of artifacts, the National Softball Hall of Fame and Museum strives to educate the public about softball’s rich history. Your support is critical to these efforts.

The Hall of Fame Donation Fund was established to ensure that the National Softball Hall of Fame has a future and is committed to educating people about the great former players and non players and the role they played in the development of the sport.

Your tax-deductible contribution helps the National Softball Hall of Fame continue its mission of educating, collecting and honoring as well as the preservation of the history of softball, the maintaining of present exhibits and purchase of new exhibits and possible expansion of the Hall of Fame building.

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Due to the volume of offers we receive, we cannot accept the donation of an artifact without a completed artifact description form. Please see our Mission Statement and Collections Management Policy to see what types of objects we will and will not accept. Once we have received your form, our staff will evaluate the object’s potential and will be in contact with you as to whether or not we will be able to accept the donation. If your object is chosen, the donated material will be recommended to the Executive Director for consideration. Following the meeting a staff member will contact you regarding the next steps.

 Click here for the Donor Questionnaire Form



NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2010


Norbert “The Cyclone” Warken

Norbert “The Cyclone” Warken, Covington, Kentucky – Men’s Fast Pitch

Warken earned his nickname from a Chicago sportswriter who was impressed by his pitching in the 1939 ASA national championship in Chicago and gave him the nickname after he blew through the opposition. Warken made his debut in ASA national championship play in 1937 with the Mayfield Curlee Clothiers, making history in his first game. He took a record 27 minutes to beat Denver, Colo., 3-0, striking out 14 on a one-hitter. In 1938, Warken pitched and batted Carr’s Boosters to the Kentucky state title. It was his solo homer over center field that was the difference in a 1-0 win over Mayfield Style Marts. Warken limited the losers to one hit in the game for his third consecutive one-hitter, striking out 44 batters in winning three games. Warken won six games, pitching five consecutive shutouts in leading Nick Carr’s Covington, Ky. Boosters to the National title in 1939. Warken hurled 51 innings of scoreless softball and ended the tourney with 99 strikeouts and 12 hits allowed. The only run he allowed was unearned in the last inning of the championship game. Warken extended his streak the following year before giving up an earned run and finished with 55 consecutive scoreless innings.

 


Suzy Brazney

Suzy Brazney, Huntington Beach, California – Women’s Fast Pitch – Catcher

Suzy Brazney is not just defined by her achievements on the field as great as they are, but rather the passion for softball that she has continuously displayed through her career. Known as “the catcher that never wore shin guards”, Suzy has dedicated her life to playing and promoting the sport of softball. She earned 20 ASA All-American selections from 1980-2005 including 12 First-Team accolades. She was a member of many great teams such as the Long Beach Renegades, Glendale Blazers, Diamond-Blazers, Team Texas, Orange County Magestics, Phoenix Sunbirds and the So Cal Hurricanes. Brazney had an outstanding catching career at the Canada Cup where after the 2005 Canada Cup, the tournament created the “Suzy Brazney Most Outstanding Catcher” award which is presented annually. She was a member of six Olympic Festivals, winning gold in 1983. Brazney participated in three Pan American Games as a member of the USA Women’s National team, winning Gold in 1987 and 1991. She also holds the title of World Champion as she helped Team USA to a win at the 1990 World Championships. After retiring from playing, she remained dedicated to the cause of ASA/USA Softball as an assistant Coach with USA Softball. Brazney served on the selection committee from 2001-2004 and has been an assistant coach for both the Junior National Team and National Team. She becomes the 57th women’s fast pitch player to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.


E.T. Colvin

E.T. Colvin, Columbus, Mississippi – Commissioner

It may be fair to say that the state of softball in Mississippi would not be at the high level it is without E.T. Colvin. Colvin is the current Mississippi Commissioner and the in-coming ASA President. He has also served ASA as a Board Member, ASA Tournament Representative, past President, and player when he began playing in 1968 in his hometown of Columbus, Miss. Colvin played at the Major Level of Slow Pitch. Before becoming Commissioner in 1992, Colvin hit over 1200 home runs and played in five ASA National Championships. Under his leadership, Mississippi ASA has an outstanding adult, junior Olympic and umpire program and on two occasions was selected to host the USA Softball Women’s’ Olympic Team during the pre-Olympic tours. Since Colvin has served as commissioner, Mississippi ASA has hosted 45 National Championships, five National Umpire schools with registration numbers increasing every year. In 2005, he was recognized by the Oklahoma ASA Hall of Fame with induction in the meritorious service category. Colvin was also awarded the ASA President’s Award three consecutive years from 1999-2001. It was not just in his backyard that Colvin was a leader as he has taken on softball on the International front as well. He has represented the United States in many International events and he is currently the North American Vice-President for the International Softball Federation. Colvin is the 40th Commissioner inducted into the Hall of Fame.


Guy Demaio

Guy Demaio, New Castle, Pennsylvania – Meritorious Service

Guy Demaio has been an integral part of ASA, especially Pennsylvania ASA, for nearly 30 years. He has served as Commissioner since 1971 and has been the Western Area Vice President since 1988. Demaio has held many roles as an ASA member including ASA Vice-President and being the first at-large representative ever to be elected to the Central Atlantic Regional Director as Vice President. This earned him a spot on the ASA Board of Directors, making him only the second at-large rep to ever hold such a position at that time. He has served as the Chairman of the National ASA Classification Committee and Vice-Chairman of the Player Representatives Committee, the Legislative Committee, the National Equipment Standards Committee, and the Special Events Committee. He has served as Editor of “Softball News”, the official publication of the ASA of Pennsylvania, since its inception in 1973. Demaio becomes the 40th Hall of Famer inducted in the meritorious service category. Demaio died on November 24, 2018.

 

 


Jody Hennigar

Jody Hennigar, Halifax, Nova Scotia – Men’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

Jody Hennigar was a standout two-way player during his fast pitch career, beating a team at the plate or on the mound. Hennigar was at his best in national championship play or world championship play, earning ASA All-America laurels seven times between 1985-2005. He twice led the ASA Men’s Major Fast Pitch Tourney in batting, won a home run title and the Dudley Award as the tourney’s outstanding pitcher. Hennigar compiled a 19-9 pitching record in seven ASA nationals. He batted .351 (54-for-154), drove in 46 runs and smashed 14 home runs, which is second best in ASA history trailing Jeff Seip, who entered the Hall of Fame last year. Hennigar had one of his best seasons in 1992 when he batted .382, hitting 21 homers and driving in 75 runs to lead the Bombers. On the mound that year, he fashioned a 35-5 record with an ERA of 0.82. In 1992 and 1994, he led the Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Tourney in batting and in 1994 he also led in home runs with five. In 2002, Hennigar was 6-0 on the mound and won the Dudley Award as the tourney’s Outstanding Pitcher. Hennigar retired following the 2005 season. He didn’t play in the ASA National Championship that year but batted .333 for the season with three homers and 12 RBI. In the ISC, Hennigar compiled a 21-12 pitching record and batted .280. Although he was never on an ASA National Championship team, he played on teams that were consistent top ten finishers, finishing in the top five in every appearance. The teams he played for included Cedar Rapids Vigortone, Cedar Rapids Teleconect, The Farm Tavern, Madison, Wisc., the Clearwater, Fla. Bombers, Circle Tap of Denmark, Wisc., and the Fedlock Falcons who he played with for three years. Hennigar is the 78th male fast pitch player inducted into the Hall of Fame.


Ronnie Isham

Ronnie Isham, Stephenville, Texas – Meritorious Service

Manager, Player, At-Large Player Representative, Team Leader, Commissioner, Parks and Recreation Director, Director of National Teams. These are just some of the positions Ronnie Isham has held during his more than 30 years of involvement with the ASA, the perfect example of a Meritorious Service inductee. As a manager, Isham compiled a 21-year record of 1,016 wins and 310 losses for a winning percentage of .76 %, winning seven Regional championships and appearing in seven ASA Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championships. He also served as the District 12 commissioner and was the Texas Area vice-president. In 1986, he was appointed the Texas at-large player rep. In 1992, Isham was named to the Women’s National Team Selection Committee that selected the first-ever U.S. Olympic Softball Team. He was then selected as the USA Softball National Team Leader for several national teams, including the 1996 Olympic Team. His first assignment came in 1991 with the Junior Men’s National Team that competed in the ISF World Championships in New Zealand. Isham also served on a selection committee that chose the players that comprised the USA Junior Men’s National Team. From 1992-2001, as a member of the Women’s National Selection Committee, Isham has been involved in selecting multiple USA Softball Women’s National Team since 1992, including the 1994 and 1998 World Championship Teams that captured gold; 1995 and 1999 Pan Am gold medal teams and the 2000 Olympic gold medal team. Although Isham has been involved with the ASA for decades, his participation on the selection committee came through his affiliation as an ASA allied member, the Texas Amateur Athletic Federation (TAAF). Isham has served as a TAAF president (1989-1991) and is one of only 19 individuals in 75 years to receive the Koger Stokes Award, the association’s highest honor, which he received in 1997. In 2002, Isham was named a Life Member of TAAF and is the 40th member of the Hall of Fame to be inducted in the meritorious service category. Isham died on December 3, 2018.


Richard Ribby

Richard Ribby, Eaton Rapids, Michigan – Umpire

Nicknamed “Ice Man” because of his demeanor under all circumstances, Ribby umpired some of the top events in softball, including five ASA Major Fast Pitch Nationals, the 1982 Olympic Festival in Indianapolis, Ind., the 1984 ISF Men’s World championship in Midland, Mich. And the 1995 ASA Women’s Festival. Ribby earned the plate in many Championship games including the 1981 Women’s Major Fast Pitch National, the 1982 Men’s Olympic Festival in Indianapolis and the 1983 Men’s Major Fast Pitch National. Following these events, Ribby was granted his ISF certification in fast pitch in 1983. A year later, he was selected to work the ISF Men’s World Championship in Midland, Mich. Ribby worked his final event in 1995 with the ASA Women’s Olympic Festival; the same year he was also was inducted into the Michigan ASA Hall of Fame.

 

 

 


Mike Shenk

Mike Shenk, Ephrata, Pennsylvania – Men’s Slow Pitch

Although he started out playing fast pitch, Hall of Fame inductee Mike Shenk made his mark playing major level slow pitch softball from 1992 through 2002, playing for various teams throughout his career. Shenk began playing fast pitch softball after high school and played for two years before switching to slow pitch to play with his friends. During his 11-year career, Shenk has been named All American 22 times and has won 16 National Championships along with a lifetime batting average of.701 and has hit more than 1,500 home runs during his softball career. He batted .700 or higher five times of which his highest batting average was .739 in 2000 which included personal-high 144 homers. In the past years, Shenk had to shorten his softball career because of kidney problems but after receiving a kidney transplant, he is back on the ball field playing 40 & over. In the Super Nationals, Shenk batted .755, (117-for-155), hit 42 homers and drove in 113 RBI. Some of the top slow pitch teams boasted Shenk on their roster including Farrell Maintenance (1987-1989), Taylor Brothers (1990-1992) Shen Valley, Lighthouse (1995-1996), Ritch’s-Superior (1997), Team TPS, Team Easton and Long Haul/TPS in 2001 when the won the “Grand Slam of Softball.” In 2007, Shenk was inducted into the ASA of Pennsylvania Hall of Fame. He played for a local team in 1987 and 1988 and helped it win two ASA of PA state titles. In 1994, he joined Shen Valley and continued to play at the top level of men’s slow pitch until he retired after playing the 2002 season.


Cheryl Simmons

Cheryl Simmons, Palo Alto, California – Umpire

While she was still playing softball, Cheryl Simmons was asked by her teammates to umpire a practice game in 1975 when the umpires failed to show. At the time, Simmons had been umpiring high school fast pitch. She agreed to help her team out and a year later she officially registered as an ASA umpire. She was a member of the Santa Clara Metro ASA for 25 years and served as umpire-in-chief for 16 of those years, 1985-2000. She became a member of the National Indicator Fraternity in 1986 and that same year was awarded the ASA Award of Excellence for Region 14. Simmons attended more than 10 clinics to better herself as an ASA umpire as well as has helped train numerous umpires and has worked with other countries in exchange programs to further develop umpires. In 1995, she participated as one of the clinicians at the New Zealand Umpire Clinic in Palmerston North, New Zealand. During her 34-year umpiring career, Simmons umpired various ASA and ISF events. In 1979, she was a member of the first ASA all female umpiring crew for the Women’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship. In 1981, she worked the Senior Girls’ (18-under) Fast Pitch National Championship followed by the Women’s Class A Fast Pitch National Championship in 1983 and in 1985. In between these events, she worked and the Senior Girls Fast Pitch National Championship in Lodi, Calif. in 1987. In 1997, Simmons served as the UIC for the Women’s 35-and-over Masters Slow Pitch National in Stockton, Calif. In 2000, she was selected to work the Women’s Inter-Service Slow Pitch Tournament in Miramar NAS, California. In 1987, she was ISF certified in fast pitch and has attained all four levels of the Medals Program. Internationally, Simmons officiated three Olympic Festivals and the 1987 ISF Junior Girls World Championship. In 1994, she was selected to work the ISF World Championship followed by two ISF qualifiers. In 1993, she was the first female to umpire the Canada Cup, and worked this event for nine consecutive years. She also worked the 1997 ISF Asian Zone qualifier and the 2003 Pan American games. Simmons has been a member of the Metropolitan Officials’ Association for 34 years and served as its president for 18 years. She is the 39th Umpire to be inducted into the Hall of Fame and only the second woman umpire to be inducted.


Carl Solarek

Carl Solarek, Freeland, Pennsylvania – Men’s Fast Pitch

A former minor league baseball player who played five years for the Detroit Tigers Organization, Carl Solarek turned to playing softball after his stint in baseball ended. He got started in fast pitch in 1972, Solarek earned ASA first-team All-America honors in 1974-76 and 1978 playing for Rising Sun, the Billiard Sunners and the Reading Sunners. With these teams, he was a member of three ASA Men’s Major fast pitch National Championships teams, one runner-up and one third place. Solarek’s only appearance in ISF World Championship play came in 1976 when Reading, representing the ASA and the USA, shared the ISF Men’s World Fast Pitch Championship in Lower Hutt, New Zealand with Canada, and New Zealand. Solarek batted .800 in the event and had a .985 fielding percentage in nine games. In addition to the ISF World Championship, Solarek played in the United States Olympic Festival in 1978 and 1979 and was one of the leading hitters for Billiard Barbell, batting .421 (8-for-19) with four RBI in the latter event in helping the team win the gold medal. In the ‘79 gold medal game against Clearwater, Fla., Solarek went two-for-three, scored a run and drove in a pair of runs on a two-run single in the fourth. Solarek had one of his best national tournaments in 1977 in Midland, Mich., leading Billiard Barbell to the National Title. The championship necessitated two games when Aurora Home Savings and Loan of Aurora, Ill. Handed Barbell its first defeat, 3-0. Led by Solarek in the second game, Barbell emerged with a 4-0 win. Solarek went three-for-three on offense and drove in three of the team’s four runs. He and winning pitcher Ty Stofflet had half of the team’s eight hits. Although Solarek starred in the championship game, he was not named to either of the All-America teams, finishing with a .278 batting average (5-for-18). A year earlier, Solarek had batted .313 in the National tourney to earn first-team laurels. Solarek is a member of five Halls of Fame: Anthracite Basketball, Pennsylvania ASA, District 12 Softball, Berks County Hall, and Luzerne County Hall.


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2011


Lori Harrigan

Lori Harrigan, Las Vegas, Nevada – Women’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

Lori is a member of an elite group of four women who hold three Olympic Gold Medals in the sport of softball. The pitcher not only competed in three Olympic Games, but also in three World Championships and three Pan American Championships, all gold medal performances. Harrigan was also a three-time ASA Women’s Major All-American, spending two years with the California Commotion and one with the California Players. With the Commotion, she was crowned National Champion in 1999 and runner-up in 1995. She joined the USA Softball National Team program in 1992 and retired following the 2004 Olympic Games. In the 2000 Olympic Games, she set a record becoming the first individual pitcher to throw an Olympic no-hitter after blanking Canada in the tournament opener. She finished those Games with a 2-0 record, allowing just one hit and one walk in 12.1 innings.

 

 

 


Julie Johnson

Julie Johnson, Alexandria, Indiana – Umpire

Julie became an ASA registered umpire in 1976 and has emerged as one of the top umpires and clinicians for ASA. Johnson worked nine National Championships, from 1982-1998, including six Women’s Majors. Johnson earned her ISF certification through the International Softball Federation of Umpires in 1986 and would go on to work several Major Fast Pitch events including an ISF World Championship, Pan American Games and most notably the 1996 Olympic Games in Columbus, Georgia. In 2006, she was appointed to the ASA National Umpire Staff as the ASA Deputy Supervisor of Umpires. Johnson not only worked on the field of play, but off the field she served as Umpire-In-Chief for three ASA National Championships and four International events including two World Cup of Softball events and the ISF Men’s World Championship. As one of the top clinicians in the U.S., Johnson has worked over 10 clinics including National Umpires Schools and Fast Pitch Camps. In 2007 she was appointed to the position of North American UIC for the ISF. In 2005, Johnson was inducted into the Indiana ASA Hall of Fame as an Umpire. Sadly, Johnson died on April 28, 2016.

 


Brian Martie

Brian Martie, Bloomington, Illinois – Men’s Fast Pitch – Infield

Brian played men’s fast pitch for almost 20 years for several notable teams including Coffeen, Taylor Springs, Bob’s IGA, Bloomington Hearts, Decatur Pride, and ending his career with the Farm Tavern who he competed with for seven seasons. The infielder was a five-time MVP of the Illinois ASA Major State Tournament and six times was selected to the All-Tournament team. He appeared in 15 consecutive ASA National Championships and boasts six All-American titles. On the International scene, Martie competed for Team USA on two Pan American Games teams, which both won silver, as well as the 1996 ISF World Championships.

 

 

 

 


Rod Peterson

Rod Peterson, Madison, Wisconsin – Manager

Rod retired in 2009 after managing the esteemed Farm Tavern team for more than four decades. He began playing in 1955 when he saw a man pass through the hotel lobby carrying cleats. He asked him where he was going, and the stranger said a softball game. Peterson tagged along and the rest they say is history. He played and managed the Farm Tavern, a pub that he still owns today. His Farm Tavern teams, whom he began to manage in 1960, won three ASA National Championships and six runner-up finishes. They accomplished the same feat in ISC play. He quit playing in 1986 but continued to manage the team until 2009. Farm Tavern won approximately 15 State Championships under his management.

 


Lewis Secory Sr.

Lewis Secory, Sr. Port Huron, Michigan – Sponsor

Lewis established the Secory Flyers Softball Club in 1982 when his son approached him about sponsoring a team. The only criteria he asked was that the team represent him, his company and Port Huron, Michigan with class. The year 2010 marked his 29th consecutive season of sponsoring the Secory Flyers Modified Softball Team. In his 29 years of sponsoring, the Flyers have participated in 21 National Championships with two wins. The Flyers won ten MASA State Modified Championships and 16 Port Huron League Championships. During his time on the National Tournament scene, the Flyers placed in the top 10 on nine occasions. Secory is the founder and annual sponsor of the National Bluewater Invitation Softball Tournament in Port Huron. Besides his modified team, Secory has sponsored many other teams including volleyball, hockey, and bowling. In 2001, Secory was inducted into the Michigan ASA Hall of Fame in the sponsor category.

 

 

 


Gary Tharaldson

Gary Tharaldson, Fargo, North Dakota – Sponsor

Gary has dedicated much of his life to supporting ASA Softball as a sponsor for not just one or two divisions but across the whole spectrum of ASA Softball. He was a sponsor for 38 years of the Men’s A, B and C Slow Pitch Divisions and supported five different levels of senior ball for a total of 24 years. Tharaldson sponsored women’s teams for 15 years as well as both Boys and Girls Junior Olympic Teams. His sponsored teams have participated in over 30 National Tournaments. Outside of his teams, Tharaldson gave back by providing North Dakota state tournament trophies and banners for all divisions for 12 years. He also sponsored the North Dakota Hall of Fame Banquet for 10 years. Tharaldson has been a key component in keeping the upper division of the McQuade Charity Tournament going. Tharaldson was also a player during his time as sponsor winning two National Championships and over playing 1,000 games as a pitcher. He had a best year record of 58-2 and a career batting average of over .600.

 

 


Tim Wahl

Tim Wahl, Grayland, Washington – Men’s Fast Pitch – Catcher

Tim was introduced to fast pitch softball by a high school friend who needed a catcher. With just two years of experience under his belt, in 1986 he was asked to try out for Pay ‘N Pak of Seattle and was shortly thereafter catching 85 mph fastballs. He spent the next 17 years of his life devoted to fast pitch softball. Along with Pay ‘N Pack, he competed with Seafirst, Penn Corp., NHCD, The Farm Tavern, Tampa Bay Smokers, Decatur Pride, and Victoria Traveler’s Inn. To play during the winter months and perfect his game, he played in New Zealand. He played on three USA Softball National Teams in ISF World Championships play and won eight ASA All-American titles. He was also named to two ISF All-World Teams. He retired in 2002 and continues to work on his family farm growing cranberries.

 

 

 


Al White

Al White, Canton, Michigan – Modified Pitch – Pitcher

Al began his career as a modified fast pitch player in 1966 and retired from the sport in 1997. He briefly emerged from retirement in 2001 to pitch his team to a ninth-place National Tournament finish. White played for 31 years, pitching for two ASA National Championship teams, and earning five first-team All-America honors and the 1985 MVP Title. With all the accolades, his greatest thrill was playing with his son for Little Caesars. They qualified for ASA Nationals every year and were the perfect battery as his son was the catcher. He is currently the Head Coach for the women’s softball team at Madonna University, continuing his commitment to the sport. White is also a Metro Detroit ASA Hall of Fame Inductee.

 

 

 


Max Wilkes

Max Wilkes, Phenix City, Alabama – Meritorious Service

Max has been a longtime supporter of ASA dating back to 1959 where he played and managed several softball teams in the southeast. Wilkes helped organized and serves as President of the Phenix City Umpire Association from 1968 to present. Wilkes served as Alabama ASA District 5 Umpire-In-Chief for over 30 years and currently still holds that position. He is a four-time President of Alabama ASA and three-time Alabama Umpire-In-Chief. From 1993-2006, he served as UIC for over 75 ASA National Championships. During his 25-years on the National Umpire Staff, he was responsible for the coordination of 350 National Championship Tournaments from the Southern Region. He received one of the highest honors when he served on the Atlanta Olympic Games staff for the first-ever Olympic Games. He also served ASA on several committees including the Slow-Pitch Playing Rules and Umpires, Master/Seniors and Junior Olympics and Playing Rules-Special Programs. Max died on October 18, 2012.

 

 


Jim Wolford

Jim Wolford, DeWitt, Michigan – Umpire

Before Jim began umpiring ASA Softball in 1974, he played competitive softball in southwest Michigan. Wolford umpired his first state tournament just two years after he umpired his first two games. In his 26 years of service, Wolford umpired in five ASA National Championships culminating with the Men’s Super Slow Pitch in 1990. Wolford umpired in over 20 state Championships and served as Umpire-In-Chief for over 30 MASA State Championships. Also, in 1990, he became the Michigan ASA State UIC, a position he held for ten years. As he turned more to promoting other umpires instead of his own career, Wolford played a key role in many Michigan umpire clinics during his time. Wolford became International Softball Federation certified in 1983. He was an inaugural member of the National Indicator Fraternity in 1986 and was inducted in the Michigan ASA Hall of Fame in 1993.

 

 

 


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2012


Chris B. Armijo

Chris B. Armijo, Grand Rapids, Michigan – Umpire

Chris Armijo has been an ASA umpire for almost 40 years, during which he has had a great impact upon both ASA and Michigan ASA. Prior to becoming an ASA umpire, Chris played on five ASA State Championship teams. Armijo’s credentials speak for themselves: he is a certified ISF umpire, an ASA Elite umpire, a member of the National Indicator Fraternity since 1994, a Gold Level member of the Medals Program, and a member of the Michigan ASA Hall of Fame since 1998. He was awarded the Michigan ASA Umpire Award of Excellence twice and has served as District 7 Commissioner and Umpire-in-Chief in addition to umpiring seven National Championships. His most noteworthy accomplishment, however, is his role in the creation of the Grand Rapids Area Slow Pitch Softball Association. Amidst budget cuts, Armijo spearheaded the movement for the volunteer organization which keeps softball teams participating in ASA. Armijo has had a great influence upon the Michigan ASA umpires, and has served as an avid supporter and promoter for ASA softball.


Denny Bruckert

Denny Bruckert, Gillespie, Illinois – Manager

Beginning in 1961, Denny Bruckert has dedicated his life to softball. Growing up in a small town in Illinois, Bruckert fostered a love for fast pitch softball, a love that would endure well after his playing days were over. Rather than hang up his cleats, Bruckert turned to managing men’s fast pitch teams. After managing several successful teams, Bruckert was asked to manage the Decatur Pride of Decatur, Illinois in 1993. Bruckert led the Pride to three ASA National Championships and two runner-up titles prior to their disbanding in 2001. Bruckert did not give up on his passion, however, and continued his successful managerial career, winning three additional ASA National titles in 2002, 2005 and 2006 with three different organizations. Most recently, Bruckert led the NY Gremlins to the 2012 ASA Men’s Major Fast Pitch National title. Bruckert also left his mark on the international scene, serving as the assistant coach to the U.S. National team in 1996 and head coach to the 1999 U.S. Pan American silver medal team. Bruckert is also a member of the Illinois ASA Hall of Fame, and the ISC Hall of Fame.


Leon Grunalt

Leon Grunalt, Warren, Michigan – Manager

Leon Grunalt began his softball career in 1955 on a local fast pitch team. After developing a love for the game, he began his managerial career with local Detroit teams. After several successful seasons within local travel leagues, Grunalt found success in 1984 when his Budweiser sponsored team won the ASA Men’s 35 and over National Invitational. After ASA sanctioned this category in 1985, Grunalt’s team went on to win the National title for two consecutive years. Then, in 1988, Grunalt joined forces with Karl and Fred Nothdurft and with new sponsorship the Nothdurft slow pitch team was created. Under his leadership, the team won 37 consecutive games, compiled a record of 63-5 in national championship play and earned seven National titles. Grunalt managed nine ASA Slow Pitch National Championship teams before retiring in 1994. Grunalt has been a member of the Metro Detroit ASA Hall of Fame since 1994. Grunalt passed away on December 12, 2015.

 


Jerry King

Jerry King, Maysville, Kentucky – Men’s Slow Pitch – Infield

Growing up in Maysville, Kentucky Jerry King made a name for himself as a basketball player. After graduating from high school in 1962, King joined the Marine Corps, where he served for four years. After that he earned a basketball scholarship to Morehead State University where he played for four years. King made his softball debut in 1976, playing for Debois Chemical, where he earned his first ASA All-American title. Throughout the span of his career, King has earned numerous honors and awards, most notably five ASA All-American titles (1976, 1979-82), and he has also been a member of several ASA National Championship teams. In 1980, King gave his highest performance with Campbell’s Carpets, appearing in 133 games with a .721 batting average and boasting 191 home runs. In later years, King continued his success playing with the Joseph Chevrolet World Championship team (1994-1996), a team that was rated as one of the top five “50 and over” teams in the country. After his retirement, the honors and accolades continued to come in. King was among the first class inducted into the Columbus, Ohio Legends of the Game (2009). That same year King was honored for his athletic and civic achievements at the Veterans of Foreign Wars hall. King has also received honors from the House of Representatives as an Outstanding Citizen of the Commonwealth of Kentucky while also being named a Kentucky Colonel by Steve Beshear, the Governor of Kentucky. His success with Debois Chemical earned King the title of MVP of the ASA 1970s All Decade Team for Columbus, Ohio.


Larry Mays

Larry Mays, Canyon Lake, California – Manager

Prior to coaching the Gordon’s Panthers in 1982, Larry Mays played and managed competitive softball in Southern California. During his 24 years as head coach, the Gordon’s Panthers won 10 ASA Junior Olympic National Championship titles, five runner-up titles and four Hall of Fame championships, establishing their place as one of the most successful teams in ASA history. Mays also made appearances on the international scene when he served as head coach to the U.S. Pan American Trial gold medal team (1987) in Lima, Peru, the ASA Junior Olympic World silver medal team (1991) in Adelaide, Australia, and assistant coach with the Olympic Festival South gold medal team (1993) in San Antonio Texas. Throughout the 1990’s, Mays served as National team advisors to PR China, Holland and Spain and established the Olympic training program for players and coaches in Micronesia. In addition to his coaching career, Mays presented more than 200 collegiate, national, and international clinics where he taught both players and coaches. Mays has received numerous awards for his contributions, including the United States Olympic Committee Developmental Coach of the Year (1996, 1999). It is no wonder why people refer to Mays as one of softball’s finest teachers and coaches as well as one of their most sought-after clinicians.


Ivan “Ike” Wheeler

Ivan “Ike” Wheeler, Bossier City, Louisiana – Meritorious Service

Ivan “Ike” Wheeler’s commitment and love for the game of softball is evident throughout his 59 years of involvement with ASA. While serving in the Air Force from 1954-1974, Ike was a member of the Strategic Air Command team, which won eight Air Force Worldwide tournaments, and was selected to the All-Air Force team twice. After retiring, he joined the Shreveport Parks & Recreation Department and continued his work on promoting ASA and softball. Ike has been a registered ASA umpire for over 56 years and has served as District Commissioner in the Shreveport area, ASA Player Representative, and Louisiana Umpire-in-Chief. In addition to these positions, Wheeler has been a member of the ASA National Indicator Fraternity since 1988 and a member of Louisiana ASA Hall of Fame since 2010. Some of his accomplishments he has achieved since joining ASA are recipient of the Region 6 Award of Excellence (2009) and umpired four National Championships (1982, 1987, 1988, 1997) in addition to serving as either Tournament Director, Umpire Coordinator, or Housing Authority for 17 National Tournaments. Since 1978, Wheeler has successfully registered every team in the Shreveport Parks and Recreations Department for ASA and has attended every Umpire-in-Chief clinic and ASA National Convention since 1982. Ivan died on March 5th, 2001.


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2013


Laura Berg

Laura Berg, Santa Fe Springs, California – Women’s Fast Pitch – Outfield

USA Softball’s only four-time Olympian, Laura Berg has made a name for herself as one of softball’s greatest outfielders’ to ever play the game. One of four women who hold three Olympic Gold Medals in the sport of softball, Laura is no stranger to success on both the national and international scene. In addition to competing in four Olympic Games, Laura also appeared at four ISF World Championships, and three Pan American Championships, all Gold Medal finishes. Laura also was a three-time ASA All-American, once with the California Commotion, once with the California Players and once with the California A’s. With the Commotion, she earned a Women’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship title in 1999. Laura joined the USA Softball National Team program in 1994 and retired following the 2008 Olympic Games. In 2012, she rejoined the Red, White and Blue as an assistant coach, helping lead the Women’s National Team to a World Cup of Softball title and a second-place finish at the ISF World Championship. In 2012, Laura, along with the 2004 U.S. Olympic Softball Team, was inducted into the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame.


Lisa Fernandez

Lisa Fernandez, Long Beach, California – Women’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

One of the greatest players to ever play the game, three-time Olympic gold medalist Lisa Fernandez is a nine-time ASA All-American and was instrumental in helping Team USA take home the 1996, 2000 and 2004 Olympic Gold Medals. The only pitcher to appear in all three Olympic finals, Fernandez served as a threat on both sides of the plate. Overall, she achieved a 7-2 record throughout her Olympic career, allowing only 20 hits, seven walks and six runs (four earned) while striking out 93 over 74.2 innings. In addition to her pitching accolades, Fernandez maintained a .333 batting average overall in Atlanta, Sydney, and Athens with three home runs, 15 RBI and 13 runs scored. A rare pitcher/hitter, Fernandez has the distinction of holding four individual Olympic records: most strike outs in a game (25 at the 2000 Olympic Games), fewest runs allowed, highest batting average (.545) in Olympic play and most doubles (3). These accolades helped land her in the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame as both an individual and with the 2004 U.S. Olympic Softball Team. Fernandez also competed in three ISF World Championships and three Pan American Championships, all of which earned her a Gold Medal. At the national level, Fernandez collected nine ASA All-American titles and seven ASA Women’s Major Fast Pitch National titles, three times with the Raybestos Brakettes and four times with the California Commotion. She also won the MVP award five times and the Bertha Tickey Award five times.


Randy Melvin

Randy Melvin, Dowagiac, Michigan – Umpire

Randy Melvin first came into the ASA Softball scene in 1976 when he registered as an umpire with the Michigan ASA. Throughout his career with ASA, Randy became one of the most respected slow pitch umpires in the state of Michigan. He umpired in 16 State Championships and five National Qualifying Tournaments and his talents would eventually carry over to the national level. Between 1993 and 1999, Randy umpired in eight ASA Men’s Slow Pitch National Championships, including two back-to-back appearances at the Men’s Super Slow Pitch National Championship. Randy became a member of the National Indicator Fraternity in 1995, became ISF certified in 1998 and was inducted into the Michigan ASA Hall of Fame in 2012.

 


Shirley Simmons Snell

Shirley Simmons, Snell Shreveport, Louisiana – Women’s Slow Pitch – Infield

Shirley Simmons Snell is the sixth person and first slow pitch player from Shreveport elected to the National Softball Hall of Fame. Beginning in 1983, Shirley’s career with ASA Women’s Slow Pitch spanned over 20 years, where she earned All-American accolades five times. She competed at the National Level in six ASA Women’s Slow Pitch National Championships, ranging from Class C to Women’s Major. In addition, she was awarded Home Run Champion in 1994 and 2001, Tournament MVP in 1996 (.615) and Batting Champion (.512) in 1994. Her most notable accolade occurred during the 1998 Women’s Class B Slow Pitch National Championship. While at bat, she hit a home run 350 feet and became the first woman to hit a ball that distance in the Bloomington complex.

 

 


Margie Wright

Margie Wright, Clovis, California – Meritorious Service

Whether as an athlete, coach or clinician, Margie Wright’s softball resume speaks for itself. During her 35 years of involvement with ASA/USA Softball, Margie left a lasting impact at every level of softball. As an athlete, she collected five ASA All-American titles, including one first team All-American selection in 1988 when she threw a perfect game with the Pekin Lettes. Her greatest legacy, however, is her coaching career with the Women’s and Junior Women’s National Teams. From 1982 until 1989, Margie served various roles throughout the international softball world, including a two-year stint as an international coaching consultant for the Netherlands Antilles National Team. She also served as a consultant for ISF events, including the Pan American and Central American Games. In 1991, she made her first coaching appearance as an assistant coach for the 1991 Pan American Women’s National Team, which took home the Gold Medal. Three years later, she followed up with a Gold Medal finish at the ISF World Championship. In 1995, she became the first-ever female head coach for the Junior Women’s National Team, leading them to a Gold Medal at the ISF Junior Women’s World Championship. The following year, Margie served as an assistant coach to the U.S. Olympic Softball Team who would go on to win a Gold Medal in Athens. In 1998, she became the first-ever female head coach for the Women’s National Team and would lead them to a Gold Medal finish at the ISF World Championship. That same year, she earned the United States Olympic Committee’s Coach of the Year in the sport of softball. Wright served as the head softball coach at Fresno State, where she led the Bulldogs to the school’s first-ever NCAA Division I title in 1998. She also holds the NCAA record for all-time winningest softball coach.


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2014


Darryl Day

Darryl Day, Hilton Head, South Carolina – Men’s Fast Pitch – First Base

If attitude is a key to winning, there was little doubt that Darryl Day would be anything but a winner. Darryl started his softball career with a local Aurora, Ill. softball league before word of his talent reached the notable men’s fast pitch team Aurora Home Savings. Throughout his 15 years of play in ASA/USA Men’s Major Fast Pitch, Day collected four first team All-American titles, three second team All-American accolades and earned one National Championship and six runner-up finishes. Starting in 1973, Darryl was a mainstay for the Home Savings for eight years, during which time he led the team to the Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship every year. Day’s strong glove at first base helped lead the Home Savings to four-consecutive runner-up finishes before ending his career with the team in 1980 with a career average of .370. The following year, Day joined the Decatur ADM, where he would earn his first ASA/USA National Championship that same year. During his four years with Decatur ADM, Day led the team to a 409-77 record and finished with a career average of .358 with 173 RBI and 26 home runs. It is no wonder why many of the best pitchers in the world regarded Day as one of the most difficult batters to retire. Day also made a name for himself on the international scene, playing for the USA Men’s Fast Pitch Team in 1979 at the Pan American Games where the team earned silver. He also played three years for the Men’s East Team at the U.S. Olympic Festival.


Crankin’ Craig Elliott

Crankin’ Craig Elliott, Wadley, Alabama – Men’s Slow Pitch – Infield

For years, Craig Elliot was considered as the top slow pitch player by a lot of people, a title which he earned by dominating men’s slow pitch softball at the highest level. A menace at the plate, Elliott became one of the most feared hitters in the men’s slow pitch world and could change the game with one swing of the bat. Beginning in 1977, Elliott collected 11-consecutive ASA All-American titles and earned tournament MVP accolades three times. He also earned the home run leader title in 1983, ’85 and ’86. His best performance, however, came during the 1983 season when he hit 390 home runs for a HR-to-at bat ratio of 1.93. With the legendary Steele’s team, Elliott collected three ASA Men’s Super Slow Pitch National Championship titles and finished runner-up once. Elliott was also one of very few players to be selected MVP of the ASA Smoky Mountain Classic. His close friend a teammate once claimed: “You could put a quarter in him, and he would hit home runs all day long.” Sadly, Craig died on February 26, 2015.

