Winter 2014 Edition Senior Softball News WINTER 2014 EDITION Volume 27 • Number 3

Seniorwww.seniorsoftball.com SoftballMORE THAN JUST A GAMENEWSAMERICA’S LARGEST CIRCULATED SENIOR SOFTBALL PUBLICATION Why First Year of Retirement So Costly By Jack Sirard sity of California, Davis, and INSIDE: much of our New York experi- Softball News Report our new life without going to Social Security benefits set to ence, sans the shows, but long Two days after retiring work each day. increase in 2015. on the adventures. Page 14 from the newspaper industry We stayed in the Theatre It wasn’t too long after back in 2006, my wife and I District, took in a few Broad- after we shipped James off to that that we took our first-ever and our youngest son were off way shows, saw the sights and graduate school in Oregon, we cruise, checking out the sights to New York City, celebrating dined wherever we wanted. headed off to the Big Island in Alaska. We liked it so much his graduation from the Univer- Then a few months later, of Hawaii where we repeated Please See Page 14 PART 1 PART 2 PART 3 PART 4 INVESTING Planning? It’s a Understanding Your Why the First Year of Tips on What to Do — and How

Retirement Home Run Social Security Options Retirement Is So Costly to Give Back to Your Community PERMIT NO. 339

IN YOUR FUTURE Sacramento, CA U.S. POSTAGE PRSRT-STD PAID

Japan

China 3rd Record INSIDE:

Taiwan NORTHERN CHAMPIONSHIPS in a Row Page 10 WINTER US, China, World WORLDS in Phoenix Draws Japan and 175 Teams Masters Page 12-13 Taiwan Form Draws 506 SOUTHERN Pacific Rim CHAMPIONSHIPS Association Teams Page 23 Softball News Report SACRAMENTO Sets Western Record IWATA, JAPAN – Page 24-25 Softball representatives from China, Japan, Taiwan RALEIGH and the United States have Roars in the East announced the formation of Page 26-27 the Pacific Rim Slowpitch Photos by Jack Eberhard The 2014 World Masters Championships offered many of the largest divisions in the sport, from 40 Masters to 85s ROCKY Softball Association during MOUNTAIN By Ross McCulligan And Joseph Ruggiero CHAMPIONSHIPS the second annual Pacific INSIDE: Page 28-29 Softball News Report Rim Championships held 8 Win Triple here in early November. Grand Slam LAS VEGAS – For the third straight year, the World Masters Championships WINTER “We are creating the Page 16-17 set the record for the largest senior softball tournament in the country. This year, NATIONALS in Florida Kicks Pacific Rim Slow-Pitch Inaugural 85 506 teams flocked to this gaming mecca to try to etch their mark in softball lore. Division The numbers are astonishing. The record-setting tournament included teams Off 2015 Softball Association to help Page 18 Page 30-31 build the sport throughout from 42 states as well as four from Canada and four from Guam. Teams played All Tournamento more than 1,700 games in 37 divisions, across 13 softball complexes. the Pacific Rim region,” Players and MVPs Page 19-20 More than 90 umpires, 60 tournament officials and 150 field crew workers Please See Page 5 Please See Page 17 2 Senior Softball News Winter 2014 Edition

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Continued from Page 3 reflect the number of players in a region and the natural geographic areas that cross several states, as in the Northeast.” The region compromise was part of a larger agreement designed to ensure roster requirements were the same among all associations. Today only two associations, SPA and SSUSA, actually check rosters, said Hennessy, so it is a good time to re-evaluate regions. A proposal to merge the 70 Major and Major- Plus divisions, which included abolishing tracking of player ratings, restricting two states (California and Florida), and keeping the 5-run equalizer when currently rated Major-Plus teams play Major teams was defeated. Elected into the SSUSA Hall of Fame for next year were, from left, Bill Ruth for Lifetime However, the committee approved a further Achievement, Michael Boone, Player and Chuck Towne, manager. study of the ideas proposed. Donna McGuire, Midwest UIC, was elected in the Specialty category, and Jerry Jackson in the Year: KC Craig, Complex of the Year: Aurora (CO) 2015-2016 Rules Chair. For a complete summary of Director category. Sports Complex, Tournament Director of the Year: Rules Committee action, please go to www.senior- Elected to the 2015 Hall of Fame were Bill Dave Dowell, Regional Director of the Year: Shane softball.com. Ruth, Lifetime Achievement; Michael Boone, Play- Verley, Executive Director Award: Josh Randall In addition during the Convention three people er category, and Chuck Towne, Manager category. of Central Screenprint, Award of Excellence: Lee were inducted into the SSUSA Hall of Fame for They will be inducted into the Hall of Fame at the County Sports, Special Appreciation: Bill Allen. 2014: Mike Vetovich of Washington in the Player National Convention next year. The 2015 Convention site will be an- category, Top Gun Softball Association of California Other SSUSA Awards included: Umpire of nounced in January. Giovanini: Helped Launch Florida Half Century Club Continued from Page 3 where he had been a teacher for 32 years. Inducted into the Senior Softball Hall of Fame, double play combination in softball. Together, the Lou also taught and coached at Columbus the Florida Half Century Hall of Fame, the Venice Florida Legends won 107 national championships High School for 10 years before becoming the Florida Sports Hall of Fame and, most recently, including the 1991 World Series. Lou was a big part first baseball and basketball coach at Columbus the Indiana High School Baseball Coaches Hall of that. He was an excellent teammate and friend; East High School. He led the 1979, 1987 and 1989 of Fame, Lou made an indelible impact in the supportive and friendly.” baseball teams and the 1977 basketball team to the communities he served. “He was a driving force in getting Florida Half state finals. Century Softball Association started,” said Mike Cerrea, chairman. “Lou was a damned good Cancer Claims Spring Ford's Tom Schadt shortstop. He had an arm like Softball News Report and acted as groundskeeper was renamed “The a canon and any ball that got Thomas Schadt, 67, long-time manager of Thomas K. Schadt Field.” near him he sucked up like the Spring Ford team from Pennsylvania, died Schadt attended J.P. McCaskey High School a vacuum cleaner,” said Bud in November after a long battle with cancer. in Lancaster, class of 1964. He graduated from