COMMITTEES ISC Hall of Fame Selection Committee Robert Gray (HoF 2011), Chair – Wetumpka AL Les Novak (HoF 2002) – St. Louis Park MN Charlie Smith (HoF 1983), Vice-Chair – El Paso TX Todd McCabe – Calgary AB Hank DeWild – Kimberly WI Dean Oscar – Reedsburg WI (Ex-Officio) Larry Fisher (HoF 1995) – Findlay OH (Ex-Officio) Blair Setford – ON Wayne Fisher (HoF 2013) – Iowa City IA John Thompson (HoF 2014) – Waterloo ON Gregg Leather – Staten Island NY Dave Weldin – Bakersfield CA

Hall of Fame Event Host Committee John Thompson (HoF 2014) Chair – Waterloo ON Ray & Lucille Alviano (Registration) – Kitchener ON Jessica & Rosanne Allan (Heads & Tails) – Owen Sound ON Mel & Terry (Auction) – Kitchener ON Rick Cadilha (Processional) – Kitchener ON Tom Clancy (Audio Visual) – Kitchener ON Don Clarke (Sports for Special Athletes) – Kitchener ON Adele Couchman (Sports for Special Athletes) – Kitchener ON Gord Dearborn (Photographer) – Kitchener ON Al Doran (HoF 2008) (Al’s Fastball) – Richmond Hill ON Larry Fisher (HoF 1995) (Executive Director) – Findlay OH (Ex-Officio Liaison) Jim Flanagan (Fastpitch West) – Los Alamitos CA Robert Gray ( HoF 2011) (Selection Committee Liaison) – Wetumpka AL Larry Lynch (HoF 2007) (Greeter) – Kitchener ON Todd McCabe (Greeter) – Calgary AB Bob McKillop (Power-Point) – Kitchener ON Dave McLelland (Invocation) – Kitchener ON Dean Oscar (President ISC) – Reedsburg WI (Ex Officio Liaison) Bill & Carolyn Pegg (Registration) – Kitchener ON

ISC Hall of Fame Alumni & Friends Reception

All ISC Hall of Fame alumni and friends are invited to attend ISC Hall of Fame Reception This afternoon Sunday August 12, 2018 2 - 4 pm - program at 3 pm

Edelweiss Sports Banquet Hall - 600 Doon Village Drive, Kitchener

General public is welcome to attend - cash bar

2 Hall of Fame 2018 Induction Breakfast INTERNATIONAL SOFTBALL CONGRESS AGENDA HALL OF FAME INDUCTION AND BREAKFAST

7:30 Doors open 7:50 Head Table / Inductees Assembly (in lobby) 8:00 Head Table Procession & Welcome Welcome Master of Ceremonies: John Thompson (HoF 2014) Greetings President of ISC: Dean Oscar Welcome to Kitchener: Mayor Berry Vrbanovic Host Committee Co-Chair: Bernie Burnett 8:10 Breakfast Buffet (Silent Auction Underway until approximately 9:30) 9:20 Program Introductions: ISC Umpires: UIC Bruce Bierman, Ayr ON Hall of Fame Selection Committee: Robert Gray (HoF 2011), Wetumpka AL Hall of Fame Breakfast Committee & Patrons: John Thompson Honored Members/Past Inductees since 1965 Passings: Norb Thurmer, Glenn Verge, Royce Heath, (Jamie Boyd) Report: Carroll Forbes Foundation - Charlie Smith (HoF 1983), El Paso TX Scholarship Presentations: Derek Hyde (Tavistock) & Mark McNally (Inwood) Supplemental: Tyler Randerson (New Hamburg), Tyson Zehr (Tavistock), Luke Zettel (Mildmay) “Heads & Tails”: Rosanne/Jessica Allan 9:45 Induction Ceremonies Robert Gray (HoF 2011) will present gifts with assistance of HoF Selection Committee Bruce Bierman, Ayr ON Presented by Les Novak (HoF 2002), St. Louis Park, MN and Ron Brinkman (HoF 2013), Appleton WI Patron: ISC Umpires Group (Lou Davis) Rob Gray, ON Presented by Todd Martin (HoF 2016), Aurora ON Patron: Rod Peterson (HoF 1994), The Farm Tavern, Madison WI Jim Hallman, Kitchener ON Presented by Dave Bailey, Tavistock ON and Todd Martin (HoF 2016), Aurora ON Patron: Dave T. Anderson, Murphy’s Fish & Chips, Truro NS 5th/7th Inning Stretch Ferdi Nelissen, Portage La Prairie MB Presented by Ed Kirner ((HoF 1989) Montgomery IL Patron: Keystone Sports Excellence, Portage La Prairie MB Sean O’Brien, ON Presented by Larry Lynch (HoF 2007), Kitchener ON Patron: Dave T. Anderson, Murphy’s Fish & Chips, Truro NS Paul Rosebush, Bakersfield CA Presented by Todd Martin (HoF 2016), Aurora ON Patron: Rod Peterson (HoF 1994), The Farm Tavern, Madison WI 11:20 Closing Remarks Auction successful bidders Photo opportunity to follow • all recipients/presenters • all Hall of Famers in attendance Reception: Edelweiss Sports Banquet Hall, 2-4 pm Games scheduled for 1 pm; Opening Ceremonies 5 pm 11:30 Adjournment

Hall of Fame 2018 Induction Breakfast 3 HALL OF FAME MEMORIES FROM A YEAR AGO On Sunday morning August 13, 2017 the International Softball Congress hosted its annual Hall of Fame Induction breakfast at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in Grand Rapids MO, welcoming four players and an umpire as new inductees. ISC Hall of Fame Class of 2017 – Inductees/Presenters

Class of 2017 inductees included (front row l-r): Todd Schultz, Williamston MI; Keith Mackintosh, Saskatoon SK; David Casso, Chandler AZ; Chris DeLarwelle, Denmark WI and Doug Middleton, Blue Springs MO. Inductees’ presenters were (back row l-r): Kyle Beane, Lapeer MI; Dean Holoien (HoF 2015), Regina SK; Ron Brinkman (HoF 2013), Appleton WI, Les Novak (HoF 2002), St. Louis Park MN; Don Garvey, Denmark WI and Scott Loveland, Springfield MO. ISC Hall of Fame Members – 2017 Reunion

