Softball News Summer 2011 – 1

Hall of fame Plays and Invitational Non-Profi t Org. Classifi cations Tournament U.S. Postage banquet PAID Permit No. 44 Pages 5 Page 8 Page 11 Inside Garrison, ND

Volume 30, Number 1 SSoftball o f NORTH t bDAKOTA STATEa AMATEURll SOFTBALL ASSOCIATIONNewsN e w SUMMERSUMMERR s2011 Tharaldson elected to National Hall Of Fame Super sponsor recognized for Decades of Dedication to softball Gary Tharaldson has been named to the play. His teams won state championships 20 and leadership. When he moved the head- ASA National Hall of Fame as a sponsor. times, won regional titles 6 times and claimed quarters of his business enterprises to Fargo, The induction ceremony will take place at 2 national titles. A measure of his athletic he fi nanced the building of a fourth softball the conclusion of the ASA National Council ability can be judged by the fact that he was fi eld to complete a complex in Valley City and meeting in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina still competing as a pitcher on a Class A slow also upgraded the other fi elds in the complex in early November. Tharaldson joins the pitch teams at the age of 49. with new dugouts and scoreboards. He also late Duane “Tiny” Schafer and the late L.R. Among his many sponsorships have been funded the construction of a youth baseball “Tarz” Timm as the only North Dakotans teams in the Junior Olympic program for complex in Fargo which provides youth in the national shrine. Schafer was the state both boys and girls and in the JO fast pitch baseball opportunities as well as girl’s fast commissioner for over 36 years while Timm program for girls. pitch programs. was a well known and popular umpire. In addition, he sponsored teams in adult In addition to all his other sponsorship While Tharaldson’s recognition comes as Co-Ed slow pitch, Master’s and Senior’s slow activities Tharaldson has also provided all a result of his many years as a sponsor and pitch and men’s and women’s slow pitch. It of the team trophies and banners for each supporter of softball, he built an impres- can be truly said that his sponsorships have division of state tournament play in North sive resume as a player, coach and manager provided opportunities for hundreds if not Dakota including Junior Olympic and all as well. His accomplishments on the fi eld thousands of people to play the game of adult divisions of play. He sums up all of this include pitching over 1,000 games while softball. His sponsorships included not just fi nancial support with one simple statement maintaining a batting average of over .500. league fees but uniforms, equipment, tourna- “I donate to causes I believe in”. He participated in 45 state tournaments, ment entry fees and travel expenses. His induction into the National Hall of 15 regional tournaments and 15 national Tharaldson’s support of softball has been Fame is well earned and well deserved and tournaments. He competed successfully at the greatest sponsor of team sports in North North Dakota softball is proud of him and all levels of ASA play from Class A, B and Dakota over the past thirty years not only his many accomplishments and his generous C through all levels of masters and seniors fi nancially but by his personal involvement support of softball in North Dakota Gary Tharaldson Bismarck will host Northern National ASA Men’s Class C play over Labor Day Bismarck will play host to it’s tenth by a brief opening ceremony and the opening and individuals are registered ASA national softball tournament over the La- round of games. Games continue on Friday, teams and are properly classified as bor Day weekend as Class C Men’s teams September 2 beginning at 9:00 in the morning Class C players and teams. from a twelve state area meet to decide the and concluding at 9:00 that evening. Saturday Mike Wolf of Bismarck has been Northern Territory champion. The Northern will also be a full day of games from 9:00 named Umpire in Chief and will be Territory extends from the Dakotas east all a.m. to 8:00 p.m. The tournament wraps up responsible to assigning, scheduling the way to Kentucky and Indiana and teams on Sunday with trophy presentations at ap- and evaluating umpires throughout the from throughout that area are expected in the proximately 5:00 p.m. All times are tentative tournament. Capital city to compete. at this time and will depend on the number of Tournament headquarters and um- Tournament manager Tim Kuntz and As- teams participating in the event. pire hotel will be at the Ramkota Best sistant tournament manager Naomi Erdahl Tournament committees include Hospitali- Western at 800 South Third Street have assembled a local organizing committee ty/Volunteers; Facilities; Administration; Spe- in Bismarck. Team entry fee will be to handle the myriad details involved in host- cial Events; Game Operations and Umpires. $350.00. Admission for adults will be ing this national event. The National Offi ce of ASA has assigned $3.00 on Thursday and Sunday and The tournament kicks off on Thursday, Dick Gulmon of Valley City as the Offi cial $5.00 on Friday and Saturday. A tour- Tim Kuntz Naomi Erdahl, September 1 with team registrations, an um- ASA Representative to the tournament. His nament pass good for all games will be Tourney Director Assistant Director pire clinic and manager’s meeting followed duties are primarily to insure that all teams available for $10.00 Red Willow Lake Resortsee HALL OF FAME on page 2 Off Hwy #1, 25 miles North of Cooperstown • 30 miles south of Lakota ATTENTION! Coaches, Mom’s n’ Dad’s: Yup, we’re attempting to keep kids having fun by physically enjoying life - so bring all your 15 & Under, 12 & Under, 9 & Under boys & girls teams to RWR for fun, and attention - another reason - who will furnish us all those “Super Special” softball players we’ve enjoyed the past 65 years? They’re going to disappear completely!

Men’s Tourneys “Heifers want their playground back, 3 Game Guarantee or RR July 23 & 24 – III & IV ...... 24 teams Bill’s fi eld of dreams is having water problems, July 30 & 31 – III & IV ...... 16 teams but Vernis just refused to quit, so keep coming back in 2012” Aug. 27 & 28 – Open ...... 12 teams 37th Annual Fall Funerama Coed Tourneys OPENINGS IN ALL TOURNAMENTS Sept. 4-5 – Open ...... 24 teams “Reiles Transfer” from Fargo won last year! 3 Game Guarantee 3 game guarantee for all. 33rd Annual Spring Reunion Welcome Canadians and Minnesotans every tourney!! Baseball Aug. 21 & 22 – Open ...... 16 teams 3 Game Guarantee or RR Gals, fi nd 6 guys – no problem July 8 – 9 & Under ...... T-Ball Bring your tents, trailers, motorhomes, barbecue – they will be ready! July 9 & 10 – 15 & Under (Filled)...... Babe Ruth grills, motor boats, friends and family for a fun-fi lled July 16 & 17 – 12 & Under (Open) ...... Cal Ripken Win individual weekend. Restaurant open 12 hours a day, groceries, softball engraved medals, trophies, . . M.V.P. awards, 14 & 22 oz. Neon mugs, supplies and game machines. Go fi shing, swimming, For Information call: Super Bats for home runs and boating, skiing, rollerskating or play volleyball. Showers Vernis Haines - 676-2061 a few surprises!! on the grounds. Don’t go home without a Red Willow sweatshirt, cap or T-shirt for loved ones. Guys & Gals, God loves you and so do I! 2 – Softball News Summer 2011 President’s Report The summer issue of the NDASA tournament and work all year plan- normal conditions. My special nesota Labor Day weekend, Coed newspaper reminds us all that ning for this annual event. Their thanks to the McQuade BOD and Open, C & D in Bloomington 8/25- another softball season in North decision was gut wrenching at the tournament directors Mike Wolf 28, JO Slow Pitch 10U-18U in Wa- Dakota is passing by rapidly. We very least, but the right one for the and Jack Jones for all their work tertown 7/28-31 and JO GFP B 10U would like to send our best wishes benefi t of public safety. This year this year. It was not easy for any & B 18U in Rochester, Minnesota to all our friends of softball in the was to be a special year as the USA of them and we look forward to a 8/4-7. These are great opportunities Minot and Bismarck region who Men’s Slow Pitch National Team better year in 2012. for adult and JO softball right in have been dealing with the fl ood was invited to play two exhibition State Tournament time is around our back door. Take advantage as of 2011. We hope that softball in games during the tournament. How- the corner as the Classification each of these communities have ex- some small way has been able to ever, the exhibition games did go on Committees for WSP and MSP perience in running these national take peoples minds off the daily as scheduled on Friday night, and have met and determined the fi nal events and will provide your team struggles of the fl ood, and the dra- the games were great. An estimated team classes for 2011 and their and fans with an experience of a matic affect it has had on family’s crowd of 2500 was in attendance respective State Tournaments. A life time. On a local note to our homes and businesses. and I think the fans really enjoyed new rule this year in the NDASA MSP teams in N.D., take advantage The flood of 2011 also had a themselves as well. We hope the is allowing two (2) pick up play- of the MSP C National Tourney significant affect on the annual USA National Team will come back ers for State Tournament. We hope in Bismarck this year. It will be a McQuade Charity Softball Tour- again under normal conditions The that this new policy in NDASA will very competitive tournament and nament in Bismarck/Mandan this ASA National Offi ce in Oklahoma assist teams and reduce cancella- enjoyable to all softball players and Dick Gulmon year. Early entry numbers appeared City also sent Craig Cress, Direc- tions of State entries. See your fans. Tim Kuntz, Naomi Erdahl and to be another record of 485 teams tor of Membership for ASA as well league representative for details their staff has been planning for this and we appreciate it. Thank them until the Missouri River fl ooded as Chris Sebren, Asst. Director of and pickup forms to complete. A event for several months and will when ever you have the chance. and placed 22 diamonds in jeop- Membership to accompany the form can also be obtained from the provide a quality event for all to Good luck to all the teams ardy in Bismarck. The loss of these team and handle all the necessary NDASA web site. enjoy. Don’t miss it. who will be participating in the diamonds left the McQuade board arrangements. We were delighted In 2011 teams will also have a Special thanks again this year to NDASA State Tournaments and of directors with no other choice to have Craig and Chris at the great opportunity to participate in Gary and Connie Tharaldson and have a great rest of the 2011 softball but to scale back the tournament tournament, we just wish they and ASA National Championships in Tharaldson Enterprises for sponsor- season. and cut 250 teams out of the event the USA team were able to see a our region. MSP C, Bismarck, ing the State Tournament trophies in 2011. The McQuade board of normal McQuade and witness the North Dakota Labor Day weekend. and banners in 2011. This is a sig- Dick Gulmon directors are very dedicated to the “Woodstock of Softball” under WSP C&D in Bloomington, Min- nifi cant contribution to our program NDASA President