Wortendyke, treasurer of Florida Half Century Schadt played slow-pitch softball for 47 Geneva College in Beaver Falls, PA in 1968. Softball Association. “I really appreciated getting years. In addition to playing, he was coach, Tom also earned his Master’s Degree from to know Lou when I first started out as an umpire. manager, sponsor, and administrator. He was Millersville University. Tom was a mathematics He was professional on and off the ball field and I a player-representative for the National Senior teacher for the Phoenixville Area School Dis- really appreciated his expertise in the softball arena. As an active member of the board for a considerable Softball Summit for a number of years and was trict for 36 years. He retired in 2004. amount of time, he was instrumental in getting the inducted into the Pennsylvania State Softball He was a lifelong member of the Phoenix- association started and getting me more involved Hall of Fame in 2012. ville Area Education Association, the Penn- in Senior Softball.” Lou retired in 1994 from In 2013, the Limerick Township softball sylvania State Education Association, and the Bartholomew Consolidated School Corporation field where he organized teams, kept records National Education Association. Winter 2014 Edition Senior Softball News 5 Best Cities For Successful Aging in Midwest By Joseph Ruggiero of older Americans want to age at abundance of recreational and fit- The Omaha-Council Bluffs Softball News Report home and not uproot themselves ness facilities. Despite a high cost metropolitan area that straddles The top city for in the nation from their communities. of living and too many fast-food Nebraska and Iowa ranked second, for growing older is Madison, “Our research finds common restaurants, the report indicates followed by Provo, Utah; Boston Wisc., according to the Milken themes among the top-ranked that Madison’s low crime rate, high and Salt Lake City. Institute’s latest ranking of best cities,” said Anusuya Chatterjee, employment growth, and quality The best smaller metropoli- places for successful aging. Milken Institute senior econo- education and intellectual engage- tan area, according to the study, In a report released Nov. 18, mist and one of the authors of the ment at the University of Wiscon- is Iowa City, Iowa, followed by the non-partisan think tank mea- report, in a written release. “These sin make it a great community for Sioux Falls, S.D.; Columbia, Mo.; sured and ranked the performance include economic strength, abun- America’s aging population. Bismarck, N.D.; and Rapid City, of 352 U.S. metropolitan areas dance of health resources, active The Milken Institute’s bian- S.D. by considering a host of factors lifestyles, opportunities for intel- nual list places emphasis on trans- “With the demographic shift for quality of life for older adults. lectual stimulation and access to portation, wait times at hospitals, proceeding across America, en- These factors include not only amenities.” and other quality-of-life factors. abling successful aging could not health and wellness, crime rates When it comes to Madison, According to Chatterjee, the idea be more important for our future,” and weather, but also economic the institute cited the city’s many behind the ranking is not to dis- said Paul Irving, president of the and job conditions, housing, trans- cultural amenities, which “attract cover great places to retire, but the Milken Institute, in a release. portation and opportunities for highbrows and regular folk alike.” cities in which older adults can be To view the full Milken In- social engagement. Additionally, Madison is home to engaged both economically and stitute report, please visit www. According to AARP, a majority 11 excellent hospitals, as well as an socially as they age. milkeninstitute.org. Pacific Rim: International Championships in Las Vegas Continued from Page 1 The tournament uses a safety ball, road to the agreement began in 2000 Zhongsheng of China. Zhaoli Chen, known as the Joyful ball, which is when Senior Softball-USA responded who teaches in Japan and is promoting said Terry Hennessy, the American rep- extremely soft and made for the short to an invitation to send senior teams softball in China, was selected execu- resentative and chief executive officer fields in Asia. to compete in Japan to help build the tive director of the new association. of Senior Softball-USA (SSUSA). The MVP for the U.S. team was sport there. Over the next 14 years, Representatives made it clear that Teams from the four countries John Fournier from California, who Japan and the U.S. continued to com- one of the primary goals was to recruit played in Beijing last year for an inau- played shortstop and had the highest pete in each other’s senior champion- other Pacific Rim countries to join the gural Pacific Rim Championships and batting average. Dale Myers, the U.S. ships and later expanded to play in association. here this year. In 2015, SSUSA will pitcher from Washington State won Taiwan and China. “The friendships we are forging host the Pacific Rim Championships Best Defense, and Jerry Scanlan of In addition to Hennessy, the asso- here are the foundation of internation- during the World Masters Champion- Southern California, one of the few ciation charter representatives include al cooperation that provide a beacon ships in Las Vegas, which attracted players on any team who hit home Shouji Matsumoto of Japan Softball, of hope for all who witness it,” said more than 500 teams this year. runs, was named Best Offense. Robert Hsu of Taiwan Softball, and Ye Hennessy. This year in Iwata, the U.S. team The tournament attracted 42 came in second behind the team from teams. Northern China (8-5) in the rain-short- While the Pacific Rim Association ened tournament. was officially launched this year, the NorCal Golden Senior Havrilla, 77, Dies Softball News Report member of the Golden Seniors Soft- A long-time member of Senior ball Club of Sacramento for 26 years. Softball, Bob Havrilla died Oct. 17 at He was awarded the Golden Seniors the age of 77. Award of Merit in 2010, as an exem- He played on a variety of teams in plary representative of the organiza- the Northern California area including tion both on and off the field. the River City Mavericks, Sacramento He was a beloved member of the Gold, Sacramento Pirates and Sacra- Northern California softball commu- mento Rebels. nity and will be missed by all those Bob was also a well established who knew him.