 

 


Ted Germain

Ted Germain, Mayville, Michigan – Umpire

You would be hard pressed to find an umpire who’s worked an ASA/USA Softball National Championship as often as Michigan native Ted Germain. Ted first registered as an umpire with the Michigan ASA in 1976, establishing a long and storied career as one of the most respected fast pitch and modified pitch umpires. Germain umpired in nine Men’s Major Modified National Championships, one Men’s 40-Over Fast Pitch National Championship, one Men’s Class A Fast Pitch National Championship and three Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championships for a total of 14 National Tournament assignments. He also umpired in 36 State Championships and eight National Qualifying Tournaments. Germain also served as an Umpire-in-Chief (UIC) in 42 State Championships, 11 National Qualifying Tournaments and three Great Lakes Regional Tournaments. Ted became a member of the National Indicator Fraternity in 1995, became ISF certified in 1998 and is a member of the ASA Medals Program at the Elite level. Germain also appeared on the international scene, umpiring at the 2007 World Cup of Softball. Germain served as a member of the Michigan ASA State Umpire staff from 1991-2007 and was inducted into the Michigan ASA Hall of Fame in 1991. Ted died on January 19, 2014.

 


Stacey Nuveman

Stacey Nuveman, La Verne, California – Women’s Fast Pitch – Catcher

A two-time Olympic Gold Medalist, Stacey Nuveman will go down in history as one of the best catchers in the history of fast pitch softball. Nuveman competed in three Olympic Games, capturing the Gold at the 2000 and 2004 Games while claiming the silver at the 2008 games. Nuveman first wore the Red, White, and Blue in 1995 when she earned Gold at the ISF Junior Women’s World Championship in Normal, Ill. where she set a tournament record with 18 RBI. Her impressive power at the plate and strong performance behind it landed her a spot on the Women’s National Team, where she would earn two Pan American Gold Medals and two ISF World Championships. On the national level, Nuveman won two ASA/USA National Championships with the Gordon’s Panthers, coached by fellow Hall of Fame member Larry Mays. She also earned a second-team ASA All-American honor with the California Jazz. Nuveman retired following the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China, leaving behind an Olympic Legacy with 10 RBI and three home runs. In 2012, Nuveman, along with the 2004 U.S. Olympic Softball Team, was inducted into the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame.

 


Tommy Orndorff

Tommy Orndorff, Vienna, Virginia – Manager

At the Junior Olympic (JO) level, the Shamrocks, led by coach Tommy Orndorff, have established a tradition in fast pitch softball that is hard to match. Since their first national appearance in 1977, the Shamrocks have been a force in the JO world, qualifying for 25 ASA/USA National Championships and finishing in the top 10 on nine occasions. In the early years of the Shamrock organization, not many East coast teams competed competitively, but once Coach Orndorff organized the Shamrock program that completely changed. In their 25 appearances at the ASA/USA National Championships, the Shamrocks earned a total of eight top-five finishes, including a runner-up at the 2003 18U GOLD. In 2005, they earned the ultimate title in JO Championship Play as the 18U GOLD National Champions.

 

 

 


Ron Radigonda

Ron Radigonda, Edmond, Oklahoma – Meritorious Service

Under his 15 years of leadership as Executive Director, the face of ASA/USA Softball evolved dramatically. Prior to accepting the Executive Director position, Radigonda worked with the City of Sacramento in the Parks and Recreation Department for 28 years and served as Executive Director of the Sacramento Sports Commission and the Sacramento Sports Foundation. In 1982, he became the Commissioner of the Sacramento ASA, where he served as Chair of numerous committees and served on the Board of Directors and as the Chair of the Association’s Insurance and Finance Committees. During his tenure as Executive Director, the ASA Hall of Fame Complex has undergone major renovations and has continued its hosting duties for the NCAA Women’s College World Series (WCWS), and the World Cup of Softball, an international softball event. He also helped foster a continuing relationship with the City of Oklahoma City. At the International Level, Radigonda has served as a delegate and committee chair for the International Softball Federation (ISF), the governing body of softball internationally.

 

 


Bruce Tanski

Bruce Tanski, Clifton Park, New York – Sponsor

The New York Gremlins have made a name for itself on the softball field thanks to Bruce Tanski, who has sponsored the team for over 40 years. Tanski’s commitment led to a long and storied career with ASA for the Gremlins, including a recent runner-up finish at the Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship in 2013 and a Championship in 2012. Since 1987, Tanski’s teams appeared in 14 National Championships, earning four third-place finishes and two runner-up titles.

 

 

 

 


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2015


Bonnie Anderson

Bonnie Anderson, Springfield, Oregon – Umpire

Ask anyone in the Northwest and they’d tell you that Bonnie Anderson was considered the premier umpire from Oregon and Pacific Northwest. Umpiring from 1974-1998, Bonnie’s achievements go far beyond the playing field. Bonnie umpired in 29 ASA/USA Regional Tournaments throughout her career and received her first National assignment in 1981 at the Women’s Class A Slow Pitch National Championship. She would go on to umpire in five additional National Championships before breaking into the international scene at the 1995 ISF Junior Women’s World Championship in Normal, Ill. Anderson also served as an umpire at the 1982 National Sports Festival and the U.S. Olympic Festival in 1984. Other accolades include being ISF Certified and a charter member of the National Indicator Fraternity. While her umpiring résumé is impressive, her off-field work is just as outstanding. Bonnie became the first woman Umpire-in-Chief for ASA/USA Softball in 1981 and established a top-notch training and education system for Oregon umpires. Sadly, Bonnie died in January 2012, but to this day, her military-style of teaching continues to groom umpires in the Northwest.

 


John Davide

John Davide, Centereach, New York – Men’s Slow Pitch – Shortstop

In a time where teams played fewer than 100 games a year, John Davide was a staple of the County Sports softball organization for many years. Known as an intense competitor, Davide was well known throughout the Men’s Major Slow Pitch world as an outstanding shortstop and a feared hitter. Many teammates, coaches and opponents often referred to him as the best home run hitting shortstop in the game. He left little to doubt, often hitting anywhere from 70 to 100 home runs every year he played. Davide was a member of several ASA All-Tournament and All-American squads while capturing numerous Tournament MVP titles throughout his career. His playing accolades didn’t stop at the Major Slow Pitch level as he continued his playing career through the Master’s and Senior Softball divisions.

 

 

 


Andy Dooley

Andy Dooley, Thaxton, Virginia – Commissioner

Andy Dooley has a storied career with ASA/USA Softball beginning in 1984 when he served as an At-Large Player Rep for Piedmont VA ASA. Ten years later, his commitment and dedication to the organization helped earn him the title of Commissioner and helped lead the association to one of the most prominent in the Region. Along with his local accolades, Andy has made an impact at the National level, serving on the ASA/USA Board of Directors as the Eastern Territory Vice President and as the President of ASA/USA Softball from 2009-2011. Since 1992, Piedmont VA ASA has held several ASA/USA events, including National Championships and the USA Softball National Teams. Andy is also extremely active with the Special Olympics Program in both Virginia and on the National level and helped establish the ASA Special Programs Committee.

 

 

 


Sue Enquist

Sue Enquist, San Clemente, California – Meritorious Service

A true icon in the softball world, Sue Enquist has been a driving force for the sport of softball at all levels for nearly four decades. Her resume alone speaks for itself. Enquist has three ASA/USA All-American titles, five ASA/USA National Championships, five Gold Medals as a member of the USA Softball Women’s National Team and three as a coach of the program. Perhaps her most notable accolades came during her time as the Head Coach of the UCLA Softball program. With a 27-year career at the helm of the Bruins, Enquist compiled an 887-175-1 record and 11 NCAA National Championships while producing 15 U.S. Softball Olympians and 65 NCAA All-Americans. Beyond her role as a coach and player, Enquist is highly regarded as a clinician and advocate for softball. A true legend of the game, Enquist continues to instill her passion and excellence to players and coaches around the country.

 

 

 


Mark Steven Ingrao

Mark Steven, Ingrao Falls Church, Virginia – Umpire

Mark began his umpiring career in 1974 at the age of 16 in Falls Church, Va. Five years later, he joined the Fairfax Softball Umpires Association and kicked off a career with ASA/USA Softball that spanned 25 years. His umpiring credits included two Central Atlantic Regional Slow Pitch Tournaments and six National Championships, including the first Men’s Master’s 35-Over in 1985. He then worked his first of four Super Slow Pitch National Championships in 1990. His final National Championship assignment came in 2002 when he umpired at the Slow Pitch Championship Series. Along with his National Tournament assignments, Ingrao is a member of the National Indicator Fraternity, an ISF Certified Umpire and an Elite Umpire in the slow pitch category. Ingrao also has several accomplishments as an administrator for the Central Atlantic Region, including serving as the Metro Washington DC Deputy Umpire-in-Chief (UIC) from 1989-2004. He also served on the National Umpire Staff from 2006-2012.

 

 


Charles E. Moss, Sr.

Charles E. Moss Sr., Lanexa, Virginia – Meritorious Service

A cornerstone of umpiring in Virginia, Charles Moss, Sr. began his career in 1977 when he attended his first ASA rules and mechanics class. His love for the game took root that year, fostering a lifelong commitment to ASA/USA Softball. Two years after attending his first class he was appointed to the Central Virginia ASA staff as an Eastern District Commissioner and Umpire-in-Chief (UIC), positions which led to his attendance at several Regional and National Umpire Clinics. Not only was Moss active at an administrative level, but he also continued his career as an ASA/USA Umpire. His dedication and commitment to the game helped launch his successful umpiring career and several honors have been bestowed upon Moss. In addition to umpiring at 10 ASA/USA National Championships and one International Softball Federation (ISF) event, he is a member of the ASA/USA Umpire Medals program at all levels and he is a member of the National Indicator Fraternity. Moss is also a member of the Central Virginia ASA Hall of Fame and the National Senior Hall of Fame. Moss also has a strong commitment to Senior softball and has played a major role in the success of the program.

 


Steve Padilla

Steve Padilla, Manteca, California – Men’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

In an era of iconic men’s fast pitch teams, Steve Padilla was a driving force from the circle. Starting out in the Men’s Class A division, Padilla led his team, Tee House, to the 1982 Men’s Class A Fast Pitch National title while earning ASA All-American honors. Once the word of his pitching spread around the country, Padilla made the jump to the Men’s Major division and never looked back. Joining the California Kings in 1983, he would earn his first ASA/USA Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship the following year, helping his squad win 10-straight games en route to the title where he was also named the MVP. Padilla’s 5-0 performance at the National Championship while giving up just one unearned run helped him garner another ASA/USA All-American accolade. Through 10 additional seasons, Padilla earned three more All-American honors with Guanella Brothers and the Nor Cal Merchants and earned a Men’s 40-Over National Championship in 1994. Padilla also made a name for himself on the international scene as a member of the USA Softball Men’s National Team that claimed the Silver Medal at the 1987 Pan American Games. He also competed in five U.S. Olympic Festivals. Once his playing days came to an end, Padilla continued to play a role in men’s fast pitch as a coach in the National Team Program. Padilla served as an assistant coach for the 1999 Men’s National Team at the Pan American Games in Winnipeg, Canada and the ISF World Championship in Sydney, Australia. He also was an assistant coach for the Puerto Rican Women’s National Team at the 1996 Olympic Games in Athens, Ga.


Mike White

Mike White, Eugene, Oregon – Men’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

One of the most respected pitchers in the game, Mike White put his teams on the map at both the national and international scene. A native of New Zealand, White spent some time as a member of their Men’s National Team before coming to the U.S. to begin his playing career in the Men’s Major division. White’s impressive résumé includes nine ASA/USA All-American titles and three Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championships. White also has a storied career with the USA Softball Men’s National Team Program beginning in 1995 when he earned a silver medal at the Pan American Games in Mar Del Plata, Mexico. In his 11 years as a member of Team USA, White helped guide the U.S. to three silver medals in the Pan American Games and one bronze medal at the ISF World Championship. He continues to help the National Team Program as a member of the coaching staff for the Women’s National Team and is also a member of the ISF Hall of Fame.

 

 

 


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2016


Ken Eriksen

Ken Eriksen, Tampa, Florida – Meritorious Service

Recently completing his fifth year as the U.S. Women’s National Team Head Coach, Ken Eriksen has been alongside and at the forefront of coaching some of the greatest athletes the softball world has ever seen. As a player, Eriksen began playing ASA/USA Softball when he joined the Clearwater Bombers, playing from 1987-1992 while batting .347 in 1992 and .456 in the ASA Men’s Major Fast Pitch Nationals. Eriksen was a part of the Miller-Toyota team and Tampa Smokers up until 1997 when he won the Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship with his fellow teammates. Eriksen racked up additional honors on the international scene, earning a silver medal at the Pan American Games (1991) and was a three-time Olympic Festival participant (1993, 1994 and 1995), where he took home an additional silver medal at the 1995 Olympic Festival. Eriksen retired shortly after playing for the USA Select Team, which was the first American Athletic Team to compete in communist Cuba in over 30 years (1958). After hanging up his cleats he remained in the game as a coach. His first Head Coach role came in 1997, when he led the USA Softball Junior Men’s National Team at the WBSC Junior Men’s World Championship in St. John’s, Newfoundland. Serving on the ASA/USA Softball Board of Directors, Eriksen contributed to the rewrite of criteria for the selection process to meet USOC mandates as an Elite Athletic Representative. Five years later, he joined the Women’s National Team as an assistant coach in 2002 the same year the team captured a Gold Medal at the WBSC World Championship. A highlight of his Team USA coaching resume includes being an assistant coach in the 2003 Pan Am Games which won Gold and going on to coach at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens where the U.S. Olympic Softball Team would put on one of the most dominant performances in Olympic history. Eriksen tacked on another Gold Medal as an assistant coach at the WBSC Championship in Caracas, Venezuela. In 2011, Eriksen took over the Women’s National Team Program, continuing the legacy established before him and producing a Gold Medal at the 2011 Pan Am Games in Guadalajara, Mexico. For the countless individuals within the ASA/USA Softball organization and the players he has coached, Ken Eriksen has made a lasting impact on the game of softball.


Jennie Finch

Jennie Finch, Sulphur, Louisiana – Women’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

Two-time Olympian and Pan-American Gold Medalist in addition to being a three-time World Champion, Jennie Finch has become a well-known icon throughout the game of softball. Appearing in two Olympic Games, Finch was a mainstay on the U.S. pitching staff. At the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, Greece, Finch was 2-0 from the circle en route to a Gold Medal finish for the U.S. Women. At the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, Finch compiled another 2-0 performance as the U.S. claimed Silver at the sport’s last Olympic Games. From her earliest days playing in the Junior Olympic program to her days playing with Team USA, Finch continues to be the face of softball, inspiring and motivating millions of young softball players across the globe. Earning All-American honors numerous times with solid performances in the circle, Finch has grown to become an ambassador of the sport and shares her message of athletics, family, and faith throughout the country. A crusader for softball’s fight to return to the Olympics, Finch has made a lasting impression on the game and within the ASA/USA Softball organization.

 

 


Harry Haroian

Harry Haroian, Melvindale, Michigan – Men’s Fast Pitch – Catcher

A four-time All-American earning national honors, Harry Haroian was one of the premier fast pitch players in the 1960’s and 1970’s while playing on multiple teams in ASA/USA Softball championship play. Earning All-American honors four separate times, including two first-team selections, Haroian was not only an outstanding catcher but also a utility player who played on some of the top fast pitch teams in the country. A teammate of past Hall of Fame inductee, Carl Walker, Harry Haroian made an everlasting impression on the game of fast pitch softball and has earned numerous MVP awards and All-Tournament selections en route to his induction into the ASA/USA Softball Hall of Fame. Haroian died on June 4, 2018.

 

 

 


Peter Meredith

Peter Meredith, Salt Lake City, Utah – Men’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

One of the greatest pitchers in the history of ASA/USA Softball, Peter Meredith holds the record for most wins in ASA/USA Softball National Championship Play, compiling a 55-27 record at the time of his retirement in 2002. A 12-time All-American and four-time member of the USA Softball Men’s National Team, Meredith won silver at the 1995 Pan American Games in Parana, Argentina and pitched the U.S. to a Gold Medal at the 1998 WBSC World Championships in Saskatchewan, Canada. He also won a Bronze Medal as a member of the 2000 WBSC World Championship in East London, South Africa. Impressive stats including his 61 tournament wins, eight no-hitters, 100 strikeouts in a single tournament and 21 strikeouts in a single game are just a few highlighted accomplishments that have marked his exceptional career.

 

 

 


John A. Nelson

John A. Nelson, Dalton, Georgia – Umpire

One of Georgia’s finest umpires, John Nelson has not only helped to further the game of softball at a state level but a national level as well. Having umpired in over 17 National Tournaments, ranging from Girls’ Slow Pitch to Men’s Super Slow Pitch, Nelson has received outstanding evaluations at all levels. While umpiring, colleagues of his say he had the utmost respect for the players, coaches, and fans in the stands. Highly respected throughout the community, his impact has been prominent, and he continually personifies what it takes to be a great umpire and true supporter of ASA/USA Softball. A member of the ASA/USA Softball Umpire Medals Program since 1969 when he achieved Silver status, John has been a member of the National Indicator Fraternity since 1991, was WBSC certified in 1998 and achieved Elite status in 2003 in slow pitch. Off the field, he has spent time helping in the recruitment and training of new members as well as volunteering at umpire community events such as the Special Olympics, Red Cross, Big Brothers Big Sisters and more.

 

 


Tom Penders

Tom Penders, Narrangansett, Rhode Island – Men’s Fast Pitch – Infield

Combining to play 15 seasons across three different teams, including the legendary Raybestos Cardinals, Franklin Cardinals and Worchester Interstate Batterymen, Tom Penders won five National Championships and is considered as one of the greatest Fast Pitch players ASA/USA Softball has ever seen. Named first-team All-American in the 1975 and 1976 National Championships, Tom always found a way to get on base or get a key hit in the game. Fourteen ASA National Tournaments and six National ASA Finals also marked his notable career in addition to his performance on the 1984 WBSC World Games with Team USA, where they earned the Bronze Medal. Accumulating five National Championship rings is a feat only having accomplished by a handful of players during the 1969-84 era. Penders established a much-deserved reputation as a player who could serve in all areas of the game, becoming a defensive star in addition to his timely hits offensively. Contributing to the success of the 1976 National Championship team with the Raybestos Cardinals, he set a tournament record for highest fielding percentage, committing zero errors. A legendary NCAA men’s basketball coach, it was inevitable his path would lead to a career in softball as he grew up alongside his dad, who was an ASA Commissioner in Stratford. Throughout his playing career, Penders was a versatile player who was willing to do whatever it took for the good of the team.


Terry “T” Petersen

Terry “T” Petersen, Omaha, Nebraska – Sponsor

For more than 33 years, Milton “Terry” Petersen, or as everyone likes to call him, “T”, has been instrumental in providing support to multiple ASA/USA Softball teams. Passionate about the game of softball and the number ‘13’, T’s 13 teams have recorded a combined 3,300-plus wins – a record of successes that will go down in the history books in ASA/USA Softball history. One of the winningest coaches, sponsors and managers in ASA/USA Softball Men’s Slow Pitch Softball history, T’s 13 has competed in 34-consecutive ASA/USA Softball National Championships. Combining for a win-loss record of .796 over a span of 33 years, notable highlights include 14 Top 10 Class A National Championship finishes, seven Top Five finishes and two Class A National Championship titles. Those close to him say, “If you are a talented slow pitch player in Nebraska or Western Iowa, you want to play for Terry Petersen.” Diligently promoting ASA/USA Softball on both a state and national level, Petersen connects and stays connected with those with whom he has worked – creating a family that many players aspire to join. With his class and integrity for the sport of softball, Petersen, in his own way, has put Nebraska softball on the map and made an impact on each player he has coached and managed over the years.

 


Mick Renneisen

Mick Renneisen, Bloomington, Indiana – Meritorious Service

A dedicated administrator in the softball community, Mick Renneisen has a long history of working to build consensus toward making the game of softball better for all those who participate. Renneisen has held numerous leadership positions at the state and national level. In addition to his 25-year playing career, Renneisen has served in a variety of positions, including local league and state and national tournament director, ASA representative for national tournaments, parks and recreation department administrator, at-large player representative, allied member, committee chair, Midwest Region Director, and member of the ASA/USA Softball Board of Directors. Currently, Renneisen serves as the Commissioner for Indiana ASA/USA Softball while also serving his community of Bloomington as Deputy Mayor. His ability to maintain a grounded focus among a large group for the enhancement of the game of softball is what has set him apart from others. Those who work with Renneisen say his commitment and dedication to each role is not only motivating but inspiring to others in his community and around ASA/USA Softball at a state and national level. Serving as a key member on the Equipment Testing and Certification Committee for over 10 years, his solid decision-making has been integral in the regulation of equipment. As chairman of the Long-Range Planning Committee, he has been effective at implementing change to grow the game by using sound surveying and planning principles to lead change efforts. The impact that Renneisen has made will leave a lasting imprint on ASA/USA Softball.


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2017


Mike Candrea

Mike Candrea, Tucson, Arizona – Meritorious Service

Mike Candrea is synonymous with softball success. Candrea’s resume with the USA Softball Women’s National team spanned over a decade, starting first as an assistant coach in 1994 on the Women’s World Championship team that captured the Gold Medal in Canada. Beginning in 2002, Candrea took over the helm of the Women’s National Team, during which time the U.S. captured two World Championship Gold Medals, two Pan-American Gold Medals, two World Cup titles, one Olympic Gold Medal and one Olympic Silver Medal. With a passion for making world-class athletes and individuals, Candrea was a driving force behind some of the most dominating performances in international softball. “I don’t just want to win, I want to dominate,” is a phrase Coach Candrea echoed during the journey to the 2004 Olympics in Athens, Greece. Making his words a reality, Team USA recorded one of the most dominant Olympic performances in history, outscoring opponents 51-1. After retiring from his Head Coach duties following the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China, Candrea continued his involvement with USA Softball as the Director of Coaching Education, where he took on a series of educational roles to continue the development of the sport both domestically and internationally.

 


Jimmy N. Derrick

Jimmy N. Derrick, Douglasville, Georgia – Umpire

With an infectious enthusiasm, professional pride, and love for the game of softball, Jimmy Derrick’s resume speaks for itself. Regarded by his peers as one of the top slow pitch umpires in the game, Derrick has worked some of the highest levels of men’s slow pitch softball. Whether at the Slow Pitch Championship Series or the international Border Battle, Jimmy has proven to be the consummate professional both on and off the field. Boasting a resume of 19 National Championship appearances, Derrick continues to share his love for the game through his contributions to the USA Softball Umpire program as a member of the National Umpire Staff. Serving as the Region 3 Umpire-in-Chief, Derrick is a skilled instructor through National and Local Umpire Schools and Clinics. A dynamic instructor, he is a leader in the interactive learning process for the umpire program. With a belief that “you must give respect to earn respect,” Derrick’s approach to the game truly encompasses what being a USA Softball Umpire is all about.

 

 


Gary Evans

Gary Evans, Mason, Michigan – Umpire

Having been involved with USA Softball for almost 50 years, Gary is considered one of the top umpires within USA Softball of Michigan. A firm believer in taking advantage of the valuable training USA Softball offers to its umpires, Evans applied the lessons learned and always gave 100% on the ballfield. His dedication to his craft led him to a path of national excellence, as he got the call at eight National Championships and served as an Umpire-in-Chief (UIC) or Assistant UIC in five National Championships. A true mentor for his fellow umpires, Evans took on the role of Michigan UIC, a position he held for 15 years, where he helped lead countless District and State clinics and National Umpire Schools. His insight, knowledge and love for the game will have an everlasting impact on the Michigan umpire community.

 

 

 


Dick Gulmon

Dick Gulmon, Valley City, North Dakota – Meritorious Service

At a time when the sport of softball was at a crossroads with new equipment technology, Dick Gulmon played an integral role in the Certified Equipment standards of USA Softball. Having been involved in the game at a variety of levels, Gulmon personifies leadership through his contributions to the sport. In addition to his playing and management of teams during his career, Gulmon has also served in a variety of leadership capacities. Serving on the North Dakota Board of Directors and Classification Committee since 1989, Gulmon was appointed President of USA Softball of North Dakota in 1996 and became Commissioner in 2013. At the National level, Gulmon has served on the USA Softball Board of Directors and has served on the Council for over 20 years. Gulmon has also served on various USA Softball Committees. His most noteworthy position is his role as Chairman of the Equipment Testing & Certification Committee, a role he has held since 2005. In this role, Gulmon spearheads the efforts in the development of state-of-the-art bat and ball testing protocol which help level the playing field. A great ambassador for USA Softball, Gulmon is and has been a leader of change throughout the sport of softball.

 


Mark Martin

Mark Martin, Fayetteville, Arkansas – Men’s Slow Pitch – Infield

With a career at the major level that spanned 15 years, Rick Minton was a sparkplug and vocal leader of the legendary Decatur Pride. A six-time All-American, Minton collected two Men’s Major National Championships, 1994 and 1995) as a member of the Pride and earned two Men’s 40-Over National Championships in 1999 and 2000. With his quick glove, great anticipation and accurate arm, Minton was a renowned defensive magician at second base with play so steady that it earned him a spot on four Men’s National Team rosters. Twice Minton earned a Pan American Games Silver Medal, 1987 and 1991, and in 1988 he was a member of the last Gold Medal winning United States team at the World Championship. He also was named to three U.S. Sports Festival teams, earning a Silver Medal finish at each appearance. One thing is for sure: when it came to playing second base, Rick Minton was the Secretary of Defense.

 

 

 


Rick Minton

Rick Minton, Cerro Gordo, Illinois – Men’s Fast Pitch – Second Base

With a career at the major level that spanned 15 years, Rick Minton was a sparkplug and vocal leader of the legendary Decatur Pride. A six-time All-American, Minton collected two Men’s Major National Championships, 1994 and 1995) as a member of the Pride and earned two Men’s 40-Over National Championships in 1999 and 2000. With his quick glove, great anticipation and accurate arm, Minton was a renowned defensive magician at second base with play so steady that it earned him a spot on four Men’s National Team rosters. Twice Minton earned a Pan American Games Silver Medal, 1987 and 1991, and in 1988 he was a member of the last Gold Medal winning United States team at the World Championship. He also was named to three U.S. Sports Festival teams, earning a Silver Medal finish at each appearance. One thing is for sure: when it came to playing second base, Rick Minton was the Secretary of Defense.

 

 

 


Bob Quinn

Bob Quinn, Branchville, New Jersey – Men’s Fast Pitch – Infield

Best known for his rock-solid defense, clutch plays and aggressive base running, Robert “Bob” Quinn was one of the most fundamentally sound players on the field. Quinn was a key player on the legendary Raybestos Cardinals, and later Franklin Cardinals, earning four National Championship titles during his 15-year career. Regarded as one of the best middle infielders in the game, he also made a name for himself as an offensive igniter. A two-time All-American, Quinn received softball’s highest honor in 1979 when he was chosen as a member of the Men’s Fast Pitch National Team, which would go on to win the Silver Medal at the Pan American Games in San Juan, Puerto Rico. He would follow with a Bronze Medal at the 1984 World Championship in Midland, Mich. In addition to his Team USA and All-American accolades, Quinn was also selected to four All-Star Series during his playing career. His teammates would say his greatest attribute was that when the game was on the line and you needed a big play, Quinn was your guy.

 

 


Willie Simpson

Willie Simpson, Oak Lawn, Illinois – Men’s Slow Pitch – Infield

Regarded as the greatest clutch hitter and toughest competitor in 16-Inch softball, Willie “Steamer” Simpson was one of the last guys you wanted to face when the game was on the line. Always clutch at the plate, Simpson is a six-time All-American, 10-time National Champion and two-time MVP of the Men’s 16-Inch National Championship. Spending most of his career with the Bobcats out of Chicago, Ill., Simpson helped his team come out of the loser’s bracket in the 1979 National Championship, including seven-straight wins on Championship Sunday. Finishing his playing career after the 1988 season, Simpson’s loyalty to team play was reflective in his tenure with the Bobcats. When asked what his strong points were, Simpson quickly replied it was his team mentality, noting: “I got a lot of clutch hits, but you know somebody has to put you in that situation. There were always guys who were on base ahead of me. It takes 10 or 11 guys to play a softball game.”

 

 

 


Evans Telegades

Evans Telegades, Detroit, Michigan – Men’s Fast Pitch – Shortstop

Evans Telegadas was one of the premier fast pitch players to come out of the Metro Detroit area. Playing on multiple teams in National Championship Play, Telegadas earned six All-American honors throughout his career. An outstanding shortstop, he played in nine Men’s Major National Championships and was known to make big plays when the stakes were high. Winning the 1979 Men’s Major National Championship as a member of McArdle Pontiac-Cadillac, Telegadas and his teammates earned the opportunity to represent the United States at the WBSC World Championship in Tacoma, Wash. Telegades earned a Gold Medal with his fellow teammates through his competitive nature and all-around talent. Holding a .336 lifetime batting average, Telegadas understood the need to put aside personal goals for the accomplishments of the team, a quality that in addition to his career accolades has certainly earned a Hall of Fame honor.

 

 

 


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2018


Dick Brubaker

Dick Brubaker, Elburn, Illinois – Men’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

A staple of the Home Savings & Loan squad for 13 years, Dick Brubaker brought one of the best physical and mental approaches to the game of Men’s Fast Pitch softball. With an unconventional start in the Men’s Fast Pitch national scene, Brubaker played in his first USA Softball National Championship at the age of 36, but it did not take long for the Illinois native to make a name for himself. With a lightning-fast delivery, “Bru’s” trademark grunt and hard drop ball would baffle batters at the plate well into his final season with Home Savings & Loan in 1984. In his illustrious career, Brubaker amassed a 337-63 record and a stifling 0.63 ERA, four times earning USA Softball All-American honors while finishing runner-up at the Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship five times. These notable accolades also earned him a spot on the 1972 USA Softball Men’s National Team, which earned silver at the 1972 WBSC Men’s World Championship. Brubaker went 4-1 in the circle with a 0.18 ERA and provided for his team at the plate, going 5-for-15 (.333) with one run scored as the U.S. finished with a Silver Medal.

 

 


Crystl Bustos

Crystl Bustos, Canyon County, California – Women’s Fast Pitch – Infield

One of the most feared hitters to ever step up to the plate, Crystl Bustos is considered one of the all-time greats. Between 1999-2008, Bustos helped Team USA to two Olympic Gold Medals, an Olympic Silver Medal, three Pan American Championship Gold Medals and a WBSC World Championship Gold Medal. Getting her first run with the Women’s National Team at the 1999 Pan American Games in Winnipeg, Canada, she made an immediate impact as she led the team with 18 hits, three home runs and 15 RBI. Bustos would continue to be an asset to the American offense, compiling an Olympic-career stat line of 26 runs scored, 14 home runs, 24 RBI and a .372 (30-for-85) batting average. A rugged slugger, Bustos also has the distinction of holding two individual Olympic records: most RBI (10) and most home runs (5), and she, along with her 2004 Olympic teammates, were inducted into the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame for their outstanding performance at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, Greece.

 

 


John Daniels

John Daniels, Albertville, Minnesota – Sponsor

An avid supporter of USA Softball for over 30 years, John Daniels has been supporting teams in the top echelon of Men’s Slow Pitch softball since the mid-nineties. Having served as a player, manager and sponsor, Daniels captured his first national title as a sponsor of Long Haul/TPS at the Men’s Major Slow Pitch National Championship and followed with his second in that division in 2000. The following year, Daniels sponsored what many consider to be one of the greatest teams assembled in the Men’s Super Slow Pitch Division, Long Haul/Taylor Brothers/Shen Valley/TPS. The team accomplished what only one other team in the history of Men’s Slow Pitch has done: winning every major national championship there was to win in their class to capture the “Grand Slam” in slow pitch softball. In all, Daniels has sponsored nine USA Softball National Championship teams.

 

 

 


Ricky Huggins

Ricky Huggins, Pembroke, Georgia – Men’s Slow Pitch – Pitcher

The only player in the history of USA Softball to be named MVP in the three highest classifications of slow pitch softball (Men’s Major, Men’s Class A and Men’s Super Slow Pitch), Ricky Huggins is a renowned southern slugger. An 11-time All-American, Huggins pitched his teams to a total of nine USA Softball National Championships: two Men’s Class A titles, two Men’s Major titles and five Men’s Super titles. Huggins provided plenty of power at the plate, averaging a .650 batting average during those nine title years, a feat which would earn him a spot on USA Softball’s 1990’s Team of the Decade. Slugging over 3,000 home runs through his storied slow pitch softball career, Huggins legendary swing also landed him a line of exclusive Worth slow pitch bats.

 

 

 


Todd Joerling

Todd Joerling, Defiance, Missouri – Men’s Slow Pitch – Infield

Joerling got his start when he was 14 years old after stepping in to play for his brother’s team to avoid a forfeit. As the saying goes, the rest is history. He is a 16-time national champion who earned USA Softball All-American accolades 10 times during his storied career, including an MVP nod in 1999 at the Men’s Super Slow Pitch National Championship. With over 2,000 home runs hit during his 13-year career at the major level, Joerling’s play also earned him a spot on the first-ever USA Softball Men’s Slow Pitch National Team, which defeated Canada at the inaugural Border Battle. While his achievements on the field speak for themselves, many refer to Joerling as a true ambassador of the game.

 

 

 


William H. Silves

William H. Silves, Mt. Vernon, Washington – Umpire

Loved by his peers and respected by teams, William “Wild Bill” Silves was a highly respected USA Softball umpire for over 45 years. At the age of 18, he attended his first umpire school, which began a life-long passion for the sport of softball. After putting in the work on the field, Bill’s skills earned him the opportunity to umpire at his first USA Softball National Championship at the 1979 Women’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship, where he would be assigned to the Championship Game. His accolades continued as he got the call at three more USA Softball National Championships and several WBSC-sanctioned events in Canada. While his on-field achievements show the amount of work he put into his craft, Bill is also well respected for his efforts to grow the umpire program off the field. Having served as an Umpire-in-Chief locally, regionally, and nationally, his commitment to the growth and development of umpires is second-to-none. Having served as an instructor at 27 USA Softball National Umpire Schools, Bill’s infectious enthusiasm sets the gold standard for the USA Softball Umpire program.

 

 


Christa Williams

Christa Williams, Houston, Texas – Women’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

A two-time Olympic Gold Medalist and two-time World Champion, Christa Williams is one of the best pitchers to come out of the Houston area. Having already pitched the United States to a WBSC Junior Women’s World Championship in 1995, Williams was the youngest member on the inaugural U.S. Olympic Softball team in 1996 when the sport debuted in the Atlanta Olympic Games. Proving age is just a number, Williams went a perfect 2-0 in the circle, allowing no earned runs to cross the plate while striking out 15 batters in her Olympic debut. She followed with another 2-0 showing in the circle for the United States at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, Australia as the United States claimed their second Olympic Gold Medal. In addition to her international accolades, Williams also made a name for herself at the national level, earning USA Softball All-American honors at the Women’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship twice.

 

 

 


Charles Wright

Charles Wright, Columbus, Georgia – Men’s Slow Pitch – Third Base

Between 1993-1997, Charles Wright played for some of the top Men’s Slow Pitch teams in the country. Known for his smooth play at third base and his power at the plate, Wright earned USA Softball All-American honors 12 times and twice earned MVP honors at the Men’s Super Slow Pitch National Championship. Playing for legendary teams like Steele’s Sports and Ritch’s Superior, Wright’s top performance came in the 1986 season when he led the country with 503 home runs while hitting an astounding .771 throughout the year. He was also a member of the 1992 Ritch’s Superior squad, which was the first-ever team to win every major title, also known as the “Grand Slam”, in slow pitch softball. Statistics don’t lie, which is why many consider Wright to be in the Top 5 of all-time greatest slow pitch softball players in the history of the sport.

 

 

 


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2019


Rick Havercroft

Rick Havercroft, Saginaw, Michigan – Umpire

When you hear the name Rick Havercroft, the first thing you think of is men’s fast pitch. A product of the Michigan umpire program, Havercroft was the guy you wanted on the field during a Championship Game – not only for his knowledge of the rules and his mechanics, but because of the respect he earned from the players and coaches. At the grassroots level, Havercroft umpired countless State tournaments in addition to nine men’s Major, a Women’s Class A and Men’s 40-Over Fast Pitch Championships. His ability to command the game led to an assignment at the 1996 WBSC Men’s World Championship and when USA Softball held the inaugural American Challenge Series in 2007, Havercroft was one of the first to receive the call. When he stepped away from the plate, Havercroft instilled his knowledge and experiences with the next generation of umpires, continuing the standard of excellence he helped contribute to. His efforts both on and off the field have earned him the title of Hall of Famer.