From Behind the Catcher As I write this the longest day of North Washington street and the Association held it’s annual Hall of injury. He was in his early 80’s and the year is tomorrow and of course four diamonds at Scheel’s Softball Fame Banquet and induction cer- had been very active until just the we all know what that means: from Complex located on north 19th emony for six newly elected mem- past couple of years. Jim was one of that day on we head inevitably street as well as the two diamonds bers to the state shrine. They are my deputy Umpires in Chief when toward winter. How’s that for a at 16th street. The women’s divi- Randy Anderson of Turtle Lakes, I was the state Umpire in Chief and dreary start to a column. Actually it sions will play at McQuades and Ray Brew of Dickinson, Rick he was the most dependable guy seems unfair that we are in the fi nal Scheels and the Master’s Wooden Fryhling of Fargo, Gail Ingwalson on the staff. If I needed an umpire week of June without having any- Bat men’s division will play at the of Grand Forks, Paul “Otto” Ferrie anytime and anywhere I could call thing close to Spring. For the third 16th street diamonds. By the time of Fargo and Harold Wilkens of Jim and he would be there. He year in a row we have had windy, anyone reads this, the McQuade Center. My congratulations to each would work one game or ten games overcast, rainy and cool weather. tournament will be over so we will of them for their contributions to if I asked him to do so without a My wife who keeps track of such k now how the madeshift schedules the game and to state softball. The quibble or complaint. He served as things when she isn’t keeping track worked out. We’re hoping for the banquet was the largest held since a District Judge in Valley City for a of me tells me that the last two best and praying that the weather we renewed the tradition of hold- number of years and after his retire- years we have had lousy weather gives us a break and that the tour- ing an annual dinner and induction ment moved to Colorado where he until the weekend of the McQuade nament goes on without any major ceremony. continued to umpire softball and tournament. And here we are just diffi culties. The Hall of Fame Selection baseball and offi ciate other sports. a few days from the 36th annual In addition to the McQuade tour- Committee is urging all members of When I had a long layover in Den- Walt Stack McQuade Charity Tournament and nament, Bismarck will also play the Hall of Fame to make an extra ver on my way to any softball event, what a different event it will be host to the Men’s Northern National effort to attend the banquet next I would let him know and he would hit me in the chest. I had already this year. The tournament Board Class C tournament over the Labor Spring to celebrate the 55th year come over and have coffee with me been wearing a light weight mask has had to cut back on the number Day weekend. Tournament Director of the establishment of the North and visit about the old days. He was to protect several dollars worth of of teams from what was projected Tim Kuntz of the Bismarck Parks Dakota Softball Hall of Fame. a good umpire and a good friend. dental work I had done last fall so to be 478 to about 230. The cut- and Recreation Department and his On a sad note, I was notifi ed last Finally, on a personal note, I am now I am in the unique position of backs were mandated when the assistant Naomi Erdahl have put to- week of the death of an old and umpiring a couple nights a week. wearing more equipment to umpire Board was advised by Emergency gether a committee of knowledge- dear friend who umpired for many Mostly women’s recreation leagues slow pitch than I ever wore while Management people that it would able softball people who will be years in North Dakota and was well and enjoying it as much as I always working adult fast pitch. Of course not be a good idea to bring several responsible for handling the many known and liked by players around have. I now have to wear an inside in my fast pitch days, we hid behind thousand softball players, families aspects of a national event. This the state. Jim Cieminski, known af- chest protector since I had my the catcher. Did I mention that my and spectators into the south side of will be the tenth national tourna- fectionately as “The Judge” passed pacemaker replaced in April and refl exes may not be as good as they Bismarck where twenty two of our ment hosted by Bismarck so there away in the Minneapolis area fol- the doctor didn’t think it would once were. most popular diamonds are located. is plenty of experience available. lowing a fall and a serious head be a good thing to have a foul tip See you around the diamonds. As many of you know, Bismarck is The tournament is scheduled to be in the midst of it’s fi rst fl ood since played at the Clem Kelley Softball the Garrison Dam was fi nished in Complex and hopefully the fl ood the mid-50’s. Much of the south situation will be over by that time. side of the city has been impacted Dick Gulmon of Valley City who by the rise of the Missouri river and is the NDASA state president has the Clem Kelley Softball Complex been assigned by the National offi ce and the Cottonwood Softball Com- as the offi cial ASA representative plex are both near the fl ooding sites. for the tournament and Mike Wolf, The decision was made to elimi- NDASA State Umpire in Chief has nate all four of the Recreation been selected to be the Umpire in Divisions in the men’s tournament Chief of the tournament. and to use only the four diamond Since the last issue of this paper, McQuade Softball Complex on the North Dakota Amateur Softball

Softball News Offi cial Publication of the North Dakota Amateur Softball Association

Editor: Walt Stack Advertising Director: Softball News, Box 309, Garrison, ND 58540 Subscription and similar material should be addressed to: Softball News, Box 309, Garrison, N.D. 58540. Advertising rates upon request. For advertising rates, write: BHG, Inc., P.O. Box 309, Garrison, ND 58540 or telephone (701) 463-2201. Softball News Summer 2011 – 3 Commissioner’s Column Welcome to summer- At this communities will grow and prosper awarded the Master 35 National tournaments as long as they par- time of year, most softball teams much greater than in the past. Tournament. Make plans for that ticipate in their respective state have played at least, if not more Because of the severe fl ooding tournament. tournament. The state will pay then half of their schedule. Clas- in Minot, the MSP Rec. II West has A new rule to be used for our the national tournament entry fee sifi cation meetings have been held been moved to Mandan on August state tournaments in 2011 will of the state tournament winner in and now it is time to plan for state 6th and 7th and the MSP Rec. III has affect all of our adult teams. The each class. tournaments. It is hard to believe been moved to Bismarck on August rule state teams may pick up play- There is still time to do on-line that many teams have not begun to 13th and 14th. ers for state tournaments. Teams registration for GFP and GSP. To play due to the harshness of weather The national MSP C Northern may pick up a maximum of two enter our tournaments, teams and conditions. will be held, as planned, in Bis- players. A maximum number of individuals must be registered. For many, softball is not even marck over the Labor Day week- players per team including pick-ups This is a tremendous bargain for in their mindset due to the terrible end. Other national tournaments is 12 players. Players must be from $8.00 per individual. The insurance fl ooding our small and large com- to be held in the Minnesota and your team’s classifi cation or lower gained is well worth the $8.00. munities have endured. I would South Dakota areas will be held as and from teams not drawn into the Presently, ASA is talking about like to express to the people in scheduled: WSP C and D in Bloom- bracket. Other changes also have raising the cost $2.00 due to the these communities the sadness we ington, MN August 25-28, JO GFP been made so check our website: loss cost. feel about the seriousness of their 10U-A and 10U-B and the 18U-B www.ndasa.org. At least one coach from each losses. As a person, who in 1997 in Rochester, MN August 4-7 (I JO GFP state tournaments (all team must take the ACE certifi ca- in Grand Forks, I experienced the will be the ASA representative), groups) will, this year, be held in tion test which is found on the ASA terrible damage inflicted to our and the 10U-18U in Watertown, Bismarck on July 23-24. Let’s have website: www.softball.org. All Jim Hanley community and to my family. I have SD July 28-31. good representation. Information individuals over the age of 18 who the duty of your league represen- tremendous empathy, especially to For North Dakota teams to be el- and registration is through Bill are on the fi eld must have a back- tative and manager to know the those living along the Mouse and igible for the MSP C Northern and Butterfi eld of Dickinson, the JO ground check. To register, contact rules and changes made. If you Missouri River systems. At pres- the WSP C and D in Bloomington, GFP State Commissioner or Brian Bill Butterfi eld, Brian Neuhardt, or wish information, contact one of ent, one does not really know what you must play in our designated Neuhardt of Bismarck, the JO GFP myself for information. the executive committee members. to do, but recovery will come and state tournament. Assistant State Commissioner. I want to remind you of the many Have a good summer. in the end, a period of time, your In 2012, Mandan has been GFP teams may enter national changes that have happened. It is Ump Chat It seems as though the fi rst part -Women’s A Fastpitch--Salem, OR. and one women’s team, everyone the Border Battle game live on of 2011 was moving along nicely The Following umpires will be was very understanding and it ESPN on Saturday July 23rd. until it came to May and everything umpiring the Men’s C in Bismarck- proved to be the right decision since I would also like to thank all started to change. Many people -Marchel Kreiger--Jamestown, it rained all day long. of the umpires that worked the throughout the state have been Ryan Gellner--West Fargo, Paul Around 3,000 fans and players McQuade and who donated most dealing with a lot of water related Beech--Wahpeton--Mark Sondag- came out in force on Friday night of their games back to the tour- issues the past couple of months -Bismarck, and Chad Mears--West of the McQuade to watch Team nament so those funds can be and it doesn’t look like the end to Fargo. The remaining thirteen um- USA play two exhibition games used to support the charities that the problems will come anytime pires coming to Bismarck will be against the Gene Werre All-Stars. benefit from the McQuade. A soon. On behalf of myself and coming from several other regions Gene Werre had volunteered at lot of umpires worked fourteen umpires throughout the state we throughout the country. every single McQuade Tourna- games over the weekend and it want everyone to know that we The McQuade tournament is ment since it started in 1976. Gene is amazing the amount of games sympathize with what everyone is in the books and it was a very passed away over the winter and so they work for nothing. Hats off going through and if there is ever challenging year to say the least. the all-star team that was assembled to the umpires who take all the anything I or we can do, all you Because of flooding issues and from players in the Men’s A/B divi- grief on the fi eld, but few know have to do is ask. safety concerns in the Bismarck/ sion was fi ttingly named the Gene that they are out there working for In September, Bismarck will be Mandan area, we had to make the Werre All-Stars in honor of Gene nothing just for the benefi t of the hosting the Men’s C Northern terri- tough decision to scale back the and his great dedication to the tour- charities! Thanks again to all of tory National Tournament over La- tournament for the first time in nament for 35 years. Gene’s wife the umpires for their dedication bor Day weekend. We are expecting the tournaments history. We had a Leona threw out the honorary fi rst and commitment to the McQuade Mike Wolf a good turnout for teams and our record 478 teams registered for the pitch to kick off the exhibition game Tournament!!! send your donation of any amount umpire crew of eighteen umpires tournament this year. After meeting and the 36th Annual McQuade We were very honored that Craig to the McQuade Tournament, P.O. has been assembled. This national with offi cials from the Emergency Charity Tournament. Cress and Chris Sebren from the Box 1196, Bismarck, ND, 58502. tournament provides a great oppor- Operation Center in Bismarck, Game one was low scoring and national offi ce in Oklahoma City Let’s all do what we can as ASA tunity for C and D teams throughout there was a concern for the safety of was tied at four runs each until the were able to attend the McQuade members to help those affected by the state to participate in a national players, fans, and residents of south bottom of the fourth inning before Tournament this year and get a feel fl ooding. tournament. A local organizing Bismarck in the event there were Team USA put up twelve runs to for the tournament even if it was I really appreciate all of the committee has been organized and an emergency with the the levy or take a 16-4 lead after four innings scaled back somewhat this year. calls and emails I get concerning we have already been meeting to ground water and an evacuation had of play. Team USA added six runs Craig said they would be back plays that happen on the fi