Seventeen past inductees of the ISC Hall of Fame welcomed the five newest members and include (standing back l-r): Jerry Ralfs (Davenport IA 2004); Gordon Wise (Piqua OH 2006); Charlie Smith (El Paso TX 1983); Robert Gray (Wetumpka AL 2011); Chris Santos (Pueblo CO 2014); Dick Mason (Littleton CO 2012); Ron Brinkman (Appleton WI 2013); Les Novak (New Hope MN 2002); Larry Lynch (Kitchener ON 2007); Margarito “Maggie” Banales (El Paso TX 2005); Peter Finn (Midland MI 2005); Denny Bruckert (Gillespie IL 2008); Dean Holoien (Regina SK 2015); Larry Fisher (Findlay OH 1995); John Thompson (Waterloo ON 2014). (Seated front): Tom Stasik (Frankenmuth MI 1995); Todd Schultz (Williamston MI 2017); Keith Mackintosh (Saskatoon SK 2017); David Casso (Chandler AZ 2017); Chris DeLawrelle (Denmark WI 2017); Doug Middleton (Blue Springs MO 2017) and John Miller (Green Bay WI 2012).

4 Hall of Fame 2018 Induction Breakfast Bruce Bierman Umpire Ayr ON – Born: December 26, 1942 Presenter: Tim Whitelaw, Kitchener ON Bruce Bierman’s induction proudly sponsored by patron ISC Umpires Group (Lou Davis)

Bruce Bierman, 75 of Ayr ON has enjoyed a lengthy career in softball, initially as player and coach, and later as an umpire and official. Born in Waterloo in his grandparents’ home, he initially lived in Erbsville and at age nine moved to New Dundee. Softball was a fixture in rural communities and Bruce recalls playing whenever the weather permitted, and he also participated in basketball, football and volleyball while attending Waterloo Oxford High School. Following graduation he was offered football scholarships at two Canadian universities, but he opted to stay at home and help on the farm. His fastball career continued into his thirties with the New Dundee and Ayr Intermediate teams and he also played in the Kitchener Fastball League for several years. His team won an Rural Softball Association title and Bruce pitched in several league All-Star games. Later, he coached his daughter Laurie’s teams for a number of years – ironically when Laurie married, her father-in-law was one of Bruce’s first catchers – Orlan Weber. In due course, Bruce ventured into officiating, initially as a member of the Hespeler ON Umpires As- sociation. In 1985 he was appointed the Zone 3 UIC for Softball Ontario and the following year be- came the UIC for the Ontario ISC Travel League. In 1987, he assumed the role as the Umpire in Chief for ISC qualifiers. In 1997, Bruce achieved his Level 5 Designation from Softball Canada at the Senior Men’s Canadian Championship in Victoria BC, and two years later, umpired in the PAN AM games in Winnipeg MB. Bruce served as the UIC for the inaugural ISC II Tournament in Kitchener in 2002 and then again in 2006. In 2006, he also assumed the role of UIC for the ISC and has held that position for twelve years. Bruce acknowledges Bill Weichel, his high school Phys Ed instructor, for teaching game rules in his early years as a basketball official and Gus Kitzman for inviting Bruce into the Hespeler Umpires As- sociation in his early softball officiating days. Bruce worked as an insurance broker for many years and upon semi-retirement, he commenced a career that is now eighteen years strong working for the Ontario Lottery Gaming Corporation at Casino . As well, Bruce enjoys wood-working, gardening and has accumulated a small coin collection as well as 150 antique coal oil lamps. With his spouse Cheryl Henhawk, they have four children – Debbie, Laura, Christa and Jeff - and are blessed with ten grandchildren. Bruce was recognized as a “Legend” in the Officials category of the Kitchener-Woodstock based Legends of Softball tournament in 2008, and was inducted into the Softball Canada Hall of Fame in Winnipeg MB in 2015. For the ISC, Bruce has been a valued and well-respected official and leader in the ISC for thirty years.

Hall of Fame 2018 Induction Breakfast 5 Rob Gray Outfielder / DH Vaughan ON – Born: October 23, 1973 Presenter: Todd Martin, Aurora ON Rob Gray’s induction proudly sponsored by patron Rod Peterson, Madison WI

Rob Gray, 43, spent his youth in , where as an eight-year-old he was first attracted to softball as a pitcher and a batter possessing a discerning eye for the strike zone. After graduating from Scarborough’s Pope John Paul II high school in 1992, Rob accepted an in- vitation to play in North Harbour, New Zealand, an experience that introduced him to world class softball. After two seasons “down under”, Rob dismissed his pitching role and concentrated on his batting skills. Following a lot of hard work as a 19-year-old in New Zealand with Darren Zack unselfishly throw- ing BP, Rob developed into a patient batter. Possessing a fluid, powerful swing, thanks to signif- icant, much appreciated input from friend Todd Idenouye, Rob carved an memorable career. He played three years (1993-95) with Double B’s following which, in 1996, he accepted an invitation from Jack Fireman to join the defending ISC Champion Toronto Gators. Rob’s DH skills were highly sought after, and commencing in 1997 he donned the uniforms of the Owen Sound ON Canadian Tiremen, Tampa Bay FL Smokers, Ballston Lake NY Heflin Smokers, Portage WI 51 Classics, Marathon WI County Classics and Materials, and then a six year stint with the well-established and storied Madison WI Farm Tavern. Rob retired following his single season with the Kitchener ON Rivershark Twins in 2010. Spanning 15 ISC seasons, Rob sported an impressive .339 life-time batting average that included 17 home runs. Influential team-mates included roomie Brian Paton and veteran coach Terry Baytor. Rob played in six ISC Championship games and was a three-time ISC Champion with the Tampa Bay FL Smokers (1998), Marathon WI County Materials (2005) and Madison WI Farm Tavern (2007). Rob earned All-World status four times with County Classics (2001), County Materials (2003), and twice with the Farm Tavern (2004 and 2005). Rob’s fondest memories include winning the 1996 Canadian Championship with the Toronto Gators, the ASA Championship in 2004 with The Farm and the 2007 ISC Championship, also with The Farm. Other highlights were competing against stellar opponents County Materials, WI and Broken Bow, NE and donning Team Canada colours against the New Zealand Black Sox. Close friendships have resulted and Rob, along with fellow Hall of Famers Colin Abbott, Todd Budke and Todd Martin are a tight-knit foursome, frequently on the golf course. He cited that “playing for Rod (Peterson) was like playing for your Dad and an experience that I will never forget. We had so much fun together joking around and laughing… usually at inap- propriate times on the bench.” Rob attended the University of / Kemptville Campus, earning a horticulture diploma, and his Arborist Certification from Humber College. In 1997, started his career at the Arboretum at Humber College, where 21 years later he is a valued Horticulture Technologist and Arborist. Rob and wife Jenni met in 2010 – they have two boys – Joshua, age 3, and one-year old Jaxson.