 

 


Britt Hightower

Britt Hightower, Houston, Texas – Player – Outfield

Dedication. Defense. Teammates. Love for the game. Long ball slugger Britt Hightower credits all four with the success he had in a storied playing career that began in 1984. It was not uncommon for Hightower to be seen at the park following a strict batting practice routine that included hitting anywhere from 200-300 balls per day. That dedication to his performance at the plate could only be matched by his ability to play defense. Considered by many to be one of the top five outfielder is to ever play the game of slow pitch softball, Hightower put a lot of emphasis on his work in the field knowing that one missed play could result in an offensive surge for your opponent. Playing with the legendary Ritch’s Superior for most of his elite playing career, Hightower credits former teammates and friends with instilling a preparation mentality that led to his continued success. Preparation was a key to his success as he lauds five USA Softball Super Slow Pitch National Championship titles and is a six-time First Team All American. Ultimately, a love for the game and the friendships that the game brings are what Hightower will remember the most when reflecting upon his career. “I won’t play softball forever,” he once stated, “but I will always have the friends that I have made in softball for a lifetime.”

 


Warren Jones

Warren Jones, Ashland, Ohio – Meritorious Service

Warren Jones’ dedication to USA Softball has not gone unnoticed. Little did he know when he first started playing at the age of 12 that he would embark upon a journey that would land him titles such as Player Rep, Committee Chair, Team Leader, Commissioner and eventually President. Jones bleeds “USA Softball blue” through and through, with his love for the organization evident to those around him. As a player and manager, Jones participated in four Men’s Major and 10 Class A Fast Pitch National Championship Finals. His first role as a USA Softball Council Member came in 1986 when he was appointed an At-Large Player Rep and as the saying goes – the rest is history. In his 33 years of service, Jones has served as Chair of the Legislative, Boys’/Men’s Fast Pitch and the Men’s National Team Selection Committees while also stepping up as a Team Leader for the 2003 and 2015 Men’s National Teams that competed at Pan American Games and various competitions for the Junior Men’s and Women’s teams. In 2006, Jones was selected as the Commissioner for the state of Ohio and helped steer the association into an era of stability and excellence in hosting USA Softball National Championship Finals. In 2016, Jones became the first African American President for USA Softball and served a two-year term and under his guidance, USA Softball continued to be the leader in the sport of softball. Jones’ efforts to grow the sport of softball, particularly men’s fast pitch, has left an impact on the organization that has earned him a Hall of Fame honor.


Tony Laws

Tony Laws, Burlington, North Carolina – Meritorious Service

District Commissioner, Tournament Director, Team Leader and State Commissioner. Those are just a few of the titles that Tony Laws has held with USA Softball. Starting as a District Commissioner in 1969, Tony’s dedication to the game of softball is evident through his 50-plus years of service. First joining the USA Softball Council in 1986, Laws has served on numerous Committees, including Equipment Testing & Certification, Legislative, Long Range Planning, Tournament Awards and Seniors and Masters to name a few. His ability to lead and organize events came to fruition in 2000 when he served as Team Leader for the United States Men’s National Team at the World Championship in South Africa. Two additional Team Leader appointments came in 2002 with the Women’s National Team and 2003 for the Junior Women’s National Team at their respective World Championships. In 2005, Laws became the Commissioner of North Carolina, a position he continues to hold today. What truly stands out amongst Laws’ accomplishments is the growth of the Senior Slow Pitch, which annually has its National Championship in his hometown of Burlington, N.C. Laws’ continually displays exemplary leadership, and his involvement has truly made a difference for USA Softball.

 


Jessica Mendoza

Jessica Mendoza, Camarillo, California – Player – Outfield

If one were to research the accolades that two-time Olympian Jessica Mendoza earned throughout her playing career, the results would never end. A career with the United States Women’s National Team that spanned 10 years, Mendoza made an immediate impact for the U.S. offense. With the ability to hit for power and average while also using her speed in the short game, Mendoza consistently hit over .300 while holding down the three-hole spot in the lineup. Mendoza was a part of the 2004 U.S. Olympic Softball Team that absolutely dominated the Athens Olympic Games, a feat which helped earn a spot in the U.S. Olympic Hall of Fame with her teammates. With an Olympic Gold and Silver Medal, three World Championship titles and two Pan American Games Gold Medals, the medals speak for themselves – but it is her willingness to inspire the future generation of athletes and create opportunities for females in sports that stands out. After hanging up her cleats following the 2010 season, Mendoza continued her role as an ambassador for the game, holding the position of President for the Women’s Sports Foundation. These days, you can see Mendoza in the broadcast booth. Beginning her analyst role for NCAA Softball, Mendoza’s ability to resonate with audiences ultimately landed her another milestone – making history as the first female analyst for a Major League Baseball game.

 


Mike Nye

Mike Nye, Jacksonville, Florida – Player

Mike Nye learned from an early age what it took to win games. Getting his start in softball at the age of 12 after playing pickup for his brother’s team, four years into his playing career Nye got his first taste of upper-level slow pitch softball and never looked back. Winning his first National Championship in 1976 with Warren Motors, Nye earned MVP accolades after hitting .793, a noteworthy accomplishment considering there was no limit on the pitching arc. A 12-time USA Softball All-American during his 25-year career at the Major level, Nye accumulated 12 USA Softball National titles – including two in 1989 in the Super and Major divisions. With lightning-fast speed, Nye is considered by many to be the greatest pure hitter that ever played and gave everything he had on both sides of the ball. “I like to play the game the way it is supposed to be played,” he once told fellow Hall of Famer Mike Macenko. “Take that extra base, break up that double play and always think positive.” Playing every game like it was his last, that mentality fostered a passion for the game that can only be described with one word – winner.

 

 


Ron Parnell

Ron Parnell, Highland, California – Player – Shortstop

In slow pitch softball, you need a good fielder at shortstop, and according to many, there were none better at that position than Ron Parnell. Between 1983 and 1999, Parnell made a name for himself playing on teams of legend: Steele’s Sports and Ritch’s Superior. In total, Parnell played on seven USA Softball Super National Championship squads and three runner-up teams. He batted .675 and smashed over 2,000 home runs while nine times being named a USA Softball All-American (1986-1988, 1992-1996, 1999). Once his career playing at the highest level in slow pitch softball came to an end, Parnell continued to play at the senior level where he continued his dominating play. Parnell earned All-American accolades at the Men’s 40-Over Slow Pitch National Championship three times (2007-2008, 2012) and once at the Men’s 45-Over Slow Pitch National Championship (2008) while leading his teams to National Championship titles in all but one of those All-American performances. Regarded as one of the most prolific power-hitting shortstops in the game, Parnell’s name will go down in slow pitch softball history.

 

 


Joey L. Rich

Joey L. Rich, Springfield, Missouri – Commissioner

Joey Rich has spent the last 40-plus years to the game of softball at a variety of levels. Whether on the field as an umpire or off it as an administrator, his leadership has made a resounding difference. First registering as an umpire in 1973, Rich worked tirelessly within the Missouri association to grow and develop the game at the local level. Using his knowledge for the rules of the game, Rich took his efforts to the National level after being appointed an At-Large Player Rep for the National Council in 1987. He continued to rise through the ranks of the organization, which landed him the role of Commissioner in 2003. Since that time, he has gone on to hold leadership roles with several Committees, ultimately landing him a spot on the Board of Directors before culminating with his two-year term as President. With a personality to match his love and passion for the game, Rich has earned the respect of his peers and has left a positive impact on USA Softball that will last for years to come.

National Softball Hall of Fame 2000’s

The National Softball Hall of Fame is the ultimate goal for any player, coach, umpire or administrator who aspire to greatness in the sport. With over 400 inductees, the National Softball Hall of Fame is among the most difficult sports halls in the nation in which to gain membership.

Take a moment to browse through the Hall of Fame section and learn more about some of the sport’s greatest athletes and their accomplishments. If you get a chance to visit us in person while in Oklahoma City, please observe these hours of operation:

National Softball Hall of Fame and Museum
2801 Northeast 50th Street
Oklahoma City, OK 73111
(405) 424-5266
Monday-Friday: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Saturday-Sunday: Check USA Softball Hall of Fame Complex for weekend hours

The Hall of Fame and Museum does not charge, but donations are greatly appreciated and accepted. Your donations help keep this history of softball alive through exhibit updates, upkeep and restoration projects.

Link to Video of the National Softball Hall of Fame


The National Softball Hall of Fame and Museum was established in 1957. Once USA Softball moved to Oklahoma City January 1, 1966 after having its offices in Newark, NJ, the decision to establish a Hall of Fame Building in Oklahoma City was made in January of 1965. Groundbreaking ceremonies for the Hall of Fame were held December 19, 1970 in Oklahoma City. The late John Nagy, former Cleveland Metro commissioner, was USA Softball President at that time. Hall of Famers Harold (Shifty) Gears and Carolyn Thome Hart were among those attending the ceremonies.

The National Softball Hall of Fame was officially dedicated May 26, 1973 in Oklahoma City. The building was opened to the public July 1, 1973.

The first of two additions to the National Softball Hall of Fame/USA Softball Headquarters was started July 5, 1976 and completed July 13, 1977 for an additional 4,350 square feet of space. Dedication ceremonies for the expansion were held July 23, 1977. Counting the National Softball Hall of Fame/USA Softball Headquarters and the USA Softball Hall of Fame Complex, there is 28,406 square feet of space.

A second expansion was added July of 1980 for an additional 5,182 square feet of space, with total footage 18,140 square feet of space.

The National Softball Hall of Fame and Museum has over 400 members with two categories of membership: players and non players. Within the player category, there are five categories: Men’s/Women’s Fast Pitch, Men’s/Women’s Slow Pitch and Modified Pitch. Within the non player category, there are five different divisions one can be nominated in: Commissioner, Meritorious Service, Umpire, Managers and Sponsors. A nominee needs 75 percent (nine votes) of the votes cast by the 12 member Hall of Fame Committee to be elected. Annual inductions are held at the USA Softball Annual Meeting.


Through our vast collection of artifacts, the National Softball Hall of Fame and Museum strives to educate the public about softball’s rich history. Your support is critical to these efforts.

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NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2000


Russ Boice

Russ Boice, St. Louis, Missouri – Manager

Russ died on Christmas Day of 1998 at age 53 after suffering heart attack. Former player from 1964-1971 who turned to managing men’s fast pitch teams and became one of the game’s best. In 1982 and 1983 managed St. Louis Budweiser before beginning five-year stint as manager of Decatur, IL Pride. In 1985, Decatur was national runner-up and finished fourth in 1986, seventh in 1987, fifth in 1988 and runner-up in 1989. Served as an assistant coach for Penn Corp of Sioux, IA in 1990-91. Led National Care Discount of Sioux City, IA to ASA national titles in 1992 and 1993. In 1988 and 1992 served as assistant coach of the USA National Team. The team won a gold medal in 1988 ISF World Championship. In 1995 was assistant coach of USA Pan American team and was named head coach for 1999 Pan American team. Was named head coach of 1996 USA National Team for ISF World Championship in Midland, MI. Was born April 2, 1945.

 

 

 


Bill Gatti

Bill Gatti, Louisville, Kentucky – Men’s Slow Pitch – Catcher

Louisville, KY has had its share of good softball players, but there was no one that was as well-known as the Great Gatti, Bill Gatti. A former University of Louisville football and baseball star, Gatti was one of the top players playing Major and Super Slow Pitch for more than 20 years. Gatti started playing slow pitch for a local team, Guards, in 1969 before joining Jiffy Club in 1971. That year, he led Jiffy club to a 11th place finish in the national tourney and led the tournament in batting (.867). He also earned the first of his five first-team All-America selections. In 1972, he led Jiffy Club to the national title, batting .714 with 14 homers to lead the tourney as well as being named tourney MVP. In 1973, Jiffy placed fourth before Gatti played pro football for two years before re-joining Jiffy Club in 1976. In eight Major/Super Nationals, Gatti batted .674 with 123 hits in 187 at-bats, driving in 144 runs and hitting 70 homers. During his career, Gatti smashed 1,937 homers and drove in 4,076 runs. In 1989, he led Ritch’s Salvage to ASA Major and Super Slow Pitch national titles and was the MVP in the Major National.

 

 


Dennis Graser

Dennis Graser, New Berlin, Wisconsin – Men’s Slow Pitch – First Base

The first Wisconsin slow pitch player elected to the Hall of Fame, Graser played from 1977 to 1996. Eight times he was named an ASA All-American and was a member of five Super slow pitch national championships teams: 1985-1987, 1988 and 1992 and three Super Division runner-up finishes. In six Super Nationals, he batted .645, hit 35 homers and drove in 90 runs. In 1989, he was a member of the gold medal team in the U.S. Olympic Festival in Oklahoma City. It was the first-time slow pitch was on the Festival program. From 1977-1982, he played in the American Professional Slo-Pitch League and was a member of three championship teams. He batted .706 in the 1982 pro softball World Series with five homers and 19 RBI. Besides the pro teams, Graser played amateur softball for Elite Coatings, Steele’s Sports, Starpath, and Ritch’s Superior. In three years with Steele’s, he had a .671 batting average and in 1987 had 217 doubles. In 1999, Graser was inducted into the Wisconsin ASA Hall of Fame.

 

 


Ted Hicks

Ted Hicks, Chillicothe, Missouri – Men’s Fast Pitch – Third Base

If it was not for the persistence of his brother, Al, Ted Hicks might not have played major fast pitch softball. After injuring his right knee in college (Central Missouri University) playing football, Ted figured his major league baseball aspirations were over. He figured he would be labeled as “damaged goods.” In the ensuing years he continued to have problems with the knee resulting in four operations. Concerned about his brother, Al called Ted and asked him to play on a local softball team. He called him another day and said he had good news and bad news. The bad news was that the team Ted was going to play for had picked up a couple of players and did not need him. The good news was that Al quit the team and formed his own team and wanted Ted to play for him. The rest, as they say, is history as Ted played a couple of games and “loved it.” He went on to play 14 years (1975-1989) and establish himself as one of the top hitters in the game. From 1981-1989, he played for Decatur, IL and batted .318 with 121 homers and 841 RBI. Seven times he was named an ASA All-American and in 1978 set the record for the highest batting average in a Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Tourney, .632 (12-for-19). That year Ted also was named co-MVP of the tourney.

 


Wayne L. Myers

Wayne L. Myers, Terre Haute, Indiana – Commissioner

Wayne Myers took over from Tony Dyer as Indiana ASA commissioner in 1976 and has done an outstanding job the past three decades in making Indiana ASA among the top five associations within the ASA in membership. Started Indiana ASA Hall of Fame banquet and re-organized state into districts. Former fast pitch hurler. Served as vice president of the ASA and was ASA president from 1995-1996. Was team leader for USA National Team in 1986 ISF Women’s World Fast Pitch Championship. Vice-chairman of the ASA Hall of Fame Selection Committee. One of the best promoters of ASA softball. Was born August 11, 1925 in Terre Haute, IN.

 

 

 


Billy Peterson

Billy Peterson, Woodbury, Minnesota – Umpire

Has been a member of the ASA National Umpire staff since 1985. Has umpired in five ASA nationals, two ISF World Championships and four NCAA College World Series. Was ISF certified in 1984. Is outstanding clinician and instructor. Has been an instructor at 44 ASA National Schools, 10 ASA Advanced Schools and four All-American Umpire Schools. Has been the UIC at 50 events ranging from ASA nationals to U.S. Olympic Festivals. In 1998, was inducted into the Minnesota Softball Hall of Fame. Second Minnesota umpire elected to ASA Hall of Fame.

 

 

 

 


Denny Place

Denny Place, Livingston, Illinois – Men’s Fast Pitch – First Base

A model of consistency for the teams he played for during his 20-year career, Place could play shortstop, the outfield and first base, where he established himself as one of the premier first sackers in the game. In 11 years with Decatur, IL, Place had a .326 batting average hitting 111 homers, driving in 505 runs and scoring 763 runs. He played in 12 national championships and posted a .306 average with 89 hits in 291 at-bats with three homers and 27 RBI. Seven times Place was named an ASA All-American and was a member of the 1981 Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Champions. Besides the national championships, Place played in four U.S. Olympic Festivals (.301 batting average) and the 1992 ISF Men’s World Fast Pitch Championship in Manila where he batted .368 as the USA won a bronze medal. A 1979 graduate of University of Wisconsin at Platteville, Place had been a four-sport standout at Iowa Grand High School in Livingston, WI where he once rushed for 300 yards in a game and his high school football coach, Jim Piquette, turned out to be his father-in-law. Place was born May 21, 1956.

 

 


Brian Rothrock

Brian Rothrock, Stewardson, Illinois – Men’s Fast Pitch – Outfield

Ideally Brian Rothrock would have liked to have been pitching in the major leagues. As fate would have it, Rothrock spent three years pitching in the Minnesota Twins organization. But after being shuffled around coupled with arm problems, Rothrock decided to give up professional baseball and return to Central Illinois to try fast pitch softball. It was a move neither he nor his teams would regret. Although struggling at first to find his stroke, he eventually found it and developed into one of the game’s most feared hitters during the 11 years he played major fast pitch for teams in Illinois, including nine years for Decatur, IL. Between 1981-1989 Rothrock batted .335 with 928 hits in 2,770 at-bats and hit 148 doubles, 72 triples and 181 homers or at least 20 per year against some of the best pitching in the United States. Only once did he hit below. 300 (.298 in 1982) and in 1988 batted .411 and .379 in 1985. That season included 33 homers, 106 RBI, 21 doubles, eight triples, 128 hits and 100 runs scored. His 1985 performance helped Decatur place runner-up in the national championship. It also placed second in 1982,1983 and 1984 plus won the national title in 1981, Brian’s first year with the team. Rothrock batted .283 in nine nationals and five times was named an ASA All-American. He led the 1988 ASA national in batting with a .458 average and in 1983 shared the home run leadership with three. He batted .286 in four Olympic Festivals and starred in two World Championships.


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2001


Horace Bruff

Horace Bruff, Piedmont, Oklahoma – Umpire

Former Metro Oklahoma City UIC who served as a member of the National Umpire staff from 1981-1987. Before joining staff, umpired Women’s Major Fast Pitch National (1975), Men’s Church Slow Pitch National (1978), Men’s Major Slow Pitch National (1979) and Women’s Church Slow Pitch National (1981). In 1982, was the UIC for the Girls’ 15-under Fast Pitch National and the Men’s Class A Slow Pitch National twice. In 1985, named UIC for men’s competition in U.S. Olympic Festival in Baton Rouge, LA. In 1983, served as a guest clinician for the United States Army Europe Officials in Germany and was praised for his outstanding abilities as an organizer, communicator, and motivator of people. The clinics were given in Frankfurt and Nuremberg. In 1987, was assistant UIC for Junior Girls’ World Championship in Oklahoma City and Men’s Industrial Slow Pitch National. In 1986, became a member of the National Indicator Fraternity. Former high school football and basketball coach. Has a B.S. degree from Oklahoma Christian College.

 

 


Don Clatterbough

Don Clatterbough, Mechanicsville, Virginia – Men’s Slow Pitch – Outfield

Throughout his career, outfielder Don Clatterbough was a model of consistency and played slow pitch without a lot of fanfare. He played baseball growing up and after a couple of seasons of semi-pro baseball, was asked by a friend to play slow pitch softball. He liked it so much that he continued to play and had a career that spanned three decades. Considered a tough out, Clatterbough was named an ASA first-team All-America five times, second team in 1988 and third team in 1989. In 1985, he helped Blanton’s of Fayetteville, NC win the ASA Major Slow Pitch National title followed by a runner-up finish the following year. In at least nine ASA nationals Clatterbough batted between .419 and .800. In 1987, he led the Men’s Major National in RBI with 38 and shared the home run trophy with 15 to go along with his .769 batting average. In 1988, he batted .684 in the national tourney followed by a .667 average in the 1989 Super National and a .476 average in the 1989 Major National. Clatterbough played for some of the nation’s top teams including Starpath/Kirk’s Glass, Steele’s Sports, Blanton’s, and Dave Carroll Sports. He estimated he hit between 3,500 and 4,000 home runs and had a lifetime batting average between .675 and .725. He calls his election to the Hall of Fame “a very gratifying award. My whole life has been dedicated to being as good a softball player as I could be.”

 


Suzie Gaw

Suzie Gaw, Dayton, Ohio – Women’s Fast Pitch – Infield

Gaw joined the Sun City, AZ Saints as a teenager and during the next two decades established herself as one of its all-time top players, earning All-America honors 11 times and appearing in more than a dozen nationals playing the outfield and infield. In 1979, she helped the Saints win the ASA Women’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship and was named a second-team All-America. Four times Gaw was selected to the USA Pan American team: 1979, 1983, 1987 and 1991. In the 1987 Pan American Games, she led USA team in batting with.636 average. In the 1979 Pan Am Games Gaw batted .347 and led the team with two homers. In the 1983 Pan Am Games, she batted .235, but had 10 RBI. Eight times Gaw played in the U.S. Olympic Festival and was a member of three gold-medal winning teams (1978, 1981 and 1982). After an outstanding high school career, Gaw earned a scholarship to Arizona State University where she was named all-conference twice and had a .281 batting average with 16 homers and 86 RBI. Since retiring, Gaw has remained active in softball and has served twice as a member of the USA Softball Women’s Selection Committee. She lives in Scottsdale, AZ working as a fireman. She was born March 9, 1960 in Dayton, OH.

 


Harry Kraft

Harry Kraft, Kenosha, Wisconsin – Men’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

Harry Kraft’s career in softball started as a teenager in 1929 when he hurled a no-hitter in his first start as a pitcher in the Kenosha, WI City League. Between 1931-33 Kraft won 89 games and lost 17 for Miller’s of Kenosha. He wins included nine no-hitters and in 1933 had a 47-7 record. Although his career lasted into the 1940s, the highlight of it came in the 1934 national championship in Chicago, IL where Kraft dazzled the Newport, KY team, striking out a then record 38 batters in a quarter-final 2-1 win. It was a dazzling display of pitching class and endurance as Kraft bested Cannonball Bailey, allowing only six hits. It was the only game Kraft hurled in the tourney as the Ke-Nash-A’s of Kenosha went on to win the national title. Kenosha finished the year 64-10 but was unable to repeat in the national the next year. From 1931-1935 Kraft compiled a 132-34 record with 14 no-hitters before joining Bendix Brakes of South Bend, IN. Kraft won 18 of 19 games in 1937 as Bendix compiled a 59-6 record. Kraft had a win against Hall of Famer Shifty Gears in the national tournament that year, which was another highlight of his career. He had a 2-1 record in the nationals. Kraft continued to play until 1945, then umpired from 1946-1961. He compiled a 525-75 won-loss record in his career with three perfect games and 32 no-hitters. He estimated he averaged 15 strikeouts per games. Kraft passed away May of 2000 at age 87.

 


Kinard Latham

Kinard Latham, Columbus, Georgia – Meritorious Service

Latham has been involved in the ASA umpire program since 1962. Has served as the UIC at more than two dozen ASA nationals and umpired in 15 ASA nationals. Also served as the umpire coordinator for various international events, including Superball in 1995 and 1997 and Junior Superball in 1998. At the 1996 Olympic Games coordinated the bat and ball girls for each team. Held the first umpire school in Georgia in 1983 and has held one every year since then. In 1986, was elected to the National Indicator Fraternity. A year later, was elected to the Georgia Hall of Fame. In 1997, received the ASA Award of Excellence for his region. In 1994, received the Al Bishop Award for his outstanding contributions to the sport of softball in Georgia. In 1995, was recipient of the Georgia ASA Recognition Award. Kinard is a graduate of St. Bernard College, Cullman, AL and has a master’s degree from Georgia State University.

 

 

 


Bob Quinn

Bob Quinn, Branchville, New Jersey – Men’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

A graduate of Boston State College, where he starred in hockey, Quinn also excelled as a fast pitch pitcher during the summer, earning All-America honors four times during a career that spanned more than 40 years. Quinn was a first-team selections in 1965 and 1973 and a second-team choice in 1966 and 1972. In 1965, he compiled a 4-1 record in the nationals in pitching Local 57 of Providence, RI to a third finish Quinn finished the year 34-4. In 1966, Quinn led the team to a second-place finish, losing 4-2 to the Clearwater, FL Bombers. Quinn joined the Bombers in 1981 and remained with them the remainder of his career. He hurled the Bombers to the 1973 national title as well as a runner-up finish in 1972. In the 1972 nationals, Quinn compiled a 2-2 record in the nationals. In 1973, he won three games including beating Sunnyvale, CA 4-1 in the finals on a four-hitter. Quinn says winning the 1973 national was his greatest thrill in softball. In 18 ASA nationals, Quinn compiled a 22-17 record and was certainly one of the most competitive players to wear a Bomber uniform. Quinn made his last appearance in a national tourney in 1986 in Seattle, WA. Quinn was born November 19, 1941 in Somerville, MA and died on July 31, 2015.

 


Rick “The Crusher” Scherr

Rick Scherr, Slinger, Wisconsin – Men’s Slow Pitch – Third Base

Nicknamed “The Crusher,” that’s what Scherr did to softballs during an almost a 20-year career, hitting more than 4,000 homers and driving in more than 7,000 runs. Ten times Scherr was named an ASA All-America and played in 10 national championships. He was a member of four national championships teams and was MVP of the ASA Super National three times (1981, 1983 and 1984). In the 1981 national, Scherr batted .842 and hit eight homers, driving in 23 runs. In 1983, he batted .882 with 12 homers and 30 RBI while in 1984 connected for a .774 batting average with 20 homers and 37 RBI. Between 1989 and 1989 Scherr had a phenomenal decade. He averaged a homer every 2.30 times at bat, hitting 2,985 while driving in 6,021 runs and bating .710. In 1989, Scherr appeared in the U.S. Olympic Festival slow pitch competition in Oklahoma City and batted .720, hitting 13 homers and driving in 30 runs to help the North team win a bronze medal. That year he also was MVP of the prestigious Smokey Mountain Classic in Maryville, TN. Twice Scherr set national home run records, 356 in 1982 and 451 in 1985. Scherr was born and raised in Slinger, WI and weighed more than 280 pounds, standing 6-feet-5 inches tall. He is the ninth former Howard’s-Western Steer, Denver, NC player elected to the ASA Hall of Fame. He also played for Superior Apollo of Winsdor Locks, CT retiring after the 1991 season.

 


Walt Sparks

Walt Sparks, San Antonio, Texas – Umpire

Involved in ASA umpiring for more than 40 years, Sparks serves as the Texas Region UIC as a member of the ASA national umpire staff. Sparks was named to the staff in 1981. Five years earlier he was named San Antonio, TX UIC. Sparks served as the first president of the Southwest Softball Umpires’ Association and helped develop the University Interscholastic League High School Program in Texas. An accomplished clinician, Sparks has instructed at more than 40 ASA National Schools as well as giving clinics overseas in Europe. He has served as the UIC at more than 50 ASA nationals as well as three U.S. Olympic Festivals. He is a member of the National Indicator Fraternity and the Texas Softball Hall of Fame. Walt says umpiring the Clearwater, FL Bombers in the 1970s was the highlight of his softball career.

 

 

 


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2002


Butch Batt

Butch Batt, Seattle, Washington – Men’s Fast Pitch – Catcher

Fast Pitch softball teams must be strong up the middle. And the Seattle, WA Peterbilt and Pay ‘n Pak fast pitch teams certainly did not have to worry about their strength up the middle, starting with catcher Butch Batt, who played the sport 21 years. Batt earned ASA All-American honors five times, played on two ASA national championship teams (1980 and 1982), participated in 12 ASA nationals, one ISF World Championship, two Pan American Games (1979 and 1983) and three U.S. Olympic Festivals (1978, 1981 and 1983). After retiring as a player, Batt coached for Pay ‘n Pak in 1987 and managed the Knoll Lumber Legends to three ASA Master’s Championships (1995-1997). Solid defensively and adapted to handling pitchers, Batt could swing the bat with authority and was consistent .290 plus hitter. He was first named an All-American in 1973 when he batted .286 in the national championship for Pay ‘n Pak to earn second-team laurels. In 1978, he helped the West Team win the gold in the first National Sports in Colorado Springs, CO, finishing the year with a .305 average with 63 RBI. The National Sports Festival was later re-named the U.S. Olympic Festival. Batt was again named a second-team All-America in 1979 and batted .280 in the tourney and .289 for the season as his team, Peterbilt Western, finished fifth in the national championship. He also was a member of the first USA Men’s team to play in the Pan American Games, but the USA had to settle for a silver medal, losing in 14 innings to Canada, 1-0. In 1980 Peterbilt Western won the national championship and Batt was a second-team All-America for the third time, batting .167 in the tourney and .289 for the season (59-for-204). That year he also was a member of the USA National Team, represented by Midland Michigan’s McArdle Pontiac, that won a gold medal in the ISF World Championship in Tacoma, WA where Batt drove in the USA’s first run in the championship game against Canada with a sacrifice fly. Batt smacked two homers, drove in six runs, and batted .286 in leading his team to the gold medal in the 1981 National Sports Festival in Syracuse, NY. Batt had one of the best years of his career in 1982 when he was named the MVP in the Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship in Midland, MI in leading Peterbilt Western to the national title. Batt batted .353 (6-for-17) and drove home six runs and was named the tournament MVP as well as a first-team All-America. It was the second time in the history of the ASA Men’s Major Fast Pitch National that a catcher was named the tournament most valuable player. Batt also was nominated for the James E. Sullivan Award that year as well as Seattle’s outstanding professional/amateur athlete of the year. In 1983, Batt was again named to the USA Pan American team, but the USA unfortunately lost again to Canada in the gold medal game. Batt, however, emerged as one of the leading hitters with a .320 average (8-for-25), six RBI and a pair of home runs. Pay ‘n Pak won the gold medal that year in the National Sports Festival in Colorado Springs, CO with Batt batting .294 (5-for-17 with four RBI and one home run). He also had a fielding percentage of .969 with only one error in 31 chances. Batt is the second Peterbilt Western player elected to the National Softball Hall of Fame. “Butch was a leader,” said former Peterbilt and Pay ‘n Pak manager Tommy Wagner. “He was an excellent hitter in the clutch and if we had a close play at the plate, you could always count on Butch in blocking the plate. He was very strong behind the plate and did an excellent job at calling the game.”


Bill Fraley

Bill Fraley, Lexington, Kentucky – Sponsor

In Kentucky, Fraley’s Wildcats made a name for themselves on the softball field thanks to sponsor and manager Bill Fraley. Without the help of a corporate sponsor, Fraley coached and sponsored the women’s team for almost 29 years at the Major and Class A levels. Fraley’s Wildcats dominated after being started in 1972 and won 23 of 26 City championships in Lexington, KY. The Wildcats won seven consecutive Class A championships before Class A was discontinued after 1989. In 1989, the Wildcats started participating in ASA National Championship play and continued through 2000. The Wildcats compiled a record of 1,848 wins and 327 losses for a winning percentage of .85. Fifty-seven of Fraley’s players were named ASA All-Americans at the Major and Class A levels. In 1985, Fraley sponsored three teams and participated in ASA national championship play. His Wildcats finished runner-up in ASA national championships twice 1990, (Women’s Major) and 1994 (Women’s Class A). His Major team finished seventh in 1983 and 1984, 25th in 1986, ninth in 1988 and 13th in 1989. In 1988, Fraley was inducted into the Kentucky ASA Hall of Fame.

 


Jerry Hanson

Jerry Hanson, Midland, Michigan – Umpire

Jerry Hanson’s umpiring career spanned 33 years starting in 1956. In 1975, he was named Midland, MI Softball Association UIC and served in that position until 1979. A year later, he was named assistant UIC for the Michigan ASA and five years later the UIC for the Michigan ASA. After five years as the Michigan UIC, Hanson was named to the ASA National umpire staff in 1990 representing the Great Lakes Region. He remained on the staff until November of 2002 when he was named to replace Bill Humphrey as Michigan ASA commissioner and executive director of the Michigan Softball Association after Humphrey joined the ASA national office staff. During his career, Hanson umpired five men’s Major Fast Pitch Championships (1977, 1979, 1982, 1986 and 1989), two ISF World Championships (1980 and 1987) and one Olympic Festival (1978 in Colorado Springs, CO). As a member of the National Umpire staff, he was the UIC at 32 ASA National championships, the 1997 Women’s National Team Tryouts, and the 1999 Men’s National Team Tryouts. He was assistant UIC at the 1996 ISF Men’s World Championships and at the ASA 1991- and 1992-Men’s Fast Pitch National Championships. He was an instructor at 26 National Umpire Schools and hosted four national schools in Michigan. He also served as vice-chair of the Fast Pitch Playing Rules Committee, vice-chair of the Playing Rules Committee and has been a member of the Umpire Committee since 1990. As a member of the National Umpire staff, he served on a committee to annually review the rule changes, mechanics, clinic guides and other publications. In 1979, he was ISF certified and in 1986 became a member of the National Indicator Fraternity. He is a member of three other Halls of Fame besides the National Softball Hall of Fame: Michigan ASA (1991), Indiana ASA (1999) and Midland County (2000). In 1999, Hanson joined the ASA Medals Program. Hanson retired from the Dow Corning Corporation after a 33-year career as a millwright.


John Sigfrid “Sig” Lawson

John “Sigfrid” “Sig” Lawson Glenpool, Oklahoma – Men’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

John “Sigfrid” “Sig” Lawson’s career in fast pitch softball covered the period 1933-1957. During that time, the lanky Lawson (6-foot-3) established himself not only as a pitcher but as an excellent hitter who could hit with power. Lawson compiled a 11-1 pitching record in ASA championship play (1934, 1938, 1939, 1941 and 1942) and had an overall record of 20-3 counting National Softball Congress (later the ISC) competition. He was named to the NSC All-Star team in 1954. Lawson compiled a 2-1 record in his first ASA national championship (1934) playing for National Bank of Commerce, OK. The team advanced to the third round before being eliminated. Lawson joined the Deep Rock Oilers of Tulsa, OK in 1938 and led them to the third round of the championship before being eliminated. Lawson showed his power at-bat when he hit a homer that cleared a fence 240 feet away from home plate with the ball landing on the top of a three-story building. Distance between the fence and the building was estimated at 50 feet with the ball traveling an additional 35 feet before dropping on the middle of the building. Deep Rock won the national title in 1942 and Lawson played a major role in the team’s success by winning four games and allowing only two earned runs in 36 innings. After opening with a 6-0-win Deep Rock won its next game, 1-0, in 15 innings with Lawson hurling a four-hitter with 16 strikeouts in beating Phalanx Fraternity of Phoenix, AZ. Deep Rock won its next two games beating St. Joseph, MO (2-0) and the defending Bendix Brakes, 3-2, before losing to Briggs Beautyware of Detroit, MI to fall into the loser’s bracket. Al Linde hurled a no-hitter against Bendix Brakes, which scored its two runs on errors in the third inning. Deep Rock came back with three runs in the fourth inning and Lawson’s double brought across the plate the winning run. Lawson next beat the renowned Fort Wayne, IN Zollner Pistons on a four-hitter to advance Deep Rock to the championship game against Briggs. Linde was scheduled to pitch the championship game but had a change of heart with Lawson taking the mound for the Oilers and responding with a nifty one-hitter and 12 strikeouts for the national title. It was the first national title for the Oilers, who had never advanced beyond the quarterfinals in four previous trips to the national championship. After hurling Deep Rock to the title, Lawson served three and one-half years in the military from 1943-1946 until resuming his softball career in 1947 and continuing to play until 1957. In 1975, at 62, he came out of retirement and pitched the Kerr McGee Oilers to the Tulsa City title. In 2002, Lawson died on February 24 at 88 in a nursing home in Jenks, OK. He was born September 9, 1913. Lawson is the only Oklahoman in the ASA National Softball Hall of Fame.


Marty McGuire

Marty McGuire, Midland, Michigan – Meritorious Service

McGuire has been involved in ASA softball for more than 20 years and distinguished himself in different administrative positions ranging from a committee chair to director of an ISF World Championship. From 1983-1987 he served as president of the Midland Redcoats and was president of the Michigan ASA from 1980-1983, helping to form and develop the Michigan ASA Hall of Fame. In 1995, he was elected to the Michigan ASA Hall of Fame. In 1998, he was inducted into the Midland County Sports Hall of Fame. During his career, the articulate McGuire has been the tourney director for 10 ASA national championships and four ASA National Sports Festivals. At the international level, he has been the director for two ISF Men’s World Championships (1984 and 1996). In 1997and 1998 he was a delegate to the ISF Congress and in 2000 was the team leader for the USA Olympic Team in Sydney, Australia. He was named chairman of the USA Women’s National Selection Committee in 1996 and reappointed in 2000.