eld and make the necessary plans to make to take place. It was the toughest in the over the next two innings as next year and we certainly appreci- other questions people may have. I sure the tournament runs smoothly. decision the Board has ever had to the Gene Werre All-Stars were un- ate the support we get from ASA. receive several calls and it is great For more information about the make and it was the last thing we able to keep up with Team USA as North Dakota is 100% ASA and we to know that umpires, players, and tournament, you can contact Tim wanted to do since we knew the they went on to win game one by wouldn’t want it any other way!! managers care enough to make sure Kuntz at Bismarck Parks and Rec- impact it would have on players, the fi nal score of 22-11. The McQuade Tournament is they understand the rules. reation at 701-222-6455 or email fans, and the charities. For the most Game two was much different also still trying to raise money I look forward to seeing a lot of him at [email protected]. You part everyone was very understand- through the fi rst three innings as specifi cally to help fl ood victims you at the upcoming state tourna- can also find information about ing of the decision but there are the Gene Werre All-Stars came out in Bismarck, Mandan, and Minot. ments. Let me know if I can be of the tournament on their website at always a few who don’t seem to strong and built a ten run lead over We are accepting donations of any assistance in any way. You can con- www.bisparks.org Mark your cal- see the big picture. The McQuade Team USA 16-6. However, things amount, but for a $20 donation you tact me via email at wolfden8993@ endars for Labor Day Weekend next Board would like thank everyone changed dramatically in the top of can get a “Here’s to the Hero’s” yahoo.com or call me on my cell at year when Mandan will be hosting for understanding and support after the fourth inning after Team USA cap, or visor or for $50 you can get 701-400-2100. Stay safe on and off the Men’s Masters 35 & Over. the tough decision was made to cut sent 28 batters to the plate and put a “Here’s to the Hero’s” T-shirt and the fi eld and have fun the rest of the We have several umpires from some divisions. 24 runs on the board which turned a cap or visor--quantities of each summer--after everything that has North Dakota that have been chosen However, we were still able their ten run defi cit into a 30-16 lead are limited. If you are interested in been going on, we need to have to umpire national tournaments this to hold several divisions at the for Team USA. helping out fl ood victims, you can some fun throughout our great state. summer. I have been working with McQuade and Friday night and The Gene Werre All Stars were UIC’s form around the country to Saturday were absolutely beauti- not able to come back after the big exchange umpires for national ful days and everyone had a great inning by Team USA and the game tournaments. This has been a great time on the fi eld and in the stands. ended with Team USA winning by opportunity for not only our ND Then came Sunday and the rain the ten run rule 37-24 which was Tournament Changes umpires, but umpires from other and lightening prevented us from called after six complete innings. regions of the country to showcase completing the final rounds and Team USA put on quite a perfor- Due to extreme fl ooding in Minot, the their talents outside of their local for the fi rst time since 1986 we had mance and didn’t disappoint the areas. to determine division winners by fans in attendance. Team USA was following tournaments have been changed: Congratulations to the following drawing cards. We decided against a great addition to the McQuade umpires who have been chosen to a coin fl ip since one manager would Tournament and we appreciated • Men’s Slow Pitch - Rec II-West has been work national tournaments this not be able to have a chance to call the fact that they wanted to come moved to Mandan on August 6 and 7 year: Lyle Rader--Wahpeton- the coin fl ip. So, we took one suit to Bismarck/Mandan for the ex- -Men’s 23U Fastpitch National of cards numbered 2-10 and each hibition game. Head coach Steve • Men’s Slow Pitch - Rec III-West has been in Mankato MN, Dale Elfman- manager had a chance to draw a Shortland said that Team USA moved to Bismarck on August 13 and 14. -Grand Forks--Men’s C National card and the highest card was the enjoyed their time at the McQuade in Fresno, CA, Gerald “Shorty” winner. Again, thanks to all of and coach Shortland appreciated These are the same dates as originally Payne--Grand Forks--Men’s A Na- you for your understanding when the opportunity to get the team on tional in Oklahoma City OK, Terry it came time to make another tough the fi eld in some game situations scheduled, only the site has been changed. O’Clair--Bismarck--Major Coed in decision to have to call the games. before they take on Team Canada in Bloomington, MN. Craig Hahn- Other than two upper league teams the Border Battle. You can watch 4 – Softball News Summer 2011 Politician/Pitcher earns early Hall of Fame Beyer named to Robert Byrne was in fi rst induction class Among the fi rst seven softball retary of State, Byrne also was executive committee players inducted into the North a director of the State Historical Dakota Softball Hall of Fame in Society. Wayne Beyer, Wahpeton Direc- 1957 was a politician with a love An interesting anecdote from the tor of Parks and Recreation and of fast pitch softball. Robert Byrne fi les of the Bismarck Tribune was NDASA Hall of Fame member was born August 1, 1886, became the following story about Byrne’s has been named to the Executive active in softball in Bismarck actions during the fi re of December Committee of the state Softball during the 1930’s while active in 28, 1930 which destroyed the old Association by state Commissioner Republican party politics. Byrne state capital building: Jim Hanley of Grand Forks. was elected to the North Dakota Secretary of State Robert By- Beyer has a rich background in House of Representatives in 1917 rne was the only casualty of the North Dakota softball and was one and served until 1920 when he suc- fire which destroyed the capital of the stalwarts on the title win- cessfully ran for the North Dakota building. Breaking a window to ning teams sponsored by Chuck’s state Senate from 1921 to 1924. get into his offi ce he opened the Off Sale. He has also been very He went on to win election as the vault and emerged with the original active in administration with the Secretary of State where he served copy of the state of North Dakota Wahpeton-Breckenridge Slow from 1924 through 1934 Constitution. Fire singed his hat Pitch Association, Three Rivers Meantime, he was active on the and his fi ngers were cut by glass Old Pro Softball and as the NDASA softball fi eld where he is credited as as he made his hurried exit from league representative for the Wah- starting softball in the Capital City. Robert Byrne the burning building through the peton association. He has also been a tournament manager for several He obtained rule books from the broken window. Wayne Beyer national offi ce of the Amateur Soft- those years are sketchy but it was Byrne was elected along with six years and has been a registered ball Association in 1928 and served noted on his Hall of Fame proposal other softball luminaries in 1957 ASA umpire. gion Tournament which had been as state softball Commissioner for that he pitched for a number of as one of the initial class of Hall of In his playing career, he ap- dominated for years by teams from fi ve years from 1929 through 1934. teams in Bismarck. Fame inductees. He died December peared in 23 state tournaments Minnesota. He was known for his Records of softball activity in In addition to his duties as Sec- 3l, 1967. and played for six teams which aggressive swing while at the plate won state championships. He was with an approximate batting aver- a prominent member of the team age over his career of .530 from Chuck’s Off Sale which was He brings to the Executive Com- the fi rst North Dakota team to win mittee a wealth of softball knowl- the Class AA Men’s Northern Re- edge and administrative experience. Hager named to executive committee Women’s slow pitch state Com- missioner Mary Hager of Harvey has been appointed to the Executive Committee of the North Dakota Amateur Softball Association by state commissioner Jim Hanley of Grand Forks. Hager was named Women’s state commissioner in January 2003 following the retire- ment of long time commissioner Mary Wadnizak of Fargo. Hager has been active in the game for over 35 years in her home town of Harvey and on the state level. She played the game for 17 years in a variety of positions and batted over .450 in her career Mary Hager while playing for two teams which served as Vice President of the captured state championships. She Women’s Slow Pitch Division and was elected to the softball Hall of also served on the Classifi cation Fame in 2000. Committee. She replaces retiring Prior to her appointment to committee member Kathy Corbett the Executive Committee, Hager of Williston. Bismarck names new Recreation Director Long time sssistant Randy Bina named At a special meeting of the Bismarck Park Board on June 9, Commissioners voted to make long time Assistant Director Randy Bina the new director of Bismarck’s Parks and Recreation Department effective July 1. Bina had been asked to serve as interim director following the announcement of the retirement of Steve Neu. Dur- ing the meeting on the 9th, Board Record turnout for Hall of Fame banquet members discussed the feasibility A record crowd of 153 people six new inductees brings the total ley, Larry Dahlstrom, Leroy Olson, of hiring a new director at a time attended the Hall of Fame banquet membership to 240. Lyle Halvorson, Mike Lyman, Pat when Bismarck is facing it’s worse and induction ceremony for six new North Dakota was one of the fi rst Stockert, Richard Peterson, Sharon threat of fl ooding in over 50 years. inductees into the softball shrine states in the Amateur Softball As- Morgan, Shirley Schafer and Walt As a result of that discussion, on Saturday evening April 16. For sociation to establish a state softball Stack Bina was deemed the best choice to take over the Director’s spot since the past several years the event has Hall of Fame in 1957 and the fi rst Anyone interested in nominating Randy Bina been held in conjunction with the in the country to build a specially someone for the Hall of Fame may he has been assistant director for Spring meeting of the North Dakota designed building to house material do so by requesting an application over 20 years. great Board and a great staff.” Amateur Softball Association. on Hall of Fame members. from our state offi ce in Jamestown. Bina began his career in Bis- Bina will decide on whether to Randy Anderson of Turtle Lake, Several state softball officials All applications must be submitted marck in 1988 after serving as hire an Assistant or to assign new Ray Brew of Dickinson, Rick who attend the Spring meeting by December 1 each year to be Parks and Recreation Director in duties to the present staff. Fryhling of Fargo, Paul “Otto” stay for the Hall of Fame festivities considered by the Hall of Fame Devils Lake. After the meeting Bina Bina is a native of Ardoch and Ferrie of Fargo, Gail Ingwalson of along with former inductees to the Selection Committee in January of expressed his appreciation for the earned a Bachelor Degree in Sci- Grand Forks and Harold Wilkens shrine. Among this year’s attendees each year. Board’s support and his admira- ence from UND and a Master’s of Center were formally welcomed were: Bruce Delzer, Carlie Carow, The portraits of all the members tion of the retiring Neu saying “He Degree in Management from the into the softball Hall of Fame by Collette Folstad, Ed Laxdahl, Eu- are displayed in the entry of the is one of the best in his fi eld.” He University of Mary. state commissioner Jim Hanley of Gene Hayes, Jim Baum, Jim Han- Jamestown Civic Center. also said that Bismarck has “a great Salary range for the new Direc- Grand Forks. The addition of the system, great community support, a tor will be discussed at a later date. Softball News Summer 2011 – 5 Past Olympians play professional softball Hall of Fame inductee dies Monroe D. Raugust of Harvey By Chelsea Janes died April 12, 2011 at the age of 85. USA TODAY He was inducted into the North Da- kota Softball Hall of Fame in 1987. When USA Softball opens its Monroe