6 Hall of Fame 2018 Induction Breakfast Jim Hallman Sponsor Kitchener ON – Born: July 24, 1955 Presenters: Dave Bailey, Tavistock ON / Todd Martin, Aurora ON Jim Hallman’s induction proudly sponsored by Dave T. Anderson, Murphy’s Fish & Chips, Truro NS

Jim Hallman, 63, and his extended family have had a long-time love affair with softball as local players, corporate sponsors and team/league administrators. Following the untimely and tragic passing of his brother Peter in 1999, Jim and his wife Sue spear-headed a family-based group that was committed to Peter’s vision of success – namely having a “family” of teams with the Twins logo on travel teams from minor softball, through the Jr. Twins and competitive men’s senior teams. The Hallman family became a co-sponsor in 2002 of the Waterloo Twins who at that time were one of the longest participating senior teams in Canada. In 2005, Jim assumed primary sponsor- ship creating the Kitchener Hallman Twins, with the team finishing 3rd at the ISC Championship in Eau Claire WI. As well, Jim was very supportive of Kitchener’s hosting of the ISC Championships in 2006 and 2007. In 2008, following an amalgamation with the ON Quaker Riversharks, the new-look Rivershark Twins became just the 2nd Canadian team to win the highly competitive ISC Cham- pionship, defeating Saskatoon SK Aspen Interiors in Kimberly WI. In 2009, the Rivershark Twins repeated that success in Quad Cities IA/IL beating the Broken Bow NE Patsy’s in the champi- onship tilt. In 2010, in Midland MI, Twins almost made it three-peat, losing in the championship final to the Jarvis ON Travelers. The Hallman family has also been instrumental in forming the Kitchener Cubs, a team that has consistently competed in the ISC annual tournaments from 2006-15, finishing the 2009 tourney as ISC II finalists. Jim and Sue dig in with hands-on enthusiasm ranging from contacting additional sponsors, de- livering posters, loading the truck with supplies for the concessions, chasing foul balls, serving as a games controller… there are very few responsibilities that haven’t been personally impacted by the “Hallman touch”. Jim and Sue are humble sponsors, and state that “While the championships and wins are great, it is the people we have met and worked with who I will continue to remember – the great people / players who have worn the Twins jersey during my time – the great people behind the scenes, the many managers and coaches we have had, getting to know the families of the players. The golf games, the fun and enjoyment of playing a game we love. The tears and the joy.” In particular, Jim acknowledges key individuals who have helped along the way – Dave Bailey, Larry Lynch, Robert Nydick, Doc Simmons, Doug Eidt, Steve Kooser and Ron Hackett. The personable couple have embraced softball at the ISC level, and provide generous support that has been instrumental in keeping competitive men’s fastball alive in the local community. At the outset in 2002, that financial commitment ensured a strong host team for Kitchener’s hosting its first-ever World Tournament. This legacy of fastball excellence is notable not only lo- cally, but as well throughout the broader ISC world, as evidenced by Kitchener’s hosting, for the 5th time, the ISC World Tournament in August 2018.