 

 


Tom Wagner

Tom Wagner, Federal Way, Washington – Manager

Only three men’s team have won three consecutive Major Fast Pitch national titles, the Fort Wayne, IN Zollner Pistons, Pay ‘n Pak of Seattle, WA and Frontier Casino Players of St. Joe, MO. Tom Wagner, a former third baseman and a two-time ASA All-America, managed the Pay ‘n Pak team. Starting his managing career in 1979, Wagner’s teams won five ASA national titles, including three in a row (1985-1987). Two other national titles were won under the sponsorship of Peterbilt Western in 1980 and 1982. Between 1979-1988, Wagner’s teams won 917 games and lost 191 for a winning percentage of .83. In 10 ASA national championships Wagner’s teams won 47 games and lost 10 for a winning percentage of .810. His teams played in four U.S. Olympic Festivals and won gold medals in three of them: 1981, 1983, and 1986. In 1981, his Peterbilt Western team won a gold medal in World Games One. In 1980, Wagner was a coach for the USA National Team, represented by McArdle Pontiac Cadillac of Midland, MI, which won a gold medal in the ISF World Championship that year in Tacoma, WA. In 1988, Wagner managed the USA National Team to a gold medal in the ISF World Championship in Saskatoon. In 1995, he was the head coach of the USA Pan American team and managed the team to a silver medal in the Pan American Games in Argentina, losing a 2-1 decision in the gold medal game to champion Canada. A year later, he led the USA National Team to a fourth-place finish in the ISF World Championship in Midland, MI. In 1986, he was a nominee for the Seattle Post-Intelligencer Sports Star of the Year. He also is a member of the Seattle ASA Hall of Fame. Wagner was born October 27, 1942 and ranks among the greatest managers in fast pitch history.


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2003


Bill Boyer

Bill Boyer, Auburn, Washington – Men’s Fast Pitch – Player

One of five former Pay ‘n Pak players in the National Softball Hall of Fame, Boyer was as exciting a player as there was during the 1980s and 1980s with his outstanding speed on the base paths and his hustling outfield play. His all-out, full throttle type of play helped teams win seven ASA Major Fast Pitch National Championships between 1983-and 1995. Pay’n Pak of Seattle won in 1985-1987 and Penn Corp of Sioux City, IA won in 1989, 1990, 1992 and 1993. In the process, the 6-foot-1, 175-pound Boyer (nicknamed The Whip) earned ASA All-American honors seven times: four first team, one second team and two third team. In 1989, in addition to being a first-team All-America, Boyer was named tournament MVP. Boyer played in at least 10 ASA national champions and had a .261 batting average. Three times Boyer played in ISF World Championships (1988, 1992 and 1996) and had a .465 batting average with 46 hits in 99 at-bats, driving in 14 runs and scoring 35. He played in his only Pan American Games in 1995 in Parana, Argentina and batted .306 as the USA came up short against Canada in the gold medal game losing 2-1. Seven times Boyer played in the U.S. Olympic Festival and had a .338 batting average with 49 hits in 145 at-bats. His five homers in the 1993 Festival in San Antonio, TX is a Festival record. Besides Pay ‘n Pak and Penn Corp, Boyer also played for National Health Care Discount, Ski Tavern, Colonial Cedar and the Gateway 2000 Soos before retiring after the 1996 season. In 1986, he received the Inspirational Chapman Award from the Seattle Softball Hall of Fame and four years later was inducted. Boyer is a graduate of Auburn, WA High School where he starred in football, basketball, and baseball. He resides in Sumner, WA and was born June 10, 1960 in Renton, WA.


Ronnie Ford

Ronnie Ford, Jacksonville, Florida – Men’s Slow Pitch – Outfield

Between 1974 and 1993, Ronnie Ford established himself as one of the top all-around players of his era. Originally, Ford wanted a career in professional baseball. But, when that did not pan out, he started playing softball in 1974 in Manatee County, FL. That year, Ford smashed 124 homers. He appeared in in his first ASA national championship the following year and batted .545 (6-for-11, one homer and five RBI) for Copher Brothers. He finished the year with a .650 batting average, hitting 147 homers. In 1976 Ford had a spectacular season leading Warren Motors of Jacksonville, FL to the Men’s Major Slow Pitch National title. He batted .733 in the tourney and .707 for the year as the Motormen won the national title for the first time and finished the year 94-2–78 of the wins were consecutive. Ford hit 12 homers and drove in 27 runs in the national and shared MVP honors with teammate Mike Nye. Between 1977-1979 Ford played in the American Professional Slo-Pitch League and was named all-league each year. In 1977, he batted .607, smashed 85 homers and drove in 183 runs. In 1978, Ford was named league MVP and batted .645 with 80 homers and 201 RBI. In 1979, Ford paced the league in homers (43) and RBI (122). Ford returned to amateur softball in 1980 and hit 200 homers in 150 games for Ken Sanders Ford of Phenix City, AL. Between 1982-1985, Ford played for Elite Coatings of Gordon, GA and helped the team win 311 games while losing only 33. Ford earned All-America laurels three times (second team in 1982 (.571 batting average) and 1984 (.520 batting average) and first team in 1983 (.600 batting average). With his daughters growing up, Ford opted to play for a local team, Vernon’s, and played Class A between 1988-1990. He was MVP of the Class A National Tourney in 1990, batting .738 and hitting nine homers to lead Vernon’s to a second consecutive national title. Softball was a demonstration sport in the U.S. Olympic Festival in 1989 and Ford was selected to play for the South team, which won a bronze medal. Between 1991-1992 Ford played Major division softball for Vernon’s before concluding his career in the Super Division in 1993. In 1992, he batted .615 (195-for-312) for Vernon’s, hitting 58 homers as it won the Major division national title. He batted .500 (11-for-22) in the nationals with seven homers and 13 runs batted in. Ford starting out playing shortstop, but later in his career moved to the outfield to take advantage of his outstanding athleticism and strong throwing arm. Time and time again, he would scale outfield fences to make an outstanding catch. He was complete player who would make the spectacular play time and time again. He could run, field, hit and throw. He was named to the “SLOW PITCH NEWS” named Ford to the team of the decade for the 1970s as well as co-player of the decade with Mike Nye. When “SUPREME SOFTBALL,” named its All-Time Team for the 20th century, Ford was named at one of the outfield positions.


Eugene Kwalek, Shelton, Connecticut – Manager

Sikorsky Aircraft of Stratford, CT has dominated the ASA Men’s Major Industrial Slow Pitch Division like no other team since the ASA started having industrials national championships in 1957. Since competing in its first Industrial championship in 1967, Sikorsky has won 16 ASA Major Industrial National titles under four different managers. Eleven of the national championships were won with Eugene Kwalek as the manager from 1982-1998, with seven of them consecutive. Under Kwalek, Sikorsky compiled a won-loss record of 105 wins and 15 losses for a winning percentage of .876 in national championship play and a record of 75-4 (.949 winning percentage) in winning 11 national titles. It is the highest winning percentage for a team in Major Industrial Slow Pitch. Kwalek’s association with the team dates to 1964 when he was asked to join the team. He was a reserve that year, but in 1965 and 1966 he was the team’s regular shortstop. In 1976, Hall of Famer Ken Clark took over as the team’s manager, with Kwalek alternating between shortstop and third base. In 1980, he was assistant coach before becoming manager in 1982. Besides the 11 national titles, Kwalek guided the team to three second places, a fifth, an eighth and a ninth place in the Major Industrial National Championship. From 1979-1997, Kwalek ran the Sikorsky Interdepartmental Softball League and served as secretary and induction dinner chairman for the Connecticut ASA Slow Pitch Hall of Fame. He still assists with the annual induction program.


Jimmy Moore

Jimmy Moore, Butte Falls, Oregon – Men’s Fast Pitch – Player

One of the dominant pitchers in the 1980s, Moore became an outstanding pitcher through hard work and determination after joining a team in his hometown of Butte Falls, OR. “At 135 pounds back then, I was too small to play football but played baseball,” said Moore. “After the baseball season, some of the guys got up this softball team so I joined them and played shortstop. That was back in the summer of 1973.” It was in the Medford gym the following winter where Moore started to learn how to pitch. “I was just catching for this top pitcher on our alumni team and he showed me how to throw a drop, rise and change-up,” said Moore. “I worked on it most of the winter and the next summer they let me pitch in the later innings and a few games. Things just developed from there.” Gradually Moore improved and by 1980 he was one of the top pitchers at the Class A Level. That year he earned the MVP Award in the ASA National Championship in Oswego, NY, compiling a 5-2 record with 58 strikeouts and an ERA of 1.09. For the year, Moore was 40-20 with three no-hitters and 10 shutouts. After the Class A Championship, some of the nation’s top Major teams, including the Clearwater, FL Bombers and Peterbilt Western of Seattle, WA heard about Moore’s pitching prowess. He joined Peterbilt Western in 1981 and played Major level fast pitch continuously through 1992. Besides Peterbilt, he also played for Pay ‘N Pak, Northdurft Tool and Sea First Bank. In 1996 he was selected to the USA National Team, which for the first time in ASA history did not medal in an ISF Men’s World Championship, finishing fourth. Between 1981 and 1991, Moore participated in 11 ASA national championships and compiled a 31-8 record with an ERA of 0.77, striking out 380 batters in 263 2/3 innings. He was an ASA All-American six times (four first team, one second team and one third team), and was named the Outstanding Pitcher in the 1982, 1985 and 1986 ASA Men’s Major Fast Pitch Nationals. He was a member of three ASA national championship teams (1982, 1985-1986) and played in six U.S. Olympic Festivals. He is the winningest pitcher in Festival history (20-4) and fanned 186 batters in 163 2/3 innings with an ERA of 1.11. In 1985, he hurled the first perfect game in Festival history. Besides the 1996 ISF World Championship in Midland, he also appeared in the 1992 ISF World Championship in Manila and was 3-0 with 17 strikeouts in 15 innings. Said former Pay ‘n Pak manager Tom Wagner about Moore, “He was the best pitcher I ever saw at spotting the ball. He was a good leader and a great team player.” Moore is one of five former Pay ‘n Pak players elected to the Hall of Fame. He was born February 8, 1955.


Cliff Warrick

Cliff Warrick, Round Rock, Texas – Commissioner

To say that Cliff Warrick has been involved in ASA softball is an understatement. Since 1967, when he was appointed as a district commissioner in the Texas ASA, he has been heavily involved in the ASA at all levels. Born September 11, 1935 in Wellington, TX, Warrick graduated from Harlandale High School in San Antonio, TX in 1953, then attended Texas A&M University where he earned a B.S. degree and a M.Ed. Degree in 1965. After working for the Gary Job Corps as a coach from 1965-1967, Cliff was hired by the Austin Parks and Recreation Department in 1967 and served as superintendent of athletics and aquatics from 1967-1979. When the new position of deputy executive director opened at the ASA National Office in Oklahoma City, Warrick was hired and remained in that position until 1987, when he was hired to be the executive director of the Texas Amateur Athletic Federation. Under his leadership, the TAAF flourished and today has a rent-free headquarters in Austin, TX and a competent staff. While TAAF executive director, Cliff also served as Metro Austin ASA commissioner (1971-1979 and 1990-2002). He is Texas ASA district 40 commissioner and a Texas at-large player rep. He also is the Texas Region Director. He served as Southwest Regional vice president from 1974-1978. He was the USOC Olympic Festival NGB coordinator for eight U.S. Olympic Festivals and the USA Men’s Softball Team Leader for the 1984 and 1998 Pan American Trials and the Team Leader for the 1995 Pan American Games in Parana, Argentina. He is chair of the USA National Men’s Selection Committee and an ASA Commissioner Emeritus. Retired as TAAF executive director in 2004.


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2004


Emily Alexander

Emily Alexander, Phoenix, Arizona – Umpire

The first female umpire elected to the Hall of Fame, Alexander said, “It doesn’t carry a lot of meaning for me. I think myself as an umpire and not a woman umpire. Along the way I encountered unique obstacles because of being a woman but I also have been given unique opportunities for the same reasons and so I figure it evens out. I still had to do the job. “The full impact of this honor has not completely sunk in yet,” continued Alexander. “I don’t know if it will. It seems strange and almost illogical to be rewarded for an obsession. Had I worked toward this end (Hall of Fame election) I would feel satisfaction. Because I did not, and it has come to me anyway, I feel humble and very happy. To be elevated–so to speak–to the level of the people you have always respected and by an organization you have almost revered is a sense of wonderment.” Alexander started umpiring in 1974 and umpired her first ASA national in 1980, (Women’s Major Fast Pitch), then did the Women’s Major National in 1987 and the Men’s Major Fast Pitch in 1994. She also has umpired the Men’s Class A Fast Pitch National twice (1991 and 1993) and the Men’s Class B Fast Pitch National in 1988. Besides the ASA nationals, Alexander has umpired two Olympic Festivals (1990 and 1995), three National Team Tryouts (1979, 1995 and 1997), SuperBall in 1997, North American Women’s Fast Pitch Championship (1980), World Games One (1981), Junior Girls World III (1987) the 1995 Pan American Games in Argentina and the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, GA with the softball competition in Columbus. Since 1981, she has been ISF certified in fast pitch and has been a National Federation of State High Schools Associations certified umpire since 1975. From 1979-1982, she was the NAGWS National Softball Rules Interpreter and served as Phoenix deputy UIC from 1981-1983. In 1994, she was named Phoenix UIC for fast pitch and from 1999-2001 was the Phoenix UIC for both fast pitch and slow pitch. She founded the Cactus Umpire Association in 1978 and has been an assistant instructor or instructor at various ASA umpire schools. She has been recognized and honored including being the Arizona Softball Official of the Year twice (1995 and 2000), ASA Region 13 Award of Excellence (1994), John McGonigle Memorial Award for Umpire Excellence (1993) and the National Indicator Fraternity (1988). In 2007 was named one of 52 most influential in officiating history by Referee Magazine.


Jeff Borror

Jeff Borror, Shoreline, Washington – Men’s Fast Pitch – Third Base

Fast pitch softball teams must be strong defensively up the middle and at the corners (first and third base). The Pay ‘n Pak and Peterbilt Western major fast pitch teams of the 1970s-1980s didn’t have to worry about the “hot corner” because Jeff Borror of Shoreline, WA was there. Joining the team in 1976, Borror played in 12 ASA national championships and was a member of five national championship teams (1980 and 1982, 1985-1987). In addition to ASA national championships, Borror also played in five U.S. Olympic Festivals, and was a member of the 1987 USA Pan American Team and the 1988 ISF World Championship Team. Jeff’s first national championship in 1980 was a memorable one because he drove in the tying and winning runs in the 14th inning of the national championship game with a double for Peterbilt Western in beating Cedar Rapids, IA, 2-1. Borror batted .318 in the tournament yet was not named an All-American. He finished the season with a .258 average after batting .285 a year earlier including a .133 (2-for-15) average in the national championship. Peterbilt changed sponsors and in 1982 it won the ASA national title under the Pay ‘n Pak banner. Pay ‘n Pak also played in the Major Fast Pitch All-Stars and swept five games, with Borror batting .200 (two-for-10). Borror played in his second Major Fast Pitch All-Star Series in 1987 and batted .222 (2-for-9) in four games for Pay ‘n Pak. Three years later (1985), Pay ‘n Pak won the national title for a second time with Borror batting .500 (six-for-12) and earning All-America laurels. Pay ‘n Pak repeated in 1986 and 1987 as national champions and Borror did likewise on the All-American team. In the 1986 national championship Borror batted .357 (5-for-14), scoring one run and driving in a pair. Pay ‘n Pak’s third national title in a row tied Fort Wayne’s record of three consecutive national titles and Borror batted .208 in the national championship, including smashing a grand slam to beat Guanella Brothers of Santa Rosa, Calif., to keep Pay ‘n Pak alive in the tourney. Pay ‘n Pak lost its first game of the tourney, then won 11 in a row to equal Fort Wayne’s record. Coming through in the clutch was nothing new for Borror. Tom Wagner, former Peterbilt and Pay ‘n Pak manager, said,”Jeff was a tremendous clutch hitter for us. He won a lot of games for us.” Between 1978 and 1987, Borror played in five U.S. Olympic Festivals and was a member of gold medal-winning teams in 1981, 1983 and 1986. He batted .316 in the 1981 Festival, .167 in 1983 and .125 in 1986. In four of the five Festivals Borror had a .167 batting average (10-for-60). With softball on the Pan American program since 1979, Borror was selected to the 1987 USA Pan American Team in Indianapolis, IN and batted .182 (4-for-22) with a 1.000 fielding percentage as the USA lost in the finals to Canada. In 1987 Pay ‘n Pak won the national title and the right to represent the USA in the 1988 ISF World Championship in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada. Borror played a solid third base for the team (13 assists and two putouts) but managed only two hits in 26 at-bats as the team won the gold medal, the last time the USA has won a gold medal in ISF Men’s World Championship play. Borror played the 1988 season before turning to managing in 1989 and continued to manage men’s fast pitch teams until 1996.


Edward J. Lindsey

Edward J. Lindsey, Buffalo, New York – Commissioner

A former fast pitch player, Lindsey was named Buffalo ASA Commissioner in 1976, replacing David Florko. Lindsey had played fast pitch (outfield and first base) for some of the top Buffalo area teams, including Bobek’s and Big 3’s before being named the commissioner. In 1974, he was named MVP of the Buffalo MUNY Softball League. Since becoming commissioner, Lindsey has served on various ASA committees, including Meetings, Legislative, JO, Foreign Relations and Ethics. Twice he’s served as Mid-Atlantic Regional Director (1985-1986 and 1998-99). Between 1987 and 1997, Buffalo received six membership awards for increases in adult and Junior Olympic teams. In 1977, Lindsey was inducted into the Western New York Softball Hall of Fame. In 1996 was one of the charter members inducted into the Buffalo ASA Hall of Fame. In 1997, Lindsey received a distinguished service award from the Niagara Frontier Girls’ League. Four years earlier, Lindsey had been honored by his employer, Bethlehem Steel, when he received the Black Achiever Award. He retired from Bethlehem in 1984. But the award Lindsey is most proud of is the Buffalo Comeback Courage Award. Lindsey received the award after his battle with cancer, which began in December of 1997, starting in his spine, going to his left arm and gradually to the right side of his head. Today Ed’s cancer is in remission and he is extremely grateful for the support and encouragement he received from the members of the ASA during his battle with cancer. In 1986, Lindsey served as the men’s coordinator at the Olympic Festival in Houston, TX. He volunteers as a mentor for the Western New York and Finger Lakes Chapter of Leukemia and Lymphoma, advising stricken patients. Lindsey was born August 31, 1938 in Geneva, Alabama.


Ty Stofflet

Ty Stofflet, Coplay, Pennsylvania – Men’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

Growing up in Coplay, Pa., Ty Stofflet’s father, Harold, told him “to be the best at whatever I do. He said there is no excuse for not trying to be the best.” There were no excuses for Stofflet, who was inducted in the Hall of Fame in 2004 after a 40-year career which will be difficult to surpass let alone equal. He put the Leigh Valley on the national softball map, leading his teams to ASA national titles in 1975,’ 77 and ’78. He appeared in 16 Major fast pitch national championships, compiling a 46-20 won-loss record. (second all-time) Ten times he was named an ASA All-American and five times he won or shared the MVP award in the national championship. Stofflet spent a couple hours each day (six days a week) with his Dad tutoring him. “I wanted to see how far I could go in softball when I started out,” said Stofflet. After pitching Sal’s Lunch of Philadelphia, Pa., to the ISC title in 1969, Stofflet joined a team (Rising Sun) in 1971 managed by Hall of Fame Manager Rocky Santilli playing out of Reading, Pa. Rising Sun qualified for the Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Tourney that year and finished fourth. Stofflet was 3-2, earned first-team All-America honors and won the first of his five MVP awards. Between 1971 and 1979 the hard-throwing southpaw appeared in seven ASA national championships and compiled a 28-6 record before a hairline fracture of his pitching wrist sidelined him for the 1980 season. The injury also prevented him from being a member of the USA National Team (McArdle Pontiac-Cadillac). Ty was replaced by Hall of Famer Chuck D’Arcy and the team went on to win the ISF World title in Tacoma, WA. Four years earlier in Lower Hutt, New Zealand Ty appeared in his first ISF World Championship as the USA team shared the title with New Zealand and Canada because heavy rains prevented the playoffs from being played. The USA achieved a 11-2 record with Stofflet winning four of six games. One of his wins was a remarkable 1-0 win over New Zealand and its ace pitcher, Kevin Herlihy, in 20 innings. For 18 2/3 innings Stofflet had a perfect game before a batter was hit by a pitch. Stofflet had two of the five hits off Herlihy including the game’s only RBI with a single in the top of the 20th inning. Stofflet finished with an incredible 32 strikeouts in a game that was one of the greatest ever pitched in the history of softball and certainly the best pitched in ISF World Championship play. Stofflet won the event’s Most Valuable Player and Most Valuable Pitcher awards. In 1978, the National Sports Festival (later changed to Olympic Festival) was started and held in Colorado Springs, CO. Stofflet pitched his East Team to the gold medal and capped the year by pitching Billard Barbell to the ASA national title. Ty finished the season 46-1 with 641 strikeouts in 334 innings and an ERA of 0.67. On August 19th, the Aurora, Ill., Sealmasters snapped his winning streak over two years at 71 consecutive wins. In the two-year span Stofflet compiled a 90-4 won-loss record. In 1979, when softball was added to the Pan American Games, Stofflet was named to the USA Team, which was favored to win the gold medal. After beating Canada in the round-robin, 3-0, Stofflet lost 1-0 in 14 innings in the championship game. Ty was named to the 1983 Pan American Team and was 2-0, yet the USA still came up short again, losing to Canada in the gold medal game. In addition to the 1978 Festival (4-0), Stofflet also played in the 1979, (2-1) 1982 (2-2) and 1986 (1-1) Festivals. Stofflet retired from active play after the 1992 season and is second on the all-time list for most wins in ASA national championship play. He holds the record for most consecutive wins in national championship play (14) and the most consecutive innings (76 2/3) without allowing an earned run. During his career, he hurled more than 500 one-hitters and 650 shutouts among his approximately 1,500 wins. He hurled 172 no-hitters and 58 perfect games.

Ty died on January 23, 2021.


Metro Szeryk

Metro Szeryk, London, Ontario, Canada Men’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

Metro Szeryk grew up in Windsor, Ontario and began pitching for various local teams at the age of 14. Szeryk gave a hint of what fast pitch softball fans could expect in the ensuing years when, in 1959, he pitched Sudbury’s Internationals to the Senior B Northern Ontario, Canada Championship. Szeryk posted a regular season record of 21-1 and won six of seven games in the playoffs, with four of the wins no-hitters. Szeryk eventually migrated to play in the United States and established himself as one of the top hurlers in the 1960s and 1970s playing for the renowned Raybestos Cardinals of Stratford, CT, Local 57 of Providence, RI, the Cajun Kings of Shreveport, LA, the Poughkeepsie Brewers of Poughkeepsie, NY, and the Mid-Hudson Merchants before returning to his native Canada to play until retiring in 1984. Szeryk won more than 400 games during his highlight-filled career, including almost 200 games with the Raybestos Cardinals. In an eight-year span (1965-1972) with the Cardinals, Szeryk won 198 games and lost only 31 for a winning percentage of .86 percent. In 1,634 2/3 innings, he fanned 2,732 batters and walked only 281, allowing 651 hits and 188 runs. His won-loss records with the Cardinals were: 1965 (33-6); 1966 (36-8); 1967 (22-3); 1968 (6-0); 1969 (23-2); 1970 (27-5); 1971 (24-2) and 1972 (27-5). Szeryk appeared in six ASA nationals, including four with the Cardinals, compiling a 14-3 record (.824 winning percentage), striking out 152 batters in 112 innings. He allowed only 79 hits, 25 runs and walked 14 batters. Szeryk joined the Cardinals after compiling a 26-6 record in 1964 for Local 57 of Providence, RI including a 4-1 mark in the national championship. That year Metro won 11 of 15 games playing in the Atlantic Seaboard League, one of the nation’s top men’s traveling leagues. With his 4-1 record, Szeryk earned second-team All-America laurels. After joining the Cardinals, Szeryk earned his second All-America selection in 1970 as the Cardinals won the national title. Szeryk was 3-0 in the national championship and 27-5 for the year. He also participated in the Men’s Major Fast Pitch All-Star Series that year and compiled a 1-1 record. In 1971, the Cardinals finished runner-up in the national tourney with Szeryk 2-1 in the national tourney. In 1972, Szeryk had one of his best seasons, winning four games in the national tourney and earning the tourney MVP award in leading the Cardinals to the title. He also was named an All-American for the third time. Between 1970-1973, Szeryk appeared in four Men’s Fast Pitch All-Star Series before leaving the Cardinals after the 1972 season to play for the Cajun Kings of Shreveport. Szeryk had a 3-1 record in the All-Star Series. In 1974 he joined the Poughkeepsie Brewers and played for the Mid-Hudson Merchants before moving back to Canada to play for local teams until retiring for good in 1984. Szeryk, who was born August 1, 1938, now resides in London, Ontario with his wife, Carol. On November 24, 2002 Szeryk was inducted into the Connecticut ASA Fast Pitch Hall of Fame. Szeryk said the greatest thrill of his softball career was winning the three ASA national championships with the Cardinals and noted that this was made possible by the world class teams behind him.


A.C. Williams

A.C. Williams, Prescott, Arizona – Commissioner

Moving to Prescott, AZ in 1957, Williams served as the town’s recreation services director until retiring in 1983. In 1970 he was named Arizona ASA commissioner. During the 1960s and 1970s, he helped put Prescott on the softball map by hosting international teams from New Zealand, Argentina, Japan, Holland, The Netherlands, and Taipei. He also took teams to such places as New Zealand, Australia, the Caribbean, Trinidad, and South Africa. In 1987, Williams was the guest speaker for Softball New Zealand’s 50th Jubilee celebration. In 1982, he received the Distinguished Service Award from the Arizona Parks and Recreation Association. He served as a member of the Arizona State Parks Board until 1984. In 1968, Williams was named Prescott’s “Man of the Year” and received the “Fellow Award” from the Arizona Parks and Recreation Association. In 1977, the American Society for Public Administration gave him a superior service award for establishing one of the most comprehensive recreational programs in the Southwest. As ASA commissioner, Williams has helped various cities in Arizona in bidding on ASA national championships. Prescott itself has hosted five ASA nationals. Born May 16, 1925, Williams has been a member of the ASA Executive Board since 1984. He is a graduate of Northern Arizona University with a B.S. degree in political science and history and a minor in physical education and recreation. Williams calls his election to the Hall of Fame “the biggest honor that I’ve had.” Williams also is a member of the Arizona Softball Foundation State Hall of Fame.


Bill Williams

Bill Williams, Midland, Texas – Meritorious Service

Bill Williams has been instrumental in developing Midland, TX into one of the ASA hotbeds for hosting ASA national championships (more than 20) during the past 30 years. “I’m a big sports fan,” said Williams. “If there’s a ball thrown up in the air, that’s where you’ll find me.” And it will be probably at the Bill Williams Softball Complex, which was named in his honor after being built in 1984. A long-time sponsor of youth and adult softball, Williams helped Midland plan and build nine youth softball fields and 11 adult fields. He also helped the Texas ASA expand its districts throughout the state and since 1989 has served as president of the Texas ASA. Williams has had a Midas touch on Midland and the people of Midland have benefited as well as the Texas ASA. “It’s fun to have fun when you are doing what is fun,” said Williams, who managed and sponsored teams for years before turning to the administrative side of softball in 1981. Bill died on October 26, 2012.

 

 

 


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2005


Nick Cinquanto

Nick Cinquanto, Bensalem, Pennsylvania – Umpire

The first Philadelphia umpire elected to the ASA National Softball Hall of Fame, Cinquanto started umpiring while in college (Rider) doing intramural games to earn extra money. “The more I umpired the more I began to enjoy it and wanted to learn more,” said Cinquanto. “I started attending local baseball umpiring clinics and camps.” After graduating from Rider, Cinquanto began umpiring high school baseball and gradually made it to the college level. To keep busy after high school and college baseball, Cinquanto started umpiring in the Atlantic Seaboard League, then one of the nation’s top men’s fast pitch leagues. Cinquanto really enjoyed working the games and one evening was asked to attend an ASA Rules Clinic given by Tom Mason, former ASA umpire-in-chief (1972-1980). After hearing Tom, Cinquanto said he knew that he wanted to become a member of the ASA and be part of the umpiring program. Although his goal was “to be the best (umpire) that I could be,” induction into the National Softball Hall of Fame was not a high priority. “I really never gave entering the Hall (of Fame) much thought. My thoughts toward the end of my umpiring career were focused on doing the best job I could and coming out of a game or tournament he same or better than when I began. I also wanted to give back to the game teaching other young umpires what I had learned through the years from veteran umpires and the ASA National Staff,” said Cinquanto. During his umpiring career, Cinquanto officiated 15 ASA and ISF events, including six Men’s Major Fast Pitch Nationals. In three of the Men’s Majors, he was selected to work the plate in the championship game. In the 1990 U.S. Olympic Festival in Minneapolis, MN, Cinquanto was selected to work first base in the championship game of the men’s division. His ISF assignments included the 1983 Pan American Games tryouts, the Tri-Nation Tournament in Colorado Springs, CO (1983), the 1984 ISF Men’s World Fast Pitch Championship in Midland, MI, the 1987 Pan American Games in Indianapolis, IN, the European Women’s Championship (1995) and the 1996 ISF Men’s World Championship in Midland. MI. In 1982, Cinquanto was ISF certified in fast pitch. Six years later, he was inducted into the Philadelphia Hall of Fame. In 1986, he was selected for the National Indicator Fraternity, and in 1993 received the ASA Award of Excellence for Region Three. Cinquanto became a member of the Medals program (gold level) in 2000 followed by his induction into the Pennsylvania Hall of Fame a year later. In 2003, Cinquanto was selected for the ASA’s Elite Umpire Program. Since 1979, Cinquanto has served as the Philadelphia UIC. In 1999, Cinquanto was named the Atlantic 10 Conference coordinator of softball umpires and the America East Conference coordinator of softball umpires. A 1972 graduate of Rider College, Cinquanto retired in January 2002, after a 32-year career as a therapeutic activities supervisor and state parole supervisor for the Department of Public Welfare and the Pennsylvania Board of Probation and Parole. On June 15, 2004, Cinquanto was recognized by the House of Representatives of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania for his outstanding professional career as well as his umpiring career. Nick died on January 22, 2012.


Craig Cress

Craig Cress, Terre Haute, Indiana – Umpire

Craig Cress got into umpiring when he least expected it. Cress had umpired Little League baseball with his Dad, but still enjoyed playing softball. One evening, however, he watched a softball game in Terre Haute, IN, his hometown, and asked to umpire a fast pitch game by Dean Russell when his partner did not show up. “I had played a lot of softball and watched a lot, so I said ‘sure,’ said Cress. Indiana ASA Commissioner Wayne Myers watched Cress work the game and registered him with the Indiana ASA. Myers then told the late Ed Mayhew, the Indiana UIC, about Cress so Mayhew watched him a tourney on a weekend soon thereafter. From there, Cress continued to excel and eventually gave up playing in favor of umpiring where he achieved a high level of competency, progressing up the umpire ladder quickly. By 1983, he had umpired three ASA national championships: Boys’ 12-under fast pitch and 18-under fast pitch and Men’s Class A Fast Pitch. Because the Men’s Class A Fast Pitch was held in Craig’s region (Midwest), he umpired the event because another umpire could not work because of an injury. Blessed with a “natural ability for umpiring,” Cress worked his first of six ASA Men’s Major fast pitch national championships in 1989, plus the Women’s Class B Fast Pitch National in 1987 and the Men’s Class A Fast Pitch again in 1990. During his umpiring career, he officiated 11 ASA national championships. After officiating the Men’s Fast Pitch National in 1994, Craig was selected for ISF championships and did the Junior Girls’ Fast Pitch in 1995 and the Men’s World in 1996 in Midland, MI, followed by an ISF invitational two years later in New Zealand and the Men’s National Sports Festival in Sioux City, IA. In 1992, Cress was named Indiana UIC and remained in that position until 1999. That year he also was named Indiana High School Federation Umpire of the Year and twice (1995 and 1995) worked the Indiana High School Fast Pitch Championship. In 1993, he was ISF certified in fast pitch after being admitted to the National Indicator Fraternity a year earlier. Besides serving as Indiana UIC, Craig was a member of the ASA National Umpire staff from 1998-2002 before leaving to join the ASA national office, replacing Bill Humphrey as membership services director in 2002. During his umpiring career, Cress officiated five Midwest Regionals and was the UIC at nine ASA national championships and taught at 15 ASA National Umpire Schools. He was a take-charge umpire who excelled at game control even under the most intense situations. He is the third umpire from Indiana elected to the National Softball Hall of Fame, proceeding Eddie Mayhew and Bob Quillen.


Pat Dufficy

Pat Dufficy, Westerly, Rhode Island – Women’s Fast Pitch – Infield

Pat Dufficy could play just about any position on the softball field and often did for the renowned Raybestos Brakettes of Stratford, CT. The 17th former Brakette elected to the National Softball Hall of Fame, Dufficy played 19 years for the Brakettes and because of this, holds no less than six Brakette career records, including games played (1,112), runs scored (788), hits (1,177), triples (80), home runs (91) and RBI (752). She compiled a 19-year batting average of .347 for the Brakettes. “She was an outstanding team player,” said former Raybestos Head Coach Ralph Raymond. “She came to play, and she played all the positions on the field for us. In one game (1990), we got away ahead and even put her into pitch.” The perfect mix of skill and enjoyment, Dufficy earned ASA All-America honors 11 times at three different positions (outfield, third base and shortstop). She was a first-team selection in 1983, 1986, 1988, 1993, and 1994, a second-team choice in 1980, 1989, 1990, 1992 and a third-team All-America in 1985 and 1995. Besides being named an All-American in 1983, Pat was named MVP of the ASA Women’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship. Now living in Tampa, FL, Dufficy was a member of 10 national championship teams and played in 11 U.S. Olympic Festivals, batting .300 or higher four times. In the 1994 Festival, she batted .347, hit a pair of game-winning homers and drove in eight runs in leading her team to a silver medal. A year later, she batted .381 in the Festival. Besides her national championship play, Dufficy twice was a member of the USA Pan American team, 1979 and 1983, and led the USA Team in batting in the latter with a .434 average and 14 RBI. She also played in three ISF World Championships (1978, 1986 and 1994) , achieving an accumulative .205 batting average (16-for-78), with a .300 batting average in the 1994 World Championship her highest batting average.


Robert “Bob” P. Savoie

Robert “Bob” P. Savoie, Easton, Maryland – Meritorious Service

Bob Savoie spent more than 20 years in the Air Force as a weatherman before retiring in 1974 and could not have forecast his eventual induction into the National Softball Hall of Fame, November 17, 2005 in Tucson, AZ. In fact, Savoie said, “When I started umpiring in Hawaii (1969), I probably didn’t know where the ASA Hall of Fame was located. After my appointment to the Metro DC UIC position and I became more familiar with the ASA, I would walk through the Hall and marvel at the accomplishments of the members, some I knew and got to know through the years. The fact that I am now one of them boggles my mind. I never in my wildest fantasies believe that this would happen to me. “Election to the Hall of Fame,” continued Savoie, “is the capstone of a satisfying career that could have easily ended without this great honor. The fact that my career and contributions were recognized and rewarded is far beyond my wildest expectations.” Savoie can thank his wife, Arlene, for getting him into umpiring when they lived in Honolulu. She sent him across the street to a neighbor’s house to borrow a screwdriver. “We were hanging the drapes in the living room, so I went to borrow one (screwdriver) from a neighbor,” said Savoie. “It turns out he (the neighbor) is president of the Little League Association. I came back with a black and white striped shirt and a rule book. That was it.” After retiring from the Air Force, Savoie and his family moved to the Washington, D.C. area where he joined the Greater Washington Umpires’ Association and served as the association UIC from 1977-1983. In 1978, Savoie was appointed Washington D.C. UIC and served in that position until March of 1990 when he was named to ASA National Umpire staff, representing Region Three (Central Atlantic). He replaced Henry Pollard after Pollard was named ASA deputy director of umpires in 1989. During his career, Savoie umpired two Central Atlantic Regionals, and four ASA nationals (Men’s A SP, 1976. Men’s Armed Forces SP, 1979; Men’s Major Modified Pitch, 1980 and Men’s Major Fast Pitch, 1981). In 1987, he was selected to umpire the ISF Junior Girls’ World Championship in Oklahoma City. In 1984, Savoie earned his ISF certification in slow pitch and is a member of the Greater Washington Slow Pitch and Fast Pitch Halls of Fame, the only person to achieve this recognition. In 1987, Savoie was inducted as a charter member of the National Indicator Fraternity. Bob is a member of the Indiana (1994), Tidewater, VA (2002) and Pennsylvania (2003) ASA Halls of Fame. Savoie has been an instructor at more than 20 national umpire schools and 13 advanced schools.