Duane Raugust was national team selection camp only born on Aug. 10, 1925, in Harvey. three of the 37 players in attendance He was the son of John Reinhold will have played a game for Team and Lena (Liebelt) Raugust. He USA in international competition. attended the Fairview Township Notably absent will be stars Jes- School and graduated from the sica Mendoza, Cat Osterman and Harvey High School in 1943. After other members of the 2008 U.S. graduation, he farmed with his fa- Olympic team, which won the sil- ther. He entered the army on Sept. ver medal. Those players decided 16, 1946, and served as a military to commit full time to National Pro policeman in Japan after World Fastpitch, which opens its season War 11. While in Japan, he was the this weekend. quarterback for the 25th Infantry In 2005, the International Olym- Monroe D. Raugust Division II “Stags” football team. pic Committee eliminated softball Honorably discharged on Dec. 29, enjoyed playing competitively on from the Olympics, resulting in 1947, he returned to the Harvey softball teams with his three sons. deep cuts to USA Softball’s funding area and resumed farming and He was a member of the Goodrich from the U.S. Olympic Committee. ranching. Monroe married Alvina Lions Club and was instrumental in USA/ASA Softball executive direc- Winter on June 27, 1948, in Harvey. the club sponsoring and chartering tor Ron Radigonda said this meant They lived and farmed southwest of the Harvey-Lions Club in 1984. the national governing body was no of Harvey, and moved into Harvey Served on the Fairview Township longer able to provide stipends for in 1982. Board, Goodrich School Board, national team members. Monroe was an active member Sheridan Association, Committee National Pro Fastpitch, however, of the Mennonite Brethren Church. to Save North Dakota, Sheridan is in a position to compensate play- He served on numerous committees Historical Society and received ers for its three-month schedule. and boards for both the local church numerous awards of recognition for The four teams have a $150,000 and the Mennonite Brethren Central his farming, ranching and steward- salary cap for rosters of 16 to 20 District. He enjoyed singing and ship practices. An avid outdoors- players, with salaries ranging from File photo by Alonzo Adams, AP acting, and could be seen or heard man, he enjoyed hunting deer, about $4,000 to $25,000. Lauren Lappin, now with the NPF’s Pride, celebrates after scoring performing something serious or pheasants and partridge. A great In the past, players competed a run while playing for Team USA in 2010. absolutely silly. He played both supporter of area athletics, he was for both their pro and national fast-pitch and slow-pitch softball a regular at high school games in teams, leaving NPF without its demands. “It was an emotional Kissimmee, Fla. But the Diamonds on area teams for 41 years and par- both Goodrich and Harvey watch- stars for much of the season. But decision for them ... but we have will play home games in fi ve ven- ticipated in numerous state and na- ing his children, grandchildren and this year’s national team schedule to be realistic. We have owners ues to expand the league’s visibility, tional softball tournaments. Monroe the families of his friends. includes several exhibitions and spending millions of dollars to including Calgary, in a nod to soft- tournaments, highlighted by the Pan build this league. They cannot be ball’s growth in Canada. Am Games in Mexico in October. without their marquee players for Former Canadian national team Accordingly, USA Softball asked the majority of the season.” member Danielle Lawrie said her Pickup players to be allowed athletes to commit solely to the While scheduling and fi nancial country’s federation was willing national team. issues might have led to the players’ to accommodate her NPF play, but in State Tournaments Faced with a tough choice, the decision, leaving behind the red, she also is committing full time to Olympians have decided to throw white and blue wasn’t easy. “ We the league. “Getting these players Teams entering state tournaments is from their highest team classifi ca- their energies into NPF. played with the national team for to commit for the summer, that’s for all men’s and women’s divisions tion or player data base, whichever “We left it open when we gave a long time,” said 2008 Olympian the fi rst step,” Lawrie said of her of play can pick up a maximum of classifi cation is greater. USA Softball our answer, but a Lauren Lappin, a Pride catcher and American teammates. “It’s what we two players. Maximum number of Pick-up player form must be lot has to happen for us to come infi elder. “But we’re focused on need to grow the league.” players including pick-up players signed by League Rep and submit- back,” Osterman said. “We need an building opportunities for girls to NPF and USA Softball hope they is 12. Pick up players must come ted to the tournament director prior environment where our athletes can play beyond college. And with the can collaborate on a shared goal — from your team classifi cation or to fi rst game. If form is not signed have the support they need to build Olympics out, professional softball growing the sport. Radigonda said lower and from teams which are by league rep, form is not valid. the sport. Hopefully we will get that is where it starts.” he appreciated those players com- not drawn into the state tournament All pick-up players must wear their from the national team and NPF.” NPF, originally Women’s Pro- mitting to NPF who, he said, “are brackets. own team uniform. NPF Commissioner Cheri Kempf fessional Fastpitch in 1997, also extremely important to us ... not The pick-up player classifi cation said she “hated the predicament” includes teams in Akron (Racers) only as players, but as individuals.” created by the national team’s and the NPF Diamonds, based in 2011 State Tournament Dates & Sites Men’s Slow Pitch July 23-24 Masters 40 Mandan 2011 ASA annual council meeting Masters 60 Mandan July 30-31 Masters 35 Fargo The Amateur Softball Associa- Player Representatives, At-Large amend the ASA Code and/or Play- Masters 50 Jamestown tion (ASA) of America, The Na- Player Representative, Regional ing Rules. All code and playing August 6-7 Rec I Jamestown tional Governing Body of Softball Junior Olympic Commissioners, rule amendments are then voted Rec II-East Grand Forks in the United States, in cooperation Regional Umpire-In-Chiefs, Allied on by the ASA Council During the Rec II-West Mandan with the South Carolina ASA, will Members, Elite Athlete Reps, and meeting. August 13-14 Division I Mandan host its 80th National Council Past Presidents, are charged with More than 100 tournaments will Division II Mandan Meeting at the Hilton Myrtle Beach making decisions on legislative be awarded on Tuesday, November Division III Mandan Resort in Myrtle Beach, S.C., No- changes, rule changes and is solely 8th, to cities across the country. Rec III-East Fargo vember 5-11, 2011. responsible for awarding National More than 40 different cities will Rec III-West Bismarck The ASA National Council is Championships to host cities across make their pitch to the National Masters 50 Wood Bat Mandan comprised of about 300 voting the country, Council during its general session August 20-21 Rec IV-East Grand Forks members from all aspects of the All changes to the ASA Code on Tuesday. More and more cities Rec IV-West Bismarck sport. The National Council, which and/or Playing rules are made are realizing the value of hosting consists of ASA Commissioners through a legislative process. The an ASA National Championship Women’s Slow Pitch or Commissioner Emeritus, Ex- fi rst step to enact code legislation is and are already preparing for future July 30-31 Masters Bismarck ecutive Director Emeritus, Coun- for a member of the ASA Council meetings. August 6-7 Class C Mandan cil Member Emeritus, Regional to submit proposed legislation to More than 1,000 people are ex- Class D Mandan pected to attend the Annual Trade Rec I West Fargo Show of the 79th Annual Meeting August 13-14 Rec II-East Valley City of the Amateur Softball Associa- Rec II-West Dickinson Girls Slow Pitch Nationals next door tion. The Trade Show will be held Rec III-East Devils Lake Watertown, S.D. Hosts 10 Through 18 Year Olds Saturday, November 5. Exhibit Rec III-West Bismarck hours are in the evening. The Trade Watertown, South Dakota will son, Lidgerwood, Milnor, Lisbon, Show will be held at the Myrtle Coed host the Junior Olympic Slow Pitch Napoleon, Valley City, Jamestown, Beach Resort. September 10-11 Div. I, II, III, IV Grand Forks National Championship for ages Harvey, Horace and Wahpeton all 10 and under, 12 and under, 14 and fi elded girl’s slow pitch teams in the Future Meetings Junior Olympic under, 16 and under and 18 and state tournament last year and all Dallas, Texas, will host the July 9 GSP 16 & Under Jamestown under July 28 through 31. What an would be eligible for this national Council Meeting in November July 10 GSP 18 & Under Jamestown opportunity for teams from North championship event as long as they 2012 at the Hilton Anatole. Okla- July 16 GSP 12 & Under Jamestown Dakota to participate in an ASA registered ASA and play in this homa City, Okla., which hosts the July 17 GSP 14 & Under Jamestown National Championship event. year’s state tournament. meeting every 5-years, will host in July 23-24 GFP 10 & Under Bismarck Several North Dakota cities Teams interested in obtaining 2013. Cities interested in hosting GFP 12 & Under Bismarck located in the southeastern half of more information can contact Girl’s the Annual Council Meeting are GFP 14 & Under Bismarck North Dakota will be within easy Slow Pitch Commissioner Scott encouraged to contact their local GFP 16 & Under Bismarck driving distance of this tournament. Schafer at the NDASA state offi ce ASA Association for details., GFP 18 & Under Bismarck The cities of Fairmount, Hankin- in Jamestown. 6 – Softball News Summer 2011 Rain and Lady Luck have big hand in McQuade Coin tosses determine a lot of tournament champions By Steve Thomas Rainfall that canceled the fi nal “We were probably 80 to 85 day of the McQuade softball tour- percent done with the tournament nament certainly didn’t chase away (through Saturday),” Wolf esti- all of the players. mated. “...We were satisfi ed with Hundreds of players, fans and the fact that people got two great tournament officials showed up days of softball in ... Saturday was for Sunday’s awards ceremony and a beautiful day.” coin fl ip competition at Memorial “Everybody had at least two Ballpark in Mandan. games in and some teams got four “I was really surprised at how games in,” Wolf added. many came here,” said Mike Wolf, In the sense, this year’s tourney a member of the tournament’s was a copy of the only other Mc- board of directors. “...It was totally Quade rain out in 1986. packed with people. That’s a great “That was on a Sunday too,” testimony to our players and fans.” Wolf recalled. A vast majority of the McQuade The exception of course, was the tournament hardware handed out single elimination women’s Rec II Sunday was determined by Lady and Rec III divisions. Luck. The coin fl ip actually turned Originally, this year’s McQuade out to be a cutting of a card deck. tournament was scheduled for 478 Only the men’s A-B, Men’s teams, which would have been Masters 35 Michelob Ultra, Men’s an all-time high for the 36-year- Masters 60 and Women’s C titles old event. Flooding and resulting were the result of what took place diamond constraints forced tourney on the diamonds. offi cials to pare off the four largest Sonny’s Softball Club of Casper, divisions. That left 230 teams, the Wyo., was the only remaining un- smallest McQuade fi eld since 1980, beaten in the men’s A-B division. the fi fth year of the tourney. Likewise, Fargo Bellerud Transport Rain of varying intensity contin- took the 35 Ultra title and Bismarck ued on and off through most of the Moritz Sports and Marine claimed draw, leaving no doubt that suspen- women’s C honors by virtue of their sion of play was the right call. unbeaten status. “Based on the information we Mandan-Wahpeton Dust-Tex- received weather wise, this was go- Sun Opta won the men’s Masters ing to be around the rest of the day,” 60 crown on the basis of Saturday’s Wolf said with a nod to the falling pool play. rain. “...Ultimately it turned out to That left eight divisions at the be the right decision.” mercy of the cards. Wolf said this was probably the Picking up via the draw where most demanding year in a long time Saturday’s game results left off, for people involved in organizing Fargo TFA/Channel Seed won the the McQuade. Logistically, he said men’s championship. Bismarck organizing a 230-team tourney Men’s Hair House (D), Mandan without some of the major diamond Charvat Custom Homes (Masters complexes involves more work 35 Amber Bock), Fargo Liberty than the usual 400-plus production. Business Systems (Masters 50) “It’s been a stressful month for prevailed by the luck of the draw the whole board. It’s been a tough in the other men’s divisions. year all-around, and not just in The cards favored Bismarck terms of softball,” Wolf noted. O’Brian/Active Life Chiropractic “There was kind of a little cloud (D); Bismarck Great Plains IGA over the tournament, just because (Rec I); Williston Four Mile Bar of all the things that are going on (Rec II) and Bismarck Northwest around our state.” Contracting (Rec III) in the other Gazing out at the rain, tourna- women’s divisions. ment board member Sam McQuade Although most of the trophies Jr. offered up a suggested headline: were awarded based on the draw “Is there anything else that could go Champion: Bismarck Moritz Sports and Marine. Runner-up: Fargo Tharaldson of the cards Wolf said plenty of wrong this year?” Enterprises. Third place: Las Vegas softball was actually played. (Nev.) ABNB over Minot Saunders Chiro- practic/Sports on Tap/Behms