Hall of Fame 2018 Induction Breakfast 7 2017 – Grand Rapids MI 2013 – Quad Cities IA/IL 2009 – Quad Cities IA/IL 2004 – Fargo ND DAVID CASSO * JIMMY DEAN WES HAYMOND ED DANIELS Umpire - Chandler AZ Recognition of Services - Seattle WA Manager/Administrator - Salt Lake City Catcher -Fresno CA UT CHRIS DELARWELLE DAVID BOYS BOB OSBURN Outfielder - Denmark WI Infielder - Decatur IL * TOM MCAVOY IF/OF - Balboa Island CA Manager - Stillwater NY KEITH MACKINTOSH RON BRINKMAN JERRY RALFS Umpire - Appleton WI DAN NESSLER Infielder - Saskatoon SK Pitcher - Davenport IA WAYNE FISHER Infielder - North Mankato MN DOUG MIDDLETON MARK SMITH Administrator - Iowa City IA MIKE PIECHNIK Pitcher - Falmouth NS Pitcher - Blue Springs MO BRIAN MARTIE Pitcher - Victoria BC TODD SCHULTZ * NORB THURMER Infielder - Bloomington IL MICHAEL WHITE Manager/Sponsor - St. Louis MO Infielder - Williamston MI STEVE SCHOTT Pitcher - Eugene OR 2003 – Kimberly WI 2016 – Quad Cities IA/IL Outfielder - Kelso MO BOB WILLS RON “DOC” SIMMONS Outfielder - Rancho Murieta CA JOHNNY APPELL TOM BOYD Player/Manager - Waco TX Umpire - New Tripoli PA Field Manager - Broken Bow NE 2008 – Kimberly WI BILL BOYER DANIEL D. DOLAN FAMILY 2012 – Midland MI HAL BRITTON Catcher - Fresno CA Outfielder - Seattle WA Recognition of Services - Aurora IL PAUL ALGAR Pitcher - Lexington IL DENNY BRUCKERT JIM RUBBELKE THOMAS MAKEA Manager - Gillespie IL Manager - St. Paul MN OF - Riccarton, Christchurch, NZ TODD BUDKE Infielder - Lancaster CA DOUG CHASE 2002 – Kitchener ON JARRAD MARTIN Catcher - Port Alberni BC - 1B/OF/P - Strandon, New Plymouth, NZ DICK MASON *CLARENCE “BUTCH” CHAM Administrator - Littleton CO AL DORAN BERS TODD MARTIN JOHN MILLER Recognition of Services - Richmond Hill ON Catcher - Las Vegas NV P - Aurora ON Recognition of Service - Green Bay WI FLOYD “Blue” LA VERGNE NEIL FENNELL ROBERT “CHUBB” TANGAROA SHAWN RYCHCIK Outfielder - Los Angeles CA Administrator - Perth ON P - Havelock, North Hastings, NZ Outfielder/Infielder - Salamanca NY GORDON WISE Administrator - Piqua OH MARTY KERNAGHAN 2015 – South Bend IN ADAM SMITH Infielder - Sioux City IA COLIN ABBOTT Infielder - Hagersville ON 2007 – Kitchener ON LARRY NOLAN SR. OF/DH - Portugal Cove NL 2011 – Quad Cities IA/IL LARRY LYNCH Outfielder - Rancho Cucamonga CA Manager - Kitchener ON GARY BAUGHMAN * DAVE BLACKBURN LES NOVAK Statistician - Cedar Rapids IA Recognition of Services - Santa Monica CA PETER MEREDITH Umpire - New Hope MN Pitcher - Salt Lake City UT TERRY CHALLIS ROBERT GRAY DAN YANTZI Administrator - Wetumpka AL * LLOYD SIMPSON Pitcher/Contributor - Waterloo ON OF - Whitby ON Administrator - Owen Sound ON JODY HENNIGAR 2001 – Eau Claire WI JACK FIREMAN Pitcher/Infielder - Halifax NS BOB TOMLINSON Recognition of Services - Toronto ON Contributor - Poynette WI BRAD BURRUP JERRY HOFFMAN Catcher - Salt Lake City UT DEAN HOLOIEN First Base - Irvine CA TIM WAHL Pitcher/DH - Regina SK Catcher - Grayland WA BOB GUY BRIAN PATON Infielder - Lakewood CA NICK MCCURRY Outfielder - Woodstock ON 2006 – Kitchener ON Recognition of Services - Ashland OH HICE STILES * LANNY RUPP * ART GILLIS Outfielder - Lakewood CA 2014 – Kitchener ON Field Manager - Lakewood CA Recognition of Services - Saginaw MI * CLYDE WOODS DENNY DELORIT 2010 – Midland MI ED KLECKER Outfielder - Oklahoma City OK Infielder/DH - Egg Harbor WI JOE AVILA Pitcher - Sunset Beach CA Infielder - Hanford, CA GREG SEPULVEDA 2000 – St. Joseph MO *LOU FERRARO Shortstop - Mission Viejo CA Outfielder - Hanford CA JOHN BECKER * LEO “LEFTY” BARTOS Manager - Holmen WI BRAD UNDERWOOD Team/Program Administrator - Midland MI STEVE KOOSER Pitcher - Owen Sound, ON GARY DOBEREINER Field Manager - Topeka KS DENNIS JOHNSON Administrator - St. James MN 2005 – Eau Claire WI Catcher - Moline IL TRENT RUBLEY BOB MINSHALL Infielder - Clearwater FL ALAN ROHRBACK MARGARITO “MAGGIE” BANALES Outfielder - San Diego CA Umpire - El Paso TX Umpire/Administrator - Burlington ON CHRIS SANTOS THE SONNENTAG FAMILY RANDY BURNSIDE DICK THOMPSON Field Manager - Pueblo CO Recognition of Services - Marathon WI Catcher - Seattle WA Infielder/Pitcher - Quincy IL JOHN THOMPSON MARK SORENSON ART CASHION HERB WISDOM Recognition of Services - Waterloo ON Catcher - Lower Hutt New Zealand Administrator - Fort Worth TX Manager - Tumacacori AZ * GLENN VERGE DARREN ZACK PETER FINN DICK ZUCCATO Recognition of Services - Newmarket ON Pitcher - Garden River ON Pitcher - Midland MI Catcher - Woford Heights CA