Dave Scott

Dave Scott, Decatur, Illinois – Men’s Fast Pitch – Player

Dave Scott set two goals during his softball career. One was to be a member of a national championship team by the time he was 25, and the other was to be elected to the National Softball Hall of Fame. Scott achieved the first goal in 1981 when, at age 24, he pitched Decatur ADM of Decatur, Il to the ASA Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship, with the tournament that year held in Decatur at Borg-Warner Field. In the tournament, Scott compiled a 6-1 record and was named MVP of the championship. He fanned 76 batters in 50.3 innings and allowed only three earned runs. Scott’s second goal was achieved November 17, 2005 when he was formally inducted into the ASA National Softball Hall of Fame in spectacular ceremonies at the J.W. Starr Pass Resort and Spa in Tucson, AZ. Originally from Williamsport, PA, Scott was taught how to pitch as a youngster by is Dad, Woody. After entering the Air Force, Scott compiled a record of 117-12 in 1979 pitching for teams in Houston, San Antonio, Mexico City and Fort Worth, TX. He pitched well enough in the Pan American Trials to earn a spot on the U.S. Pan American team. The Games were held in San Juan, Puerto Rico, the first-time softball was an official sport of the Pan American Games. The USA captured the silver medal, losing a heart-breaking 1-0 14 inning decision to Canada. Four years later, Scott was again named to the Pan American Team and compiled a 3-1 record as the USA again lost to Canada in the gold medal game. By 1979, Scott had been noticed by some of the top men’s fast pitch teams and he decided to cast his fate with Decatur ADM, which launched a sponsorship commitment to winning at the highest level of men’s play and needed an up-and-coming pitcher to anchor its pitching staff. It was a move that neither ADM nor Scot would ever regret in the years that following. Although Scott played for other teams beside Decatur in his career, he is still employed by ADM as the company’s corporate wellness/employee assistance director. He hurled for Decatur ADM and Decatur PRIDE from 1980-1989 and 1996. He is arguably Decatur’s most decorated athletes and he certainly helped put Decatur on the national softball map. After splitting four games in the 1980 ASA national for Decatur, which finished seventh, Scott hurled Decatur to its first ASA Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship in 1981. It remains one of the highlights of his career. Others include winning the gold medal game in the 1988 ISF World Championship in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, and striking out Terry Muck of Aurora, IL to win a 1979 national tourney game in which Scott drove in three of his team’s five runs off losing hurler Dick Brubaker. But Scott’s outstanding career also had its share of disappointments, including losing the 1983 ASA title game in front of more than 8,000 fans at Borg-Warner Field. Scott had pitched eight games in four days to help Decatur get out of the loser’s bracket, only to lose by a run, 4-3, in the if necessary game to the John Anquillare led Franklin Cardinals. “That one tore my heart out,” said Scott.” It’s something none of us will ever forget.” In 1981, Scott compiled a 54-12 record, and it was one of three times he won 50 or more games in a season. Besides being name MVP in 1981, he was selected an All-American and duplicated that honor in 1983, 1985, 1986, 1986 and 1993. In all, Scott compiled a won-loss record of 40-20 in ASA national championship play for a .667 winning percentage. In addition to the national championships, Scott played in a record 11 U.S. Olympic Festivals and fashioned a record of 18-11—second best in Festival history—and was on five gold medal-winning teams, also a Festival record. In 1982, Scott was named U.S. Olympic Committee Softball Sportsman of the Year and he capped his career by pitching the Decatur Legends 40-over team to ASA national titles in 1991 and 2000. Between 1979 and 1996, Scott won 595 games and lost 151. Scott died on January 2, 2019.


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2006


Don Brewer

Don Brewer, Murphysboro, Illinois – Meritorious Service

Involved with the Illinois ASA since 1961, Don Brewer has “touched all the bases” in his softball career. Former commissioner Charles L. McCord appointed him district commissioner for Southern Illinois in 1961 and during the next 40 plus years Don served as regional director, vice president, executive president, at-large player rep and assistant state commissioner before being named Illinois commissioner in 2001. Besides his involvement with the administrative side of softball, Don managed fast pitch and slow pitch teams. His fast pitch teams compiled a record of 1,630 wins and 557 losses for winning percentage of .745 between 1959-1998. As a player, Don compiled a .288 lifetime average between 1959-1984 and batted .300 or higher five times. Twice (1970-71), he was named all-state for the Murdale Martin Oilers. Don’s teams participated in eight 40-and-over nationals, three 45-and-over nationals, two 50-and-over nationals, and one Men’s Major Fast Pitch (1993). In 1997, his team won the first ASA 50-and-over fast pitch national title, which was held in Tulsa, OK. He sponsored teams from 1991-1993 and 1982-83 besides managing and playing. At the state level, his teams won three Illinois Major fast pitch titles, finished runner-up four times and twice in third place. A graduate of Southern Illinois University, Brewer retired two years ago after serving 17 years as regional superintendent of Jackson-Perry County Schools. During his professional education career, Don served as a teacher, coach, principal, assistant principal, dean of students and athletic director. He also was interim parks and recreation director for the city of Carbondale. Brewer’s commitment as an educator and administrator has not been overlooked either. In 1995, he was named Southern Illinois University Alumni of the Year. In 1996, he received the Illinois Association of Park District Quarter Century Award followed by the Southern Illinois University Phi Delta Kappen Outstanding Educator Award and the Southern Illinois University Educational Council of 100 Award of Merit. His softball honors include Illinois ASA Distinguished Service Award (1992), Illinois Meritorious Service Award (1997) and election to the Illinois ASA Hall of Fame (1979). Since being appointed Illinois commissioner in 2001, he and his staff have increased Illinois registrations from three to five thousand as well as holding an Illinois Hall of Fame induction banquet each year.


Sheila Cornell Douty

Sheila Cornell Douty, Phelan, California – Women’s Fast Pitch – First Base

For nearly two decades, Sheila (Cornell) Douty was among the best softball players in the world. At 38, Sheila had won every major title the sport has to offer. But it was not until after the 2000 Olympics that she really had a chance to take it all in. “My husband and son and I took a 10-day vacation in Australia immediately after the games,” said Douty. “I think that was probably the only time I had to reflect on it and understand what a huge accomplishment it was, coming back the way we did.” At the start of the Games, Douty and her American teammates seemed assured of a second consecutive gold medal. They won their first two games to extend their international winning streak to 112, but then suffered three straight losses and found themselves on the brink of elimination from medal contention before rallying to win four straight games, including a 2-1 eight inning verdict over Japan in the gold medal game. Douty started every game at first base, hitting one home run with four RBI. It maked just the second time women’s softball had been featured as a medal sort at the Olympics and American television audiences marveled at the skills of Douty and her teammates.” In 1996 it was the first time a lot of women’s sports were looked at (by a national audience),” Douty said. “It was ‘Oh look at that, they’re pretty good.’ This time it was ‘Look at those athletes out there.’’’ Douty started playing softball at age 10 in Southern California. She had just moved to a new neighborhood, so her mother took Sheila and her sister to a playground and told them to sign up for a sport. There was no professional softball then so Douty spent her summer evenings listening to Hall of Fame broadcaster Vin Scully describe Dodger games on the radio and thrilled to the exploits of first baseman Steve Gravey. By the time she reached college (UCLA) Douty was playing a pretty good brand of first base herself. She played for two national championship teams at UCLA. After college she played for various teams in Southern California before joining the Raybestos Brakettes in 1988 and staying with them through 1994. During her time with the Brakettes, she batted 1,105 times in 477 games, collected 462 hits (77 doubles, 48 triples and 44 homers) for an eye-popping .418 batting average. She earned All-America honors 16 times in her career and six of them were with the Brakettes, earning first-team honors in 1988, 1989, 1991, 1992, and 1993 and second-team laurels in 1994. Sheila was a member of seven national championship and three runners-up. The following year, she joined the California Commotion of Woodland Hills, CA and won three consecutive ASA national championships (1996-1998) and a second place (1995). Sheila’s first international experience came in the 1983 Pan American Games where the USA finished in second place–the only time the USA has finished second in the Pan American Games. Sheila also was a member of the 1987, 1991 and 1995 USA Pan American Teams. Starting in 1987, and continuing through the 2000 Olympics, Sheila was a member of USA Teams that won no less than 15 international titles, including three ISF World Championships, three Pan Am gold medals and two gold medals in the Olympics (1996 and 2000). Through it all, Douty and her teammates were able to blend their skills and personalities and keep each other motivated. “We push each other, she said. Whether it was in practice or in games or whatever. That’s what elite athletes do.” It’s a run that has never been equaled in the history of women’s team sports, which is a concept Douty is still trying to grasp.” When I think about the people who have impacted on women’s sports in general over the years, people like Billie Jean King and Chris Evert and Jackie Joyner-Kersey, to think that the USA Softball team could be out into that category; it’s so hard when you are part of it.”


Norm C. Davis

Norm C. Davis, Auburn, Maine – Meritorious Service

The first person from Maine elected to the ASA National Softball Hall of Fame, Davis has been involved in the ASA program since 1964 when he started umpiring. During his umpiring career, he worked three Major nationals from 1981-1987, including the Men’s Major Modified and the Women’s Major Slow Pitch twice. In 1984, Norm was named Maine UIC and served in that position for 15 years. In 1989, he was appointed to the ASA National Umpire staff. As a member of the staff, Norm has been the UIC at more than 60 ASA nationals and has been an instructor at more than 30 National Umpire Schools. Known for his outgoing personality and sense of humor, Davis was selected to the National Indicator Fraternity in 1987. In 1999, Norm achieved elite status in the ASA Medals Program and was also named a deputy state commissioner for Maine. In 1997, Davis was inducted into the Auburn/Lewiston Maine Sports Hall of Fame. Davis was born March 16, 1934.

 

 

 


Michele Granger

Michele Granger, Valencia, California – Women’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

Granger started her career at age 10 thanks to her Dad, Michael, who taught her a delivery that made use of her entire body, not just her arm. The instruction paid off and in the ensuing years Michele established herself as an outstanding pitcher. She was not only an outstanding pitcher, winning All-America honors six times, but she was an outstanding person who combined academics with athletics. Born January 15, 1957, Michele was senior class president and a student body vice-president vice president while in high school at Valencia High School, Valencia where she maintained a 3.5 grade point average. She was one of the most highly recruited high school athletes in the U.S.A her senior year and ultimately decided to attend the University of California at Berkeley. While at California, set the NCAA record for career strikeouts with 1,640 (a mark that has been surpassed) and finished with a career mark of 119-52. A four-time All-American, she holds school records for most victories (119), games pitched (183), complete games (155), innings pitched (1,202 2/3), strikeouts, no-hitters (25) and shutouts (94). After starring in the ASA youth program, Granger made her international debut in 1986 at age 16, leading the USA National Team to the ISF World Championship and a gold medal. She helped the USA win the World title in 1994 as well as the 1987 ISF Junior Girls’ World Championship in Oklahoma City, the 1991 and 1995 Pan American Games, the 1994 South Pacific Classic and Superball 1995. In 1987, Granger pitched in the Junior Girls’ World, the U.S. Olympic Festival, the Pan American Games, and the ASA Women’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship and is the only athlete to ever pitch in all of these prestigious events. She earned ASA All-America honors six times and her combined record in the Pan American Games, ISF World Championships and Olympic Games is 15-0. She compiled a 13-7 record (.650 winning percentage) in five U.S. Olympic Festivals with an ERA of 0.93. In 1986, 1987 and 1988, she won the Bertha Tickey Award as the outstanding pitcher in the national championship. In the 1988 ASA national championship in Pekin, Il she broke Hall of Famer Bertha Tickey’s record for consecutive strikeouts (11) with 16 straight, then broke her own record the next day with 18 in a row. She played in eight ASA nationals, compiling a record of 16-6 in seven of them. In her first three ASA national championships, she did not allow a run (earned or otherwise) in 68 consecutive innings. In 1996, Granger helped the USA win the first-ever gold medal in the Olympics, pitching the opening game and the gold medal game. After basically retiring after the 1996 Olympics, Granger attempted a comeback to try to make the 2000 Olympic Team. Her attempt was unsuccessful, however, and she retired as an active player after the 2000 season. Married to attorney John Poulos in 1989, the couple has four children. Besides being a mother, Michele has still been active in softball, giving pitching lessons to aspiring pitchers. From 2001-2001, she was the pitching coach at the University of Tennessee. She also served as the volunteer pitching coach at UC Davis and San Jose State.


Pat Lillian

Pat Lillian, Medford, Oregon – Commissioner

Pat Lillian will not be the person who speaks the greatest number of times at a meeting. But you can be sure that when she says something, it will be something worthwhile and will be in the best interest of ASA in coming up with a solution to a problem. Pat was born in Lingsborg, KS in 1936 and graduated from Douglas County High School in 1955. She attended Colorado State University and the University of Colorado. In January of 1998, she retired from the Bureau of Land Management after a 37-year career, working as a cartographer (the science or art of making maps) and as a budget analyst. Pat retired in November of 2005 as Alaska ASA commissioner. She began her association with the Alaska ASA in 1963 when she was named a district commissioner by Gordon Berg and served in that position until she was named by Berg as assistant commissioner in 1970. She served as assistant commissioner until 1973 when Berg resigned as commissioner. In May of that year (1973), Pat was named Alaska ASA commissioner. Before beginning her administrative softball career, Pat played fast pitch softball for 23 years for teams in Colorado and Alaska. In Alaska she played for Fairbanks’ 49ers, Tommy’s Elbow Room, Denali Fuel and Gold Nuggets. She started her playing career in 1949 in Denver playing for Garden Farm Dairy. She later played for Elcar Fence. During her career, Pat served on various ASA committees. They included Domestic Events, Equipment Standards ,Fast Pitch Development, vice chair of Finance, vice chair and chair of Foreign Relations, Hall of Fame Selection, Jr. Olympic vice chair, Jr. Olympic Awards vice chair, vice chair, chair and co-chair of Legislative; Long Range Planning, Player Representative, Trophies and Awards, Umpire and USOC Oversight. She served as Northwest Region vice president from 1986-1987 and 1990-1997. In 2004, she served as at-large female representative on the ASA Board of Directors. In addition to serving on ASA Committees, she was appointed by ASA presidents to serve in different capacities including ASA delegate to the USOC Committee (1978), Pan Am Selection Committee vice chair and chair (1983 and 1991), administrative manager for the 1983 Women’s Pan American Team, chief of delegation, 1990 Women’s World Championship in Normal, IL, Code Revision Committee (1992), Women’s National Team Selection Committee (1993-1996), team leader, 2002 Pan American Qualifier, Hermasillo, Mexico, women’s fast pitch coordinator at eight USOC Olympic Festivals, served as ASA rep at the Men’s and Women’s Major Fast Pitch National Championships and eight times a member of the ASA National Tournament All-American Selection Committee. She also has been involved at the international level. In 2002 she was appointed to the ISF Executive Council. She is the chair of the ISF Athletes Commission and a member of the ISF Legislative Commission. In 1994, she attended the Women’s World Fast Pitch Championship in Newfoundland and the South Pacific Classic in Sydney, Australia as chairman of the National Team Selection Committee. In 2000, she was chief of the delegation in the Canada Cup. As guest of the ISF, she attended the Women’s World Championship Saskatoon, Saskatchewan and was named to the ISF Executive Council at this event. In 1996, she attended the Olympic Games in Columbus, GA as a member of the National Team Selection Committee. She also attended the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney and the 2004 Games in Athens, Greece. In Athens, she served as the ISF Executive Council liaison for scorekeeping. Her dedication and commitment to excellence has been recognized by various organizations. She has been elected to the Northwest Region Hall of Fame and received the Alaska 49er Sports Award and the Alaska First Lady Volunteer Award. She is a charter member and a member of the Board of Directors of the Girls Clubs of Alaska. She is a life member of the Arctic Winter Games Association and was a gold medalist in basketball (1974) in the Arctic Winter Games.


Avon Meacham

Avon Meacham, Upper Marlboro, Maryland – Men’s Fast Pitch – Player

The opposition knew once Avon Meacham got on base he was a threat to steal a base. In fact, Meachem was once clocked in the 40-yard dash in 4.3 seconds. Meacham could also swing the bat and in the 1994 U.S. Olympic Sports Festival, Meacham hit the first pitch of the event for a home run, going over the center field fence at the 250-foot mark. Meacham also singled, scored a pair of runs and stole a base in a losing effort. He dazzled the crowd with his speed and power, scoring from first in the seventh inning on a triple by Mike Larabee. Meacham’s 4.3 clocking came in 1983 when at age 27, he got a tryout with the National Football League’s Seattle Seahawks. But, after checking Avon’s age, the Seahawks felt they did not need a 27-year-old free agent. Meacham was one of four walk-ons offered a contract. Although Avon did not make it in the NFL, he resumed his major softball career and four years later made the USA Pan American Team, which won a silver medal in Indianapolis, Ind. Avon batted .238 in the 1987 Games as the USA finished runner-up to Canada. In 1990, he was selected to play for the USA in the Labatt’s Challenge Cup in Saskatoon, Canada and led all hitters with a .536 average. In 1991, Meacham made his second Pan American team and batted .355 (11-for-31) as the USA again finished runner-up to Canada. Four years later, he made his third and final Pan American team and batted .276 as the USA again finished behind Canada. In three Pan American Games, Avon batted .296 (24-for-81). Besides playing in three Pan American Games and the U.S. Olympic Festival, Avon was a member of two ASA national championship teams, 1994 and 1995, with Decatur PRIDE of Decatur, Ill. In 1994, Avon batted .407 and in 1995 he batted .353, marking the third consecutive year he was named an All-American. He also was named an All-American in 1993. In 1994, he also was named the most valuable player in the national championship. In four years with Decatur, Avon batted .299, .380, .353 and .258. Meacham, who started playing fast pitch in 1980, participated in six ASA national championships and batted .306 (30-for-98). In addition to playing for Decatur PRIDE, Meacham also played for the Twangers, Washington, D.C., Metros, Spokane, Wash., Monarchs, Washington, D.C., Radiators, Annapolis, Md., Sunners, Reading, Pa., and the Clearwater, Fla., Bombers. Since 1998, Avon has been a member of the ASA Board of Directors and from 1996-1998 was the assistant coach at Columbia Union College, in Tacoma Park, Md. He also served on the USA Men’s National Team Selection Committee and continues to play ASA softball in the 40-and-over division of play. He graduated in 1980 from the University of Maryland, Eastern Shore, and in May of 2001 earned a Master’s degree in business administration from Bowie State University. He has 28 years of Federal service as a budget and program officer for the Department of Transportation. He also is a member of the USOC Athletic Advisory Committee and is the head coach and treasurer for the Track Express and Youth Track Club.


Ralph B. Miller

Ralph B. Miller, Emeryville, California – Umpire

The first umpire from California selected to the National Softball Hall of Fame, Miller had a reputation as a no-nonsense umpire who applied the rules to all participants equally. Ralph wanted to bring a sense of fairness and control to each game that he umpired. Miller was particularly proficient at controlling difficult situations while maintaining his approachability. His umpiring and leadership skills were second to none. The 33rd umpire overall selected to the Hall of Fame; Miller umpired from 1978 to 2002. During that time, he worked some of the top events in softball, including five ASA Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championships, two Class A championships, one Class B and two ISF events, including the Men’s World Championship in Midland, MI in 1996 and the Women’s Asian Zone Qualifier in Manila in 1997. Although Miller worked more than his share of national championships and quality softball events, he said that his greatest accomplishment was “the umpires I mentored in various clinics, the Oakland Metro Clinics and the Hayward Umpire Association Plate School.” After starting his career in 1978, Ralph served as president of the Mission Valley Umpires’ Association from 1980-84, president of the Hayward Umpires’ Association from 1987-89 and was deputy UIC for the Oakland ASA from 1998-2001. Miller attended two schools, the National School in Stockton, CA in 1985 after a year earlier attending the Region 14 School. Although retired from umpiring, Miller said while he gained a sense of fulfillment as an umpire, there was nothing more fulfilling than the many friends he made while umpiring. “I only regret that I didn’t start umpiring sooner,” said Miller. “I would have loved to have umpired with some the greats of the game, both locally and at a national level.” Miller was born July 11, 1945 and resides in Fremont, CA.


Dot Richardson

Dot Richardson, Orlando, Florida – Women’s Fast Pitch – Shortstop

At 13 Dr. Dot Richardson played in first ASA Women’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship, making her the youngster player in ASA history to play in a Women’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship. She started her career in 1972 playing for the Union Pack Jets in Orlando, FL. Before Richardson retired as an active player following the 2000 Olympics, she set a standard of excellence that will be difficult to equal, let alone surpass. Between 1972 and 2000, Richardson earned All-America honors 15 times, played on 10 championship teams, won the Erv Lind Award (top defensive player in Women’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship) seven times, won two Olympic gold medals, was a member of five Pan American teams and four ISF World Championship teams. After beginning her career with the Orlando, FL Rebels, Dottie joined the Raybestos Brakettes of Stratford, CN in 1984 and remained with them through the 1994 season before joining the California Commotion of Woodland Hills, CA for the remainder of her career. While she continued to excel at the Major level, Dottie continued to pursue her career in medicine and obtained her medical degree from the University of Louisville in May of 1993. Earlier, she obtained a master’s from Adelphi University, Garden City, Long Island and a B.S. degree from UCLA in June of 1984. She did her postdoctoral residence at the University of Southern California/Los Angeles County Medical Center from July of 1993 to June of 1999. From July of 1999 to May of 2000, she did an orthopedic sports medicine fellowship at the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopedic Clinic in Los Angeles, CA. Since October of 2001, Dr. Richardson has been the director/medical director at the South Lake Hospital/National Training Center in Clermont, FL. She has received numerous national honors including the 1998 Sports Legends Award, the 1997 Babe Zaharias Award (Female Athlete of the Year), the 1996 Amateur Athletic Foundation Athlete of the Year, inducted into the UCLA Hall of Fame in 1996, Nuprin Comeback of the Year Award in 1990, named MVP in the Women’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship four times, four-time Sullivan Award nominee and inducted into the Florida State Hall of Fame in 1999. Her college honors include NCAA Player of the Decade (1980s), three-time NCAA All-American, two-time AIAW All-American, three-time ULCA MVP and 1983 All University Award at UCLA, which was shared with Jackie Joyner Kersey.


Michele Smith

Michele Smith, Califon, New Jersey – Women’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

Although she did not start pitching until her sophomore year in high school (Voorhees, N.J.), Michele Smith more than made up for her late start by becoming one of the premier double-threat players in the United States and the world. After going 46-6 in high school and being named all-state three years in a row, Smith continued to develop as a pitcher and hitter while in college at Oklahoma State University. She compiled a record 82-20 in college and batted .269, .211, .393 and .379 during her four-year career. She graduated in 1990 with a degree in health wellness and pre-med at had considered a career in medicine. After being named Academic All-Big Eight in 1989 and MVP of the Big Eight Tournament, Smith played for a variety of ASA teams, including the Linden, N.J. Majors, Budweiser Bells, the SSK California Invasion and the Redding, CA Rebels. It was with the Rebels, however, that she enjoyed tremendous personal success while making the Rebels one of the consistent top finishing teams in the 1990s. Smith earned All-America honors ten times (1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997 and 1998) and was the winner of the Bertha Tickey Award as the outstanding pitcher at the Women’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship in 1990, 1993, 1994 and 1995. In 1990 and 1994 she was named ASA Sports Woman of the Year. She was a member of various USA international teams, including two Olympic teams (1996 and 2000), two Pan American Teams, and three ISF World Championship teams. The success Smith enjoyed on the softball field was not however, achieved without a lot of hard work, determination, and rehabilitation, especially after she was injured in a bizarre truck accident returning from an oral surgeon.in 1986. As she was sitting in the passenger seat of the truck, she took off her seat belt and the strap caught the door handle. The door flew open. Smith fell out of the truck, which was traveling between 40 and 45 miles per hour. Smith tumbled off the road and crashed into a pole. The accident detached the triceps from the bone in her left arm and chopped off the tip of her elbow. The accident was a wake-up call for Smith who lived for softball her freshman year, knowing that in three years she would be out working and “I wouldn’t be making half a million dollars to throw the ball around the diamond.” The accident pointed out to Smith that no matter what happens it takes “a lot of practice and a lot of perseverance. You have got to keep striving forward. You cannot expect things to happen overnight. It takes a lot of work.” After going 12-6 her freshman year at OSU, she missed the fall semester her sophomore year while undergoing rehabilitation. In 2002, Michele announced she was retiring from the USA National Team program after she played in the ISF World Championship, batting .500 (5-for-10, one HR, 4 RBI) and winning her only game on the mound. She, however, is still playing softball overseas in the Japan Pro League, which she has been doing since 1994. Besides still playing, she has served as a spokesperson for Worth Sports Company and does softball color commentary for ESPN.


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2007


Hank Bassett

Hank Bassett, Monticello, Kentucky – Manager – Manager

In 1971, Hank Bassett started a managing career that would achieve national recognition for his teams and ultimately lead to his induction into the ASA National Hall of Fame in 2007. As the third slow pitch manager from Kentucky to earn enshrinement, Bassett’s teams were an embodiment of himself. They played with class and intensity while displaying sportsmanship, enthusiasm, and a genuine love for the game of slow pitch. Although Hank’s teams never had the benefit of a large sponsorship budget, they more than made up for that with a team comprised mostly of home-grown talent. This approach paid off where it counts most—in the won and lost column. When Bassett concluded his managing career in 1991, he had a winning percentage of 73.6 percent. His teams won 1,060 games and lost only 381. His Starpath team put Kentucky slow pitch softball on the national map winning 434 games and losing 141 for a winning percentage of 75.5. Hank’s teams competed in five ASA Major Nationals and finished first, second, fourth, fifth and 13th, winning 26 games and losing eight. When ASA started the Super division in 1981, Hank’s teams competed in four of them and won the national title in1988, finished second in 1989 and third in 1990 and 1991. In 1989, he managed the West team to a gold medal in the U.S. Olympic Festival in Oklahoma City. But Hank has been more than just a manager in slow pitch. He has embraced the sport in many ways, including serving as a district, regional and deputy state commissioner for the state of Kentucky. He served as a player rep for Kentucky and has been the driving force behind the Kentucky ASA Hall of Fame.


Dave Epperson

Dave Epperson, Topeka, Kansas – Umpire

Dave Epperson started his ASA umpiring career in 1973. Eleven years later, Dave was named to the ASA National Umpire staff representing the Mid-America region. Dave proved to be an outstanding member of the staff. Over the years, Dave honed his skills as an instructor. His down-to-earth, common sense approach as a clinician was popular and brought numerous requests from people for Dave to return as an instructor at their schools and clinics. Besides giving clinics and instructing, Dave served as the UIC at 70 ASA national championships and one U.S. Olympic Festival. He conducted National Umpire Schools and clinics in 45 states and was an instructor at 49 National Umpire Schools and five Advanced Fast Pitch camps. Earlier in his career, Dave umpired various softball championships ranging from the Women’s Major Fast Pitch in 1981 to the Pan American Games tryouts. Dave was ISF certified in fast pitch in 1984 and in 1986 became a member of the National Indicator Fraternity. In 2000, he was elected to the Kansas Softball Hall of Fame. Dave is the fourth person from Kansas elected to the ASA National Softball Hall of Fame and follows in the footsteps of Kansas umpire Harold Adams, who was Dave’s umpiring idol.

 


David Grimes

David Grimes, Lakeland, Florida – Men’s Fast Pitch – Player

An ASA All-America five times, David Grimes (5-10, 175-pounds) was the kind of player a manager liked having on a team because David could play just about any position in softball. After lettering in college baseball at Florida State University (1970-71), and receiving a degree in criminology and corrections, two years later (1973), Grimes joined the famed Clearwater, Fla. Bombers. The timing could not have been better for Grimes as the Bombers won their 10th and final ASA national championship. Grimes was named a second-team All-America utility player, batting .263. He finished the year with a .318 average, hitting 10 homers. After gaining the championship round in 1973, the Bombers advanced to the championship game in 1978, but lost in the finals to Reading, Pa., and Larry Bergh. Grimes, however, was selected a second-team All-American outfielder. Dave played in the next two nationals, 1974-75, and batted .200 and .300. In 1974, he batted .343 for the Bombers and was the third leading hitter on the team. He was the team leader in homers (24) and RBI (81), which was a team record. He became only the fourth Bomber ever to get 100 or more hits in a season. Grimes had 102 hits in 297 at-bats. In 1975, Grimes led the Bombers in batting with a .330 average and was second in runs (63), doubles (20), homers (20) and RBI (63). In 1977, he batted .316, second best on the team, hitting 10 homers. He led the team in game-winning hits (15), RBI (62), runs (63), hits (73) and doubles (19). With softball accepted as a Pan American sport for 1979, Grimes was one of the 17 players selected to the team and was named captain of the team by Manager Cliff Smith. The Games were held in Puerto Rico and the USA lost to Canada 1-0 in 14 innings. Grimes batted .391 in the Pan American Trials and exhibition games. He batted .412 in the Games (7-for-17), scoring the tying run against the Virgin Islands, and having the game-winning RBI and hitting a two-run homer against Puerto Rico. Earlier in the year, Clearwater played in the U.S. Olympic Festival in Colorado Springs, Colo., and won a silver medal. Grimes batted .217 and hit a HR against Ty Stofflet in a 3-2 win. A versatile player, Grimes played second base in 1981 and batted .278 in the national championship to earn another second-team All-America honor. Grimes’ performance earned him a spot on the Fast Pitch All-Stars Team against the national champion, Decatur, Ill. Grimes batted .214 in the All-Star Series and one of his hits was a grand slam homer. It was the third and final All-Star Series Grimes played in during his career. He also was named the Bombers’ MVP that season. In 1987, nearing the end of his career, Grimes led the Bombers with a .394 batting average and hit 14 homers. He connected for three homers in the Southern Regional and was named a Southern Regional All-Star, one of eight times he was selected for that honor. In 1988, Grimes batted .357 and was named to the third-team All-America team. He duplicated that feat the following year before retiring for good after the 1992 Men’s Class A National Championship. After retiring, he was president of the Clearwater Bomber Booster Club for 1990, and co-manager of the team with Hall of Famer Ray Truluck that season. Based on information available, Grimes batted .250 (26-for-104) in seven ASA national championships. He played in 12 nationals overall. Grimes, a third-generation cattle rancher, was born August 8,1949. He owns a 1,300-acre cattle ranch in Lakeland, Fla. He has two daughters, 15 and 17, both fast pitch players, and coached a travel ball softball team for seven years. Grimes finished his career with a .321 batting average including 126 homers and played four different positions: DH, shortstop, second base and center field and left field. Elected November 8th, 2007 to the ASA National Softball Hall of Fame, Grimes said, “I am very, very humbled by this.”


Mike Macenko

Mike Macenko, Brook Park, Ohio – Men’s Slow Pitch – Player

The first former member of the Steele’s Silver Bullets elected to the ASA National Softball Hall of Fame; Mike Macenko had a slow pitch career that will be difficult to duplicate let alone surpass. For 26 years, (starting in 1974) Mike (6-foot-3, more than 260 pounds) slammed more than 6,000 home runs, earning ASA All-America honors 11 times including two MVP Awards (1987 and 1990). He was an ASA All-American in 1977, 1984-1988, 1990, 1991, 1993-94. Born November 21, 1955 in Brook Park, Ohio, Mike started his career playing for the Brook Park Merchants in 1973 and caught the eye of Pesano’s manager, Dave Neale, in 1975, who saw Mike in a home-run derby in Lakewood, Ohio and asked him to play for a team he was managing in Cleveland. Mike played for Neale’s team, Hillcrest Tavern from 1976-1980, Nationwide Advertising in 1981 and the Cleveland Competitors in 1982 before joining Steele’s in 1983 through 1990. Mike was a member of five ASA national championship teams. In 1991 Mike joined Sunbelt-Worth before going back to Steele’s-Sunbelt in 1991 and playing another season. In 1994-1995 Mike played for Ritch’s-Superior before joining the Steele’s Hit Men in 1996 and 1997. Mike retired in 1998 but playing briefly in 1999 for R&D/Nike before deciding to retire for good after the 2000 season. Mike had some outstanding seasons for Steele’s and his back-to-back seasons in 1987 and 1988 may never be duplicated. In 1987, he smashed 844 homers and drove in 1,534 runs to go along with a .744 batting average. He followed that season with 830 homers and 1,667 RBI with a .745 batting average. One of only two players (Don Arndt is the other) to hit more than 6,000 homers in a career and between 1983-1997 hit 4,411 and batted .702 (8,227 hits in 11,720 at-bats). In 1986-1987, he was named MVP of the Smoky Mountain Classic, annually the best men’s invitational slow pitch tournament in America. In 1989, when softball made its debut in the U.S. Olympic Festival (first and only time), Mike batted .568 (21-for-37) and led the festival in homers and total bases (69) in leading the East team. During the 1987-88 seasons, Mike put up some impressive numbers: 12 including nine homers in one game (1987); 16 homers in a doubleheader (1988); 4 homers in one inning (twice in 1987); he had 3 homers in an inning 11 times; five hits in one inning (1987); he had four hits in an inning four times; 17 RBI in one game (twice in 1987); 10 RBI in one inning (on a grand slam and two three-run shots in 1987); 5 home runs in one game out of a minor league baseball park; 12 consecutive homers in 1988; had 11 in a row in 1987; 172 games in a row with at least one hit (1987) and 29 hits in a row, including 14 homers (1987); he had 10 or more consecutive hits a total of 29 times. In 1987, Macenko hit a ball into the media parking lot outside the Las Vegas Softball Complex that was measured at 508 feet. During a 1993 exhibition, he hit 16 of 47 pitches over the fence at the old Cleveland Municipal Stadium, including a 430-foot blast into right-centerfield. Mike is the 31st slow pitch player elected to the ASA National Softball Hall of Fame.


Louise “Chris” Mazzuca

Louise “Chris” Mazzuca, Tacoma, Washington – Women’s Fast Pitch – Player

Although Louise “Chris” Mazzuca lacked confidence and discipline in the beginning of her softball career, in time she gained the needed confidence and discipline to become one of the outstanding pitchers of her era. Mazzuca participated in six ASA national championships and compiled a 17-11 record with an ERA of 0.64. In 240 innings, she fanned 382 batters and earned ASA All-America honors four times, three times with the Portland Erv Lind Florists and once with Buena Park, Calif. Her pitching led her teams to runner-up positions in 1959 and 1960, fourth in 1961, 1962 and 1966 and tied for fifth in 1958. Carol Spanks, a member of the Hall of Fame and one of the greatest players in the history of the sport, said this about Mazzuca. “In my opinion, Mazzuca was an awesome pitcher. I faced her many time, not only when she played for the Oregon teams but more often when she was Whittier. I always felt that from the standpoint of sheer pitching talent she was in the same league as Joan Joyce. She had as much movement and speed on the ball and was tough to hit. Just a different pitching style (windmill). She didn’t play that many years, but while she did, she was a real standout on the mound.” A natural talent who could deliver the ball with overpowering speed, Mazzuca hurled 35 no-hitters and nine perfect games during her career. Three of the no-hitters came in the 1960 ASA Women’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship as he compiled a 4-2 record, striking out 75 batters. She hurled the Erv Lind Florists to the finals before losing 2-0 to the Raybestos Brakettes. Mazzuca hurled five innings and allowed two hits and two runs (one earned) before Hall of Fame Jackie Rice hurled the last inning. It was the second year in a row Mazzuca hurled the Florists to the championship game only to lose to Hall of Famer Bertha Regan Tickey, 1-0. In the 1959 national, Mazzuca also hurled a pair of no-hitters. In 1960, she no-hit Vancouver, Pekin, Il and Orange, CA., with the last two in succession. For the year, Louise finished 36-3 with an ERA of 0.10 and 534 strikeouts. In the 1958 national championship, Louise, then 18, struck out 26 Fresno Rockets in a losing cause against Fresno’s Ginny Busick, who fanned 19. Louise finished the tourney 2-2/ In 1960-1962, Mazzuca plated in three Women’s Major Fast Pitch All-Star Series and compiled a record of 2-0-1. In 1960, Louise beat Hall of Fame Joan Joyce 1-0 on a two-hitter. In 1961, she and Joyce battled to a 0-0 tied after 18 innings with the game called because of darkness. Louise had allowed four hits. In 1962, Louise beat the national champion Whittier Gold Sox, 3-1, on a one-hitter. Born December 23, 1939, Louise began playing softball at age 11 in various leagues in Tacoma, WA. By the time she was 14 she was playing for the Tacoma Shamrocks in the Northwest Major League, which was one of the top women’s leagues at that time. She also played for the Hollywood Boat and Motor, the Forest Grove Meadowlarks, the Erv Lind Florists, the Whittier Gold Sox, Huntington Park and Buena Park. In 2005, she was elected to the Tacoma –Pierce County Sports Hall of Fame. She is the first Tacoma woman elected to the ASA National Softball Hall of Fame. Mazzuca died on March 27, 2018.


Jack Mowatt

Jack Mowatt, Odenton, Maryland – Meritorious Service

Jack Mowatt has been involved in the ASA since 1968 when he started umpiring and eventually became vice president of the Greater Washington Softball Umpires’ Association. Jack did three ASA nationals as an umpire and later became the assignor for the umpire organization, which is one of the largest umpire groups in the ASA. He was the umpire coordinator for the first ASA Men’s Class A as well as hosting the first ASA 35-under master’s National Championship. He is a life member of the organization and a member of the ASA’s National Indicator Fraternity. In 1983, he was named Washington D.C. commissioner and continues in that position. During his career Jack has been instrumental in improving the overall quality of umpires in the Central Atlantic Region because he was one of the co-founders of the Central Atlantic Region Umpires Clinic, which eventually became one of the most successful clinics in the country. The number of attendees grew to more than 400 and Jack would invite one of the members of the ASA National Umpire staff to serve as head clinician. The breakout sessions that were used at this clinic were later added to the National UIC Clinic, which is held in Oklahoma City every two years. Jack has served on numerous ASA committees including the Umpires Committees and had worked tirelessly to improve the conditions and fees for umpires at national tournaments. He served as chair of the umpire committee for four years and was instrumental in outlining the duties and expected performance of the National Umpire staff. He has received the National Award of Excellence and the Tom Mason Award, which was presented by the Central Atlantic Region. Jack also assisted with the production of the Umpires’ Case Book and provided many hours of proof reading and technical help to the committee. Jack also comes to the national office on a regular basis to help where needed with various national office-run events.