6 Senior Softball News Winter 2014 Edition Want Power? Slingshot Your Swing Senior By Art Eversole Softball Softball News Report News I would like to suggest not swing- 2701 K St., Suite 101A ing the bat at the ball but instead to Sacramento, CA 95816 “slingshot” the bat to the ball. Sounds (916) 326-5303 rather contrary to rotational mechanics (916) 326-5304 FAX as well as counter intuitive? I would www.seniorsoftball.com have to agree. However, casting, or pushing the bat off the rear shoulder to accelerate Publisher the bat in striking the ball is ineffec- W.E. Ruth tive for reliable hitting. Editor Casting (a golfing term) is common amongst seniors, but is a fixable Terry Hennessy problem. Casting results in early unhinging of the wrists producing a Contributing Writers sweeping of the bat out-front of the So, how does a batter invoke the same time top hand is pushing in Lisa Cachia, Jack Eber- bat-slingshot mechanic? behind the lead hand assisting the roll- body coming off the rear shoulder, hard, Pete Davignon, Dave The following (8) steps outline the ing of the wrists making the bat move resulting in bat deceleration and Dowell, Art Everole, Carl destroying all-important bat-lag which slingshot technique: from the lag position to contact point Gustafson, Beth Hamilton, produces bat-speed and power. 1) Begin by pushing the bat into completing the slingshot action. Hitters who cast the bat frequently the launch position behind your head; 6) Releasing the top hand im- Ross McCulligan, George make contact with the ball at the end- at the same time touching the front mediately after contact allows for full Moreno, Tiffany Peck, cap area from sweeping the bat around shoulder to your chin and coiling your extension of arms providing maximum Joe Ruggiero, Susan Ruth, the ball from outside-in. body building up potential energy. leverage. Jack Sirard, Remember as kids that old Y- 2) Begin the swing by unwind- 7) End your swing with a fluid shaped stick with an elastic rubber ing and turning the hips and shoulders follow-through taking the bat full- Internet Director Scott Flodin band strip that stores energy between (i.e. rotational mechanics) toward the circle around and behind your body, the prongs for projecting stones and pitcher and transferring your weight to 8) Lastly, your back foot must your front side; hands are moved out move forward toward the front plant- Art Director other small missiles when released. Sue Ballenger The batter’s arms represent the in front of your body with bat-barrel leg to insure a complete body weight prongs and the bat-barrel is the projec- lagging behind in good position to transfer to your front side getting off Marketing Manager tile to fling. This approach of deliver- strike the ball; rear elbow is tucked your back foot. Fran Dowell ing the bat to the ball permits the bat down in the “slot” next to your ribs. A drill to perform for the slingshot to continue to accelerate to the ball 3) With the hands out in front of mechanic is to stand a little more than Nothing in this publication shall be deemed to constitute in any maximizing bat-speed and the squar- your plant-leg the bat-barrel should be a bat’s length from the field fence and fashion whatsoever an endorse- ing of the barrel to the ball for ideal grazing your rear shoulder (or come swing the bat. If you hit the fence ment by Senior Softball USA, LLC. (SSUSA), of any informa- contact with the sweet spot. very close to touching it) with the you’re casting. tion in this publication. SSUSA, A flat-faced contact with ball knob of the bat pushing toward the See the photos supporting this LLC., disclaims any and all li- pitcher; the slingshot position should article for a visual representation of ability with respect to any use of, allows the bat to have a more resound- or reliance on, such information. ing trampoline response for greater feel like you’re pulling on a rope that the mechanics described above. No information in this publication is trailing behind you. Happy hitting... shall be construed in any manner ball-exit-speed. The hitter’s body whatsoever as a recommendation mechanics supplies the energy to be 4) Keep your hands inside the in- Art Eversole is a SSUSA News of any industry standard, or as coming pitch while rolling the bottom Contributor) a recommendation of any kind transferred during the bat-slingshot. to be adopted by, or binding on, When the bat-barrel is launched from hand to a palm-up position through any person or entity. Nor shall a lag position to contact with the ball the ball producing information contained in this publication be deemed to consti- it only takes a millisecond and can’t a slingshot action; tute in any fashion whatsoever an be seen by the naked eye. the hands only turn endorsement by SSUSA, LLC., of any product or service advertised A real world sports analogy to the a few inches but herein. The material set forth in bat-slingshot technique is a maneuver the bat-barrel has this publication is provided on an informational basis only. SSUSA, found in auto racing referred to as to travel much fur- Inc., is not engaged in the practice drafting. The race car accelerates or ther to catch-up to of any profession, including but not limited to law, medicine and slingshots past the car in front by tak- the hands and that accounting, and nothing in this ing advantage of stored aerodynamic creates the lighting publication should be relied upon fast bat-speed. in lieu of appropriate competent forces from staying back behind the professional advice. lead car. 5) At the Winter 2014 Edition Senior Softball News 7

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combatsoftball.com 8 Senior Softball News Winter 2014 Edition Opinions &Letters Two Teams Set a Fine Example For more than two decades there has been a culture in slow-pitch softball of teams striving to play in the lowest skill level possible to ensure that they will win. That culture is the epitome of bad sportsmanship and fosters an array of bad behavior designed to land teams in a division in which they can beat up on other teams. So it is indeed heartening when managers and teams embrace the challenge of playing against strong competition. Of the scores of rating notices SSUSA sent out last month, two teams responded in a very honorable manner: Ray Kozusko’s Texas Legends team was moved from AAA to Major. His response: “Been expecting this email from you. Even though we lost three games in Las Vegas, we had enough good luck to sneak through and win that sucker. We humbly and proudly accept the new rating of Major.” Brian Brown’s Boombah Voodoo team was raised from Major to Major- Plus. His response: “We are honored to move up to Major-Plus and look forward to the challenge. We want to play the best ball around and this is the division we want to be in.” The real quest in sports, whether it is Little League baseball or Senior Softball, is to be the best you can possibly be – and that means competing at the highest possible level so that victory has value. We congratulate these two teams for their honorable stands and recommend other teams take note. Sue Ballenger Healthful Tips on Preventing Cancer For the New Year We talk about routine health care cancer. The best way for us to prevent CAN-Sirs Benefit Tournament will being the best way to prevent getting CAN-SIRS becoming a cancer victim is to be held in Elk Grove on May 16- cancer. The price men pay for ignoring CORNER regiment ourselves to keep a healthy 17. We welcome all senior teams to routine checkups and a healthy diet By Pete