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Open Mon. - Fri. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. or by appointment. Evenings and weekends available. 1-800-358-3338 or 701-751-2443 www.dakotafootankle.com • www.tanel360.com Softball News Summer 2011 – 7 Direct questions to Staying involved umpire in your area VC man’s passion for softball has taken him to national level By Anna Weisenburger City, while he was there for ASA Editor’s Note: Times/Record equipment testing and specifi ca- Following is a list of umpires in charge of various aspects of softball [email protected] tions committee meetings. from the Regional Umpire in Chief, who is in charge of umpires in the “He’s well respected on the na- Though he’s not out on the fi eld Northern Region which consists of Minnesota and two Dakotas, to the tional level,” said Stack. these days, Dick Gulmon still has North Dakota State Umpire in Chief and then the Deputy Umpires in chief Gulmon, who has been on the a passion for softball. in the various locations around the state of North Dakota. If you have a national equipment testing com- Through his North Dakota Ama- question regarding playing rules or have a comment about any of your mittee for 10 years, said that test- teur Softball Association presi- local umpires, please contact the Deputy in your area. If he/she can’t ing and specifi cations are “based dency and his chairmanship of the answer your question it will be passed along to the appropriate level. on the science of the game” and American Softball Association that the process takes a lot of time equipment testing committee, he REGION 11 UMPIRE Lyle Rader throughout the year. This commit- gives back to the sport he’s been Steve Riswold 619 5th Street North tee affects every softball program involved in for 32 years on a state 4901 S Baha Ave #3 Wahpeton ND 58075 in the country, specifying exactly and national level. Sioux Falls, SD 57106 Home 701-6423466 what kind of equipment is adequate “He’s a very dedicated guy,” said Home 605-362-1681 Cell 701-899-0158 for the players. Walt Stack, North Dakota softball Cell 605-212-0657 Email: [email protected] Gulmon’s dedication to the sport news editor and friend of Gulmon. E-Mail: [email protected] has not gone unnoticed and he has Michael Nider Before becoming president of Dick Gulmon been recognized in many ways. In the NDASA in 1999, Gulmon was STATE UMPIRE-IN-CHIEF 824 Lohstreter Road 1996, Gulmon was inducted into a player, team manager and a state Michael W. Wolf Mandan, ND 58554 Pederson said that Gulmon was the North Dakota Softball Hall of player representative. He was also 1926 Billings Drive Home 701-663-1515 instrumental in helping create the Fame and continues to serve on that NDASA vice president for 20 years. Bismarck, ND 58504-7253 Email: [email protected] softball diamonds at Valley City committee. “I’ve known him for 16 years,” Home 701-222-0478 State University. Wayne Beyer, an offi cer on the said Valley City League Represen- Cell 701-400-2100 Tom Harty Recently, Gulmon was able to at- NDASA executive board said the tative Amy Pederson. “He’s done Email: [email protected] 316 23rd Avenue NE tend a portion of the 2011 Women’s NDASA and softball “is his whole Jamestown, ND 58401 a lot for softball in North Dakota.” College World Series in Oklahoma life.” Deputy Umpires-in-Chief Home 701-952-1586 Ron Smith Work 701-252-0371 809 3rd Street SE Cell 701-269-2454 Players must carry picture ID Minot, ND 58701 Email: [email protected] Home 701-838-9217 North Dakota ASA will continue lowing rules in regard to picture ID: number down to nine, the team Email: [email protected] Al Ziemann to follow the National Rule which When questioned, if the player will be allowed to continue with 1008 27th Street NW requires that all players carry a does not have a picture ID on his an out in the batting position of the Pat Rock Healey Mandan, ND 58554 current picture ID with signature person, he or she will be given fi ve players ejected. This is similar to 3900 Fairview Drive Home 701-663-6547 at all tournaments. After June minutes to present it. the injury rule. Grand Forks, ND 58201 Email: [email protected] 15th, managers must also carry a The player is ineligible until a If the player turns out to be an Home 701-775-0117 copy of the team roster. picture ID has been presented. illegal player, the present rules for Email: rock [email protected] Randy Olson Spot checks will be made. Any The players in violation will be the use of illegal players will be [email protected] 1307 4th Avenue E. person playing without proper ejected from the game if no ID is in effect. West Fargo, ND 58078 ID will face suspension as do his available. MANAGERS—be sure all your Mike Lien Home 701-282-0766 teammates and/or manager. Games The game is not forfeited. players have picture identifi cation 4333 15th Avenue SW # 318 Cell 701-429-3708 will be forfeited at that time. The The team can replace the players so they will not be embarrassed and Fargo, ND 58103 Email: [email protected] NDASA executive committee if they have substitutions. lose their right to play. Cell 701-238-0129 meeting last fall adopted the fol- If the ejection brings the team Email: [email protected] Naomi Erdahl (Fastpitch) 1311 Portland Dr Elliott Gerhardt Bismarck, ND 58504 Class B bringing back aluminum bats 2216 E Capitol Avenue Home 701-425-2130 Bismarck, ND 58501 e-mail: [email protected]. Financial reasons cited as the reason for the switch Home 701-223-7977 net Cell 391-7121 EDITOR’S NOTE: the NCAA and American Legion Legion teams. email address: [email protected] Terry O’Clair Since softball has endured sever- baseball. “I just don’t see the point,” Fargo 1720 Hamburg Drive Bismarck, al seasons battling metal and com- The NCAA adopted the change South coach Donn Bryant said. Don Daniel ND 58504 posite bats, I thought this story from this season. “You can spend two to three times 507 W. 11th Street Home: 701-258-1574 the Fargo Forum was interesting in Many small communities in more on aluminum bats and they Williston, ND 58801 Cell: 701-391-0985 that Class B high schools baseball North Dakota that play Class B have the same pop (as wood).” Home 701-774-3690 Email: [email protected] teams are going back to aluminum baseball share equipment with the “The last three years I spent less Cell 570-3915 bats after using wooden bats in town’s American Legion team, than $2,000 on bats,” North coach Email: [email protected] previous seasons. Apparently the Fletschock said. Jeff Fiechtner added. “If we buy new standard for metal bats will Fletschock said it makes sense aluminum bats at $400, and we keep bat performance pretty close to change the high school standard want a new bat for each of four to that of wood bats. to fi t in line with American Legion teams, there goes my budget.” STATE COMMISSIONERS and NCAA rules. Bryant and Fiechtner said most By Heath Hotzler “We’ve already broken three of the baseball coaches in the NDASA [email protected] (wood) bats that are supposed to Eastern Dakota Conference would Junior Olympic Fast Pitch Commissioner: last,” Fletschock said. “You have prefer to stay with wood bats. FARGO - The first state high Bill Butterfi eld two options: Buy a new one or North Dakota changed to wood school league to switch exclusively send it back and receive it a couple bats in the fall of 2007 in large part 2877 83rd. Avenue SW to wood baseball bats is bringing of weeks later. I need the bat now” to avoid serious injuries. High exit Richardton, North Dakota 58652 aluminum back into the fold. Fletschock said the change will speeds for aluminum bats in the Phone #817-994-5854 The North Dakota High School cut his $1,000 bat budget at the high early 2000’s gave fielders little Email: [email protected] Activities Association Board of school in half. reaction time. Directors, which changed to wood Class A coaches have a different “BBCOR bats are basically Men’s Adult Fast Pitch Commissioner: in 2007, voted 11-0 last month to take on the fi nances. wood bats made of aluminum,” said Jim Collins allow aluminum bats in Class B That’s why the change may not NDHSAA Assistant to the Execu- 905 20th Avenue NW competition in 2011-12. hit the state’s largest schools any- tive Secretary Matt Fetsch. “They I know nostalgia-wise wood Minot, North Dakota 58701 time soon. Larger cities in North are not the weapons that have been is nice to use,” said Central Cass Dakota do not share equipment with used in the past.” Phone#701-839-5263 (Home) baseball coach and athletic director Email: [email protected] Justin Fletschock. “But we are fi ne with aluminum.” “Where a good night’s Women’s Slow Pitch Commissioner: Class B coaches and administra- SM Mary Hager tors asked for the change primarily rest costs less” 2838 18th Street NE for fi nancial reasons. Fletschock Harvey, North Dakota 58341 said. Class B district chairs voted Phone#701-324-5272(Home) Cell: 701-341-0565 16-0 to pass the recommendation Email: [email protected] on to the Board for a vote. American Legion baseball will switch to the BBCOR (Ball Bat Men’s Slow Pitch Commissioner: Coeffi cient of Restitution) standard Jack Lukes for its bats next year to fall in line 613 Rose Street with the National Federation of Lisbon, North Dakota 58054 High School Associations and the Phone# 701-683-4466 (Home) Cell: 701-680-0408 NCAA. Email: [email protected] BBCOR-rated aluminum bats • Free Hot Breakfast • Free Deluxe Breakfast • Free Hot Breakfast have nearly identical ball exit • Pool, Spa & Exercise Room • Next to Area’s Largest Mall • Mini Water Park speeds as wood bats, according to • Lounge & Casino • Indoor Spa & Exercise Room • Next to Area’s Largest Mall 8 – Softball News Summer 2011 It’s a family tradition Plays and Clarifi cations Editor’s Note: This is a story Johnson has struck out 368 batters tated to pitching. Kacie’s mom, As the ASA Championship Season ends, It is a good time to update from the Fargo Forum about a in four varsity seasons with a 1.10 Cindy, pitched in college. Kacie’s you on rules and mechanics as they apply to ASA Softball. It is time high school softball team and one career ERA in 3301/3 innings. older sister, Erin, was a standout for all umpires to review the umpire rule book and umpire manual. of its outstanding players. While “She hates to lose,” said Pat pitcher for the Packers and played If you are chosen to umpire a National Championship remember to it is not about ASA softball, there Johnson, West Fargo head coach in college. Kacie’s brother, Matt, stay focused, stay hydrated, and have a great time. You should ap- is an ASA connection in that the and Kacie’s dad. “If someone gets also pitches and is the coach at preciate the opportunity to represent your Local Association, your featured player is the daughter of a hit, she makes sure that person Fargo Shanley region, your territory and all of ASA. Remember, you are one of Pat Johnson of West Fargo who is doesn’t get a hit again. If she has a Kacie initially bucked the John- the best trained and prepared umpires in the country. This is one of the coach of the West