Brenda Smith-Foster

Brenda Smith-Foster, Mechanicsville, Virginia – Women’s Slow Pitch – Second Base

It is rare when a teenager wins the MVP Award at one of the ASA’s Major National Championships. But in 1982, at age 18, Brenda Smith did in leading the Richmond, Virginia Stompers to the national title in the Women’s Major Slow Pitch National Championship. It was her first year with the team. Brenda hit 12 homers and drove in 58 runs as the Stompers compiled a record of 68-9. In addition to being named MVP, Brenda was named the ASA Sportswoman of the Year and was recognized by the United States Olympic Committee. In the years that followed Brenda continued to excel at the Major level, winning ASA All-America honors eight times and being a member of four national championship teams. When the Stompers dropped down to Class A in 1987, she again was an All-American as well as the tourney MVP. Brenda was a total player. She could spray the ball to all fields and with power. Defensively, she had an outstanding arm and was a ballerina on the field, moving back and forth with ease and grace to make difficult plays look easy. A complete player in every sense of the word. In 2001, Brenda was inducted into the Central Virginia Hall of Fame. She is the 10th female elected to the ASA Hall of Fame in slow pitch. She joins Don Clatterbough, also of Mechanicsville, in the Hall of Fame. Foster also is a member of the Henrico High School and Virginia Commonwealth University Athletic Halls of Fame. At VCU, she scored 1,072 points in three seasons—1985-1987. She also had 761 rebounds and 215 steals.


Peter Turner

Peter Turner, Stockton, California – Men’s Fast Pitch – Player

Peter Turner Jr. played almost every position in fast pitch except for shortstop during his two-decade career and was humbled by his election in 2007. “I am flattered that I have been elected to the Hall of Fame. To share this award with some of the greatest names in our game, is by far one of the most humbling experiences in my life,” Turner said.” This honor gives me an opportunity to acknowledge those who have made the sacrifices that have allowed me to continue to play this game; my sponsors, the ASA, my teammates, as well as my family deserve the recognition for their support and sacrifices along the way. I have received far more than I ever expected from this game as softball has enriched my life, both on and off the field.” Turner earned All-America honors five times: 1989, 1990, 1996, 1999 and 2000 playing for some of the nation’s top major fast pitch teams including Guanella Brothers, Nava Brothers, Seafirst Bank and Larry Miller Toyota. He was a member of Guanella’s national championship team in 1991 and was a member of other teams that finished runner-up in 1990, third in 1999, fourth in 1996 and 2000, fifth in 1989 and tied for seventh in 1998. In 13 ASA national championships Turner batted .262 with a personal best of .563 in 1989. Four other times he batted .333 or higher in national championship play. Besides the ASA national championships, he played in five U.S. Olympic Festivals and batted .294 (25-for-85). In 1993, he batted .350 (7-for-20) to help Guanella’s win the gold medal. He twice was a member of the USA Pan American qualifying team (1989 and 1993) and in 1995 he batted .320 (8-for-25) to help the USA Men’s Team win a silver medal in the Pan American Games in Argentina. After retiring from major competition in 2001, Pete turned his attention toward managing and was an assistant coach for the Junior Men’s Team in 2001 before being named the head coach of the Men’s National Team. He led the Men’s National Team to a silver medal in the Pan American Games qualifier in 2002 and to a silver medal in the 2003 Pan American Games. In 2007, he led the USA Men’s National Team to a runner-up position in the ISF World Cup in Prague, Czech Republic. A graduate of Sacramento State, Turner has a master’s degree from Hamilton University. He was an assistant coach at Delta College for 11 years before being named head coach in 2004. That same year he was named head coach at San Jose State University, San Jose, CA. Born October 19, 1956, Turner grew up around fast pitch softball because his father, Peter Turner Sr., was an accomplished player in his own right, and was Pete’s idol. Pete started playing fast pitch at 16 years-old on his Dad’s teams and was a standout football and baseball player in high school.


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2008


Freddie & Virginia Ezell

Freddie & Virginia Ezell, Midland, Texas – Meritorious Service

Freddie and Virginia Ezell have lived in Midland, Texas for more than 47 years. And during that time, they certainly have made an impact on ASA softball in that community. In 1970, Freddie was named district 26 commissioner and a few years later Virginia was named a deputy for the district. The two register more than 1,000 teams each year. Freddie and Virginia are a team and they certainly know how to take care of the ASA teams when they play in an ASA National Championship in Midland, which ranks among the best ASA cities for hosting ASA nationals. Midland has hosted 28 ASA nationals and Freddie and Virginia are there to take care of the teams. As Virginia said earlier in 2008, ‘’He opens up the park, he does the talking and I do the paperwork.” Freddie, who played softball and umpired, has been an ASA national player rep since 1986 In 1989, Freddie was inducted into the Texas ASA Umpire Hall of Honor. In 2002, Freddie and Virginia were inducted into the Texas ASA Hall of Fame in recognition of their dedication to improving softball in Midland. In 2003, the Midland Girls complex was re-named the Freddie Ezell Softball Complex. And in 2004, the Midland Minor League Baseball organization, The Rock Hounds, presented Freddie and Virginia with the Community Achievement Award. Freddie and Virginia also have received the Scott Douglas Seator Community Achievement Award for their outstanding contributions to Midland United Girls Softball. In the past Freddie has served as the vice chairman of the Junior Olympic Committee and has been the rep for 13 ASA national championships. On November 12, 2008 Freddie and Virginia were inducted into the ASA Hall of Fame during impressive ceremonies at the Sheraton Hotel in downtown Oklahoma City. They are the second husband-wife couple in the Hall of Fame.


Ron Galemore

Ron Galemore, Gaithersburg, Maryland – Umpire

When the ASA had its Super Slow Pitch division of men’s slow pitch, Ron Galemore often was one of the umpires penciled in to work the championship. Galemore was good at putting out fires, on and off the softball field. A retired fire fighter, Galemore used his calm, level-headed approach in fighting any “heated” discussions between players and managers. And at the Super level it was not uncommon for some players or managers to lose their cool. During his umpiring career, from 1979 to 2003, Galemore worked five Super National Championships and one Major Slow Pitch Championship, establishing himself as one of the premier slow pitch umpires within the ASA. But besides working the national championships, Ron also did the Hooters ASA Championship Series in Oklahoma City twice (2001-2002). In 1999, Ron received the ASA Award of Excellence for the Central Atlantic Region and he also is a member of the National Indicator Fraternity and the ASA Elite Program. Galemore is the 35th umpire elected to the ASA Hall of Fame. He was inducted on November 12, 2008 before a crowd of 510 people at the Sheraton Hotel in downtown Oklahoma City.

 


Jenni Harp Oliver

Jenni Harp Oliver, Chattanooga, Tennessee – Women’s Slow Pitch

The fourth person and the second player from Chattanooga elected to the ASA National Softball Hall of Fame, Jenni Harp Oliver starred in women’s major slow pitch for 32 years, earning All-America honors five times. Although she played just about every position in softball, Oliver played either first base or catcher when she played for some of the Nation’s top teams. She was an anchor on three National Championships teams and three National runners-up. She had a .453 batting average with 65 RBI in 13 ASA National Championships. In her first national (1988), she batted. 667 (20-for-30), driving in 14 runs. Oliver played in her last ASA national in 1994 and had two hits in the Championship game as UPI shut out the Armed Forces, 8-0. The championship was played in her hometown of Chattanooga. Now a teacher in the Hamilton County School system, Oliver played the game with class, dignity, and sportsmanship. In 2000, she was inducted into the Greater Chattanooga Sports Hall of Fame and in 2005 into the Velocity Sports Hall of Fame. Oliver was the 11th women’s slow pitch player elected.

 

 


Kermit Lynch

Kermit Lynch, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – Men’s Fast Pitch

In the 1940s the Hammer Field Raiders of Fresno, Calif. won back-to-back ASA National Fast Pitch Championships in 1943-44. They are the only service team to accomplish this feat. Of course, the Raiders had two outstanding pitchers, Private Al Linde, who already is a member of the Hall of Fame, and Sergeant Kermit Lynch. Lynch was a double-threat. He could beat you from the pitcher’s mound and at-bat. In fact, in the 1943 ASA national championship game in Detroit, Mich., Lynch beat the Sam Lombardo-led Detroit Bombers, 1-0, in the championship game before 5,000 people. Lynch shutout the Bombers on one-hit and drove in the game’s only run with a triple in the third inning, his team’s only hit. And he threw out Lombardo when he attempted to steal home plate in the last inning. Lynch finished the tournament 3-0 and had beaten Detroit earlier in the tourney, 2-0, as the Raiders finished the year 25-3. On the mound, Lynch had a devastating fastball, a sharp-breaking curve and a wicked change-up, and all thrown with pin-point control. He was known throughout softball as the “wonder pitcher.” And after teams played the 6-1, 170-pound Lynch, they wondered if they would get a hit off him let alone beat him during his 13-year career which ended in 1950. He joined teammate Linde in the Hall of Fame on November 12, 2008 in colorful ceremonies in Oklahoma City during the ASA’s 75th diamond-jubilee celebration. Lynch died on October 21, 2017.


Jim Marsh

Jim Marsh, Yukon, Oklahoma – Men’s Fast Pitch

Jim Marsh did not have an especially long career in fast-pitch, about 15 years, but he certainly made the most of it and especially when he competed in the ASA Men’s Major Fast-Pitch National Championship. Between 19777 and 1981 Jim played in five consecutive ASA national championships and each year was named an ASA All-America. In fact, in his first game in an ASA national championship Jim hit a pair of homers in a 12-1 win over Oklahoma City leading Napa Auto to a fifth-place finish in Midland, Mich. Besides the five All-America selections, Marsh played in the first National Sports Festival in 1978 in Colorado Springs and helped his team win a silver medal. He finished the season with a .327 batting average, hitting 10 home runs and driving in 45 runs. Three years later, in Syracuse, N.Y. Jim batted .333 in the National Sports Festival, which was later changed to the U.S. Olympic Festival. After batting .333 in 1979, Jim was again named All-America in 1980-1981, batting .571 in the latter event. He also played in World Games One in 1981 for Guanella Brothers of Santa Rosa, Calif. In four years with Guanella, Jim posted a .287 batting average and smashed 27 homers. Besides being a threat on offense, Jim was solid defensively and kept runners honest with his outstanding arm. The wear and tear of catching, however, took its toll, forcing Jim to retire from playing in 1990 and eventually have both of his hips replaced. Jim is one of nine former Guanella Brothers elected to the Hall of Fame. He and teammate Mitch Munthe were both enshrined on November 12, 2008 in Oklahoma City.


Roberta “Robbie” Mulkey

Roberta “Robbie” Mulkey, Vancouver, Washington – Women’s Fast Pitch

One of the most talented and popular athletes in the 1950s and 1960s, Robbie could play the outfield and first base. She even caught one year because of her outstanding arm. The bigger the game the better Robbie played. She was a crowd-pleaser and did a lot to promote the game. People came out to see her hit the long ball and that she did. In fact, she formerly held the record for most homers in a Women’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship, hitting four in 1949. The record was not broken until 44 years later. Besides batting .333 and hitting four homers in 1949, Robbie was named the MVP of the tournament in leading the Erv Lind Florists to a second-place finish. Robbie was again named an ASA All-America in 1956, batting .277 in helping the Orange, Calif. Lionettes to the national title. Robbie was named second-team All-America in 1957 and a first-team choice in 1958 before retiring as an active player in 1960. Before retiring, however, she was asked by the Erv Lind Florists to accompany them on a tour of the Far East and the Pacific Island for six weeks. In 1996, Mulkey became a member of the Portland Hall of Fame. She was enshrined on November 12, 2008 in impressive ceremonies during the 75th anniversary celebration of the ASA at the Sheraton Hotel in downtown Oklahoma City.

 


Mitch Munthe

Mitch Munthe, Modesto, California – Men’s Fast Pitch – Outfield

In the1980s and 1990s Men’s Major Fast Pitch had its share of outstanding hitters. Outfielder Mitch Munthe of Modesto, Calif. was among them. Mitch’s 25-year career in men’s fast pitch (1979-2004) had its share of highlights and achievements. Mitch played 17 years at the Men’s major level of fast pitch and earned ASA All-America honors seven times: 1984 (second team); 1987 (first team);1992 (second team); 1993 (second team); 1996, (second team); 1990 (third team) and 1997 (third team). Munthe batted .341 (40-for-117) in six U.S. Olympic Festivals (1983, 1985, 1990, 1991, 1993 and 1994) and won three gold medals (1993-94 and 1985). Munthe was a member of the USA National Team in 1988, (.594), 1989, 1991 and 1993. In 1995, Munthe was a member of the USA National Team that won a silver medal in the Pan American Games in Parana, Argentina with Munthe batting .353, hitting three homers and driving in 11 runs. Twice Munthe was a member of an ASA national championship team, 1984 with the California Kings and 1991 with Guanella Brothers. In all, Mitch played in at least 15 ASA Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championships and batted .273 in 14 of them (66-for-242) Munthe led the 1994 national championship in batting with a .533 average. He batted .300 or higher in six nationals. He holds ASA national championship records for most RBI in one game (eight) and most RBI in one inning (7), which he accomplished in the 1997 ASA national championship. Mitch played seven years for Guanella and batted .317 with a .551 slugging percentage, hitting 79 doubles, 25 triples and 76 homers. Twice (1987 (.375) and 1988 (.356), Mitch led Guanella Brothers in hitting and was second in 1986 (.335) and third in 1989 (.311). He is the eighth former Guanella’s player elected to the ASA National Softball Hall of Fame. With his career at the Major level at an end Mitch served as an assistant coach for the USA National Team in 2003 and 2004.


Kevin G. Ryan

Kevin G. Ryan, Ann Arbor, Michigan – Umpire

Originally Ryan started his umpiring career doing slow pitch. He never envisioned that in time he would become one of the premier fast pitch umpires within the ASA during his 25-plus year career. But he did and is the 35th ASA umpire elected to the Hall of Fame. Kevin started to umpire fast pitch in 1983 and in the years that followed umpired seven Men’s Major Fast Pitch Nationals, one Women’s Major Fast Pitch National and one Men’s 40-over Fast Pitch National. Ryan also worked the 1996 Men’s ISF World Championship in Midland, Mich. And was asked to do more championships but could not get the time off from work to do them. What is impressive about his career is that in seven of the nine ASA events he was selected to work the plate in the championship game or the if game, which is a testament to his ability as an umpire. His mechanics and game control were rated outstanding and attest to his ability at the highest level of umpiring. In 1992 Kevin was ISF certified in fast pitch. He also was named to the National Indicator Fraternity that year and in 2002 was named an ASA Elite umpire. He also is a member of the Michigan ASA Hall of Fame.

 


Jerry L. Stewart

Jerry L. Stewart, Mattoon, Illinois – Meritorious Service

Is there anything Jerry Stewart has not done for the Illinois ASA during his more than 30 years of involvement? Probably not, because he’s been a player, manager, umpire, regional director, vice president, associate state commissioner, tournament director and ASA rep. Stewart umpired from 1966 to 1994 including seven ASA National Championships. Two of his umpiring assignments included the 1987 Pan American Softball Trials in Colorado Springs, Colo., and the 1993 U.S. Olympic Festival in San Antonio, Texas. He calls them two of his three greatest thrills in softball. For his umpiring accomplishments, Jerry attained the gold level in the ASA Medals Program and is a member of the National Indicator Fraternity. Stewart also has been the ASA Rep for eight ASA Nationals. Whatever needed to be done Jerry did it for the ASA national program or the Illinois ASA program. Stewart was always ready to go above and beyond in the best interest of ASA softball. His efforts have not gone unnoticed either. In 1999, he was named winner of the Chuck McCord-John Rowe Meritorious Service Award and in 1986 received the Don Plarski Umpire Award. In 1990, Jerry was inducted into the Illinois ASA Hall of Fame. He is the 38th person elected in meritorious service and was enshrined on November 12th, 2008 in Oklahoma City before 510 people during the 28th annual induction ceremonies.

 


Garland Thompson

Garland Thompson, Wilmore, Kentucky – Commissioner

The 39th commissioner elected to the ASA Hall of Fame, Thompson served as the Kentucky commissioner for 20 years before retiring at the conclusion of the 2007 annual Council Meeting in Louisville, Ky. During his career, Garland helped Kentucky host 11 ASA National, including the two largest, the men’s Class D slow pitch and the Girls’ 18-under Fast Pitch. Garland served as Midwest Regional vice president for five years and was a member of various ASA committees, ranging from Finance to Playing Rules. He was a member of the Board of Directors from 1994-1999 and was a deputy state commissioner from 1975-1987 before becoming commissioner in 1988. For 19 consecutive years his association registered 2,000 or more teams and he was the ASA rep at 15 ASA National Championships. He received seven membership awards during his career.

 

 

 


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 2009


Newton Buckner

Newton Buckner, Brooklyn, New York – Umpire

Newton Buckner umpired from 1981 through 2001 and worked nine ASA National Championships, including eight Men’s Modified Pitch Nationals. In five of the championships, he was selected to work the plate in the championship game. Buckner was named New York City UIC in 1981 and the association was later changed to Southern New York. In 1992, Newton became a member of the National Indicator Fraternity and a year later was ISF certified in modified pitch.

 

 


Ben Bunch

Ben Bunch, Enid, Oklahoma – Meritorious Service

Bennie Bunch, the 39th person named in meritorious service, unfortunately passed away on Sept. 16, 2009 but was honored to have been nominated into induction. Bunch was involved with the Oklahoma ASA since 1969 and had been instrumental in the growth and improvements the Association has experienced the last 40 years. A former player, Bunch played or coached in 32 state tournaments and served as the ASA rep at 12 ASA National Championships. He helped his hometown of Enid, Okla., host 11 ASA Nationals.

 

 

 

 


Leah O’Brien-Amico

Leah O’Brien-Amico, Corona, California – Women’s Fast Pitch

Leah O’Brien-Amico earned ASA All-America honors six times during her career and was a member of three Olympic gold-medal winning teams in 1996, 2000 and 2004. She posted a .313 batting average in 15 highly competitive events during her career, ranging from the Pan American Games to the Olympics. O’Brien-Amico was an outstanding clutch player throughout her career and starred playing the outfield or first base.

 

 

 

 


Allyson Rioux

Allyson Rioux, Stamford, Connecticut – Women’s Fast Pitch

Allyson Rioux, who is only the second Hall of Famer elected posthumously, played 10 years for the Raybestos Brakettes before she died on February 9, 1989 of a brain tumor. She was a member of five ASA National Championship teams and four National runners-up. In 1985, she won not only the prestigious Erv Lind Award as the outstanding defensive player in the National Championship, but also the tournament’s MVP award. She is the 20th former Brakette elected to the Hall of Fame.

 

 

 

 


Jeff Seip

Jeff Seip, Boyertown, Pennsylvania – Men’s Fast Pitch

One of the most feared hitters in Men’s Major Fast Pitch history, Seip awed fans with his outstanding power and consistent RBI totals, hitting 18 homers and driving in 43 runs in ASA National Championship play (1976-1990). Seip earned ASA All-America honors six times. He batted .500 in 1983 to lead the Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship in batting. Seip was a member of the 1976 and 1984 USA National Teams that competed in the ISF Men’s World Fast Pitch Championships with the 1976 team sharing the Gold Medal and the 1984 team winning a Bronze Medal. Twice Seip was a member of an ASA National Championship team (1977-78) and led his team to a pair of Gold Medals in two of four U.S. Olympic Festivals. Seip also was a member of the 1979 USA Pan American team, which won a Silver Medal in the debut of softball in the Pan American Games.

 

 

 


R.B. Thomas

RB Thomas, Nokesville, Virginia – Manager

R.B. Thomas has been the manager of the Thomas Engineering team the past 31 years, leading the team to eight ASA National Championships in 19 appearances. The National Championships have included two in the 50 plus division, two in the 55 plus division and four in the 60 plus division. Besides being the team’s manager, R.B. has sponsored from one to five teams every year since 1978. During his career, he has sponsored 43 teams with 11 winning ASA Nationals. He is the 26th manager elected to the ASA Hall of Fame.

 

 

 

 


Tony Walsh

Tony Walsh, Atoka, Tennessee – Umpire

Tony Walsh started his umpiring career in 1979 and worked five ASA National Championships between 1981 and 2003. In 1988, he was named to the ASA National Umpire staff representing the Southwest Region and remained a member of that staff until 2001. He is a member of the ASA National Indicator Fraternity and the ASA Medals program.

 

 

 

 


Al Yaeger

Allan F. Yaeger, Seymour, Connecticut – Men’s Fast Pitch – Outfield

Yaeger, who starred for the Raybestos Cardinals from 1965-1981, is the 12th former Cardinal elected to the ASA National Softball Hall of Fame. An outfielder, Yaeger was a member of four National Championships teams, in fact his two out, bases loaded single in the bottom of the eighth inning landed the Cardinals their third National Championship title in four years. Yaeger had a career .298 batting average, played in four All-Star Series games, and participated in ten National Tournaments during his ASA career. Yaeger earned All-America honors three times and led the 1971 ASA National Championship in batting (.455). After 1981, Yaeger got into coaching, and he helped lead the Franklin Cardinals to an ASA National Championship. A year later, he coached the 1984 USA Men’s Softball team to a bronze medal in the International Softball Federation (ISF) Men’s World Championships. For his accomplishments, Al was inducted into the Connecticut ASA Hall of Fame in 1986.

Yaegar attended Michigan State University before signing a contract with the Boston Red Sox where he played professionally for four years in the minor league system. Following his career with the Red Sox, Yaegar starred on the Raybestos Cardinals for nearly 17 years (1965-1981) and led the squad to four national championship titles. He earned three All-American honors throughout his softball career and participated in four All-Star games. Following his playing career, Yaegar transitioned into coaching and led the 1984 USA Softball Men’s National Team to a bronze medal at the International Softball Federation (ISF) World Championship. Yaegar was inducted into the Connecticut ASA Hall of Fame in 1986 before his enshrinement into the National Softball Hall of Fame in 2009.

Off the field, Yaegar worked for Pitney Bowes for over 28 years in both their Newtown and Stamford locations. Following his retirement in 2000, he became a very successful coach at Sacred Heart University and the University of New Haven.

Yaegar passed away on January 14, 2023.

National Softball Hall of Fame 1990’s

The National Softball Hall of Fame is the ultimate goal for any player, coach, umpire or administrator who aspire to greatness in the sport. With over 400 inductees, the National Softball Hall of Fame is among the most difficult sports halls in the nation in which to gain membership.

Take a moment to browse through the Hall of Fame section and learn more about some of the sport’s greatest athletes and their accomplishments. If you get a chance to visit us in person while in Oklahoma City, please observe these hours of operation:

National Softball Hall of Fame and Museum
2801 Northeast 50th Street
Oklahoma City, OK 73111
(405) 424-5266
Monday-Friday: 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
Saturday-Sunday: Check USA Softball Hall of Fame Complex for weekend hours

The Hall of Fame and Museum does not charge, but donations are greatly appreciated and accepted. Your donations help keep this history of softball alive through exhibit updates, upkeep and restoration projects.

Link to Video of the National Softball Hall of Fame


The National Softball Hall of Fame and Museum was established in 1957. Once USA Softball moved to Oklahoma City January 1, 1966 after having its offices in Newark, NJ, the decision to establish a Hall of Fame Building in Oklahoma City was made in January of 1965. Groundbreaking ceremonies for the Hall of Fame were held December 19, 1970 in Oklahoma City. The late John Nagy, former Cleveland Metro commissioner, was USA Softball President at that time. Hall of Famers Harold (Shifty) Gears and Carolyn Thome Hart were among those attending the ceremonies.

The National Softball Hall of Fame was officially dedicated May 26, 1973 in Oklahoma City. The building was opened to the public July 1, 1973.

The first of two additions to the National Softball Hall of Fame/USA Softball Headquarters was started July 5, 1976 and completed July 13, 1977 for an additional 4,350 square feet of space. Dedication ceremonies for the expansion were held July 23, 1977. Counting the National Softball Hall of Fame/USA Softball Headquarters and the USA Softball Hall of Fame Complex, there is 28,406 square feet of space.

A second expansion was added July of 1980 for an additional 5,182 square feet of space, with total footage 18,140 square feet of space.

The National Softball Hall of Fame and Museum has over 400 members with two categories of membership: players and non players. Within the player category, there are five categories: Men’s/Women’s Fast Pitch, Men’s/Women’s Slow Pitch and Modified Pitch. Within the non player category, there are five different divisions one can be nominated in: Commissioner, Meritorious Service, Umpire, Managers and Sponsors. A nominee needs 75 percent (nine votes) of the votes cast by the 12 member Hall of Fame Committee to be elected. Annual inductions are held at the USA Softball Annual Meeting.


Through our vast collection of artifacts, the National Softball Hall of Fame and Museum strives to educate the public about softball’s rich history. Your support is critical to these efforts.

The Hall of Fame Donation Fund was established to ensure that the National Softball Hall of Fame has a future and is committed to educating people about the great former players and non players and the role they played in the development of the sport.

Your tax-deductible contribution helps the National Softball Hall of Fame continue its mission of educating, collecting and honoring as well as the preservation of the history of softball, the maintaining of present exhibits and purchase of new exhibits and possible expansion of the Hall of Fame building.

Click here to make a donation

Due to the volume of offers we receive, we cannot accept the donation of an artifact without a completed artifact description form. Please see our Mission Statement and Collections Management Policy to see what types of objects we will and will not accept. Once we have received your form, our staff will evaluate the object’s potential and will be in contact with you as to whether or not we will be able to accept the donation. If your object is chosen, the donated material will be recommended to the Executive Director for consideration. Following the meeting a staff member will contact you regarding the next steps.

 Click here for the Donor Questionnaire Form



NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 1990


Abe Baker

Abe Baker, Cranston, RI Men’s Fast Pitch – Outfield

Baker was one of the game’s top hitters during a 20-year career (1963-1983) playing for teams in Providence, RI, Worcester and Taunton, MA, Portland, ME, Stratford, CT, Long Island, NY and Poughkeepsie, NY. Baker estimated he hit more than 300 homers during his career. He participated in 13 ASA national championships and shared the batting title in the 1975 national with a .545 batting average. His batting average in 10 of the tourneys was .275. Being inducted into the Hall of Fame in 1990 Baker said was “his greatest thrill in softball” while not winning a national title was his greatest disappointment. He played on teams that finished in the top four five times. Three times (1965, 1966 and 1975) he was named an ASA All-American and was the MVP in the 1966 national tourney when he batted .346 (9-for-26) and drove in eight runs. It was the first time a non pitcher won the MVP award. He also played in the 1967 Men’s All-Star Series. Baker was born October 5, 1937.

 

 


Dick Bartel

Dick Bartel, San Antonio, Texas – Men’s Slow Pitch – Outfield

Outfielder Dick (The Rocket Man) Bartel participated in nine ASA national championships and was a member of three national championship teams, all with Howard’s-Western Steer of Denver, NC (1981, 1983 and 1984). “In the early 80s, he was the best player in the country,” said former Howard’s manager Randy Gorrell. “He’s the player I would want at the plate when you have to win a ball game. One of the most respected players, on and off the field.” Six times Bartel earned ASA All-America honors including 1976, 1980,1981-1984. With Howard’s, he had a .654 batting average, hit 580 home runs and drove in 1,090 runs. The 6-foot-5, 230-pound Bartel started playing slow pitch in 1972 in his hometown of San Antonio, TX before deciding to play for some of the nationally known teams including Howard’s-Western Steer and Campbell’s Carpets of Concord, CA. The two years Bartel played for Campbell’s (1979-1980), the team won a national title (1980) and was a national runner-up. Bartel retired as an active player following the 1985 season.

 

 


Tom Beall

*Tom Beall, Monticello, Georgia – Men’s Slow Pitch – Outfield

When Tom Beall hit a homer fans would affectionately call it a “Beall ringer.” From 1979-1984, 995 “Beall” ringers were hit by Tom playing for slow pitch powerhouse Howard’s -Western Steer of Denver, NC. Besides the almost 1,000 homers, Tom drove in 2,065 runs and had an aggregate .662 batting average with 1,907 hits in 2,879 at-bats. He was named an All-American five times. He was a second-team choice in 1981, 1982 and 1983 and a first teamer in 1979 and 1980. In the 1980 Major Slow Pitch National Tourney Beall smashed 17 homers to lead all hitters. Howard’s won three national titles during this span, 1981, 1983 and 1984. Tom’s best season with Howard’s was 1982 when he led the team in average (.702), home runs (303), hits (530), runs (507) and at bats (751). Beall was born March 12, 1953. Before joining Howard’s, Beall played for Reed’s Nuts of Pinehurst, GA from 1975-77 and one year for Howard & Carroll, Sherrills Ford, NC. In 1977, he batted .660 with 144 homers. In 1978, he smashed 250 homers second best in the USA and batted .626. Beall was born March 12, 1953 and died on December 24, 2017.

 


Ken Clark

*Ken Clark, Stratford, Connecticut – Men’s Slow Pitch – Pitcher

Ken Clark first wrote his name in the softball history books in 1985 when he became the first industrial slow pitch player elected to the Connecticut ASA Slow Pitch Hall of Fame. The long-time hitting and pitching standout for Sikorsky Aircraft wrote another chapter in 1990 when he became only the third Major industrial player elected to the ASA National Hall of Fame. In his 22-year softball career, Clark played in 10 ASA national championships and earned first-team All-America honors three times, compiling a 31-6 pitching record in national championship play and a lifetime log of 261-56. When discussing his career, Clark downplays his accomplishments in favor of talking about his teammates. “I’m in the Hall of Fame because I played with some great guys on some great teams,” Clark said. A 40-year employee of Sikorsky before retiring in 1992, Clark had a .500 batting average plus hit more than 300 homers before retiring as a player in 1976. He was born July 26, 1932 in Bridgeport, CT and died on December 22, 2014.

 

 


Harry “Coon” Rosen

*Harry “Coon” Rosen, Chicago, Illinois – Men’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

When fast pitch fans discuss the outstanding pitchers in the early days of the Amateur Softball Association one name that is mentioned often is Harry (Coon) Rosen. Rosen played in the first ASA National Championship in 1933, hurling J.L. Friedman Jewelers of Chicago, IL to the title by beating Briggs Beautyware of Detroit, MI 5-1. Rosen fanned 16 batters and allowed one hit in handing Briggs its only loss of the season. The Jewelers finished the year 108-11. According to Rosen, he appeared in the national championship every year before retiring after the 1946 season. In the 1933 championship, Rosen said he won eight games, pitched five no hitters and hurled 71 innings, striking out 160 batters. Rosen, who said he hurled 300 no-hitters and 195 perfect games in his legendary career, was featured in a 1935 “Ripley’s Believe It or Not,” for allowing one hit in two games while striking out 37 of 39 batters, yet lost both games, 1-0. Rosen played for teams in Phoenix, AZ, Lettuce Kings, Chicago, IL and Los Angeles, CA. He was born June 25, 1908 in Lincoln, NE, but grew up in Chicago where he played baseball at Turley High School. At the University of Illinois, Rosen starred in baseball and football and in his senior year batted .368 to lead the University to the Big Ten Conference title. In 1999, Rosen was named one of the 100 best athletes in the history of Arizona, finishing 64th. Rosen died on January 4th, 1997 in Sun City, CA at 88.

 


Bill Svochak

*Bill Svochak, Detroit, Michigan – Meritorious Service

A 1951 graduate of Wayne State University, Svochak worked 32 years for the Detroit Parks and Recreation Department before retiring in 1979. Svochak served as manager of Dee’s Sports Shop in the Detroit Parks and Recreation Major Industrial Slow Pitch League from 1959-1970. The team competed in eight national tournaments, 1959-1965 and 1969 and compiled 28-16 record. The best finish was runner-up in 1960. Svochak was appointed Metro Detroit commissioner in 1971. Served as Great Lakes Region vice president from 1980-82. In 1982, Metro Detroit was the Number 1 Metro Association in the ASA under Svochak’s leadership. Svochak died on December 24, 1990 at age 72.

 

 

 


Bert Weeks

*Bert Weeks, Winston-Salem, North Carolina – Commissioner

Weeks served as Director of Recreation in Concord, N.C. and later as Athletic Superintendent in the Department of Recreation in Winston-Salem, retiring in 1985. Weeks also spent much of his adult life supporting and developing opportunities for amateur softball to flourish around the world. He was a member of USA Softball, formerly the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) from 1959 until 2005, traveling the world as an ambassador and organizer of softball events – with USA, he organized clinics in Czech Republic, England, Nigeria, and Zimbabwe. He also spent six years on the Executive Board of the International Softball Federation (ISF). Perhaps his proudest achievement was his role as the first-ever competition manager for women’s softball in the 1996 Olympics in Atlanta, Ga.

Named North Carolina ASA commissioner in 1974 and was the driving force behind establishing the North Carolina ASA Hall of Fame Building and banquet. Served as the competition manager for the softball competition in the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta, GA, where softball made its debut. From 1988-89 served as 26th president of the Amateur Softball Association. Served six years as a member of the International Softball Federation and four years as North American vice president. He was the venue coordinator for the 1987 Olympic Festival in Raleigh, NC and was the men’s coordinator for the 1985 U.S. Olympic Festival in Baton Rouge, LA. He was chief of the U.S. delegation for the 1984 Men’s World Fast Pitch Championship in Midland, MI. Served six years as a USOC delegate. Was chairman of the USA men’s and women’s selection committees for the 1991 Pan American Games. Has a B.S. degree in recreation from North Carolina State University (1958). Was born October 17, 1933. Retired as an ASA Commissioner in 2004. Weeks was born on October 17, 1933 in Clinton, N.C and died on January 17, 2022.


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 1991


Merle O. Butler

*Merle O. Butler, Edmond, Oklahoma – Umpire

Named first ASA full-time National Director of Umpires in 1981, Butler was instrumental in developing the ASA umpire program into one of the finest amateur officiating organizations in the world. He co-authored the “ILLUSTRATED SOFTBALL RULE BOOK” in 1981 and “TAKE CHARGE SOFTBALL UMPIRING,” printed by Referee Magazine in 1992; wrote the script and has directed three ASA training films, produced 28 umpire training videos, and prepared transparencies for umpire rule and mechanics training. He has been a registered umpire since 1961 and previously was Region 14 and Metro Santa Clara, CA umpire-in-chief. He umpired in two National and three World Championships, served as UIC for eight national championships and three Sports Festivals. While national director, the National Indicator Fraternity, the Umpire Medals program, the National Umpire School program, and the Umpire Uniform program were instigated. Butler gave clinics in 41 different states. Butler also serves as the ISF Director of Umpires and has furthered the development of umpiring internationally through clinics in 26 countries and in each of the six international regions. He had served as UIC for 23 World Championships, the 1996 Olympics, 2000 Olympics and the 2004 Olympics. He was inducted into the ISF Hall of Fame in 1993. Butler was born on November 28, 1935 and died on January 6, 2008. He was 72.

 


Eddie King

*Eddie King, St. Petersburg, Florida – Men’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

Eddie King is the winningest pitcher in the history of the Clearwater, FL Bombers with 411 wins in 16 years. His overall pitching record was 544-66. King started his softball career in 1952 with the Miami Industrial Flyers before serving in the Armed Forces for two years. After being discharged, he joined the Bombers in 1955, compiling a 27-3 record. Five times he earned ASA All-America honors, 1963, 1966, 1967, 1968 and 1955. He had an 18-7 record in national championship play with three no-hitters and was a member of seven national championship teams and five runners-up. Of all his accomplishments, the one that King is remembered most for is pitching 25 innings of a 31-inning game in 1963 against the Portland, OR McKee Ramblers. Relieving starter Weldon Haney in the seventh inning, King struck out 25 batters and allowed eight hits during the 25 innings before Clearwater pushed across a run in the 31st inning for a 4-3 win. The game took seven hours and 41 minutes. A graduate of the University of Florida and a native of St. Petersburg, FL, King worked 28 years for General Hospital before retiring in 1987. King died April 28, 1991 at Grady Memorial Hospital in Delaware, OH where he was scheduled to undergo intestinal surgery but he developed internal bleeding and died.

 

 


Sam Lombardo

*Sam Lombardo, Detroit, Michigan – Men’s Fast Pitch – Outfield

When the Fort Wayne, IN Zollner Pistons played, the opposition knew Piston outfielder Sam Lombardo would drive them up a tree with his aggressive, flamboyant style. That’s the way Lombardo played, and teams knew what to expect. They expected Lombardo to lay down a bunt or two. Lombardo perfected the “chop” bunt and was someone who would make an easy catch look difficult. He also would make a catch at his shoe tops, tumble and come up with the ball. Lombardo started his career with Detroit’s Briggs Beautyware and helped the team win the 1937 ASA national title. Two years later, Lombardo batted .389 for Briggs. In 1945 he joined the Pistons and remained with the team until it disbanded following the 1954 season. In 1947, Sam collected 55 hits in 54 games to lead the National Fastball League in batting with a .343 batting average. In 1948, his average slipped to .251, but he batted .311 in 1949 and .394 in 1951 in the National Industrial Fastball League to lead the league in batting. He earned all-league honors four times, 1946-1949. When the men’s pitching distance was increased from 43 feet to 46 feet in 1950, Lombardo regularly batted .300 or higher, hitting .339 overall in 1951 to lead the team, .302 in 1952 and .297 in 1954. After the Pistons disbanded, Lombardo went back to his hometown of Detroit, MI to play for Burch Gage Tool and Die and twice was named an All-American (1955 and 1961). In 1971, Lombardo joined Nothdurft Tool and Manufacturing as a player-coach before retiring in 1977. Sam died on January 9, 2013 at the age of 92.