Davignon diet and get plenty of exercise. Playing participate. is a great risk for poor health. Some a lot of softball is good exercise. We expanded our awareness and will avoid tests at all costs “but if it’s as nutrition. Those of us who are cancer prevention program into tournaments the difference between being dead and HANG UP THE CAR KEYS: survivors or have a family member in two new states. Two teams from the being alive” annual checkups are not Spur yourself to walk as much as with cancer are available to openly Oshkosh Ambassadors Senior Softball to be ignored. possible. Reducing you driving by a discuss cancer matters with anyone group entered a senior tournament Prostate cancer is the most mile would have the same effect as who would like to learn more about as CAN-Sirs teams. The teams were common cancer other than non- cutting as much as 100 calories each cancer and prevention,. managed by Mike and Linda Muehrer melanoma skin cancer in men. day from your diet. Walking each CAN-Sirs has spent the last five from Oshkosh, Wisc.. The RECNAC Prostate cancer is also the second day is an easy way to lose weight and years working on reminding senior CAN-Sirs from Augusta, Ga., played cause of death among men, behind improve health. softball player and others about in the ASA Nationals in Burlington, lung cancer. Most men will not die of MIND THE MOMENT: Spend awareness and prevention of cancer. N.C. The team was managed by Terry prostrate cancer. Their survival rate some quiet time. Ease anxiety and We entered teams in many senior Leiden. approaches 100 percent. stress by taking a few moments each tournaments in California and other CAN-Sirs staff thanks all senior Here’s how to improve your odds day to meditate and reflect. A little states during this time. softball players and friends for their of living a healthy life: relaxation can reduce stress caused by We have held CAN-Sirs benefit support this past year. Best wishes for FOLLOW THE RAINBOW: your everyday tasks. Sit back and take tournaments in Elk Grove, Calif., a happy and healthy new year. Increasing colorful fruits and a few deep breaths and relax. starting with 18 teams and last year More information is available at vegetable to your diet may reduce TAKE CARE: We are all well had more than 40 teams entered. This can-sirs.org. Email us at can-sirs@att. your risk of cancer. informed about cancer by TV and benefit tournament is the major fund net. Donations may be mailed to: GO NUTS: Nuts, olive oil and print media. We hear about friends raiser to offset the costs of operating CAN-Sirs, Inc, 2485 Notre Dame whole grains pack satisfaction as well and neighbors being diagnosed with the cancer program. This year the Blvd #370-180, Chico, CA 95928. Winter 2014 Edition Senior Softball News 9 Baby Boomers' Guide to a Long Softball Life Baby Boomers, the set of simple. Go for a walk, ride a bike, take If you are unsure about where individuals born between 1946 and a swim or hit the gym where there to begin or how to take it to the 1964, are nonconformists who have are more options like cardiovascular next level consider speaking with a been shaping and reshaping our exercise equipment or age appropriate Certified Personal Trainer experienced perception of how things should be classes available. in working with older persons to since the generation was defined. Second, strength training is an discuss ideas and options. And today, when it comes to important part of the process. Scientific data has shown that what health and fitness looks like for At the gym there are many maintaining a healthy body weight and individuals 50+ years of age it’s no machines or free weights available and remaining active physically, mentally different. classes to meet our strength training and socially are the key ingredients for Members of this generation are Stretching Limits needs. If the gym is not the place for a vibrant life as we age. living longer and healthier lives. By Lisa Cachia you, then incorporating some body And while this is certainly true In fact individuals 65+ years of First, keep moving! weight exercises like push ups (full or it is equally important recognize and age make up the fastest growing Staying physically active doesn’t modified), crunches of various types, honor the real changes that occur segment of our population. Of course have to be overly intense, painful squats, leg lifts, lunges and maybe a in our aging bodies. Warm up and modern medicine plays a role in this or extremely time consuming. By few exercises utilizing dumbbells at especially recovery time increases. phenomenon but moreover it’s the planning for and dedicating about one home is the solution. There is also an unavoidable threshold changing ideas about how we can hour of time to exercise almost every Remember to take a few minutes beyond which we must yield and spend our golden years that is driving day the body stays in good general or do all your cardiovascular exercise accept our body’s demand to slow the trend. condition. for the day before strength training. down despite what our ego wants. There are several parts to When thinking about how to Warm muscles are more flexible and The good news is by taking maintaining a healthy, active life. get that exercise I suggest keeping it ready to work thus minimizing the risk a mindful, proactive approach to of injury. maintaining health we can keep Senior softball players also playing for a long, long time. need to stay connected to their If you are just beginning a new or sport particularly during the off- more advance exercise program please season. By making some of your consult your physician for a physical weekly workouts specific to softball examination prior to your first work movements you’ll be more ready out. mentally and physically to play in the Lisa Cachia is an ACSM Certified spring. Personal Trainer/Group Exercise Visiting the batting cages, a Instructor. You can reach her at simple game of catch with the kids [email protected] or fetch with the dog can keep some of those skills sharpened. And if you Carl's Corner: Rules play softball you’ve got to run a little. Continued from Page 3 Warm up slow then start folding in a few short sprints (15 – 30 seconds) would read the letters with different to keep the muscles ready for base voices, like my Dad did for Winnie- running. the-Pooh characters, but he never You may also consider a softball got in that spirit, so they sounded the training camp. What a fun opportunity same. The rules committee has um- that would be to get together with pires, managers, tournament directors, peers and work on maintaining or administrators—all have played lots of improving sport specific skills! softball, at every competitive level and In addition, taking a few minutes age group. Some of the old umpires at the end of each workout to stretch are used to contention and are saltier large muscle groups and breathe than a biscuit at the Cowboy Poets deeply can round out our activity convention in Elko, Nevada. program, help us to relax and keep us The committee begins with the injury free. Yoga can be an excellent premise that “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix option for everyone as it incorporates it,” and then argues like a gallery of both strengthening, using only one’s kibitzers at a chess tournament. In the body weight, flexibility and relaxation end they all believe they did the best techniques into one activity. they could to make the most players But please warm up first! happy while preserving the integrity of the game.