8 Hall of Fame 2018 Induction Breakfast HALL OF FAME MEMBERS 1999 – Sioux City IA 1993 – Kimberly WI 1985 – Kimberly WI 1973 – Rock Island IL * JIM ALLEN * RAY ANDERSON SAM BEAVERS * CLYDE FORTUNE Administrator - St. Charles MO Publisher, Fastpitch Bulletin, Tulsa OK Pitcher - Fort Worth TX Administrator - Waco TX JAY BOB BICKFORD * JIM AVERSING * JACK GRAFMEIER JACK RANDALL Outfielder - Rock Island IL Administrator - Kimberly WI Pitcher - Long Beach CA Pitcher - Phoenix AZ * KEVIN HERLIHY * HOWARD HEUSTON CHARLIE TOPPERT JERRY FLORY Pitcher - Hamilton NZ Pitcher - Bartlesville OK Catcher - New Bedford, Rock Island IL Outfielder - Long Beach CA PAT SULLIVAN * BOB WALSH 1972 – Kimberly WI CARL HANSEN Administrator - Dubuque IA Umpire - Bethlehem PA Sponsor - Salt Lake City UT * CARL WILSON AL COTTI Administrator - Tulsa OK 1984 – Allentown PA First Base - Fresno, Hanford CA 1998 – Kimberly WI DICK BRUBAKER 1992 – Salt Lake City UT * LES HANEY CHAD “CORKY” CORCORAN Pitcher - Aurora IL Pitcher - Taft, Fresno CA GIL ARAGON Infielder - Seattle WA Pitcher - Phoenix AZ * ROYCE HEATH 1971 – Tulsa OK Administrator - Arlington TX * GEORGE PEARSON NICK HOPKINS * CARROL FORBES OF/Pitcher - San Pedro CA Shortstop - Long Beach CA TY STOFFLET Founder/Exec Director - Greeley CO Pitcher - Coplay PA RAY UNRUH * LARRY MILLER * CLEO GOYETTE Infielder - Dinuba CA Sponsor - Salt Lake City UT 1983 – Bakersfield CA Second Base - Long Beach CA JOHN WILSON * BILL VAN DINE CHARLES SMITH * PAUL FORCHE Administrator - Sun City Centre FL First Base - El Paso TX IF/OF - Long Beach CA Administrator - Tulsa OK 1991 – Sioux City IA 1982 – Kimberly WI * FRANK PORTH 1997 - Victoria BC * SARAH CALHOUN * PAUL “LUCKY” HUMISTON Administrator - El Paso TX LARRY BODASHEFSKY Tournament Sponsor - Rock Island IL Outfielder - Long Beach CA 1970 – Kerman CA Outfielder - Oshawa ON BOB TODD * BRYAN VOIGT * JOE RODGERS Pitcher - Long Beach CA LES CIGEL Pitcher - Tampico IL/Dinuba CA Manager - Long Beach CA Sponsor - Green Bay WI * BOB WELBY 1981 – Saginaw MI Administrator - Florissant MO * STAN WHITE GALE KURTZ * MILT STARK Catcher - Long Beach CA Manager - Sioux City IA 1990 – Victoria BC Catcher - Taft, Long Beach CA * LEROY ZIMMERMAN DON LESLIE BOB BEYERS * JERRY WELLS Pitcher - Fresno CA Administrator - Seattle WA Infielder - Murietta CA Pitcher - Prescott, Phoenix AZ 1966 – Rock Island IL ARMANDO SAMBRANO 1996 – Kimberly WI Umpire - El Paso TX 1980 – Tempe AZ * KENNY LAW FRANK TREJO DON SARNA Pitcher - Phoenix AZ * RUSS BOICE Pitcher - Culver City, Long Beach CA Manager - St. Louis MO Third Base - Phoenix AZ 1965 – Rock Island IL 1989 – Kimberly WI * STU ZINK * LOU NOVIKOFF JOHN EGE Catcher - Phoenix AZ Infielder - Sioux City IA DUTCH AUSMUS Outfielder - Long Beach CA Second Base- Sapulpa OK 1979 – Bakersfield CA KEN HACKMEISTER RICHIE STEPHEN Administrator - Salt Lake City UT ED KIRNER Administrator - Montgomery IL Pitcher - Mountain Green UT JIMMY MOORE * CARL GRIECO 1978 – Kimberly WI Pitcher - Seattle WA Administrator - Juniata PA *CLAYTON DUGGER 1995 – Sioux City IA KENNY WYCOFF Pitcher - Waco TX Pitcher - El Paso TX LARRY FISHER KARL NEILSON Administrator - Findlay OH 1988 – Decatur IL Administrator - Phoenix AZ DUTCH ELBERS DON FRAZIER Administrator - St. Paul MN 1977 – Phoenix AZ IF/OF - Long Beach CA * IRVIN “RED” MEARS * EDDIE “SPOTTS” WILLIS * PAUL MAGAN Catcher - Long Beach CA Catcher - Phoenix AZ Pitcher - Sioux City IA DICK POBANZ BOB NEELY TOM STASIK Pitcher - Decatur IL Outfielder - Phoenix AZ Administrator - Frankenmuth MI 1987 – Saskatoon SK 1976 – Long Beach CA 1994 – Summerside PEI DUDE AUSMUS * JIMMY JONES Outfielder - Sapulpa OK Shortstop - Long Beach CA * FRANK ARRIGONI * LES DIETZEN * VIRGIL JONES Administrator - Fresno CA Administrator - Kaukauna WI Pitcher - San Pedro CA DAVE BALL * DICK GONZALES 1975 – Kimberly WI Mgr/Commissioner - Downey CA First Base - Phoenix AZ * MARVIN CASTEEL ALAN COLGLAZIER 1986 – Sioux City IA Administrator - Ogden UT Pitcher - Pueblo CO * JIM BOEDNER * CLINT HERRON Pitcher - Manlius IL * FLOYD HAMMEN Third Base - Long Beach CA Administrator - Little Chute WI K.G. FINCHER Pitcher - San Rafael CA 1974 – Sun City AZ JAMES KENNEMER * L.G. “TULIE” STANSEL * PAUL LOPEZ Catcher - Tula OK Administrator - Deer Park TX Pitcher - El Paso TX ROD PETERSON * DALE VAN HOUTEN * LARRY SILVAS Manager - Madison WI Administrator - Columbia City IN First Base - Long Beach CA * - denotes deceased

Hall of Fame 2018 Induction Breakfast 9 Ferdi Nelissen Administrator Portage La Prairie MB – Born: April 27, 1957 Presenter: Ed Kirner, Montgomery IL (or designate) Ferdi Nelissen’s induction proudly sponsored by patron Keystone Sports Excellence, Portage La Prairie MB

Ferdi Nelissen, 61, was born in Portage La Prairie MB to European immigrant parents who en- couraged him to be active in sports. In Canada, that means hockey in the winter and baseball in the summer. The enthusiastic Ferdi also included badminton, basketball, football, lacrosse and volleyball. His introduction to fastball was as a 15-year-old Grade 10 student at Portage Colle- giate, his high school coach Barry Saddler invited him to play with the Albion Hotel Canadians, a senior men’s team in the Central Manitoba Fastball League. At age 19 he moved to the Open Level, and subsequently played and coached in 15 ISC World Tournaments suiting up with Portage La Prairie MB Diamonds, Winnipeg MB Red Dogs, Fargo ND Kegel Black Knights, Saska- toon SK Rempel Brothers and in his final season in 2002 with Winnipeg MB Wes-Man Landmark Alliance. While still competing as a player, he also accepted a 1993 appointment as an ISC volunteer. For 17 years until 2009, Ferdi was an ISC Area Commissioner for Western Canada. In addition, for 14 years he served on, and eventually chaired, the Rules Committee - a group that often served as a “lightning rod” for strategic challenges such as the “Out of Region Player Fee Structure” and the PRAWN designation for All-World players. Other unique projects in which Ferdi participated were the formation of the Player Rep Committee, providing players with a “true voice” in the ISC, the Executive Director Search Committee and the Constitution Ad-Hoc Committee. He also served as an insightful member of the Executive Committee for eight years. Memorable moments as a player occurred in 1988 when his hometown Portage MB Diamonds up-ended the ISC host Decatur IL Pride 2-1 in front of an estimated 6,000 fans and in 1992 in Salt Lake City UT when the Diamonds knocked off the 1991 ISC runner-up Owen Sound ON Canadian Tire and #4 ranked Midland MI Explorers teams. On a personal note, Ferdi enjoyed an incredible game in Kimberly WI registering four hits and walking twice to get on base six for six times. With an obvious passion for the sport, Ferdi spent huge amounts of time at the ball park during ISC campionship tournaments, including many hours as a member of the broadcast crew for the internet streaming of games, all the while helping to promote softball and the ISC world- wide. In 2017, he was inducted into the Manitoba Softball Hall of Fame. Following graduation from Portage Collegiate Institute, Ferdi attended University of Manitoba earning a degree in Physical Education, Kinesiology and Recreation, positioning himself for his 36 year career with the provincial government as a Therapeutic Recreation Specialist for people living with disabilities. Always active, Ferdi’s hobbies including workouts, golf, old-timers hockey, snow- shoeing and kayaking all balanced with similar passion for local cultural events. Ferdi and his spouse Laureen have been married for 30+ years and have two adult children – son Devin in Winnipeg, and daughter Shaye in Victoria BC.