Fargo High bad game, she makes sure she is not son pitching trend. Her spot to play the reasons why you have been selected to represent ASA in your School team and a member of the going to have another one.” was catcher until junior high. National Championship. Good Luck and Good Umpiring. NDASA Hall of Fame as a fast pitch Johnson is 13-1 this spring with “I loved blocking and throwing This month’s Plays and Clarifi cations address several items having pitcher. a 0.34 ERA. She has struck out 117 people out at second,” Kacie said. to do with rules and mechanics. They are as follows: batters in 82 innings and also has That was the big draw for me. Rule 3 By Eric Peterson one save. West Fargo (22-1) plays As a freshman, Kacie ended up Equipment. [email protected] Minot Ryan in the fi rst round of being one of the Packers top pitch- A question was raised about uniform numbers. ‘Is 0 and 00 the the North Dakota state tournament. ers by the end of the season. She same uniform number and would they be allowed as legal numbers West Fargo, Kacie Johnson The Packers have won the past 13 went 7-0 that spring with a 1.56 on the same team?” Rule 3 Section 6D states that ‘an Arabic whole wanted to break away from fam- state titles. ERA in 491/3 innings. number (0-99) of contrasting color or outlined in contrasting, at least ily tradition and not be a pitcher, “There are a lot of tough teams “That’s when I got really serious six inches high must be worn and visible on the back of all uniform but her bloodlines proved to be this year so we are going to have to about it,” Kacie said. “I pitched two shirts. No players on the team may wear identical numbers” This too thick. fi ght to get back to the (champion- of our big games at state when I was rule was changed in 2006 and the wording that I and 01 and 3 and “I wanted to be a catcher. I hated ship) game,” Kacie said. “That’s a freshman. That’s when it kind of 03 were examples of the same number was removed. This allows pitching when I was younger,” the where the pressure comes in.” hit me I was going to be a pitcher.” for more numbers for players to wear. However 1 and 01, as well West Fargo senior said with a laugh. Kacie said some of her earliest West Fargo senior fi rst baseman as 3 and 03 are examples of different numbers, and can be worn by “I kind of wanted to go away memories are going to Fargo’s Dani Nelson said at times she has to members of the same team during the game. This should clarify what from what my family has done ... Mickelson Park and watching her calm down Kacie, who gets worked numbers are not considered to be the same. so I thought I would try to break dad play fastpitch. Pat, who also is up even when she allows a hit. Rule 6 the barrier, but that didn’t happen.” a pitcher, has played fastpitch for “She gets a little worked up The ASA Council has passed an emergency playing rule change It’s a good thing for the Packers 35 years. sometimes,” Nelson said with a as per the ASA code. Playing Rule 6 Section 3 H (Slow Pitch): The fastpitch softball team Johnson end- “I loved it,” Kacie said. “I loved laugh. “She is very intense. She ball must be delivered with perceptible arc and reach a height of at ed up in the circle and not behind being there.” is very focused. She is always ex- least 6 feet from the ground, while not exceeding a maximum height the plate. The right-hander has a The entire family has played the cited during games and she is very of 10 feet from the ground. This rule will now have an exception 50-5 career record with three saves. sport and each member has gravi- determined.” that Senior Slow pitch will play by the old rule of reach a height of at least 6 feet from the ground, while not exceeding a maximum height of 12 feet from the ground. Rule 7 Batting Fast Pitch. Play: B2 a slap hitter, is hit by a pitched ball while out in front of the batter’s box. In a) that B 1 ducks to try to avoid being hit but Hall of Fame pitcher dies is still struck in the head and b) B2 is hit before having the time to William “Bill” Robert Keller, Bill was well know as a fast-pitch Play-It- avoid being hit by the pitch. 68, Bismarck died June 27, 2011, softball player and pitched for over Again Ruling: In a) If in the umpire’s judgment the batter made an attempt at MedCenter One Health System 20 years in the Bismarck Fastpitch Sports to get out of the way, the umpire should award the batter IB. In b) hospital, surrounded by his loving Softball Legue. His team was state with his since the batter made no attempt to get out of the way of the pitch family, following a courageous champions in 1974 and 1981. He daughter, this would be a dead ball and keep the batter up to bat. fi ght with cancer. was inducted into the North Dakota Lori, and ASA rules apply to a hit batter in three ways. Rule 7 Section 4H Bill was born March 5, 1943, Fastpitch Softball Hall of Fame as mowing and M applies if the batter swung or prevented the ball from enter- at Trinity Hospital, in Jamestown, a pitcher in 1988. the greens ing the strike zone. This would be a dead ball strike, Rule 8 Section the son of the Rev. ALC and Mar- Bill was an outdoor enthusiast: for the IF: When a pitched ball not swung at nor called a strike touches any garet (Brady) Keller. Bill was an bow hunting with Jeff, grandchil- last eight part of the batter’s person including the hands or clothing. EFFECT: outstanding athlete and Bismarck dren and friends in “the bottoms;” years at Dead Ball the batter Is entitled to fi rst base without liability to be High School graduate of the Class telling “everyone” how to fi sh the River- put out. EXCEPTION: If no attempt is made to avoid being hit, the of 1961, and attended Bismarck Missouri River system, golfi ng with wood batter will not be awarded 1B unless it is ball four. Junior College. He married his high his buddies anytime they could get Golf Course. ASA has always said that a pitch can fool a batter and they may school sweetheart, Judie Kaehler, together and particularly the Elbow Bill will always be remembered not have time to get out of the way. Umpires should use the thought on Oct. 10, 1963, at Faith Lutheran Room’s annual memorial golf tour- for his love of life, positive outlook process of the ball does not belong in the box and the benefi t of doubt Church in Bismarck. Judie was his nament. Bill created many longtime and great sense of humor. Each is given to the batter. When the batter is in front of the batter’s box best friend, his greatest supporter friendships while selling groceries, person he touched in his journey the reaction time is decreased and they could be hit with the ball and the best partner a man could ask sporting goods, “going to coffee” through life was a “friend,” know- before they have time to react and get out of the way. In this case for. Judie and Bill had two children, and playing cards at the Elks. ing friendship with Bill was as the umpire should use a similar thought process that the batter does Lori and Jeff. Bill also enjoyed working at special to him as it was to them. not belong in front of the box and if the reaction time is reduced, the benefi t of the doubt should be given to the pitcher. So apply the rule and use common sense when determining when Fewer diamonds, fewer teams in McQuade tournament a batter makes an attempt to keep from getting hit while in the box does not have time to make an attempt or while in the front of the By Lou Babiarz With the Clem Kelley and Cot- the tournament.” box makes no attempt to keep from being hit. Keep in mind, It will Tribune Sports Editor tonwood complexes being unavail- Cutting the number of teams always be a dead ball and a batter will either be awarded 111 or stay able, there simply won’t be enough inevitably will decrease the amount at bat with a ball added to the count. This year’s McQuade Softball diamonds available to accommo- of money the McQuade can raise Rule-8 Section 4F Tournament was supposed to be date a full-fl edged version of the for charities — a sum that has Rannars bigger than ever, with 478 teams McQuade. surpassed a million dollars over Play: (Slow Pitch with Stealing) 83 receives ball four and the pitch scheduled to compete in the 36th Wolf said that this year’s tourna- the years. gets away from the pitcher with a) no runners on base and edition of the charity event. ment was to three sites in Bismarck “I think it will,” Wolf said. b) R2 on 2B. Can B3 continue to 2B as the ball is live? Mother Nature has put a crimp — the Sam McQuade Sr. complex, “Hopefully our gate will be up Ruling: In a) The batter is not allowed to continue to 2B with in those plans. the 16th Street diamonds, and the there and people will come out and nobody on base. In this case, Slow Pitch with stealing, the rule was The McQuade was played June Scheels, complex near Shiloh — watch. We still have Team USA intended to allow base runners to steal on a ball not caught by the 24-26, but the flooding on the plus the Mandan complex. coming on Friday, and there will catcher. It was not designed to allow a batter-runner to advance to 2B. Missouri River forced organizers Wolf said that even if Cotton- be good softball. In a), the batter runner is required to stop at 1B unless the catcher’s to scale down the tournament. The wood and Clem Kelley remain “But when you think about return throw was not to the pitcher. In b), R2 is allowed to run until men’s recreation divisions — I, II, playable after the increased releases things like T-shirt sales, it’s hard the ball is in the pitcher’s possession and all play has apparently III and IV — will be eliminated this come from Garrison Dam, there are to fi gure out what you need to or- been completed. The batter runner is required to stop at 1B unless year. All other men’s divisions and other concerns. der,” Wolf added. “We’ll cut back a play is made on another runner on base. Rule 8 Section 4F [1- 4]. all the women’s divisions will go “We have been working with the on that. We probably won’t do the Rule 8 Section 5F on as scheduled. Emergency Operations Center,” silent auction to the extent that we Runners are entitled to adveance with liagility to be put out: The rec divisions are the Mc- Wolf said. “We’re concerned about have in the past. It will have an Play; With no outs, R1 on 1B and 52 hits a long fl y ball to F8. Quade’s biggest. As a result, this people’s safety. That’s the most impact.” RI rounds 28, sees the ball caught by FS and begins to return to 16. year’s fi eld will be down to about important thing.” Wolf said that some teams are The ball is released while R1 is between 2B and 3B. The ball goes 230 teams, the lowest number since Wolf said that when forced to going to donate their entry fee or a out of play while the RI is between IB and 2B. What is he correct 1980. trim the number of teams in the Mc- portion of it, so that the money will award for the umpire to apply? “It’s probably the toughest thing Quade, there were two reasons the still go to charity. He added that Ruling: Once the ball enters dead ball territory the umpire should we’ve had to do as a board,” said men’s rec divisions were chosen. while he knows some people will fi rst allow the runner to complete their base running responsibilities. Mike Wolf, the McQuade tourna- The fi rst was the sheer number of be disappointed about the decision, The umpire should hesitate to see If the runner Is going to retouch ment co-chair. “It’s hard to make teams. The second is that many of he hopes most will understand the I.B. Then the umpire should call dead ball and award two bases from a decision to eliminate teams from the participants in those divisions tournament organizers are trying the time of the release of the ball, not the time the ball goes out of the tournament when all of them are local. to make the best of a bad situation. play. This means that even though the runner was going back to tag have been so supportive over the “In the higher classes there are a “When you’re eliminating teams up, the release of the ball happened when the runner was between years.” lot of teams fl ying in,” Wolf said. and you know how much they look 2B and 3B. “... It wasn’t something we took “They’ve made airline reservations, forward to the tournament, it’s a Therefore, the runner would be awarded two (2) bases from the lightly.” and they have a big investment in gut-wrenching thing.” time of the throw. Rule 8 Section 5G Softball News Summer 2011 – 9 USA Men’s Slow Pitch team takes Teams to Move Up in 2011 two wins at exhibition in Bismarck Women’s • Fargo Doolittle’s/Bottle