10 Senior Softball News Winter 2014 Edition Teams From 6 States, Canada Vie For North Titles By Joseph Ruggiero win four straight games to clinch the Chicago Prime fell 26-11 for the title. Softball News Report division title. After narrowly defeating The 65 Major division showcased LANSING, MICH. – Forty- BSN/DeClaire 17-16 and showing up two outstanding performances one teams returned here to compete the Old Stars 13-6, MI Smash almost by DeClaire Knee & Ortho. and for the Northern Championships pulled it off only to lose to Milwaukee Michigan Express. The Express and a berth in the Tournament of Merchants in the final game 15-14. . remained triumphant however, beating Champions in Florida. In its 8th year Only two teams faced off for DeClair Knee & Ortho 16-10 in their running, the Northern Championships the 60 Major division title. In some first match up to gain the advantage. fielded teams from Illinois, Indiana, exciting back and forth championship With the pressure on, DeClaire Michigan, New York, Ohio, Wisconsin bracket play, CC Bobcats and Knee & Ortho started swinging, but and Ontario, Canada. Motown/Shon’s Corner forced an “If” were ultimately outgunned by the Tournament Director Tim game to determine the champion. Express 16-15. McElroy said the tournament “didn’t Pony Express took their first loss in With Motown/Shon’s Corner The 70/75 Silver division saw miss a beat” despite rain earlier in stride to climb out of the elimination winning their first match 11-5, CC Columbus Silver Stix sweep the the week and well into the manager’s bracket by disposing of Fly Time Bobcats responded with an 18 -14 division. Powering over Silver Foxes meeting the night before play began. 22-6 and JJ Financial 30-21. Facing victory. Building on their win, CC 19-1 and Pfeiffer Gray 19-11, they McElroy emphasized that the a formidable Lansing team, Pony Bobcats went on to take the division reached the finals in good position. maintenance staff at the both East Express triumphed 20-17 to face off title by outscoring Motown/Shon’s Despite Pfeiffer Gray putting Lansing Sports Complex and Lake against PDC in the finals. Corner 12-9. up a good fight, Silver Stix took the Alliance Sports Complex “were PDC proved victorious in a Roc City 55 easily swept Shannon division title in a 22-16 win. spectacular and took care of the fields lopsided offensive victory 26-16 to 22- 9 and 15-11 respectively to earn With several one-run games, despite the bad weather.” seize the division title. the 55/60 AA division title. the 65 AAA division featured some Aided by the Greater Housing Despite some talented Six teams faced off in the 60 fierce ball play. Doc Martens kicked it Sports Authority (GHSA), McElroy competition, Kinnco swept the 55 AAA division with Pepco/CSFS and off, overwhelming Strikers 23-9 and remarked that representatives were Major division. Surviving against Chicago Prime vying for supremacy. Michigan Lakers 19-14. on-site throughout the tournament Banker Mann 21-18 in their first PepCo/SFS seemed the likely The Windsor Chiefs however, to “help out and to answer player’s match-up, they decisively sealed the champion as the top seed easily coming off a big win against Rush questions about restaurants and hotels title by defeating Banker Mann again defeating Blue Chips 25-10. Truck 20-19, stopped Doc Martens in in the surrounding area.” McElroy 14- 11. Chicago Prime had other plans their tracks 23-20. Not undone by the explained that players greatly With only four teams competing however, upsetting Pepco/CSFS loss, appreciated GHSA’s assistance. in the 55 AAA division, Milwaukee 16-15. Falling to the elimination Doc Martens persevered over Featuring 10 divisions, the Merchants proved they were the team bracket, Pepco/SFS managed an easy Pepco NE/OH 13-9 only to lose to the Northern Championships hosted to beat. They beat MI Smash 19-16 win against Silver Stix 17-2 to make Windsor Chiefs 13-7 who took the talented teams with the 50/55 and Old Stars 15-13 to reach the finals it to the finals. Firing all offensive division title. Platinum division leading off with with ease. cylinders, Pepco/CSFS topped For complete game results, please some strong performances by DLB MI Smash however faced Chicago Prim 18-13 to force an “If” visit Senior Softball USA’s Northern Softball and Doug & Don’s. seemingly insurmountable odds in game. Unable to defend Pepco/CSFS’s Championships’ tournament page at: With five teams competing, Doug the elimination bracket needing to impressive offensive performance, www.seniorsoftball.com. & Don’s was the first team to fall to the mighty bats of DLB Softball 20- 17. Mowing down the competitors in the elimination bracket, Doug & Northern All Tournament Players Listed Don’s defeated CPOA/CLE 25-16 and 2014 Northern Champion- Men’s 55/60 AA – Roc City Jim Morgan Big Ten 22-10 to gain a spot in the ships All Tournament Players 55: Dave Hanna, Tony Delvec- Men’s 65 AAA – Windsor semifinals. selected: chio, Steve Keating, Tom Cava- Chiefs: Ernie Holden, Bob Poulin, Meanwhile DLB Softball Men’s 50/55 Platinum - Doug lieve, Dave Zona; Shannon Fence: John McLaughlin, Wayne Dupuis, outmuscled Big Ten 25-17 to face & Don’s Auto Care: Sammy Vic St Hilaire, Spark Sankal, Jeff Mike Markham; Doc Martens off again with Doug & Don’s. In a Greskowiak, Ed Lehnertz, Bobbie Baker Ropes Courses: Jim Vetter, Wil- close offensive fight, DLB prevailed Stone over Doug & Don’s 21-18 to earn the Men’s 60 AAA – Minutemen/ ber Uhl, Gerry Lyster division title. Men’s 55 Major – Kinnco Ser- Pepco/SFS: Al Attewell, Ron Men’s 70/75 Silver – Colum- The 50 AAA division showcased a vices: Terry Lee, John Kotzelnick, Sevffert, Phil Biondo, Dennis For- bus Silver Sticks: Don Cohron, crowded field of eight teams, but PDC George Roberts, Bill Osborn Jr, man, Rich Butler; Chicago Prime: Daryl McClearn, Joe Andrew, Jim quickly reduced the competition going Ron Fewins Hal Adkins, Bill Sheridan, Gary Ogilvie, Dave Adwell; Pfeiffer undefeated into the championship Men’s 55 AAA – Milwaukee Reid Gray Sox: Dennis Schrier, Chuck game. Merchants: Bill Bishop, Ed Ram- Men’s 65 Major – Michigan Lindstrom, Dick Fox; Indiana Beating a stout Pony Express pacek, Bill Scasny, Brad Stallings, Express: Ed Sparkman, Gary Silver Foxes: Walter Pluchinsky, squad in a close match up 17-16, they went on to stomp Lansing 14-6. Dan Ciano Nicolay, Joe Miscavish, Jim Kahn, Jerry Shively Winter 2014 Edition Senior Softball News 11 12 Senior Softball News Winter 2014 Edition Great Fields, Sun Draw 175 Teams to Phoenix By Dave Dowell team. wrap it up, and Stagecoach Saloon (OR) in the “If” Softball News Report The 17-team 50-AAA