10 Hall of Fame 2018 Induction Breakfast Sean O’Brien Catcher Brockville ON – Born: January 3, 1971 Presenter: Larry Lynch, Kitchener ON Sean O’Brien’s induction proudly sponsored by patron Dave T. Anderson, Murphy’s Fish & Chips, Truro NS

Sean O’Brien, 47, was born in St. John’s NL and with brothers Mike and Rob followed their father Gerry’s lead in participating in hockey and softball. Sean states that his father and uncle Herb provided maximum opportunity for the brothers to hone their skills in a highly competitive family atmosphere. At age 17, Sean became impassioned with softball, and along with brother Rob departed “The Rock” to travel to New Zealand to further advance their skills. On returning to Canada, Sean fin- ished his junior career with the Stittsville ON 56ers. In senior ranks, Sean played four seasons with the Grande Prairie AB Pride of the NorWest Fastball League. Returning to Ontario, Sean made his inaugural ISC appearance in 2000 as a member of the Owen Sound ON Selects. His decade-long career ended in 2010 in a “dream-come-true” season suiting up with his brother Rob as team-mates with the ISC World Champion Jarvis ON Travelers. Sean has represented Canada internationally in the developmental ranks (1995-2000) and at the senior level (2000-2010), competing in two ISF World Champions (silver and bronze medals) and three Pan-Am qualifiers. During his eleven year ISC career, Sean was also a member of the back-to-back champion Amsterdam NY Broken Bow Spirit. As a respected and highly skilled catcher, comple- mented by clutch hitting, Sean earned ISC All-World honors on five occasions – 2002 and 2003 with Amsterdam NY Spirit; 2008 and 2009 with Saskatoon SK Aspen Interiors, and in his final 2010 season with the Jarvis ON Travelers. During his illustrious ISC ca- reer, Sean batted .304, including four tournaments when he batted .400 or higher. Life-long friendships were honed with team-mates Frank Cox, Mike Taylor and Jody Eidt as the quartet played together for seven years winning several titles with Owen Sound, New York Spirit and Bro- ken Bow. Other influential peers include Colin Abbott, Rob Gray, Dean Holoien, Ryan Wolfe and a trio from New Zealand - Jarrad Martin, Brad Rona and Michael White. As well, special thanks are extended to influential coaches over the years – Doc Simmons, Denny Bruckert, The Kurlyks, Steve Kooser, Larry Lynch, John Hill and Dan Donahue – many of whom are members of the ISC HoF. Sean graduated from Roncolli Elementary and Gonzaga High Schools in St. John’s and had a brief stint at Memorial University prior to apprenticing for Fire Sprinkler Pipe Fitter and obtaining his Red Seal Trade Certificate. He initiated his career in Grand Prairie AB with GP Fire & Safety and on moving to Ontario, was a valued employee at Richardson Fire Systems in Cambridge. Both employers understood the rigors of high-level softball and supported time off as required by Sean in pursuit of his dreams. Sean acknowledges the great love and support from his parents Mary and Gerry, as well as broth- ers Mike and Rob, wife Stacey and son Gray as significant factors in his success. He currently works in ON with Tyco Johnson Controls and resides with his family in Brockville ON.

Hall of Fame 2018 Induction Breakfast 11 Paul Rosebush Outfielder Bakersfield CA – Born: July 5, 1975 Presenter: Todd Martin, Aurora ON Paul Rosebush’s induction proudly sponsored by patron Rod Peterson, Madison WI

Paul Rosebush, 43, was born in Wellington ON, and as youngster with his brother Michael, watch- ing his father Rick play men’s softball in Prince Edward County, Paul became attracted to the sport. From age eight to 15, Paul played minor softball for Wellington Quinte Meats, a team that won three Ontario Championships. The next three seasons he played in the Moira River Men’s Softball League in Belleville, and was in awe of the skills and caliber of senior players when he and Michael attended, as fans and spectators, the highly competitive Perth Shoot-out Tourna- ment. Paul’s ISC debut was in 1999 as a member of the Oshawa ON Gators where he quickly established himself as a feared top-of-the order hitter. In 2000, he joined the Madison WI Farm Tavern for the first of nine seasons where he earned ISC All-World laurels at three tournaments (2001, 2003 and 2008), helped his team to seven top-four finishes, played in three championship games and was a member of the Farm Tavern championship squad in 2007. Paul finished his ISC ca- reer in 2011 as a member of the Bakersfield CA Angels, and in 12 tournaments used speed and finesse to carve a well- respected .330 batting average. Highlights for Paul include the Farm Tavern winning the ISC in Kitchener and his gold Pan Am medal with Team Canada in 1999. Memorable individuals in his career are Todd Martin who Paul watched playing at the Perth Shootout and with whom he became a teammate with the Farm Tavern, as well as Colin Abbott also a Farm Tavern and Team Canada teammate. Paul cited that he had so much respect for Farm Tavern manager/coach Rod Peterson, a person for whom you always gave your best. Paul is grateful to the many people who influenced his softball career, including his father Rick and brother Michael, as well as Richard Dixon and Dave Long (Napanee Express), Rand Kellock and Dave Houghton (Halifax Keiths), Jack Fireman (Oshawa Gators), the Owen Sound Selects for the opportunity to compete in the Canadians, and of course the Farm Tavern’s Rod Peterson. Paul is also a highly skilled hockey player, having been an outstanding member of the Canadian Interuniversity Athletic Union (CIAU) 1997 champion University of Guelph ON Gryphons. He graduated in 1999 with an Associates Degree in Science and Agriculture. Following university, he fashioned a six-year professional hockey career with the Bakersfield CA Condors of the East Coast Hockey League. In 2003, he began working seasonally in his chosen field, and is currently employed as a senior biologist for South Valley Biology Consulting where he provides regulatory compliance support to oil and gas producers pertaining to endangered species in California. His hockey journey resulted in his family – wife Amy, and daughters Rylie (13), Jaelyn (10) and son Nolan (11) currently residing in Bakersfield CA.