Bar From Class D to Class C: • Grand Forks Kelly’s BISMARCK, N.D. --- The 2011 Box Score from Game 1 for • Beulah Let’s Do It Again Ruffnecks version of the USA Men’s Slow • Fargo G & T Plumbing Pitch National Team opened the Team USA (Men’s Slow Pitch) From Rec I to Class D: vs. Gene Werre All Stars – June 24, 2011 • West Fargo Sport City exhibition portion of their sched- • Fargo Sperle/Spitfi re • Wahpeton Sportsman ule in Bismarck, N.D. on Friday, FINAL: USA 22 Gene Werre All Stars 11 • Fargo Rita’s Lounge June 24. They helped kick off the # Name POS AB R H RBI 2B 3B HR BB 36th Annual Sam McQuade Sr. 3 DeDonatis SS 5 1 1 - - - - - From Rec II East to Rec I: • Mandan AmeriPride Budweiser Charity Softball Tour- 14 Connell 2B 4 3 4 5 2 - 2 - • Harvey Gloves • LaMoure Gentzkow nament by playing a doubleheader 12 Wegman RF 4 2 1 1 - - 1 1 • Mayville J Strand/ Trucking against the Gene Werre All Stars in 44 Helmer C 4 3 3 3 - - 1 - Woodard Financial • Mandan Vicky’s/ Colin Welding front of over 2,500 fans at Mandan 4 Baker, Bryson MI 4 2 2 2 - - 1 - From Rec II West to Rec I: Diamonds. The Gene Werre squad • Dickinson TC/ACC 16 Bumgardner 1B 4 4 3 2 - - 2 1 • Minot Paradiso was made up of the top players from • Bismarck Great Northern 35 McCraw EH 4 2 2 3 - - 2 - • Bismarck Best Western the Dakota’s. Energy Game one was low scoring and 26 Baker, Rick CF 4 1 2 - - - - - Doublewood Inn 11 Rainwater LF 4 1 2 1 - - - - • Jamestown Tom’s Electric knotted at four apiece until the bot- From Rec III to Rec. II East 19 Purcell P 4 1 2 3 - - 1 - • Flasher My Place Bar/ tom of the 4th inning before Team • Grand Forks Diamond 9 Rulli 3B 4 2 3 - 2 - - 1 Bammers USA put up a 12 spot to take a 16-4 Lounge/Bud lead after four innings of play. Team Totals 45 22 25 19 4 - 10 3 • Bismarck Miller High Life/ • Grafton Extra End USA added two runs in the 5th and Box Score from Game 2 for Duffy’s four runs in the 6th inning. The All Team USA (Men’s Slow Pitch) From Rec III to Rec. II • Bismarck Comfort Inn/ Stars were unable to keep pace and vs. Gene Werre All Stars – June 24, 2011 West: Hangman Drywall a fi nal score of 22-11 in favor of FINAL: USA 37 Gene Werre All Stars 24 • Bismarck Edsons • Bismarck MCS Appraisal/ Team USA closed out game one. In # Name POS AB R H RBI 2B 3B HR BB Construction Becker that deciding 4th inning, Team USA 3 DeDonatis SS 6 3 1 1 - - - 2 sent 15 batters to the plate and used From Rec IV to Rec III: 5 of their 10 allowed home runs. 14 Connell 2B 6 6 6 2 2 2 - - Men’s • Dickinson Bud Light First time USA Team Member 12 Wegman MI 6 4 6 6 1 1 - - From Rec I to D: • Beulah Dakota Gregg Connell (Moultrie, Ga.) 44 Helmer C 6 3 3 5 - - 1 1 • West Fargo VFW Westmoreland/Sports led the offensive effort as he went 4 Baker, Bryson EH 6 2 2 2 - - 1 - (2nd at E/Rec Nationals) • Turtle Lake Anderson 4-4 with fi ve RBI on two doubles 16 Bumgardner 1B 6 2 2 3 - - 1 1 • Minot Carlson Well Service Cabinets and two home runs. Brett Helmer 35 McCraw LF 5 3 1 1 - - 1 2 (3rd at E/Rec Nationals) • Dickinson Taylor Crane (Cicero, N.Y.), Rusty Bumgardner 34 Buck P 5 3 4 4 - - 1 - • New Town Sveen’s (Gastonia, N.C.) and Dennis Rulli • Bismarck Challenger 26 Baker, Rick CF 5 4 4 6 - - 3 - Industries Construction (Moorpark, Ca.) all had three hits 7 Hughes RF 5 3 3 2 - - 1 - • Hunter Insurance/Verwest each with Helmer and Bumgardner (5th at E/Rec Nationals) 99 Beggs 3B 5 4 4 3 2 1 1 - Contracting contributing three RBI each. Win- • Bismarck Jerome’s/ Totals 61 37 36 35 5 4 10 6 ning Pitcher Andy Purcell (Naples, Paramount/Just-in Glass • Grand Forks Taco John’s Fla.) helped his own cause by con- * Exhibition Series at 36th Annual Sam McQuade Sr. Bud- • Fargo Chub’s Pub #1/ • Grand Forks Crosstown tributing a three run home run in weiser Charity Softball Tournament in Bismarck, North Dakota. Tubs of Fun Shockers the 4th inning. • Wahpeton Driftwood • Fargo Striver Chiropractic Game 2 started much differently (Jonesboro, Ark.) played well in United States and a member of the • Bismarck K&L Homes • West Fargo Cabinet for the Gene Werre All Stars as their fi rst outing wearing the Red, United States Olympic Committee. Makers they came out of the gate strong White and Blue. Beggs was 4-for-5 The ASA has become one of the From Rec II to Rec I: • Lisbon Gordy’s Grill & Fill and held a 16-6 lead over Team with three RBI and four runs scored nation’s largest sports organizations • Minot Taco John’s • Oakes Nutec USA after three complete innings and Hughes recorded a 3-for-5 out- and now sanctions competition in • Bismarck Mariner • Fargo Loaf & Jug of play. In this contest Team USA ing with a home run and two RBI. every state through a network of Construction • Wahpeton Red River were visitors on the score board, For the game, Team USA went to 76 local associations. The ASA has • Wahpeton MDI Agency but in the top 4th inning the tide the plate 61 times and produced 37 grown from a few hundred teams • Fullerton • Petersburg Town Pump II changed for the Red, White and runs on 36 hits. Team USA Players, in the early days to over 210,000 • Fargo Ultimate Blue. Team USA sent 28 batters • West Fargo FM Mortgage Coaches and the ASA / USA Staff teams today, representing a mem- Trasportation to the plate and put 24 runs on want to thank the McQuade Tourna- bership of more than three million. • Fargo JSPK Childcare/ • Valley City Merchants the board which erased the 10 run ment Committee and North Dakota For more information on the ASA, Playmakers defi cit and gave Team USA a 30-16 ASA for their generous hospitality visit www.asasoftball.com. • Gackle lead heading into the home half of and the opportunity to be a part of About USA Softball From Rec III to Rec II: • Mandan Last Call/ the inning. The All Stars were not this nostalgic and successful ASA USA Softball is the brand cre- • Mayport Insurance Miller Lite able to recover and the fi nal score Invitational Tournament which ated, operated and owned by the was 37-24; which was called after benefi ts so many great charities. ASA that links the USA Men’s, six complete innings because of the The team and program also want Women’s, Junior Boys’ and Junior run-ahead rule. the citizens of North Dakota to Girls’ National Team programs to- Home Run NDASA Connell continued his hot streak know that our hearts go out to those gether. USA Softball is responsible in going a perfect 6-for-6 for the affected by the fl ood in the area. for training, equipping and pro- Limits 2011 Contact game. Brian Wegman (Hamilton, Up next for Team USA is exhibi- moting these four National Teams Ohio) also was 6-for-6 with 6 RBI tion stop number two in Cincinnati to compete in international and Women Home Run Limits Information without the assistance of the long Ohio on July 14th where they will domestic competitions. The USA Class C 4 NDASA State Offi ce ball. Several other Team USA face Team Cincinnati in a double- Softball Women’s National Team is Class D 2 members contributed to the effort header at Mid American Ballyard. one of the only two women’s sports P.O. Box 2155 with impressive offensive numbers. This will be the fi nal stop prior to involved in the Olympic movement Rec I 2 Jamestown, North Dakota 58402 Rick Baker (West Harrison, Ind.) the team ascending on Oklahoma to capture three consecutive gold Rec II 2 Phone # 701-952-4448 was 4-for-5 with three home runs City for Border Battle III in the medals at the Olympic Games Rec III 2 Email: [email protected] and six RBI. Helmer went 3-for-3 rubber match game with Team since 1996. The U.S. women have Web Site: www.ndasa.org with fi ve RBI while winning pitcher Canada on Saturday, July 23. For also won nine World Champion- Men Home Run Limits State Commissioner: Geno Buck (Red Wing, Minn.), more information, log on to www. ship titles including the last seven Class B 6 Jim Hanley making his Team USA debut, sup- usasoftball.com. consecutive as well as claimed Class C 4 1708 Cottonwood Street ported his pitching cause by going About ASA four World Cup of Softball titles. Class D 2 Grand Forks, North Dakota 4-for-5 with four RBI. Other fi rst The Amateur Softball Associa- For more information about USA Rec I 2 58201 time Team USA players Dal Beggs tion, founded in 1933, is the Nation- Softball, please visit www.usasoft- Rec II 2 (Gainesville, Fla.) and Bob Hughes al Governing Body of softball in the ball.com. Phone #701-772-2709 or Rec III & IV 2 701-772-4319(Home) Masters 35 and 40 4 Cell: 218-779-1525 Masters 50 and 60 3 Rules Clinics completed statewide Email: [email protected] State Umpire in Chief Mike Wolf coaches and players so that they measuring devices are helpful to Coed 2 of Bismarck and his deputies who are exposed to a discussion of rules assure everyone can see the legal **** Excess Home Runs State President: are stationed around the state have which adds to their understand- height of a pitch. result in a dead ball, batter Dick Gulmon completed rules clinics around the ing of the rules and cuts down on Further demonstrations involv- is out, and no runners may state. A total of 53 clinics were held disagreements during league and ing hitting and base running are also 883 Chatauqua Boulevard in every area of the state. tournament games. useful and preferable to classroom advance. Valley City, North Dakota 58072 The clinics are intended to in- An aspect of the clinics which lectures. ****If the ball touches a Phone#701-845-4332(Home) struct umpires and managers, draws much attention are the clinics Elsewhere in this issue you will player or their glove and Cell:701-490-0078 coaches and players with rule held on the fi eld in several loca- fi nd a listing of the Deputy Umpires the ball goes over the fence Email: [email protected] changes from year to year. tions. Many rules are better under- in Chief in the various locations in (without hitting the ground), The rules clinics were initiated in stood if they can be demonstrated the state. there is a 4 base award State Umpire in Chief: the early 1970’s to educate umpires on the fi eld. Pitching is an example, Questions on rule interpretations which doesn’t count against Mike Wolf each year with changes to the rules especially in slow pitch. should be directed to the Deputy a team’s Home Run Total. 1926 Billings Drive and also to provide instruction With limitations on the height of from your area. State Umpire in ****Inside the park Home Bismarck, North Dakota 58504 regarding positioning and mechan- a legal pitch, there will always be Chief Mike Wolf is also available Runs do not count against a Phone# 701-222-0478 (Home) ics for umpires. In addition, these disagreements with the judgment to managers and players seeking team’s total. meetings are open to managers, of the umpire. Demonstrations with rule clarifi cations. Email: [email protected] 10 – Softball News Summer 2011 Lachenmeier named to executive committee Stefonek Sue Lachenmeier of Bismarck has been named to the NDASA Executive Committee by state Commissioner Jim Hanley. Lachen- recognized meier brings a wealth of softball background and knowledge to the position. She has served as the for years of President of the Women’s Slow pitch state organization for the past several years and for many years before that she was the League service to Representative for the Bismarck Women’s Association. Lachenmeier has been involved in women’s softball for over 35 North Dakota years in coaching and managerial roles as well as in administrative positions. She has been a coach/ softball manager of various Bismarck teams for over 25 years after a brief tenure Sue Lachenmeier State President Dick as a player. Gulmon presents Kathy Stefanek with a plaque to recognize her years of dedication to the North Dakota Softball Associa- ASA Player Information tion. Mandatory Classifi cation Mandatory Player Classifica- sifi ed players and no players from Tharaldson provides trophies, banners tion. Starting January 1 each year Class A, Class B, Class C, Class Super sponsor and softball boost- to the state Softball Hall of Fame in will start a player appeal process D+ or the Restricted Player’s List. er Gary Tharaldson will again 1995 as a player and coach of some where each player can submit an • 06. Men’s Masters 35-Over, provide the trophies and the cham- of the most successful teams ever appeal to have their player rating 40-Over, and 45-Over Slow Pitch. pionship banners for all state soft- to play in North Dakota. dropped. This process ends August Two ( 2 ) players from the ASA ball tournaments sponsored by the He played for many years at the 1 and at that time