bracket began at Big game over Grant County Merchants (NM). Those PHOENIX – The 13th annual SSUSA Winter League Dreams Friday before shifting to Papago two had previously split the winner’s bracket final World Championships here established a tourna- Park for the weekend. By late Sunday, the JJ Fi- and Championship game. ment record for attendance as 175 teams competed nancial Eagles (MI) had avenged a winner’s bracket The Men’s and Women’s 40-Masters brought 31 in the Western start to the 2015 SSUSA tournament semi-final loss to the Phoenix Bulldawgs (21-12) by more teams to the Valley of the Sun for the week- season. sweeping the Championship game (26-23) and “If” end. All of the outstanding Phoenix facilities were game (9-5) to complete the comeback. Men’s 40-Masters champions were Kraze (CA) in play and the eight-field Big The Manifest 50’s (TX) in the 40-Major+ with their 24-23 win in the “If” League Dreams Sports Park in swept the Best 2 of 3 with game over Reno Elite (NV) after they had split the Gilbert was pressed into service Arizona Assault on Saturday winner’s bracket final and Championship game and as the tournament hit the ground (20-12 and 19-18) to capture AG Painting (AZ) over GTS (ID) in the 40-Major running for 135 teams in the the 50-AA trophy. by a score of 16-12 in the Championship game. first session. In the Men’s 55+, the Women’s 40-Masters champions were the TKP/ Phoenix has always been seven-team 55-Major title Hunters (CA) over Tharaldson Softball (NV), 15-12 an almost perfect tournament went to Doubleplay/Mon- in the 40-Major Championship game, Saints 40 host city. The fields are scenic arch (CA) with their 28-8 (AZ) over Kiss Our Stix (CA), 11-8 in the 40-AAA and well maintained, and the win over SoCal 55’s (CA) in finale, and Vintage (CA) by sweeping two from weather in November is just the title game. Kat’s Bats (NF) in the 40-AA Best 2 of 3 Champi- about perfect every year. This The 19-team 55-AAA onship, 21-5 and 23-5. year was no exception. was the largest bracket in the Following the extremely full weekend, the The Senior Women filled tournament, with Integrity second session began on Monday with a much more Mountain Vista Park with spir- Builders (NE) making the relaxed pace as 40 teams began play in the Men’s ited and competitive play in di- long trip pay off with a 19-11 65+ and older divisions. In the non-competition visions ranging from 50+ through 70+. By Sunday Championship game win over the Arizona Legends. highlight of the session, Norm Huletz of Seattle was afternoon, champions had been crowned and even The 55-AA title went to another of the very few inducted into the National Senior Softball Hall of those who didn’t win were celebrating in a marvel- unbeaten teams for the weekend as Pastimers (WA) Fame in a stirring and emotional induction ceremo- ous show of sportsmanship. capped their perfect run with a 26-20 win over the ny at Rose Mofford Park on Monday morning. In the 50+ Women, Sudden Impact (CA) Scrap Iron Coyotes 55 (CO) in the final. Men’s 65+ Division winners were 15 Hit- overcome a shaky first round loss as the top seed to Champions in the Men’s 60+ included Chain men (AZ) over Full Circle (CA) by sweeping their make it all the way back with wins over the High Link (AZ) over the Rogue 60’s (AZ) in the 60-Ma- 65-Major Plus Best 2 of 3 series, 19-16 and 16-15; Desert Diamonds (NM) in the Championship (10-7) jor Plus with an 18-13 Championship game win, Marauders (CA) over the Enviro-Vac Maraud- and “If” (24-12) games to claim the title. Top Gun III (CA) over the Drillers (TX) in the ers (BC) 16-15 in the 65-Major Championship; The 55+ Women also needed an “If” game as 60-Major, 17-12 in the final, Ambush (AZ) over Got Runs 55 (AZ) prevailed over Twizted (14-7) Arizona Old School 60 in the 60-AAA, 22-18 to Continued on Page 13 after the teams had split the first two games of their Best 2 of 3. Keeping the pattern of close competition going, the 60+ Women also needed an “If” game in an All- California final as the California Spirit 60 defeated California Express/Timberworks (20-7) after those two teams had split the winner’s bracket final (Spirit by 15-11) and Championship game (Express by CATCH 19-13). Only the 65/70+ Women played out according to form as the Fun Bunch Plus (MO) completed an EVERYTHING unbeaten weekend from the No. seed to a championship game win (18-5) over the New Kids on the Block (CA). WITH THE In the Men’s 50/55-Platinum Division, the two Major Plus teams took the top spots, with Arizona Elite 50 closing out Grant’s Posse 55 by a 20-18 GENERAL score. “Control Rods” strategically placed El Paso Spurs (TX) were declared 50-Major to give finger tip control and firmness. Champions by virtue of their third place finish in the bracket, making them the highest finish by a Major 888.822.3352 FIELDGENERALGLOVES.COM Winter 2014 Edition Senior Softball News 13 Northwest's Tom Foley Dies at 80 Phoenix: By Ross McCulligan Tom Foley cal engineering. He enjoyed a 34-year Outlaws, Hawaii, Softball News Report played with sev- career as an engineering manager Longtime senior softball player eral well-known with Boeing in addition to serving in PDR Win Titles Thomas Foley lost his courageous teams in the the United States Navy Reserve from Continued from Page 12 battle with both ALS and cancer on 1952-1960. Northwest. Fountain Valley Outlaws (CA) over Nov. 11 in Seattle, Wash., with his He believed in civic duty and the OC-Mustangs (CA) 24-8 in the family by his side. being involved in one’s community. 65-AAA title game; and Da Hui (HI) He had a long career in senior As such, he was a generous volunteer, all knew he played in pain sometimes over the El Paso Nine-Elevens (TX) softball playing for various teams in donating his time to various com- but he never once complained about 21-11 in the 65-AA Championship the Pacific Northwest including, WE munity organizations such as Pacific it. He had a great positive attitude and game. Ruth Realty, Joeseppi’s, First Ameri- Northwest Masters Swimming, Seattle always had something kind to say to The Men’s 70+ Division winners can Title and Northwest 80’s. Triton Aquatics Club, Southwest everyone. We’ll miss him.” were Scrap Iron 70 Legacy (CO) over “Every team should have a Tom Community Center Advisory Council Tom moved to Washington at Connection (CA) 14-9 for the 70-Ma- Foley,” remarked Joseph Stortini, his and the Puget Sound Keepers Alli- a young age and studied at Seattle jor Championship; Makule Kane (HI) former manager with Joeseppi’s. “We ance. University earning degrees in electri- over Kokopelli Eye Institute Scorpi- ons (AZ) 13-2 to wrap up the 70-AAA