Kay Purves

Kay Purves, Lansing, Michigan – Meritorious Service

During 27-year career was a manager and player-manager in women’s major fast pitch. She was a player-manager from 1963-1980 for the Lansing, MI Laurels and managed the team from 1981-1987. In 1979 and 1983 was a member of the coaching staff of the Pan American Team. In 1980-1982 was ASA delegate to the United States Olympic Committee. Nine of her former players are or have been head softball coaches at major colleges and universities. The Laurels competed in eight ASA national championships and twice Kay (1974 and 1975) earned All-America honors as a catcher. She also played in 21 Michigan state championships. In 1976, she was inducted into the Greater Lansing Sports Hall of Fame. In 1984, she was elected to the Michigan ASA Hall of Fame. Two years later, she received the Richard Pollak Memorial Award presented by the J. deBeer Company as the Sports Woman of the Year for her contributions to women’s softball. She also umpired for 15 years and has given numerous clinics throughout Michigan. She is a graduate of the St. Lawrence School of Nursing and was a surgical nurse for many years.

 

 


Marilyn Rau

Marilyn Rau, Phoenix, Arizona – Women’s Fast Pitch – Catcher

One of only five catchers elected to the National Softball Hall of Fame, Marilyn Rau had an eye-opening two-decade career before retiring after the 1986 season. Rau earned ASA All-America honors 11 times and was known for her clutch hitting as well as for her superb handling of pitchers. She got her start in competitive softball as an eighth grader with the Dudettes, a farm team of the legendary Phoenix AZ Ramblers. When the Ramblers disbanded in 1966, Rau was among several players who formed the Sun City, AZ Saints. Rau started out at shortstop with the Saints and eventually moved to behind the plate where she would stay the remainder of her career. With Rau, the Saints participated in 19 ASA national championships, compiling a record of 59 wins and 26 losses for a winning percentage of .694. The Saints finished no lower than fourth place 11 times. The highlight of Rau’s career? “Without a doubt, it was winning the national championship in 1979,” said Rau, who has bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Arizona State University. Rau was named the MVP in the 1979 national as well as batting .500. Earlier that year, she helped the USA win the gold medal in the Pan American Games in San Juan, Puerto Rico. She capped the year by winning Arizona’s Athlete of the Year Award. In 1978, Rau helped the Raybestos Brakettes of Stratford, CT, representing the USA, win the ISF World Championship in El Salvador, batting .350.

 


Marlys Taber

Marlys Taber, Paw Paw, Illinois – Women’s Fast Pitch – Shortstop

Marlys Taber’s major fast pitch career started at 14 years-old in 1958 for the Earlville Victorians of Earlville, IL and concluded in 1983 when she was forced to retire because of acute tendonitis resulting from a shoulder injury. Five times Taber was selected an ASA All-American. She was a first-team choice in 1978 and 1980 and a second teamer in 1965 (.385 batting average), 1966 (.250 BA) and 1976 (.238 BA). Besides being an All-American, Taber played in three ASA Women’s Major Fast Pitch All-Star Series, 1966, 1969 and 1977, and batted .389 in the 1966 Series to lead all hitters. In 1979, she received an invitation to try out for the 1979 USA Pan American team. After her playing career, Taber taught physical education plus coached basketball, soccer, volleyball, and golf. She retired in 1995 and finds herself “extremely busy golfing, making craft projects and participating in community activities,” living in Dows, IA. Taber is a 1966 graduate of Illinois State University and was elected to the university’s hall of fame in 1982. In 1989, she was elected to the Greater Peoria Sports Hall of Fame. She calls her election to the ASA Softball Hall of Fame in 1991 “the greatest thrill of her career.” She was born March 4, 1944.

 


H. Franklin Taylor III

*Franklin Taylor III, Richmond, Virginia – Commissioner

Was appointed Central Virginia ASA commissioner in 1969 and has increased membership from 200 teams to more than 2,500 teams. Has written numerous pieces of legislation, which have been adopted by the ASA, including realignment of the ASA into 15 regions, creation of at-large player rep, creation of national and area tournaments and creation of the Class B and C national tournaments. Served as ASA president from 1978-1979. Was first regional vice president of the Central Atlantic Region. Has held annually since 1969 Richmond Round Robin Tournament. This tournament annually draws between 300-400 teams. Elected ISF North American vice-president in 1981 and served for six years. Was elected in November 2001 a second time as ASA President. Retired as a commissioner after 35 years’ service following the 2003 annual meeting in Orlando, FL. Frank died on May 15, 2012.

 

 

 


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 1992


Louie Del Mastro

*Louie Del Mastro, Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh – Men’s Slow Pitch – Pitcher

To say Louie Del Mastro had an impact on the rise of slow pitch softball in the 1950s and 1960s is an understatement. If anything, Del Mastro was one of the people leading the way to establish slow pitch. And Del Mastro, among others, did just that. Del Mastro got recognition for slow pitch, his team, Skip Hogan A.C., and himself with his colorful antics. He was a master showman. “He was one fantastic player who would do anything to get you off-guard to win a ball game,” said Hall of Famer Steve Loya, a former slow pitch great from Cleveland, OH. Known as “Nozza,” by his fans, Del Mastro would strut on the mound, talking excessively to teammates, opponents, and umpires. When fans heard that Del Mastro was playing there was a mass migration to that field. Antics aside, Del Mastro backed up his talking with his skillful pitching to keep hitters off-balance and line-drive hitting. He played in seven ASA national championships, compiling a 32-5 pitching record, and was named a first-team All-America four times: 1962, 1964, 1965 and 1967. He allowed less than 6.5 runs per game in national championship play in leading teams to four national titles. In 1965 he was named national tourney MVP. Del Mastro was born September 9, 1939 and died on October 31, 2011.

 


Carolyn Fitzwater

*Carolyn Fitzwater, Clackamas, Oregon – Women’s Fast Pitch – Second Base

Softball teams must be strong up the middle and the Erv Lind Florists, one of the top teams in the Northwest for years, had one of the top defensive players forming their inner defense, Carolyn Fitzwater. Fitzwater began with the Florist junior team in 1949 and made it to the “big” team a year later. From 1950 until the team disbanded in 1965, Fitzwater was an integral part of the Florists. She spent one year with the Fresno Rockets (1966) before returning to Portland to conclude her career from 1969 to 1973. She did not play softball in 1967-68 and 1971 before retiring in 1974. Fitzwater was named an All-American four times during her career: 1959, 1962, 1963 and 1964 and participated in 14 ASA national championships. Despite batting only .188 in the 1963 Women’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship, Fitzwater starred defensively, handling 36 chances without an error, including 20 assists. In 1964, she batted .462 in the national tourney to lead the Florists to the national title. It was one that she fondly recalls. “What stands out about 1964 was that it was such a great team effort. No great stars, just a total team effort,” said Fitzwater, who has B.S. and M.S. degrees from Oregon State University. Fitzwater was born October 10, 1935. Carolyn died on May 3, 2014.

 


Fred and Carl Nothdurft

Fred and Carl Nothdurft, Detroit, Michigan – Sponsor

Twin brothers Fred and Carl Nothdurft first sponsored men’s fast pitch teams, then fast pitch teams. The fast pitch teams won 936 games and lost 125. The team won five East Central regional crowns and competed in six ASA fast pitch nationals. Best finish was a second in the 1970 Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship. They started sponsoring slow pitch in 1988 and won three consecutive ASA 35-and-over national titles, 1988, 1989 and 1990, and a men’s 45-over slow pitch title in 1991.

 

 

 

 

 


Jerry Pendergast

Jerry Pendergast, Miami, Florida – Sponsor

Started his softball career in 1964 and by 1969 his team had finished 23rd in the Men’s Open National Slow Pitch Championship. In 1974, his team finished second in the Open Division after 21st in 1976 and fourth in 1977. Moving up to the Super Division, Jerry’s won the 1982 Super National with a 7-1 record. It also qualified the team to play in the first ASA-Winston Slow Pitch All-Star Series in 1983. In 1983, Jerry’s finished third in the Super national and were runners-up in 1984. In 1985, just prior to the start of the season, Pendergast announced he was no longer sponsoring a team.

 

 

 

 


Henry D. Pollard

Henry D. Pollard, Highland Springs, Virginia – Umpire

One of the premier slow pitch umpires in the sport’s history, Pollard has been the ASA deputy director of umpires since 1989. He served as Metro Richmond/Central Virginia UIC from 1973-1989. Was UIC of the Central Atlantic Region from1977-1989. Has been a member of the National Umpire staff since 1977. Was ISF certified in 1983. In 1986, was selected to the National Indicator Fraternity. In 1988, was inducted into the Central Virginia ASA Hall of Fame. In 1991, received the Wilson National Award of Excellence. That same year also received the Tom Mason Central Atlantic Region Award. Is outstanding clinician. In 2004, Pollard was named Central Virginia ASA Commissioner. Henry retired as the Central Virginia Commissioner in 2020.

 

 

 


Elmer Rohrs

*Elmer Rohrs, Hamler, Ohio – Men’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

Coached by his dad and raised on a farm, Elmer (Farmer) Rohrs was one of the fastest sling-shot hurlers in fast pitch softball in the 1940s and 1950s hurling for the renowned Fort Wayne, IN Zollner Pistons. Rohrs had a good sense of humor and was often the victim of a practical joke. On the pitching mound, however, he was all business and between 1947-1954, he won more than 200 games and lost only 28 for the Pistons. Before joining the Pistons, Rohrs pitched for Napoleon’s Rausch Roofers and 7-Up as well as Ferguson State Auditors of Columbus, OH. In 1947, Rohrs won 28 of 30 games including two in the ASA National Championship as the Pistons went undefeated in six games to win their third consecutive title. Rohrs no-hit Cleveland 5-0 and pitched five and two-third innings of scoreless relief against Hanford, CA. He was 22-7 in 1949. In 1949, Rohrs went 29-3 with 276 strikeouts in 228 2/3 innings. He allowed 14 runs and walked only 28. Twenty-three of his wins were in a row. In 1950, Rohrs compiled a 34-6 record with an ERA of 1.14, followed by a 23-0 record in 1951 with 254 strikeouts in 175 1/3 innings. In his first six years with the Pistons, he fanned 1,875 batters in 1,282 innings. In 1953, a year before the Pistons disbanded, Rohrs compiled a 9-2 record in the National Industrial Fastball League, striking out 75 batters in 81 2/3 innings. Rohrs died in 1990 at age 65.

 


Diane Schumacher

Diane Schumacher, West Springfield, Massachusetts – Women’s Fast Pitch – First Base

Adapt at fielding and hitting, Diane “Schuie” Schumacher compiled a lifetime batting average of .329 during her career (1976-1986) with the Raybestos Brakettes of Stratford, CT. Diane led the team in batting five times as the Brakettes won eight ASA national championships (1976, 1977, 1978, 1980, 1982, 1983, 1984 and 1985) and one International Softball Federation world championship (1978). Seven times an ASA All-American, Diane earned first-team honors four times in 1976, 1977, 1978 and 1984. In 1982 and 1983 she was a second-team choice and was a third team selection in 1985. In the 1978 ASA nationals, she batted .400 to lead all hitters. When needed, she also pitched and compiled a 55-16 record with an ERA of 1.01. Twice she was named to the USA Pan American team (1979 and 1983) and batted .333 and .387 in those events as the USA captured a gold medal and a silver in the latter. She also participated in six U.S. Olympic Festivals. A native of West Springfield, MA, Schumacher was named the Outstanding Alumni of Springfield College in 1985 for her service to softball. In 1987, she coached the Holland team in international competition, including the 1990 World Championship in Normal, IL. In 1992, she was elected to the Springfield College Hall of Fame and the Connecticut ASA Fast Pitch Hall of Fame. In 1993, she was the first former American player elected to the International Softball Federation Hall of Fame. In 2001, was elected to the Cathedral High School Hall of Fame in Springfield, MA.


L.R. “Tarz” Timm

*L.R. “Tarz” Timm, Jamestown, North Dakota – Umpire

Named North Dakota State UIC in 1982 after serving as deputy UIC from 1974-1981. Umpired in six ASA nationals. Was UIC for four ASA nationals and coordinator for two others. Was coordinator for ISF Junior World Tournament in 1985. Served as UIC for 21 state tournaments. Attended eight UIC Clinics in Oklahoma City and two National Umpire Schools. Coordinated three National Umpire Schools and assisted five other National Umpire Schools. Was inducted into North Dakota Hall of Fame in 1987. Helped North Dakota set up state school modeled after national school. North Dakota was first state to do this. Was named Umpire of the Year by the All-American Umpire School in 1990. Retired from U.S. Postal Service in 1983 after 23 1/2 years’ service. Timm died on December 21, 2001. He was born October 14, 1922.

 

 

 


Paul Tomasovich

Paul Tomasovich, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – Men’s Slow Pitch – Third Base

In an era before the “live” bats and balls, Tomasovich averaged more than 100 RBI and more than 40 homers a season in leading Pittsburgh slow pitch teams to national stardom during a career that started in 1956 and ended in 1980.Playing in seven national championships, Tomasovich helped Skip Hogan A.C. and Jim’s Sports Shop win four national titles-1962, 1964, 1965 and 1967.Five times the 6-foot-2, 210-pound Tomasovich won All-America honors: at shortstop in 1960, in center field in 1962 and 1963, at third base in 1964 and in the infield in 1965. In the 1964 national, Tomasovich also won the MVP award. In the 1965 tourney, he shared the home run trophy with four other players, all hitting five each. In the 1962 national championship, Tomasovich batted .667 (12-for-18) and increased his average to .708 in the 1964 national tourney followed by a .471 average in 1966 and a .517 average in 1967. (15-for-29). His teams had a 38-7 won-loss record in ASA national championships and had a second place in 1963, a fifth in 1960 and a 16th place in 1966. Known for hitting some tape-measure homers and outstanding defense, Tomasovich says he never had a natural position. “It never really mattered to me where I played. If I could move around to help the team, that was fine. I’d move to a new position and things just always seemed to happen to make me look like a big shot.” Tomasovich was born December 14, 1933.

 


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 1993


Don Arndt

*Don Arndt, Sherrills Ford, North Carolina – Men’s Slow Pitch – Player

When Don Arndt hit a home run he did it in a manner typical of the almost 7,000 homers he hit during his more than three decade career. He made it look easy. While Arndt’s fluid, graceful, almost effortless swing remained the same, slow pitch underwent a transformation during his career. Though it all, though, as players switched teams at the drop of a hat, Arndt remained steadfast to his team, Howard’s Furniture-Western Steer of Denver, NC. Arndt had one of the great careers of slow pitch. The highlights include: 13 times an ASA All-American, MVP of the 1972 Slow Pitch National Tourney, home run leader in the 1964 Men’s Open Slow National; a member of five national championship teams and outstanding pitcher in the 1983 Super Slow Pitch National Championship. From 1970-1988, the 6-foot-5 inch Arndt compiled an aggregate .628 batting average, hitting 3,330 homers with 6,166 hits in 9,821 at-bats. The most homers he smashed in a season was 309 in 1985 when he was 50 years old playing in 185 of the team’s 201 games. Arndt was born April 14, 1935 and died September 28, 2006.

 

 


Dan Blair

*Dan Blair, Lowell, North Carolina – Umpire

Was appointed to National Umpire staff in 1976 when it was expanded to 15. Started umpiring in 1954 while in the Air Force and umpired his first national tourney in 1964. Has served as the UIC at more than 19 nationals and also instructed at the ASA Umpire Schools. Three times he has given clinics in Europe. In 1977, officiated in the first North American Slow Pitch Championship and in 1987 in the first ISF Slow Pitch World Championship. Retired from softball after ASA annual meeting in Winston-Salem, North Carolina in 2001. Served two terms as the mayor of Lowell, NC. Dan died on December 12, 2020 at the age of 89.

“He began umpiring in 1954 while in the Air Force and continued for the next 60 years. Even into his 80s, he umpired 2-3 games a night through the Boone Rec Dept. Dan served as NC Umpire in Chief and as Regional Umpire in Chief for the Southeastern US for 25 years. He then served on the National Staff for 15 years as a National Deputy Umpire in Chief. Throughout his career, Dan instructed umpire clinics all over the US and conducted clinics three times in Europe. As a result of his many years of hard work with ASA Softball, He received numerous awards. Dan was inducted into the NCASA Softball Hall of Fame in Burlington, NC in 1986, inducted into the ASA National Softball of Fame in Oklahoma City in 1993 and inducted into the Tennessee ASA Hall of Fame in 2015. He served as Umpire Coordinator for the 1999 Special Olympics World Games. A highlight of his career was serving as Umpire Coordinator for the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta.”


Jim “Sonny” Carman

Jim “Sonny” Carman, West Babylon, New York – Meritorious Service

Had a varied career as a player, umpire, deputy commissioner and as the Metro Long Island commissioner. Was appointed Metro Commissioner in 1972 after serving as deputy commissioner from 1967-1971. As Metro commissioner he increased registrations to more than 2,700 teams and received 10 ASA membership awards. He started the Metro Long Island Hall of Fame in 1976 and served as its chairman. Umpired in two ASA nationals, 1969 Women’s Major Slow Pitch and 1970 Men’s Major Industrial Slow Pitch, and four regionals. Served as Mid-Atlantic vice president three times, 1980, 1981 and 1983. As a player he compiled a pitching record of 890 wins and 187 defeats from 1940-1964. Retired, he lives in Palm Harbor, Florida with his wife, Doris. He is a graduate of Hofstra University and has a Master’s degree in elementary education.

 

 

 


Eddie Finnegan

Eddie Finnegan, Stratford, Connecticut – Men’s Slow Pitch – Shortstop

Eddie Finnegan didn’t figure he would play slow pitch three decades much less in more than 4,500 games. If anything, Finnegan figured he would make his name on a baseball diamond throwing strikes from the pitcher’s mound and not from shortstop or third base. After all Finnegan had pitched Stratford, Connecticut – High School to the 1959 Connecticut state title. But, after a couple of major league tryouts, Finnegan realized, “I just wasn’t good enough.” He continued to play baseball as well as softball. Eventually softball became his game of choice. Finnegan had a .617 lifetime batting average and participated in 19 ASA national championships. Twice he was a member of a national championship team, 1968 and 1969 , and twice was the MVP in the Men’s Major Industrial National Tourney, 1968 and 1971. He was born September 14, 1941. The biggest thrills of Finnegan’s career were winning the 1968 national title, being named MVP and being elected to the National Softball Hall of Fame. Talking about the 1968 national championship, Finnegan said, “We came out of the loser’s bracket on the final day. Those were two of the best games I’ve ever played in.”

 


Elliott Hawke

*Elliott Hawke, Kansas City, Missouri – Commissioner

Took over as Metro Kansas City commissioner in 1973 and increased team membership from 395 teams to more than 3,400. Under his leadership, Metro Kansas City hosted 10 ASA nationals, including eight JO tournaments and 11 Major and Class A Regionals. He was the ASA rep at 19 nationals and in 1981 was the men’s coordinator at the U.S. Olympic Festival in Syracuse, NY. Served as Mid-American Region vice-president five terms. Was chairman of the ASA JO Awards Committee for nine years and was ASA’s representative to SODA for 10 years. Passed away June 9, 1993. He was born September 9, 1936.

 

 

 

 


Steve Loya

*Steve Loya, Cleveland, Ohio – Men’s Slow Pitch – Catcher

The late Steve Loya, a four-time All-America, played in 11 ASA national slow pitch championships during his 24 year softball career. But the one Cleveland slow pitch fans recall with fondness is the 1975 Men’s Open Slow Pitch National Championship. Not only was it held in Parma, OH, but what made it even better was that a Steve Loya-led team, Pyramid Cafe, won the national title in an upset. It was the first national slow pitch title won by a Cleveland team. Time and time again Loya came through with the big hit in his career and none was any bigger than his two-out, three-run homer in the bottom of the seventh inning against favored and defending champion, Howard’s Furniture of Denver, NC. The homer gave Pyramid a 12-10 win and advanced it to the championship round against another North Carolina team, Poindexter Lumber. In the winner’s bracket finals, Loya came through once more, hitting a game-winning two-run homer in a 10-9 win over Poindexter. Poindexter won the first game of the championship round, 14-8, to force another game, which Pyramid won, 11-7, to claim its first national title. Although hitless in the championship, everyone knew Loya was responsible for getting the team to the championship game. For his efforts, Loya was named the tourney MVP with Steve Loya Day proclaimed in Cleveland. Loya finished the tourney with a .444 average and made his 12 hits count, driving in 13 runs. Loya died September 25, 1991 at age 57.


Leo Luken

*Leo Luken, Covington, Kentucky – Men’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

Leo Luken was one of the mainstays of the Fort Wayne, Indiana – Zollner Piston pitching staff during the 1940s and 1950s when the Pistons won three consecutive ASA national titles. Nicknamed the Lion-Hearted, Luken started his 21 year career pitching in church league competition (1936-1938) before helping the Nick Carr Boosters of Covington, Kentucky – win the 1939 ASA national title with Luken compiling a 42-6 record. He joined the Pistons in 1940 and remained with them until the team disbanded in 1954. Luken won 12 games and lost none in national championship play. He won three games apiece in the 1942 and 1944 nationals. One of the wins in 1942 was a no-hitter against the defending national champion Bendix Brakes. In 23 innings, he allowed four hits, one run and fanned 33 batters. In 1945, he won four games including beating the Joe Louis Punchers in the final, 1-0 in Cleveland, OH. In 1946, he won a pair of games beating Cleveland , OH in relief of Bill West, 2-1 in 11 innings and shutting out Longview, Washington – 7-0, on a two-hitter.. Over three seasons, 1944-1945 and 1946, Luken put together a 53 game win streak before losing July 5, 1946 to Briggs Beautyware of Detroit, Michigan – 21. He also had a 17 game win streak from May of 1953 to September of 1954. Luken had some impressive seasons for the Pistons including 1942 (29-2 with three no-hitters and 11 shutouts; 1944 (30-2), 1945 (35-0), 1946 (31-2); 1947 (17-4), 1949 (17-1 with 151 strikeouts in 145 1/3 innings), 1950 (15-3), 1951 (6-1) and 1954 (9-1). After the team disbanded, Luken remained with the Zollner Corporation as production and traffic manager before retiring in 1982. Since his retirement he also has been elected to the Indiana (1978) and Kentucky (1984) ASA Halls of Fame. Luken was born July 14, 1918 and passed away on August 2, 2014.


Billy Monk

*Billy Monk, Glenn Heights, Texas – Umpire

Involved in umpiring more than 30 years, Monk umpired in six Texas State Tourneys, nine Regionals, three Men’s Major Fast Pitch Nationals, one Girls’ Fast Pitch National, the 1981 U.S. Olympic Festival, the 1983 Pan American Games tryouts and the Tri-Nation Friendship Series. Internationally, he umpired in the 1980 Men’s World Championship in Tacoma, Washington – and the 1991 Junior Girls’ World Championship in Australia. Was ISF certified in 1979. He is a charter member of the National Indicator Fraternity and has coordinated two National Umpire Development Schools. He has served as the Metro Dallas UIC for more than a decade. Monk was born on January 6, 1973. He passed away on August 25, 2009.

 

 


Bernie Profato

Bernie Profato, Niles, Ohio – Umpire

Joined National Umpire staff in 1979, replacing Frank Susor. Was ISF certified in 1981. Is a charter member of the National Indicator Fraternity. Officiated five ASA nationals, the North American Slow Pitch Championships in 1977 and the first ISF Men’s World Slow Pitch Championship in 1987. He also officiated eight state tourneys, four regionals and three Inter-service tournaments.Has given rule clinics in more than 35 different states and four times in Europe. Has been an instructor at 40 National Umpire Schools and 25 state or metro umpire schools. Outstanding boxing referee and former boxer. Won Golden Gloves welterweight championship at age 15. Won National AAU light heavyweight championship in 1978. Overall boxing record was 53-6-1. Fought Earnie Shavers in finals of AAU heavyweight finals in 1969. Born August 1, 1945 in Warren, OH.

 

 

 


Ralph Raymond

Ralph Raymond, Worcester, Massachusetts – Manager

Former field boss of the renowned Raybestos Brakettes of Stratford, CT. Was assistant coach for two years before taking over as head man from 1968-1994. Led team to 18 ASA national titles and eight runner-ups. Compiled record of 1,991 wins and 162 losses for a .925 winning percentage. Led USA to gold medal in debut of Olympic softball in 1996 in Columbus, GA. Coached second USA Olympic team to gold medal at 2000 Games in Sydney, Australia. Is winningest manager in USA Softball history with 332-9 record for a .974 winning percentage. Compiled 72-1 record in winning five ISF World Championships: 1974, 1978, 1986, 1990 and 1994. Three times coached USA to gold medal in the Pan American Games, 1979,1995 and 1999. Coached team to a silver medal in 1983. Born April 27, 1924. Is a graduate of the University of Miami, FL where he played baseball four years, and football and basketball one year each. Was captain of baseball team senior year. Inducted into ISF Hall of Fame in 1993. Also coached baseball at Holy Cross College. Retired from coaching and teaching at Doherty High School in Worcester, MA.

 

 


Harry “Robbie” Robinson

Harry “Robbie” Robinson, Portland, Oregon – Sponsor

Sponsored softball teams in the Portland, Oregon – area since 1967. Teams have competed in at least 17 ASA nationals. Is a member of the Portland Metro Hall of Fame and the Northwest Region Hall of Fame.

 

 

 

 

 


Rocky Santilli

Rocky Santilli, Leesport, Pennsylvania – Manager

Led teams to three ASA Men’s Major Fast Pitch National titles: 1975, 1977 and 1978. In addition to the ASA nationals, his teams competed in four U.S. Olympic Festivals and won a pair of gold medals (1978 and 1979), a silver in 1982 and a bronze in 1986. In 20 ASA nationals, his teams won 67 games and lost 35 for a winning percentage of .657. During his career won 1,771 games and lost 564 for a winning percentage of .758. At the international level, he managed his team to a share of the 1976 ISF World Championship in Lower Hutt, New Zealand. He also was the head coach of the 1987 USA Pan American team and was the assistant coach in 1979 , 1983 and 1991. Was inducted into the ISF Hall of Fame in 1991 and is a member of the Berks County Chapter of the Pennsylvania Sports Hall of Fame and the Pennsylvania ASA Hall of Fame.

 

 

 


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 1994


Woody and Pat Bell

*Woody and Pat Bell, Tampa, Florida – Sponsor

Sponsored slow pitch teams in Fostoria, OH from 1963-1970, then after moving to Florida turned to sponsoring men’s Super and Major slow pitch teams in addition to Junior Olympic teams, a coed team and a Class B men’s team from 1985-1993. In 1988, Bell Corp won the ASA Men’s Major Slow Pitch National Championship. Twice Bell Corp finished runner-up in Super National (1998 and 2000) and 4th in 2003. Second husband-wife duo in Hall of Fame. Woody passed away on September 8, 2008 at age 76.

 

 

 

 


Carol Bemis

Carol Bemis, Shakopee, Minnesota – Women’s Slow Pitch – Outfield

Although her slow pitch career was cut short because of cancer, Carol Bemis made the most of the 13 years she played for the Anoka, Minnesota – Spooks ( 1978-1990). As Bemis the catalyst, the Spooks won 789 games, lost only 117 and captured four ASA Women’s Major Slow Pitch National Championships (1983-84, 1988 and 1990). Six times Bemis was named an ASA All-American including five first-team choices as well as MVP of the 1984 national championship. Said former Spooks’ coach Ed Ghostley, “Bemis was just super both ways and I guess that was a tip-off why she got the MVP award. She is a tremendous defensive player and a tremendous offensive player. She dives for balls that other don’t even got to.” Bemis also had a strong accurate arm and time and time again would come through with a clutch hit or outstanding defensive play. In 13 ASA national championships, she batted .481 (103-for-214), driving in 73 runs. For her career, she batted .454 with 685 RBI and 59 homers. Carol retired following the 1990 national tourney and in 1991 was inducted into the Minnesota ASA Hall of Fame. In 1997, Bemis was elected to the St. Cloud University Athletic Hall of Fame. Carol was born October 19, 1956.

 


Bill Caye

Bill Caye, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania – Manager

Was born May 2, 1931. Managed and played in nine ASA national championships from 1959-1979. During that time, led Skip’s AC (1964-65) and Jim’s Sport Shop (1967) to three slow pitch national titles. Was manager of 1964-1965 and 1967 national championship teams and played outfield on 1962 national championship team. His teams compiled a record of 34-9 and a winning percentage of .791 in national championship play, with nine of his players named to 14 All-America teams. In 1963, his team posted a 62-13 record and was 69-11 in 1964. From 1980-1985 was Pittsburgh Metro and Regional Player Rep. Was inducted into the Western Chapter of the Pennsylvania Hall of Fame in 1985. In 1964, he received the Dapper Dan District Award for softball and in 1981 was named Brookline Man of the Year. Played Class D and Class B professional baseball for the New York Giants.

 

 

 


Buck Johnson

*Buck Johnson, Soddy Daisy, Tennessee – Meritorious Service

Former sports editor of the Chattanooga Times who was first media inductee into the National Softball Hall of Fame. Johnson for years has been a friend of ASA softball and time and time again offered his help to further advance the sport by writing numerous columns, covering tournaments and special events. Won five softball feature writing awards for his coverage of softball as well as helping judge National Softball Media Association Contest. Was a physical education teacher from 1949 until 1979. Started working part-time for the Chattanooga TIMES in 1952 and was named sports editor in 1979. Was inducted into the Tennessee Sports Hall of Fame in 1997. Was ISF chief press officer at 1996 and 2000 Olympic Games. Was born July 24,1926 in Soddy-Daisy, Tennessee – where he still resides. Has a B.S. degree from the University of Chattanooga. Since 1994, the best high school girls’ fast pitch softball player in Chattanooga, Tennessee has been presented the Buck Johnson Award.

 

 


Sherri Pickard

Sherri Pickard, Raleigh, North Carolina – Women’s Slow Pitch – Second Base

Winning the 1980 ASA National Championship was, according to Pickard, “the greatest thrill of her softball career.” In that national championship, she batted .680 to led the Rubi-Otts of Graham, North Carolina – as well as being named the tournament MVP. She was also named ASA Female Slow Pitch Player of the Year and was featured in The Olympian magazine, finishing the year with a .484 batting average, 82 RBI and 16 homers.The next year in Oklahoma City Sherri displayed her home run power by winning the ASA-Natural Light National Home Run Hitting Contest at Wheeler Park. She connected for 17 homers out of 55 swings to edge Shirley Rose of Tulsa, Oklahoma – , who hit 15. Pickard, who was named to five All-America teams during her career, spent the last five years of her career with the Long Island Mice and the Denton, Texas –  Silver Streak before a shoulder injury ended her career in 1987. Since then she’s served as head basketball coach at New York University, assistant basketball coach at Duke University, and assistant basketball coach at Furman University before returning to private business in 1997. Pickard has a B.A. in math from North Carolina State University and an M.B.A from New York University (1988). She was born June 20, 1955.

 

 


Linda Polley

Linda Polley, Minneapolis, Minnesota – Women’s Slow Pitch – Shortstop

All-out. That was the only way Linda Polley played slow pitch during a 30-year career that ended in 1989. Linda set high goals for herself and former coach Ed Ghostley said, “ Linda was as good as anyone who has played the game.” Polley earned ASA All-American honors six times and twice was MVP of the Women’s Major Slow Pitch National Championship, 1982 and 1989. From 1982-1989, Linda had a .412 batting average for the Anoka, Minnesota – Spooks and was a member of three national championship teams. Linda started playing softball at eight and by 17 had played in her first national championship (1969), hitting a home run in her first at-bat in a national championship for Avanti’s of Minneapolis. Twice Linda earned All-American honors during her 13 years with Avanati’s, 1972 (.411BA) and 1975 (.346 BA). She also played in the 1973 national and batted .459 (17-for-37), but wasn’t named All-America. She joined the Spooks in 1982 and batted .360 in the national tourney. She increased that average to .552 (16-for-29) in 1983 as the Spooks won their first national title and Linda won the first of two MVP awards. The Spooks repeated as national champs in 1984 with Linda batting .360 in the national tourney. In 1985 and 1986 she batted .476 in the national tourney as the Spooks placed fifth and ninth. Polley retired after 1989 season. She was born October 30, 1951.

 


Dick Reinmiller

Dick Reinmiller, Lincoln, Nebraska – Meritorious Service

Teams won 2,153 games and lost 1,508 playing JO girls’ fast pitch in Nebraska. Started coaching in 1969. His teams played in 14 ASA nationals and finished in the top ten four times. In 17 regionals, his teams finished in the top seven seven times and won 17 state titles. In addition to his coaching and managing, he helped obtain land for the Doris Blair Memorial Park in Lincoln, NE. He devoted much of his free time during a five-year period to help the development of the three field complex. In 1985, he was selected for one of the Gatorade Outstanding Youth Coach Awards. In 1991, was inducted into the Nebraska Hall of Fame as well as receiving the Nebraska Kiwanis Citizenship Award for outstanding service to the community. Also served as a Nebraska district commissioner, founded the Lincoln Youth Softball Association and served on the Nebraska State Softball Association Board of Directors.

 

 

 


Bert Smith

*Bert Smith, Wantagh, New York – Men’s Slow Pitch – Outfield

Bert Smith once told his teammates he visualized a softball hanging on a string every time it left the pitcher’s hand. “It was just like hitting it off a tee,” said Dennis Punch, a former teammate of Smith’s. “He was so focused, he just pictured it hanging there in front of him.” “Fans came to see him,” said Punch. “Wherever we would go, half of them would come because they couldn’t believe some of the statistics he (Smith) put up. And the other half had seen him and came to get on him because he was so good.” Besides being a tense, competitive player, Smith was flamboyant. He would tell you he was good, but he’d back it up. “Nobody could go against his numbers,” said Rick Howard, one of the sons of the team’s former sponsor, Richard Howard. “We probably had eight or ten of the greatest players who played the game over 32 years from the mid-50s to the late 80s. There was no one better in big games.” Those big games were often in the ASA national championships and Smith was outstanding, batting .669 in nine national championships, driving in 160 runs and smashing 74 homers among his 148 hits. He earned All-America honors four times and twice led the national championship in homers with 21 in 1973 and 11 in 1968. Three times on three different teams Smith was named the MVP in the Men’s Slow Pitch National Championship, 1968, 1971 and 1973. He is the only male to accomplish this feat in the history of slow pitch softball. Smith was born March 2, 1945 in Wantagh, Long Island and passed away on February 25, 2012.


Richard Willborn

Richard Willborn, San Antonio, Texas – Men’s Slow Pitch – Outfield

A member of four national championship teams, Willborn was a six-time All-America who achieved his success probably more with his glove than his bat. There is no argument Willborn could hit. His .580 average (170-for-293) in 13 national championships is verification. But it was on defense Willborn came almost legendary. Some say he was one of the greatest—if not the greatest—defensive left fielders ever to play slow pitch. Time and time again Willborn would climb the left field wall and turn a home run into an out. For 26 years, Willborn played for some of the top teams in the country, including Ray Carpenter, C.C. Brick, Nelson’s Painting, Campbell’s Carpets, Howard’s Furniture-Western Steer and Broken Drum. Between 1981-1985, Willborn averaged .562, hit 358 homers and drove in 851 runs for Howard’s. He also played in two ASA Winston Slow Pitch All-Star Series and batted .444 in 1982 and .500 in 1983. Nicknamed “Link,” “The Rooster,” and “The Texas Tornado,” Willborn was less than 6-feet tall and weighed less than 200 pounds, but he proved he was a “David” playing with “Goliath’s and was equal to the task. Willborn was born October 1, 1950.

 


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 1995


Jack Aaron

Jack Aaron, Waco, Texas – Meritorious Service

Served ASA as president from 1993-1994.Was first player rep ever elected to that position. First player rep to become a member of the ASA Executive Board. Former president of the Texas ASA from 1978-1986. Served five consecutive terms as Texas Region vice president. Succeeded W.W. (Bill) Kethan as commissioner of Texas ASA in 1986 and did an outstanding job before becoming executive director of the Texas ASA in 1994. Former sponsor and player. Born May 11, 1934 in Stanford, Texas. Has lived in Waco, Texas since 1941.