12 Hall of Fame 2018 Induction Breakfast ISC HALL OF FAME – A Look Back First Inductee The ISC Hall of Fame induction ceremony premiered at the 1965 World Tournament hosted in Rock Island IL. The first inductee was Lou Novikoff, a splendid player who patrolled the outfield for the fabled Long Beach CA Nitehawks. This highly successful team placed in the Final Four of the tournament for eleven con- secutive years (1951-61). During the streak, the Nitehawks won the title seven times, (six in a row 1955-60) and were finalists on two other occasions (1951-52). Novikoff was an ISC All- World Player in three tournaments (1951,’52 and ’55) First Canadian Inductee Three decades later in 1997 when Victoria BC hosted the tournament, Larry Bo- dashefsky, a highly skilled outfielder from Oshawa, was inducted as the first Canadian. Bodashefsky was a four-time ISC All-World player with the Oshawa Motor Carriers (1979), Owen Sound King Farms (1984) and the Owen Sound Canadian Tire (1987-88). Almost 200 Since the inaugural induction in 1965, and including this year, there have been 199 individuals rec- ognized as inductees into the ISC Hall of Fame. Thirty Canadians This year’s Class of 2018 is truly special with all six inductees being Canadian, and three with specific ties to the Waterloo Region. This latest addition brings the total number of “north of the border Canucks” inductees to 30, with close to half of those in the last five years. 2018 Kitchener ON (6): Bruce Bierman (Ayr ON), Rob Gray (Vaughan ON), Jim Hallman (Kitchener ON), Ferdi Nelissen (Portage La Prairie MB), Sean O’Brien (Brockville ON), Paul Rosebush (Bakersfield CA) 2017 Grand Rapids MI (1): Keith Mackintosh (Saskatoon SK) 2016 Quad Cities IA/IL (1): Todd Martin (Aurora ON) 2015 South Bend IN (4): Colin Abbott (Portugal Grove NL), Terry Challis (Whitby ON), Jack Fireman (Toronto), Dean Holoien (Regina SK) 2014 Kitchener ON (2): John Thompson (Waterloo ON), *Glenn Verge (Newmarket ON) 2012 Midland MI (1): Adam Smith (Hagersville ON) 2011 Quad Cities IA/IL (2): Jody Hennigar (Halifax NS), Brian Paton (Woodstock ON) 2010 Midland MI (1): Darren Zack (Garden River ON) 2009 Quad Cities IA/IL (1): Mike Piechnik (Victoria BC) 2008 Kimberly WI (2): Doug Chase (Port Alberni BC), Al Doran (Richmond Hill ON) 2007 Kitchener ON (2): Larry Lynch (Kitchener ON), *Lloyd Simpson (Owen Sound ON) 2006 Kitchener ON (1): Brad Underwood (Owen Sound ON) 2004 Fargo ND (1): Mark Smith (Falmouth NS) 2002 Kitchener ON (3): Neil Fennell (Perth ON), Marty Kernaghan (Sioux City IA), Dan Yantzi (Waterloo ON) 2000 St. Joseph MO (1): Bob Minshall (Burlington ON) 1997 Victoria BC (1): Larry Bodashefsky (Oshawa ON) * Deceased

Hall of Fame 2018 Induction Breakfast 13 Royce Heath (1926-2018) Memories of a Half-Century of Service to the ISC

By Al Doran

For most fastpitch softball fans at an ISC World Tournament, or more Royce’s involvement with the ISC started when ISC Founder Carrol to the point, at an ISC Hall of Fame Induction Breakfast, thoughts Forbes invited him to breakfast and encouraged him to form a tour- about our friend Royce Heath would be as the guy who made the nament in his area. The rest was history; by 1952 Heath was installed ISC Hall of Fame what it is today. And that thought would be well as a Commissioner. As former ISC Executive Directors, Milt Stark and founded as that is exactly the indelible memory that Royce left be- Ken Hackmeister remember it, Royce set a bench mark that will not hind. likely ever be duplicated – 50 years of service to the ISC. At the time However, the involvement of Royce with the International Softball of Royce’s induction (1984) into the ISC Hall of Fame, no one came Congress and fastpitch goes back much further and deeper than within 20 years of Royce’s length of service. just with his beloved ISC Hall of Fame. Royce had a full half century of involvement with the ISC and with the sport of fastpitch softball. Milt regarded Royce’s service and work ethic as the bench mark for all current and future ISC Commissioners. He noted that “as a true Royce was born in Venus, TX and was a real athlete. He graduated Texan, Royce takes time and thinks before he takes action. He stands from Midlothian where he played “every sport they had” which in- up and states what he thinks and uses good common sense to solve cluded fastpitch softball, track and football. Royce often lamented problems”. he did not get to play basketball as the school did not have a gym. Royce graduated in 1943 and quickly found himself in the US Navy. What many of his friends may not know is that for a short period of He was a crewman on a mine sweeper and saw a lot of action in the time, Royce was also an umpire for about 20 years. He even called South Pacific. After the war he returned to Texas and went to col- balls and strikes at an ISC World Tournament in Rock Island, IL one lege. year. Royce came from an era when just about every town, large or small, in Texas had a team or indeed a league of its own involved in com- But let’s face it, most or all of us knew Royce through his long-stand- petitive fastpitch. According to Heath family history, Royce had ing and exemplary involvement with and development of the ISC teamed up with older brother Marion “Son” Heath shortly after he Hall of Fame. Royce firmly believed in a rigorous identification and got out of the service after World War II. The Heath brothers came selection process to recognize those individuals who have stood out by their love of the game honestly, since their dad Andy was a within the ISC - players, managers, officials and developers. The south-paw pitcher of renown for many years process today is clearly defined and involves nominations, reviews, clearly defined rules and criteria. Royce’s fastpitch career took off in 1948 when he was a team mem- ber of the Arlington Merchants that captured an ASA Metro Re- Installed as the Chair of the ISC Hall of Fame Committee in 1978, gional Championship in what Royce remembers as his top thrill to Royce was at the helm for many years and made great progress. this point in his softball career. This was also a turning point for Under Royce’s leadership and guidance, the short on-field induction Royce, as with only ten players and no manager, guess who had to process was transformed to today’s refined and well-thought-out manage the team! annual Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Breakfast. Eventually Royce formed his own team, “Big Daddy’s”, sponsored by a liquor store that led to many years of great competition between Royce passed away on Friday January 12, 2018 in Iredell, Texas, the their teams in Fort Worth, TX. community to which he and his wife Dixie (Kelly), who pre-deceased Royce’s wife of over 50 years, Dixie, herself a former fastpitch player, him on November 11, 2015, moved in 1996, and where Royce was used to quip that Royce was a much better manager than he was a elected as Mayor in 2003. player. She explained that as a first baseman Royce was always “a great fielder who could also hit the long ball but he just could not Royce was a man of many talents and left a legacy for many to enjoy run fast enough.” Royce never disputed his wife’s analysis in this re- through the strength and quality of the ISC and its famous Hall of gard. Fame.