trophy; and the KC Seniors (MO) Winter Worlds All Tournament Players Selected sweeping two from the Git-R-Done 70’s in their Best 2 of 3 series for the 2014 Winter World Champion- Jerry Perez, Rigo Vargas, Raul DeLeon, Victor Mustangs: Don Cuzick, Pepe Siniard, Bob Flores; Arizona Assault: Fortino Garcia, Gus Westphal 70-AA crown, 13-12 and 29-8. ships (2015 roster event) All Hernandez, Ernest Tarrango; Men’s 65 AA – Da Hui: John Hirota, In the only division that required Tournament Players Men’s 55 Major – Doubleplay/Monarch: William Kaulu, Donald Meinel, William Mill- an “If” game in Session #2, PDR Wayne Wilcox, Al Shelley, Bert Cochran, Dave er, Billy Rees; El Paso Nine Elevens: Bobby Nava, Robert Ramirez, Robert Rico; Sunlight Fastsigns (OR) avenged a game #1 Women’s 40 Major – TKP/Hunter: Sloan, Paul Smit; SoCal 55: Wayne Galer, Supply: Charlie Moon, Les Gipe loss to the Mesa Cardinals (12-8) Elena Song, Kelli Horton, Carolyn Norman, Eric Provost, Nelson Kracke; Sonoma County Men’s 70 Major – Scrap Iron Legacy: Cindy Coleman, Lisa Bull Crush: Rick Merian, Tom Brown by bouncing back to take the final Jack Robinson, Stan Suichta, Bob Ross, Dick Women’s 40 AAA – Kiss our Stix: Laura Men’s 55 AAA – AZ Legends: Steve two games of their Best 2 of 3 se- Schimmels, Ron Kemmerer; Connection: Bernadino, Patti Albrecht, Stacey Senft; SoCal Rutledge, Jeff Brian, Kelly West Tom Whelan, Doug Wiley, Herb Palmtag ries, 17-14 and 21-9 to capture the Toxic: Melanie Grieco, Debbie Baye Men’s 55 AA – Pastimers: Mark Him- Men’s 70 AAA – Makule Kane: Albert 75-Platinum Championship. In the Women’s 40 AA – Vintage: Shalaine melman, Doug Fredrickson, Bill Brundage, Apo, Justus Taylor, Daniel Ayala, Guy Ruiz, 75/80-Gold Division, the Arizona Aguayo, Linde Hotchkiss, Renee Worley, Dave Kelliher, Ed Minshull; Dallas Spurs: Dee Tenn; Kokopelli Eyecare Scorpions: Bill Gretchen Peterson, Patty Felker; Kat’s Bats: Lance Small, Al Schoelen Prospectors 80’s slipped by the Gold Bauder, John Teetor, Troy Singletary; TNT: Paula Snelgrove, Leah Maddicks, Donna Wil- Men’s 60 MajorPlus – Chain Link: Sam Coast 75’s (CA) twice in thrilling Dale Clem, Bob Fioritto son, Sherry MacDonald Newby, Dave Elkins, Andy Campbell, Mark Men’s 70 AA – KC Seniors: Joe Pen- one-run games, 5-4 and 14-13, to take Women’s 50 – Sudden Impact: Iris Walsh, Paul Becker; Arizona Rogue: George nock, Marvin Droegge, Dick Trout, Terry home the title. Davis-Brunfield, Nancy Lopez, Cynthia Smith, Robinson, Steve Schroeder, Chuck Monroe; Jensen, Randy Graves; Git-R-Done 70: Jon Karlene Schuler, Renee Bland Gonzalez Insulation: Dan Silkwood, Julian For complete game scores and Newell, George Togo, Dave Porzel Women’s 55 – Got Runs: Sharon Mc- Tamez bracket scores, please visit www. Men’s 75 Platinum – PDR Fastsigns: Closkey, Missy Hagen, Alyson Stephens, Men’s 60 Major – Top Gun III: Clyde Chuck Barracato, Arland Lyons, Ron Quaran- seniorsoftball.com. Donna Williams, Debbie Seguin Phillips, Jim Strickland, Paul Lederman, tino, Bill Winter; Mesa Cardinals: Jim Hann, Dave Dowell is a SSUSA National Women’s 60 – Cal Express: Debbie Robert Castro, Scott Wolters; Drillers: Mike Bob Hildeman, Wayne Erickson Director and Tournament Director for Scarpati, Fran DePuy; Fun Bunch: Carolyn Williams, Hector Carrillo, Charlie Estorga; Cottrell, Vivian Jones EnviroVac Marauders: Phil Brissette, Bob the Winter Worlds. Women’s 65/70 – Fun Bunch: Arlene Mireau Gomez, Marsha Moore, Pat Stephenson, Men’s 60 AAA – Ambush: Joe Ellis, Sprains? Strains? Swelling? General soreness? Arthritis? 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You’ve marked Paris and Australia that we followed it up with a cruise to Mexico and a adds. off your bucket list and you’re much more comfort- 14-day trip through the Panama Canal. That’s the strategy that my wife and I used, able staying closer to home, taking local trips to Like a lot of the newly retired set, we couldn’t squirreling away money each month in the employ- Monterey or Palm Desert,” she says. get enough travel and adventure. As those who are ee credit union at work. The beauty of a credit union While you should be able to reduce your spend- actively involved in Senior Softball know full well, account is that the money can be taken directly out ing on global travel, other costs related to your there are scores of opportunities to travel both do- of your paycheck and deposited into an interest- health begin to rise so you’ll need to have a plan mestically and internationally. Just check out Senior earning account. in place to cover those expenses. You’ll find that Softball’s upcoming adventure to New Zealand in Even if you start with as little as $10 or $20 a while Medicare covers many things, it doesn’t cover March and April. week, that nest egg really grows if you can resist everything and you’ll need to have additional insur- But travel far and wide comes at a cost…and it the temptation to tap into it. And if you can increase ance. Consulting your insurance expert is a wise can be significant if you don’t have a solid financial your deduction with each pay raise, then you’ll have step before you retire. plan in place long before retiring. the opportunity to have a substantial cash account And finally the no-go years. This can be a time Invariably, the costs of the first year or two of the day you retire. when you’re just ready to settle down and tend to retirement are a lot higher than most people estimate Dreizler warns that investors can make a huge your garden or stay close to home. Traveling is no and a lot more unpredictable. retirement planning mistake if they put all their longer so important and many retirees develop other While there are scores of retirement calcula- spare money into their retirement account. interests that often are volunteer-oriented. “Certain- tors out there on virtually every financial web “This saves current taxes, but if you are in a ly, some retirees in their 80s and 90s will still travel, site, financial experts report that many people will similar tax bracket when you retire, it may cost you but often as not it’s renting a place for a month or put down a low ball number for their first year of $300 in taxes for every $1,000 you withdraw.” two to escape the weather. retirement, neglecting to factor in everything from His advice? For those nearing retirement, here’s two sugges- vacations, increased spending on hobbies and even Use «non-retirement retirement accounts» and/ tions for helping to pay for the extra expenses that buying a new car if they had had a company car at or a Roth IRA. This way you can access funds later come in the first two years: Once