 

 

 

 


Dorothy “Dot” Dobie

Dorothy “Dot” Dobie, Yakima, Washington – Women’s Fast Pitch – Infield

She wasn’t flashy. But she got the job done. That pretty much sums up Dorothy (Dot) Dobie, whose fast pitch career started in 1944 and concluded in 1974. Talented and hard-working, Dobie was called a natural at fast pitch by one of her former coaches, Betty Baker, of the Yakima, Washington – Apple Queens. It didn’t matter if she played the outfield or infield, Dobie was comfortable at either and played for some of the nation’s top women’s teams, including the Erv Lind Florists (1958-1965) and the Fresno Rockets (1966). She was a member of the Florists’ national championship team in 1964 and was a member of national runners-up three times (1959, 1960 and 1963). In helping the Florists win the national title in 1964, Dot captained the team and batted .333. She played in 15 ASA national championships and was an All-American four times: 1960, 1965, 1969 and 1970. She also played in two Women’s Major Fast Pitch All-Star Series and 13 times was named all-regional. She is a member of the Portland ASA Hall of Fame (1988), the Yakima Washington Hall of Fame (1983), the Northwest Region Hall of Fame (1993) and the Oregon Sports Hall of Fame. She was born June 5. 1931.

 


Francis Mott

Francis Mott, Oswego, New York – Commissioner

Appointed New York State ASA commissioner in January of 1979. During his tenure as commissioner led New York State ASA to outstanding growth with 6,617 teams registered in 1993. In 1987, was one of the charter members inducted into the New York State Hall of Fame. Also is a member of the Oswego, New York – Hall of Fame. Driving force behind his hometown of Oswego, New York – hosting Men’s Class A Fast Pitch National Tourney in 1980. Served as supervisor of the Oswego City Softball Association from 1969-1982. Served as Mid-Atlantic Regional vice-president from 1986-1987 and was chief of the USA delegation for the 1989 ISF Boys’ World Fast Pitch Championship. Served as New York State ASA district commissioner from 1971-1974 and deputy commissioner from 1975-1978 before being named state commissioner. Also sponsored men’s Class A fast pitch team, Mr. M’s, from 1972-1978. Served as chairman of the ASA Special Programs and Special Olympics Committees. Francis passed away April 9, 1994. He was born February 9, 1930.

 

 


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 1996


Ray Allena

Ray Allena, Petaluma, California – Men’s Fast Pitch – Player

A former junior college baseball star, Allena didn’t get discouraged by his lack of success in his early years in fast pitch softball and ultimately became a star for Guanella Brothers of Santa Rosa, CA. Allena played 14 years for Guanella Brothers and compiled a .346 batting average after joining the team in 1974. That year, he led the team to the ASA Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship. He batted.426 with an amazing .843 slugging percentage with 29 doubles, 23 triples and 21 homers.In the 1974 national championship, he batted .312 to earn the first of his six All-America selections in 11 national championships. (.286 BA). He also was a first-team selection three other times—in 1979, 1980 and 1984—with the Floormen and a third-team selection in 1982. In 1977 with Super Auto of Napa, California – he earned second-team honors. Allena holds most of Guanella’s batting records: most hits in a season, 141 (1974); most runs in a season, 86 (1974); most RBI in a season, 105 (1974); most triples in a season, 23 (1974); most doubles in a season, 29 (1974); and highest batting average in a season, .426 (1974). He led the team in hitting six times. Allena was born October 28, 1948.

 


Kathy Arendsen

Kathy Arendsen, Eugene, Oregon – Women’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

Growing up in Zeeland, Michigan – Kathy Arendsen dreamed of becoming a major leaguer. That all changed, however, when she saw Hall of Famer Joan Joyce pitch for the legendary Raybestos Brakettes of Stratford, Connecticut – while in high school. Joan Joyce became Kathy’s role model. As we all know, success doesn’t come overnight or in a year, but Kathy was determined to be the best she could be. . .Maybe even one of the sport’s all-time greats. Ultimately through hard work and determination, Kathy succeeded in becoming the best she could be and certainly one of the game’s all-time great pitchers. Her induction in 1996 was a testimony to her overpowering career. It is unlikely that the Raybestos Brakettes would have experienced their great success. Between 1978-1993 Kathy helped them win nine ASA national championships, three ISF World Championships and five U.S. Olympic Festivals. Kathy was also a member of two USA Pan American teams. Arendsen is the third winningest pitcher in Brakettes’ history with 334 wins and only 25 losses. She hurled 79 no-hitters, 42 perfect games and 265 shutouts. In 2,362 innings, Kathy struck out 4,308 batters and had a career ERA of 0.15. She was named an All-American 13 times. On May 12, 2003 Arendsen was inducted into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame.

 


Jim Brackin

Jim Brackin, Fairfax, Virginia – Men’s Fast Pitch – Shortstop

Jim Brackin figured if he developed into a good hitter in fast pitch softball that he would always have a spot in the lineup. Brackin did develop into a good hitter. In fact, he was good enough to win two ASA Major Fast Pitch batting titles (1979, .533 and 1986, .563 ) and earn ASA All-America honors three times. Between 1978-1987, Brackin batted .402 in seven Major Fast Pitch Nationals and was more than just a good hitter. He could run, field and throw and on occasion drive the ball out of the ball park, hitting between 10-15 homers a season. Besides being a three-time All-American, Brackin played on two USA Pan American teams, 1979 and 1983, and was named an alternate for the 1987 team. He also played in two U.S. Olympic Festivals, 1982 and 1986 (.313). The 5-foot-8, 160-pound Brackin proved to be a clutch player throughout his career. One of his memorable clutch hits came in the 1986 Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Tourney when he singled in a run to give legendary pitcher Ty Stofflet his 45th win in national championship play, then a record. Brackin retired as an active player after the 1992 season. Brackin was born August 31, 1948.

 


David Stanley “Stan”

David Stanley “Stan” Harvey

*Harvey, Gastonia, North Carolina – Men’s Slow Pitch – First Base

Considered one of the greatest left-handed power hitters in slow pitch, 6-foot-5 inch David Stanley Harvey’s career spanned more than two decades. Harvey, who started playing softball at 14, played for teams in his native state of Tennessee before joining nationally known powerhouse Howard’s Furniture-Western Steer in 1973. Before joining Howard’s, Harvey earned the first of his nine All-America awards in 1970, playing for Golden Gallon. He helped the team finish fourth in the national championship by batting .587 with eight homers and 19 RBI. After joining Howard’s, he earned All-American honors as follows: 1973-1976, 1978, 1980, 1982 and 1984 playing in 16 ASA national championships. He was a member of five national championship teams: 1973, 1974, 1981, 1983 and 1984. Born August 19, 1942, Harvey holds the record for the most homers in a Major Slow Pitch National, 23 in 1978. In 1975, he hit seven homers to share the leadership in the national championship with Don Arndt. In 1980, he led the Men’s Major Slow Pitch National Championship in batting with a .789 average. Harvey passed away on January 5, 2012 at his home in Alexis in Gaston County, NC

 

 


Stan Nelson

*Stan Nelson, Fort Dodge, Iowa – Men’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

The late Stan Nelson never pitched for anything but small towns and small-time sponsors. Yet he excelled in big-time fast pitch softball tournaments throughout the United States in a career that spanned the 1930s and 1940s. etween 1929-1937, Nelson won 380 games and lost 25 hurling 50 no-hitters. Throughout his career, he was known as a strikeout hurler. In fact, he fanned 38 batters in an 18 inning game in 1933. In 1935, he struck out 37 in a 19 inning game. In 1936, he fanned 19 of 21 batters in a seven inning game. Once in relief of his brother, Pete, he struck out nine batters in a row. Self-taught as a pitcher, Nelson joined his first organized league in 1929 and won 20 games before joining Olson Jewelry in 1930. That year, he won 18 of 19 games including three in the national Diamondball Tournament in Minneapolis. With the formation of the ASA in 1933, Nelson won three games in the national championship in Chicago and had an overall 9-2 record in ASA national championship play. In 1935, he compiled a 25-9 pitching record.By 1936, Nelson pitched fewer games because he was diagnosed with meningitis and by 1940 stopped pitching. He came out of retirement in 1943, however, to help Tobin Packing win the Iowa State Tournament, batting .500 playing first base. He had a lifetime pitching record of 650-50. In 1970, Stan was inducted into the Fort Dodge Hall of Fame. In May of 1991, Nelson passed away at age 81.

 


Lewis Rober Sr.

*Lewis Rober Sr., Minneapolis, Minneapolis – Meritorious Service

Invented in 1895 version of softball called “Kitten Ball.” Game was invented to occupy the idle time of Minneapolis firemen. Regular games were played by the two first teams during the summer of 1895. Although the scores were high at first, the games were extremely interesting and closely contested. The first two teams to play the game were the Engine Company team and the Truck team. In 1913, the Minneapolis Park Board adopted the game officially for the park board playground and gradually grew in popularity, although it was called Diamond Ball instead of Kitten Ball. Rober entered the fire-fighting service on December 23, 1883. He was eventually promoted to lieutenant and served at this station for eight years and then was transferred to Engine Company No. 9, and then to Engine Company No. 15 where he remained three years.

 

 

 


Billy Stewart

Billy Stewart, Columbus, Ohio – Men’s Fast Pitch – Outfield

From the outset Billy Stewart was destined to be a star in fast pitch softball. In his first two at-bats in his first game of fast pitch, Stewart smashed home runs. During a career that started in 1964 and ended in 1984, Stewart became one of the game’s outstanding players. He had outstanding speed on the basepaths and utilized that speed to play center field for some of the nation’s top teams. The teams included the Aurora, Illinois – Sealmasters (1967-1969), Little Brahaus Brewers, Poughkeepsie, New York – (1970-1974, Pay ’n Pak and Peterbilt Western of Seattle, Washington – (1975-1984). Stewart had some outstanding seasons, hitting .337 in 1974, .346 in 1979 with 33 RBI, .320 in 1977 and .304 in 1980. He played in 12 ASA nationals, compiling a .322 batting average with 12 homers and 38 RBI. He led the 1980 ASA Men’s Major Fast Pitch National in batting with a .524 average and hit four homers to lead the tourney. A 1967 graduate of Ohio State Stewart was a member of three ASA national championships teams (1967, 1980 and 1982), two ISF World Championship teams (1969 and 1980) and one Olympic Festival gold medalist (1981). He was the leading hitter in the latter event with a .500 batting average. Stewart said three of the thrilling moments in his career included hitting a triple to drive in the winning run in the 1968 ISF World Championship, scoring the winning run for the USA in the ISF 1980 World championship and hitting four homers in the 1980 ASA national. Stewart was born March 2, 1944.


Ray Truluck

Ray Truluck, Clearwater, Florida – Men’s Fast Pitch – Outfield

Billy Parker figured Ray Truluck, then a second-year player, had the potential to develop into one of the better Clearwater Bomber players. As fate would show, Truluck developed into not only one of the better Clearwater Bomber players but one of the top hitters in men’s major fast pitch in the 1970s and 1980s.Truluck joined the Bombers in 1972 and spent the season as the bullpen catcher. In 1973, Parker, the team manager, moved him to the outfield and it was a move that neither Truluck nor Parker would regret. That season Truluck earned the first of his four ASA All-America selections, hitting .400 in the national championship and finishing the season with a .320 batting average to help the Bombers win a record 10th national title. Truluck repeated as an All-American in 1974 and batted .364 in the national tourney. Truluck earned All-America honors twice more (1978 and 1981) during his career and fashioned a .319 batting average in 13 ASA national championships. He also played in three Major Fast Pitch All-Star Series, the 1979 U.S. Olympic Festival in Colorado Springs, CO and the 1983 Pan American Games (.333 batting average). Truluck batted .400 or higher for the Bombers twice during his career, hitting .429 in 1975 with 16 homers, 67 RBI and 112 hits and .400 in 1985. In 1976, he batted .390 and drove in a club record 88 runs and scored 86 runs. In 1981, he batted .318 with 47 RBI. In 1982, he batted .354 with 62 RBI and seven homers.


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 1997


Roy Burlison

*Roy Burlison, Newport, Arkansas – Men’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

Some players never win an ASA fast pitch national championship, although their individual performance is outstanding. Nine times pitcher Roy Burlison, who had overpowering speed, competed in the ASA Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship, but never came home a national champion during a 27-year career. The closest he came was in 1969 when, then 23, Burlison hurled the Fairchild Falcons of Mountain View, CA to a second place. Born October 18, 1945, Burlison had an outstanding tourney. He won seven of nine games and struck out 108 batters in 62 innings, allowing 26 hits and 11 runs. His performance earned him the tourney MVP award as well as a first-team All-America selection. Burlison said winning that MVP award in his first national was the greatest thrill of his career. He also won the MVP award in the 1971 ASA Men’s National Fast Pitch Championship. In national championship play, he won 23 games and lost 14 for a winning percentage of .649. During his career he won more than 700 games and lost less than 100 with 14 perfect games. Burlison passed away on May 11, 2017.

 

 


Frank Cecero

Frank Cecero, Staten Island, New York – Modified Pitch – Third Base

The first modified pitch player elected to the ASA National Softball Hall of Fame, Cecero had a career worthy of that recognition with a .482 batting average, 181 homers and 1,477 RBI. From 1971-1986, he played modified pitch and earned five ASA All-America selections and one MVP (1982), participating in 10 national championships for Silvestri’s of Staten Island, NY. Silvestri’s won three national titles and never finished below fifth in nine of 10 nationals. In national championship play, Cecero was outstanding, batting .465 with 99 hits in 213 at-bats and smashed 20 homers. Yet, he gives credit to his team.”To get to a national tournament you have to play for a good team,” said Cecero.” But to stick around for awhile you must play for a really good team. I batted third but anybody from two to nine in our lineup could have batted third. One player doesn’t do it all. Fortunately, for Silvestri’s Cecero did a lot and manager-sponsor Jim Silvesti agreed.” On a team that many considered to be the best in the country for a long period of time, Frank Cecero played third base and batted third. He was clearly our best player.

 

 


Chuck D’Arcy

Chuck D’Arcy, Sacramento, California – Men’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

Chuck D’Arcy knew the cards were stacked against him of becoming a major class fast pitch pitcher. At 16, he was 5-feet tall and weighed 95 pounds. “I certainly wasn’t the prototype of a major fast pitch pitcher,” said D’Arcy. “Unless there was a demand for midget pitchers.” D’Arcy’s late father (Charles D’Arcy) would rather his son play the infield or maybe give basketball a try because he had been the starting guard on the basketball game. “D’Arcy’s father told him, “There was no way a little guy like him could do it.” But Chuck, who had been the bat boy for his father’s team and imitated pitching motions of different pitchers, was determined to become a major class pitcher. As history shows, D’Arcy’s persistence and thousands of hours of practice paid off as he went on to establish himself as a top-flight pitcher who earned ASA All-American honors four times during a 30-year career. He compiled a record of 1,092 wins and 250 losses for a winning percentage of .813. In 8,973 innings, D’Arcy fanned 10,689 batters and hurled 527 shutouts with 62 no-hitters and 15 perfect games. His 30-year ERA was 0.85. He had a 26-11 record in 17 ASA nationals.

 


Abbott Laboratories

Abbott Laboratories, Ashland, Ohio – Sponsor

Abbott Laboratories, formerly Faultless Rubber Company, has been a softball sponsor since 1941 when its men’s team was a semi-finalist in the Ohio state tournament. In 1959, however, Faultless started to move up the Major fast pitch ladder when it fielded a men’s team to compete in the Big 8 League. After a couple seasons in the Big 8 League, Abbott, then Faultless Rubber, joined the Ohio Fastball League and won three of five championships. Teams from Columbus, Marion, Hamilton, and Dayton joined the nucleus of the former Big 8 League to form the Ohio Fastball league. The league eventually split into two divisions, Northern and Southern. Ashland won its first state championship in 1964 and competed in its first East Central Region. In 1966, Ashland competed in its first of three consecutive ASA Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championships and finished third. It finished 10th in 1967 and fourth in 1968.Ashland’s combined record those years was 8-6 with 12 players named ASA All-American. After a 13-year lapse, Faultless returned to the ASA Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship in 1981 at St. Joseph, MO and finished second behind Decatur ADM. The second place finish was the best in the team’s history. Ashland continued to compete in the Men’s Major Nationals and 1996 marked the 15th consecutive year Ashland advanced to the nationals with finishes ranging from 33th in 1987 to third in 1995.

 


Gina Vecchione

Gina Vecchione, New Rochelle, New York – Women’s Fast Pitch – Outfield

Some players deliver in clutch situations. Gina Vecchione was such a player during her 12-year career with the Raybestos Braketttes of Stratford, CT. More often than not, Gina delivered the game-winning hit or the go-ahead RBI to lead the Brakettes to another victory. In 12 years with the team, she was a member of six national championship teams, two World Games gold-medalists and four U.S. Olympic Festival titlists. She batted .242 in 12 ASA national championships and twice led the event in hitting, 1980 and 1981, and had a .322 career batting average. She batted .300 or higher eight times with a personal season best of .371 in 1982. Although known for her clutch hitting, Vecchione also was a solid defensive player who had an accurate arm and would go all-out to come up with a heads-up play. During her collegiate career at UCLA, Gina helped the Lady Bruins win the 1982 Women’s College World Series. She was named to the WCWS All-Tourney team after batting .333. A 1984 graduate of UCLA, Gina was operations manager in the UCLA Athletic Department from 1985-1994. She also was an assistant coach at UC Berkeley for a season. In the fall of 1994, she joined the Oregon State University as assistant softball coach. Since then, she has re-joined the UCLA coaching staff.

 


H.T. Waller

*H.T. Waller, Chipley, Florida – Men’s Slow Pitch – Second Base

When a shoulder separation from college football ended his dream of playing major league baseball, H.T. Waller of Chipley, FL became one of the early super stars of slow pitch softball by accident. Wanting to keep active, Waller played slow pitch as a form of recreation for a team in Wausau, Fl. Word rapidly throughout the state about his hitting ability and before long Waller was playing for some of the nation’s top teams. He led Jo’s Pizza to a pair of national championship runner-up finishes in 1968 and 1969 and earned All-America honors each year. In 1969, he also was named the MVP in the national tourney with a .594 batting average with 16 homers and 28 RBI. By 1972, Waller joined the Virginia Beach Piledrivers and batted .923 in the national tourney and finished the season with a .595 average, 63 homers and 149 RBI. Waller joined Howard’s Furniture in 1973 and was an immediate hit, batting .692 in the national tourney with 25 RBI and 20 homers to earn second-team All-America honors. He finished the year with a .664 batting average and 163 homers. Waller earned his fourth and final All-America selection in 1978, batting .545 with 11 homers in the national championship. In 1977, he had one of his best seasons, hitting 212 homers, driving in 398 runs and batting .641. In 1980, Waller played less than 20 games for Howard’s and retired at the end of the season. Waller estimated he hit more than 2,500 homers in his career with 87 in eight ASA nationals. Waller passed away on November 29, 2021.


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 1998


Tom Dallas

Tom Dallas, Winton, California – Men’s Fast Pitch – Catcher

For Tom Dallas, playing top-level fast pitch was enough of a reward and anything else was extra. After playing a season of junior college baseball, Dallas joined the California Kings of Merced and played for them from 1978-1985. He had started his fast pitch career two years earlier. The Kings made their first appearance in an ASA national in 1982 and placed third. Dallas earned All-America honors that season, batting .278 (5-for-18). By being named an All-American Dallas also was a member of the All-Star team that faced national champ Pay ‘n Pak in the Major Fast Pitch All-Star Series in 1983 in Seattle, WA. The Kings disbanded prior to the 1983 tourney, but Dallas was picked up by Guanella Brothers of Santa Rosa, CA and was named a second-team All-America. He batted .333 as Guanella Brothers placed 10th. In 1984, the Kings won their first national title and Dallas played a major role, scoring the winning run in the championship game and being named a first-team All-American. In 1985, the Kings finished fifth in the national tourney as Dallas batted .471 (8-for-17) to earn first-team DH honors.

 

 


Claud “Chuck” Davenport

Claud “Chuck” Davenport, Branson, Missouri – Meritorious Service

From player to manager, to umpire, to national deputy and to commissioner. Claud (Chuck) Davenport did them all in a career that spanned two decades. After a brief stint as a manager, Davenport started umpiring in 1973 and by 1979 was a member of the ASA national umpire staff. He remained a member of the staff until 1984. Davenport served as the UIC at eight ASA nationals and the 1983 U.S. Olympic Festival in Colorado Springs, CO. He was an instructor at National Umpire Schools from 1983-1984 and in1995 was awarded the National Award of Excellence at the UIC Clinic in Oklahoma City. In 1984, Davenport was named Kansas ASA commissioner and remained in that position until retiring in1994. During his tenure as commissioner, he established the Kansas Softball Hall of Fame and Honor, an annual convention and honors banquet and a scholarship fund. He also increased team registration from 1,110 to more than 2,000 teams. He was an ASA rep at 10 nationals and chaired the umpire committee from 1988-1991. Twice he served as Region 12 vice-president. He is a 21-year Army veteran and earned a Silver Star and two Bronze Stars while serving in Korea and Vietnam. He was born October 5, 1932 in Canton, MO.

 


Walt and Ray Guanella

*Walt and Ray Guanella, Santa Rosa, California – Sponsor

Sponsored Guanella Brothers men’s fast pitch team for 22 years. During this time, team won two ASA national titles, 1974 and 1991, and were one of the most consistent top finishers in ASA history. Won 1981 World Games in Santa Clara, CA. Won seven ASA Regional titles. Competed in six Sports Festivals, winning the gold medal in 1993 in San Antonio, TX and two silver and one bronze medal. Competed in 17 ASA national championships and the team had a record of 74 wins and 31 losses for a .705 winning percentage. In 22 years (1972-1993) team won 1,563 games and lost 401 with three ties for a winning percentage of .796. Walt Guanella died July 23, 2000 at age 73. Ray died March 16, 2007 at age 77.

 

 

 


Peter Ralph Miscione Jr.

*Peter Ralph Miscione Jr., Staten Island, New York – Modified Pitch – Pitcher

The second modified player elected to the Hall of Fame, Miscione started out playing second base before switching to pitching in 1982 for Silvestri’s of Staten Island, NY. That year, Miscione was named Most Valuable Player at the Nationals after pitching Silvestri’s to the national title by winning five games and allowing less than three runs per game. In the championship game he hurled a three-hitter and allowed one unearned run in a 6-1 win. Silvestri’s repeated as national champion in 1983 with Miscione winning seven games in the tournament. In his career, Miscione hurled 160 innings in 12 ASA national championships, winning 17 of 22 games, allowing 60 earned runs for an ERA of 2.62. In 1979 and 1984 he also was named an All-American. Between 1973 and 1981 as a second baseman, he averaged .377 as a batter. He played 15 years for Silvestri’s before retiring after the 1988 season. Miscione started his career in 1972 playing for Frankie’s from 1965-1972. Miscione was born January 27, 1945.

Miscione was born and raised in Staten Island, N.Y. As a child he spent his time developing a love for all types of sports, including bowling which was short-lived when he was drafted into the Army. Miscione married Barbara May Miscione, and together they had five children, all boys. An avid sports fan, Miscione became a pitcher and second basemen for the Silvestri softball team and was later inducted into the National Softball Hall of Fame in recognition of his accomplishments as a Modified Pitch player. Additionally, Miscione was a baseball and basketball coach at Holy Rosary Church and spent a lot of his free time as an umpire and referee for men’s touch tackle football before eventually taking up golf and joining the Fairway Club. Miscione passed away on January 22, 2022.


Dave Neale Sr.

*Dave Neale Sr., Brook Park, Ohio – Manager

Involved in softball since 1957 as a player, manager, and sponsor. Neale was good enough to earn second-team All-America honors in 1965 for Swing Inn of Cleveland, then became a player-manager in 1970 for Pyramid Cafe. Four times was named to Cleveland’s All-City team. Started only managing in 1975 and led Hillcrest Tavern to a fifth place in 1978 Men’s Major Slow Pitch National. In 1977 and 1980 team finished ninth and 13th. Won his first of four Super national titles in 1985 with Steele’s Silver Bullets. Team had 159-29 record that year followed by 217-13 in 1986, 340-15 in 1987, 366-20 in 1988, 263-26 in 1989 and 226-9 in 1990. Team was featured in numerous national publications, including Sports Illustrated, The Sporting News and USA Today. Was born February 24, 1938 in Cleveland suburb of Lakewood. Lettered in three sports in high school and was a Golden Gloves boxing champ at 19. In 1988, was inducted into the Greater Cleveland Slow Pitch Hall of Fame.

 

 


Mike Parnow

Mike Parnow, Novato, California – Men’s Fast Pitch – Third Base

Mike Parnow, a seven-time All-America, enjoyed playing softball. And he played well for a span of 20 years. But being elected to the ASA National Softball Hall of Fame wasn’t something that left Mike with sleepless nights wondering if he ever would be elected. “It wasn’t a goal (being elected) of mine,” Parnow said. “But I was sure excited when it did happen. It’s probably the ultimate thrill.” Parnow, who retired in 1993, started playing softball after a short stint in pro baseball for the Los Angeles. “After I was released by the Dodgers, there was a big gap in my life. I was raised on baseball,” Parnow said. “But softball filled that gap. For a while I played both softball and baseball but after that first Regional Tournament (1976) I was hooked on softball. It became part of my life.” Parnow stepped in to play shortstop in the regional tournament and earned a spot on the all-Regional Tournament team as a utility player. The rest, as they say, is history. He went on to come one of the great clutch hitters of his era who demonstrated on-and-off the field leadership, had a friendly and engaging personality and was an outstanding third baseman who had great defensive anticipation. Parnow participated in 16 ASA nationals, the 1992 ISF Men’s World, 1981 World Games, two Pan Am qualifiers and seven Olympic Festivals. He was a member of two national championship teams (1984 and 1991). His nine Festival homers is a record including four in 1981.

 


Freda Savona

*Freda Savona, New Orleans, Louisiana – Women’s Fast Pitch – Shortstop

Freda Savona was considered one of the best—if not the best—player in women’s major fast pitch history. Kay Rich, who played for the Fresno Rockets and is a member of the ASA National Softball Hall of Fame, said, “I believe Freda Savona was the absolute best woman player in the history of the game and probably the premier woman athlete of her time. She had all the skills–unusual speed, great arm, devastating bat power for average and distance, tremendous fielding range and agility. She was aggressive, daring, highly competitive and the complete player.” Savona batted consistently around .400 for the New Orleans Jax Brewers of New Orleans, LA who were formed in 1939 by Manager Heard Ragas. Between 1942-1947, Savona led the Jax to five ASA national titles and numerous victories against the best women’s teams of that era. The Jax rarely lost and at one time won 89 of 90 games in a row. One of their few losses came in 1944 when they lost twice to the Phoenix Ramblers by 1-0 scores. Freda played shortstop and her sister, Olympia, could play just about any position on the field.

 

 


NATIONAL SOFTBALL HALL OF FAME CLASS OF 1999


G. Pat Adkison

G. Pat Adkison, Rainbow City, Alabama – Commissioner

Only three-term president of the ASA (1992, 1999 and 2001), Adkison was named state commissioner in 1976 after serving as umpire-in-chief. He has served on numerous ASA committees and chaired the Umpire Committee for eight years. He started the Alabama Hall of Fame in 1991. Served as Southern Region vice president from 1981-1983. Is a member of the Hall of Fame Selection Committee. Organized the Gadsden Umpires’ Association in 1966. Recipient of the Alabama Parks and Recreation Society Service Award in 1991. Was born March 8, 1936.

 

 

 

 


Herman Beagles

*Herman Beagles, Chickamauga, Georgia – Umpire

Umpired in eight Men’s Major Fast Pitch Nationals during his career. Also umpired in first U.S. Olympic Festival in 1978 in Colorado Springs, CO, the All-Marine and Interservice Tournament in 1970, World Games One in 1981 in Santa Clara, CA, the All-Navy Tournament in 1975, and ASA youth fast pitch nationals in 1989, 1991, 1993 and 1994. In 1973 conducted clinics with Paul Brown throughout the Far East. First sanctioned as an ASA umpire in 1956. Played in three ASA Major Fast Pitch Nationals. Worked for Combustion Engineer and took early retirement in 1981. On March 3, 2003 Beagles passed away at age 70.

 

 

 

 


Glenn Beamon

Glenn Beamon, Oakland, California – Men’s Fast Pitch – Outfield

Beamon was as exciting player as there was in the 1960s and 1970s because of his great speed, his ability to get on base and his outstanding baserunning and defense. Beamon started his career in 1965 and did not waste time in establishing himself as a marquee player. He was selected to the Nor-Cal League All-Star team and in 1968 led the league in batting (.478 BA). Beamon played in his first of four ASA nationals (.353 BA, 32-for-88) in 1969 and batted .333 with 10 hits in 30 at-bats. He scored four runs and was named a first-team All-America. Born March 16, 1945, Beamon duplicated his first-team All-American selection in 1970 and batted .375 (6-for-16) playing for Sunnyvale, CA, which placed fourth in the national tourney. In 1973, Beamon had an outstanding tourney for the LeBlanc Barons and had 11 hits to equal the then record. He batted .367 as the Barons finished second. Three years later, Beamon was named an All-American for a fourth and final time, batting .333 for the Barons, who placed ninth out of 18 teams. He retired as an active player after the 1984 season.

 

 


Immor Clyte Franklin Jr.

Immor Clyte Franklin Jr., Baltimore, Maryland – Sponsor

For more than two decades has sponsored men’s, women’s and coed teams in Baltimore, MD. In 1996, his Angle Inn team won the ASA Class C national title with a 7-0 record. It is not uncommon for him to send six or more teams to various ASA national championships. Has sponsored as many as 21 teams in league and tournament play. These teams are comprised of men’s and women’s fast, slow pitch and coed players. Has spent in excess of $1 million sponsoring teams.

 

 

 

 


Bruce Meade

Bruce Meade, Bradenton, Florida – Men’s Slow Pitch – Outfield

In college Bruce Meade was a javelin and discus thrower. The last thing on his mind was playing slow pitch softball. But friends urged him to play. “I’d tell ’em that’s a girl’s game. No way,” said Meade. The persistence of Meade’s friends paid off and eventually he ended up playing slow pitch softball. “I hit the ball pretty good that first year,” said Meade. “Pretty soon one thing led to another.” More than two decades later, Meade left behind a record of accomplishments that will be difficult to match, let alone surpass. They include: Hit the longest home run on record in slow pitch softball, 510 feet in 1978 in Amarillo, TX. The first person to hit a softball into the upper deck of the Astrodome in Houston, TX. Hit more than 3,500 homers during his career including a career best 247 in 1981. Earn ASA All-America honors 11 times (seven first teams and four second team) plus twice named MVP in the national championship, 1977 and 1982. Led the Super National championship in batting three times (1982, 1984 and 1985). In 1982, Meade also led the ASA Super National in home runs ( 12) and batting average .703 (26-for-37) with 32 RBI. In 1984, he batted .775 and in 1985 hit .815 in the Super National Championship. In 1977, Meade and Herman Rathman shared the home run trophy in the Major national championship with 22 each, with Meade and Craig Elliott the co-MVPs. Meade was a member of four national championship team and played in 16 ASA nationals. He retired after the 1993 season. Participated in the 1989 U.S. Olympic Festival in Oklahoma City where softball made its Festival debut. Meade batted .735 in the Festival and hit 14 homers. Was a consistent .700 hitter throughout his career. He batted .711 in 1976 with 131 homers, .764 in 1977 with 225 homers, .720 in 1978 with 175 homers, .693 in 1979 with 163 homers, .757 with 207 homers in 1980,.767 in 1981 with 247 homers, .705 in 1982 with 102 homers, .738 in 1983 with 138 homers, .696 in 1984 with 229 homers, .746 in 1985 with 200 homers, .711 in 1986, .729 in 1987, .645 in 1988 with 33 homers, .670 in 1990 with 52 homers, .675 in 1991 with 131 homers, .649 in 1992 with 81 homers, .638 in 1993 with 79 homers and .641 in 1994 with 67 homers. Participated in 16 ASA nationals and two ASA-Winston Slow Pitch All-Star Series. During his career, Meade played for some of the nation’s top slow pitch teams, including Warren Motors of Jacksonville, FL, Nelson’s Painting of Oklahoma City, Dave Carroll’s Skoal Bandits of Sherrills Ford, NC, Jerry’s Catering of Miami, FL, Elite Coatings of Gordon, GA, Smythe Sox of Houston, TX, Steele’s Sports of Grafton, OH, Starpath of Monticello, KY and Vernon’s of Jacksonville, FL. Besides his tremendous hitting, Meade was without question the most recognized player of his era. Standing 6-feet-6 inches tall and weighing more than 260 pounds, Meade was an easy person to spot on or off the field with his handlebar mustache. Meade played in his last ASA Super national in 1993 and was named a second-team All-America, batting .727 with 10 homers and 19 RBI. Since retiring, Meade has remained active in softball, playing games to raise money for charities and continuing to work for the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office in Bradenton, FL as warrants officer.


Nancy Oldham

Nancy Oldham, Sanford, North Carolina – Women’s Slow Pitch – Third Base

In the early 1960s and 1970s, the Satellite Beach, FL Comets streaked across the U.S. winning game after game. Leading the way for them was Nancy Oldman, who had averaged 35 points per game on the basketball floor and earned all-star honors three times in her home state of North Carolina while in high school. But it would be on the softball field where Nancy would receive national acclaim playing third base and shortstop. She was six times an ASA All-American. In 1969, she was named the MVP of the Women’s Major Slow Pitch National Tourney after batting .500 to lead the Comets to a runner-up finish. Although never a member of a national championship team, Oldham also played on teams that finished second three times and third twice. First selected for All-America in 1965, she was named again in 1966, 1968, 1969, 1970 and 1972. The 1970 national was one of the best in Nancy’s career as she batted .625 with five homers and 16 RBI in leading the Comets to a fifth place. In 1996, Nancy was inducted into the North Carolina ASA Hall of Fame.

 

 


Ray Phillips

Ray Phillips, San Francisco, California – Men’s Fast Pitch – Second Base

When Ray Phillips played softball, he was not just another hitter. In fact, he was often called “Softball’s Most Feared Hitter” during his 13-year fast pitch career. Phillips was a pitcher’s worst nightmare, spraying line drives all over the field and hitting for a high average. When Phillips came to the plate, infielders automatically dropped back about five steps and just hoped the line shots he hit weren’t hit at them. No matter where you went in the United States, people in softball circles knew the name of Ray (Razor) Phillips. In all, Phillips played in eight ASA Men’s Major Fast Pitch National Championships between 1960-1970, earning All-America honors five times and hitting .320. In 1966 he batted .563 in the national tourney to lead all hitters. When a teammate was unable to play in the Men’s Major Fast Pitch All-Star Series in 1968, Phillips replaced him and ended up leading all hitters with a .500 batting average. That year Ray also helped the Aurora, IL Sealmasters win the International Softball Federation World Championship, beating Canada 4-0 in the finals. Phillips drove in two of the four runs in the gold medal game. Phillips came out of retirement in 1980 to play for Guanella Brothers of Santa Rosa, Calif. He ended his career the way you would figure the Most Feared Hitter in Softball would. Phillips homered in last official at-bat.

 


Bill Plummer III

*Bill Plummer III, Syracuse, New York – Meritorious Service

Was employed at the ASA National Office for 30 ½ years (May 6, 1979 to Dec. 31, 2009) and served as communications coordinator and Hall of Fame Services Manager/Historian. He was instrumental in softball attaining world-wide media coverage and recognition through his efforts as press officer at two Pan American Games, 13 U.S. Olympic Festivals, six ISF World Championships and the 1996 Olympic Games where he was the information manager. A 1973 graduate of Indiana University, Plummer has written widely about the sport for almost five decades. He authored the book,” The Game America Plays: Celebrating 75 years of the Amateur Softball Association,” in 2008 and co-authored another book in 2012 and co-authored another one in 2013, which won the Oklahoma Sports Historian Award in 2014. He has also contributed to 11 other books about softball. Besides the National Softball Hall of Fame, Plummer is a member of four other ASA Halls of Fame: New York State, Tidewater, Oklahoma, and Indiana. He writes for the website: CollegeSportsMadness.com and for Fast Pitch Magazine, an online publication. Plummer, a native of Syracuse, NY, passed away on April 9, 2016.

 


Barbara Reinalda

Barbara Reinalda, Lakewood, California – Women’s Fast Pitch – Pitcher

After winning the 1975 ASA Women’s Major Fast Pitch National Championship, the Raybestos Brakettes of Stratford, CT returned only two starters for the 1976 season. Only two starters returned because a women’s pro league had been formed and had taken the team’s ace hurler, Joan Joyce, plus most of the team. In January of that year, a story appeared in the Los Angeles TIMES that would eventually solve the pitching woes. The story was about a pitcher named Barbara Reinalda, who was born February 13, 1957. A Raybestos Manhattan salesman sent a copy of the story of back to chairman of the board Bill Simpson, who in turn forwarded it to Brakettes head coach Ralph Raymond. Raymond called Reinalda and although she was not home, gave the details to her mother. Raymond called back later and talked to Reinalda, who thought it over for two weeks before telling him she was going to play for the team. The rest, as they say, is history. Raymond unfortunately had a heart attack that year and he did not get to see Reinalda pitch until the national tournament. In his absence the team was guided by his assistant coaches, John Stratton, and Andy Van Etten. Reinalda’s first year with the Brakettes was a memorable one. She not only hurled the team to the national title but was named the national tourney MVP and led all hitters with a .429 average. Reinalda compiled a 45-6 record in 18 ASA nationals. She is the winningest pitcher in Brakette history (441-31).

* indicates the person has passed away.