appeals will not Restricted Players List and two ( 2 North Dakota Amateur Softball highest level of slow pitch softball be accepted until January. We have ) Class A rated players or no players Association. and won over 650 games as a taken our team guidelines and based from the Restricted Player List and Included are all the awards for pitcher. He led his teams in over it on the ASA Code in which a team four (4) Class A rated players. the Junior Olympic program as thirty state tournaments, a number could have 3 Mandatory players Women’s Slow Pitch well as adult awards in both slow of Regional events and close to two from the next higher division on • 07. Women’s Open = Any Fe- pitch and fast pitch. The number of dozen National Tournaments. their roster. We consider our list male Player trophies and banners depends on the NDASA is able to provide the equal to Mandatory rated players. • 08. Women’s C = Three ( 3) number of teams entering each of trophies and banners only through With the player rating system Open classifi ed players. the state tournaments. the cooperation and generosity that we have in place helps create • 09. Women’s D = Three ( 3 ) Gary Tharaldson and his wife of Gary Tharaldson and his vari- a fair and level playing fi eld for C classifi ed players and no Open Connie continue their commitment ous business enterprises. NDASA all of our teams not only at a local classifi ed players. to North Dakota softball with spon- gratefully acknowledges his many, but also at a national level. Below Co-ed Slow Pitch sorship of both men’s and women’s many contributions to North Da- are the guidelines that we use on • 10. Co-ed Open = Any Female adult teams. Gary’s sponsorship kota softball. Gary Tharaldson how to classify a team. Players on Player and two ( 2 ) male players started in the early 1980’s and in- The Amateur Softball Asso- to the National ASA Hall of Fame. the ASA Restricted List can only from the ASA Restricted Player’s cludes sponsorship of many state ciation of America, the governing Induction ceremonies will take participate in the Men’s A or Coed List. championship teams, Regional body of softball in the United States place at the annual ASA Council Open Programs. A Player may have • 11. Co-ed C = No Open clas- champions and several national has recognized his many contribu- meeting to be held in November a + (plus) designation, this player sifi ed female players and no male tournament teams. He was elected tions to the game by naming him in Myrtle Beach, South Carolina. cannot play down a class. classified players from Class A, Men’s Slow Pitch Class B, or the ASA Restricted • 01.Men’s A = 5 Player’s from Player’s List. 2011 ASA National Championships the ASA Restricted Players List. • 12. Co-ed D = Two ( 2 ) female • 02.Men’s B = 3 A Rated players C classifi ed players and two (2) Adult Men Slow Pitch and no players Class A+ or from the male C classifi ed players. No Open Men’s Class B 9/1 9/5 Oklahoma City, OK Restricted Player List. classifi ed female players or male Men’s Masters 35-Over 9/9 9/11 Waxahachie, TX • 03.Men’s C = Three ( 3) B players from Class A, Class B, or Men’s Masters 40-Over 8/26 8/28 Auburn, AL classifi ed players and no players the ASA Restricted Players List. from Class A, Class B+, or the ASA NOTE: Players that have no ASA Territory Tournaments Restricted Player’s List. playing history should be handled Hooters ASA Men’s Northern Class C 9/1 9/5 Bismarck, ND • 04.Men’s D = Three ( 3) C clas- in the following manner. If a track Hooters ASA Men’s Northern Class D 9/1 9/5 Topeka, KS sifi ed players and no players from record of a player can be verifi ed in ASA Men’s Northern Class E/Rec 9/1 9/5 Springfi eld, MO Class A, Class B, Class C+, or the another National Association that ASA Women’s Northern Class C 9/1 9/5 Bloomington, MN Restricted Player’s List. player can be rated at that level ASA Women’s Northern Class D 9/1 9/5 Bloomington, MN • 05.Men’s E = Three ( 3 ) D clas- or higher. Coed Class C Eastern 8/25 8/28 Bloomington, MN Coed Class D Northern 8/25 8/28 Bloomington, MN

Adult Women Slow Pitch NDSU Bison Reach Women’s Master 35-Over 8/12 8/14 Dohan, AL

Senior Slow Pitch Division One Regional Senior 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75 East 9/1 9/5 Burlington, NC Yogi Berra had an apt defi nition they promptly sent the North Da- Senior 50, 55, 60, 65, 70,75 West 9/1 9/5 Fort Collins, CO for the situation faced by the NDSU kota team down to defeat. Bison softball team this Spring. In the second game of the double Youth “It’s de’JA vu all over again.” elimination tournament, the Bison Girls’ A 10-Under Southern 8/4 8/7 Rochester. MN For the second year in a row, the took an early lead but couldn’t hold Girls’ B 10-Under Northern 8/4 8/7 Rochester, MN Bison won the Summit League to off the team from San Diego State Girls’ B 18-Under Northern 8/4 8/7 Rochester, MN advance to the NCAA Division One who sent the Bison home with a 5 Regional tournament in Tempe, to 4 win. Arizona. Just as they did last year, Despite the two quick defeats 2011 Suspensions & Probations the Bison had to face the number the NDSU team enjoyed another • Dominic Paradino Jr., Fargo, & 2011 NDASA/ASA play. Five • T C Wolves Softball Team, one ranked team in the nation in stellar season on the diamond and Unsportsmanlike conduct, suspend- years probation starting 1/1/12 Mandan, Illegal participation. Pro- their initial game. Last year it was advanced to the Regional tourna- ed indefi nitely, Two year probation • Ryan Hertel, Jerome Talley, bation 2011 season UCLA and this year Arizona State ment for the third straight year. follows reinstatement. Delmon Clown, Lyle Uses Arrow, • Kyle Wheeler, Minot, Illegal was their fi rst game opponent and • Scott Fears, West Fargo, Un- Mandan, Illegal participation. Sus- participation. Probation 2010-2011 sportsmanlike conduct, Probation pension through 7/1/11. Probation • Dilon Kunz, Jamestown, Un- thru 2011 2011 & 2012 sportsmanlike conduct. Probation • Jason Baca, Mandan, Illegal • Dustin Talley, Mandan, Illegal 2010-2011 participation (2nd) Probation thru participation. Suspension through • Danny Kunz, Jamestown, Un- 2011 7/1/11. Probation 2011, 2012 & sportsmanlike conduct. Probation • Todd Kalpakoff, Fargo, Altered 2013 2010-2011 bat. Two years suspension 2010 Softball News Summer 2011 – 11 NDASA 2011 Invitational Tournaments Men’s Slow Pitch Date City Classifi cations Type Fee Director July 9-10 Dickinson D-R1, R2, R3, R4 3GG $100 Eric Kittleson, 2004 Fairway St, Dickinson, ND 58601, 456-2074 July 9-10 Grand Forks 6 C-D, 8 R1-R2, 8 R3-R4 RR $135 Todd Lafferty, 427 Burdick Ct, Grand Forks, ND 58203, 230-5924 July 9-10 Rugby 12 R2-R4 RR $110 Mark Hamilton, 1116 Main Ave S, Rugby ND 58368, 208-1373 July 9 Stump Lake 8 R2-R4 3GG $90 Dwight Elfman, 1411 11th Ave SE, Devils Lake, ND 58301, 662-3928, 351-1560 July 10 Prairie Rose C-R4 3GG $95 Mike Wald, Bismarck Parks & Rec, 400 E Front Ave, Bismarck, ND 58504 July 10 Turtle Lake 16 R3-R4 3GG $90 Darwin Saari, PO Box 338, Turtle Lake, ND 58575, 448-2596 Jul;y 16 Devils Lake 6 C- R1, 16 R2-R4 RR, 3GG $90 Terry Wallace, PO Box 446, Devils Lake, ND 58301, 662-8243 July 16-17 Mandan 16 C-D, 16 R1-R2, 16 R3-R4 DE $100 Ryan Steifel, 2612 Berkshire Dr, Bismarck, ND 58503, 222-1702 July 16-17 Oakes Early Entry 7/3 24 R3-R4 3GG $100 Bob Ubben, 210 S 7th St, Oakes, ND 58474, 742-2087, 388-3083 July 17 Valley City 5 R1-R2 RR $100 Amy Pederson, PO Box 422, Valley City, ND 58072, 845-3294 8 R3-R4 3GG $90 July 22 Wahpeton 8 R3-R4 3GG $90 Laree Bumgarner, 304 5th St S, Wahpeton, ND 58075, 642-2811 July 23-24 Minot 50 C-R4 3GG $100 Tom Landseidel, PO Box 684, Minot, ND 58702, 857-4730 July 23-24 Red Willow 24 R3-R4 C&C $90 Vernis Haines, 1540 County Rd 5, Binford, ND 58416, 676-2061 July 30-31 Red Willow 16 R2-R4 RR $90 Vernis Haines, 1540 County Rd 5, Binford, ND 58416, 676-2061 August 20-21 Center 16 R3-R4 RR $100 JD Hanson, Box 1836, Center, ND 58530, 794-8891 August 20-21 Fargo 16 R1-R2, 16 R3-R4 RR $150 Steve Granberg, 2513 4th Ave S, Moorhead, MN 56560, 218-236-5867 August 27-28 Red Willow 16 Open C&C $90 Vernis Haines, 1540 County Rd 5, Binford, ND 58416, 676-2061 September 3-4 Grand Rapids 8 Open 3GG $75 David Warken, 6989 104th Ave SE, LaMoure Nd 58458, 883-5569 September 3-5 Red Willow 24 Open 3GG $90 Vernis Haines, 1540 County Rd 5, Binford, ND 58416, 676-2061 September 11 Dickinson R1-R2, R3-R4 3GG $100 Eric Kittleson, 2004 Fairway St, Dickinson, ND 58601, 456-2074

Women’s Slow Pitch Date City Classifi cations Type Fee Director July 9-10 Dickinson D-R1, R2-R3 3GG $100 Eric Kittleson, 2004 Fairway St, Dickinson, ND 58601, 456-2074 July 9-10 Grand Forks 6 C-D, 6 R1-R3 RR $135 Todd Lafferty, 427 Burdick Ct, Grand Forks, ND 58203, 230-5924 July 10 Prairie Rose C-R3 3GG $95 Mike Wald, Bismarck Parks & Rec, 400 E Front Ave, Bismarck, ND 58504 July 15 Wahpeton 8 Open CC $85 Laree Bumgarner, 304 5th St S, Wahpeton, ND 58075, 642-2811 July 16 Devils Lake 8 R1-R3 3GG $90 Terry Wallace, PO Box 446, Devils Lake, ND 58301, 662-8243 July 16-17 Mandan 16 R2-R3 DE $100 Ryan Steifel, 2612 Berkshire Dr, Bismarck, ND 58503, 222-1702 July 23-24 Minot 45C & Below 3GG $100 Tom Landseidel, PO Box 684, Minot, ND 58702, 857-4730 September 11 Dickinson R1, R2-R3 3GG $100 Eric Kittleson, 2004 Fairway St, Dickinson, ND 58601, 456-2074

Coed Slowpitch Date City Classifi cations Type Fee Director July 16 Stump Lake 8 Open 3GG $90 Dwight Elfman, 1411 11th Ave SE, Devils Lake, ND 58301, 662-3928, 351-1560 August 20 Devils Lake 8 Open 3GG $100 Terry Wallace, PO Box 446, Devils Lake, ND 58301, 662-8243 August 21 Red Willow 12 Open C&C $90 Vernis Haines, 1540 County Rd 5, Binford, ND 58416, 676-2061 August 27 Stump Lake 8 Open 3GG $90 Dwight Elfman, 1411 11th Ave SE, Devils Lake, ND 58301, 662-3928, 351-1560

Casual profanity rule defi ned Casual profanity pertains to offensive team, where the rule will expletives “not directed at the have to be enforced at a later time. umpires or opposing players, but Profanity directed at others, most likely at the players uttering especially umpires, will still result them as a vent to frustration. This in ejection. If a player is called out type of profanity is penalized by on a bang-bang players at fi rst and “OUTS” being declared against he utters a word under his breath as the offensive or defensive teams, he runs by the umpires at fi rst, or whichever is guilty of the viola- curses under his breath because of tions. The above “OUTS” will be this poor hit as he was thrown out treated on a delayed, dead ball situ- at fi rst, the CASUAL PROFANITY ation. Profanity directed at others, RULE will not be enforced. That’s especially umpires, will still result because no one but the umpire, in ejection. and maybe the fi rst baseman has Let’s say a team has the bases heard him. loaded and the batter pops up to THE CASUAL PROFANITY the infi eld. Immediately he lets out RULE provides a lesser penalty a profanity (fi ll in your favorite). for the gray area between accepted What happens if the fielder conduct and situations where the catches the ball? The batter can’t be offender must be ejected. It has called “OUT” because he already been found that the players police is. Therefore, the next batter is themselves and each other after this out. If the batter would be fi rst up happens a couple of times and it has the next inning, that spot will be worked for the betterment of soft- an OUT. That’s how the penalty is ball. It gets players to clean up their enforced. act. Early in the year, umpires, in If a defensive player “boots” the pregame conference, should warn ball or drops the ball and utters a both managers that the CASUAL profanity where it can be heard by PROFANITY RULE applies. Fail- the people in the stand the defense ure to do so does not preclude the is penalized by having their fi rst penalty being enforced. After June batter called out when they come 15, this is not required at pre-game to bat. This is the only aspect of conference as all teams should be the rule, along with carry-over of aware of the rule. the third out enforcement on the

State Tournament No Shows without notifi cation • Bismarck Vaaler Ins. Rec II-W-WSP; Entire team probation 2011 • Mandan Quality Home Furniture Rec II-W-WSP; Entire team probation 2011 • Grand Forks Rhombus II, Rec IV-E-MSP; Entire team probation 2011 • Mandan Last Call/Miller Lite, Rec IV-W-MSP; Entire team probation 2011 12 – Softball News Summer 2011 Catch a great rate

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