14 Hall of Fame 2018 Induction Breakfast Carrol Forbes

Foundation Carrol Forbes - 1909-1982 The Carrol Forbes Foundation, established in 1995 in memory other projects that fall within the criteria. Eligible applicants of ISC Founder Carrol Forbes (1909-1982) provides funding include all organizations or students that are affiliated with or for youth development programs to “invest in the future” of have a relationship with the ISC. this great sport of fastball. Resource development for the CFF originates from donors who become “members” in the Forbes Foundation. Member- Funding and membership – In August 2005, the ISC Board ship is open to individuals, families, teams, sponsors, busi- of Directors supported a recommendation from the CFF Com- nesses, organizations etc. Donors are eligible to receive IRS mittee that for the immediate future, half of the annual earned charitable tax receipts to offset income tax payable. For full income will be available the following year, to fund various details, see Page 36-37 of the 2018 ISC World Championship projects designated for youth development. Guide. Eligible programs include local clinics fostering the aims and Donations, payable to ISC, can be directed to objectives of fastball for youth, the inaugural ISC Scholarship CFF Treasurer Dean Kane, Denmark WI Program (annually offering one $500 college scholarship) and email: [email protected], Phone 920-265-4227

CFF DONORS (*denotes charter donors) PLATINUM ($2,500 +) *Les Novak - *Charles Smith (In memory of Barbara Smith) - John ’Jack’ Addison - Frank Trejo and the softball fans of Arizona - Dick Mason - Ray Russell GOLD ($1,000 +) *Milt & Diana Stark - *L. Rudy Thoman - *Bob & Jo Anne Welby - *Frank & Phyliss Porth - Ken & Leslie Hackmeister - Frank & Theresa Rogers - Peter J. Porcelli (In memory of Russ Boice) - Larry H. Miller Toyota & Page Brake teams of Salt Lake City, Utah (In memory of Brendan Keehan) - Schutt Sports - Robert & Kay Krull - Carl & LuGene Hansen (Page Brake) - Gateway Companies Inc. - Bob Welby Memorial - Jim & Joyce Allen - Kitchener-Waterloo 2002 World Tournament Committee - Al & Merry Ann Ruegsegger - Frank Trejo (In honor of past & present sponsors) - ISC Commissioners (special project) - Floyd Hammen - Kitchener 2006 World Tournament Committee (in memory of Laverne Reichert) - Lloyd & Verna Simpson - ISC 2006 Kitchener Host Committee auction - Quad Cities 2011 Hall of Fame breakfast auction - Dean Oscar (in memory of father Donald Oscar) SILVER ($500 +) Roy Stout (in memory of Betty Stout) - Robert & Lessie Gray - Ed & Carole Kirner - John & Brenda Thompson/Sports & Scholarships - Midland 2012 Hall of Fame Breakfast - Kitchener 2014 Hall of Fame Breakfast - South Bend 2015 Hall of Fame Breakfast - Quad Cities 2016 Hall of Fame Breakfast - Grand Rapids 2017 Hall of Fame Breakfast BRONZE ($250 +) Dick Gonzales & Clayton Dugger (In memory of Clyde Fortune) - Anonymous (In memory of Frank Porth) - Wayne & Jerilyn Fisher - Walcott IA Softball Organization - Keith Erkenbrack - Patrick & Judi Sullivan - Lee & Mary Jane Isenhart - Z-MAN Darren Zack book sales/John Thompson - Quad Cities 2013 Hall of Fame Breakfast (In memory of Sue Sherry) - Gordon & Susie Wise PATRON ($100 +) A&A Photo - Sioux City 1999 World Tournament - William Smith - Rodney Gray - Glenn Legrand - Vicki L Belnya, Mary Anne & Michael Griffen and Dawn Montavon (in memory of Tom McAvoy) - John & Brenda Thompson (In memory of John MacTavish) - Iowa Men’s Fastpitch Hall of Fame - Kevin Billiau ISC Carrol Forbes Foundation Scholarship Recipients 2018: Derek Hyde (Tavistock ON) & Mark McNally (Inwood ON) - 2017: Steve Lyons (Appin ON) & Mitch Stack (Petty Harbour NL) - 2016: Greg Hammell (New Hamburg ON) & Michael Lewis (Amboy MN) - 2015: Jonathan Baker (Kitchener ON) & Michael Lewis (Amboy MN) - 2014: Michael Lewis (Amboy MN) & Brent Menske (Lake Crystal MN) - 2013: Danny Innes (Embro ON) - 2012: Zach Loch (South Lyon MI) - 2009: Kevin Boyd (Newmarket ON) & B J Hunhoff (Sioux Falls ND) - 2008: B J Hunhoff (Sioux Falls ND - 2007: Andrew Putnam (Kitchener ON) Balance in the Carrol Forbes Foundation is $55,000 (as of September 2016).

Hall of Fame 2018 Induction Breakfast 15 16 Hall of Fame 2018 Induction Breakfast