you know when their disposal during their working years. while paying a much lower tax cost. After you re- you’re going to retire, don’t use up any further vaca- Retirees who aren’t old enough for Medicare tire, all money is a retirement account, whether it›s tion time at work. and who are no longer covered by their employer in an IRA or not. Certified Financial Planner Elfrena You’ve got the rest of your life to be on vaca- health plans can be shocked to find the cost of car- Foord says she likes to think of the retirement years tion, so stockpile vacation days at work. Then when rying their own health insurance. For that reason, in three phases: you walk out the door, you’ll get a nice paycheck those on the cusp of retirement should make sure The go-go years. “These are the times when you for unused vacation time. that they get as much done on the company dime as likely will spend a lot of money, when you’re travel- And if you’re going to be light on your health, possible before retiring. ing at a moment’s notice, just because you can,” dental or eye care insurance, make sure you get For instance, it’s a good idea to get in the last Foord says. “It’s certainly not a bad thing, if you any related issues taken care of on your employer’s dental and vision checkups a month or two before plan ahead. The first year or two, you may spend insurance before you walk out the office door for leaving work. The cost of a getting a new crown more in retirement than you did your last few years the last time. could run you $1,000 or more if you have to pay for working.” She notes that this phase of retirement Jack Sirard is a nationally syndicated business it yourself. could last 10 to 15 years or longer, depending on writer and a senior writer for Senior Softball News. Next: Tips on what to do and how to give The bottom line for most new retirees is they your physical and financial health. back to the community. aren’t financially prepared for the exhilarating temptations of this next stage of their lives. For once you’ve got all that free time on your Social Security Benefits to Go Up 1.7% in 2015 hands, you can come and go as you please – and millions of retirees do just that. Softball News Report increase in the Consumer Price Index as determined Sacramento financial planner Bob Dreizler says WASHINGTON, D.C. – The Social Security by the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor people need to be cautious as they enter their retire- Administration has announced that monthly Social Statistics. ment years. Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits Some other changes that take effect in January “When you are not working, you have more for nearly 64 million Americans will increase 1.7 of each year are based on the increase in average time and ways to spend money to keep yourself percent in the new year. wages. Based on that increase, the maximum amused,” he says. “While you want to live it up That’s about $22 a month for the average amount of earnings subject to the Social Security tax after retiring while you are still in good health and recipient. In 2015, the average worker will receive (taxable maximum) will increase to $118,500 from mobile, you need to monitor your spending during $1,328 a month, or $15,936 a year, according to the $117,000. Of the estimated 168 million workers this transitional time.” Social Security Administration. who will pay Social Security taxes in 2015, about 10 Dreizler acknowledges that he’s “not a big The 1.7 percent cost-of-living adjustment million will pay higher taxes because of the increase believer in budgets, but this is one time in your life (COLA) will begin with benefits that more than in the taxable maximum. when it may make sense.” 58 million Social Security beneficiaries receive in 2015’s annual cost of living increase is up His advice is to start planning for your actual January 2015. from 1.5 percent this year, but still less than retirement five years ahead of time, although you Increased payments to more than 8 million 2012’s increase of 3.6 percent. Seniors received need to start saving for retirement as soon as you SSI beneficiaries will begin on Dec. 31, 2014. The no increases to their benefits for two years prior as start working. Social Security Act ties the annual COLA to the prices fell due to the recession. “If you start a separate fund, outside of a retire- Winter 2014 Edition Senior Softball News 15 Do You Consider Your Financial Future A Home Run? Turn To Someone You Know For Help.

Since 1986, Tim Sellner has been helping his Prudential customers with the same integrity and customer service that you have come to know from Tanel 360. He and Andy Groebner, both of whom you’ve seen at the ball fields for years, are financial professionals available and excited to help you.

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Visit Tanel360.com for all your Tanel 360˚ softball gear! 16 Senior Softball News Winter 2014 Edition 2014 WORLD MASTERS CHAMPIONSHIPS Eight Teams Win 2014 Triple Grand Slam

By Ross McCulligan Softball News Report AS VEGAS – Eight teams claimed the Holy Grail of Softball - the Triple Grand Slam title – during the World Masters Championships here. The Triple Grand Slam is earned when a team wins their division in the Eastern or Western National Championships, the U.S. National Game and then their division of the World Masters Championships. Out of all the teams in the country – and 506 at the World Masters – eight realized this accomplishment: Dreamgirlz 50 W, Superior Senior Softball 60, MBA Elite 60, Vacar Stars 70, Omen 70, Syracuse Cyclones 70, San Francisco Seals 75 and Center For Sight 85. LTriple Grand Slam winners receive a pair of Tanel shoes, and option for a specialized Triple Grand Slam ring and their team’s name etched on the perpetual Triple Grand Slam Trophy. In the U.S. National games, 13 western team and eight eastern teams won their respective divisions. The U.S. Nationals are the second step of the Triple Grand Slam and is a winner-take-all single game between the Eastern and Western National winners that is played during the World Masters Championships in Las Vegas. Each of the winners received a plaque and bat bags for all players.

Here are the results of Thunder from Colorado Senior Softball out of Virginia the U.S. National games: defeated Triangle Masters out defeated Full Circle of of North Carolina 30-24 in the California 21-5 in the 65 Major n Epic of California defeated 55 Major division. Plus division. Mid-Atlantic Elite of Virginia n Tri-C-Machine out of n Handeland Flooring of 23-16 in the 40 Major division. California defeated Old Stars Wisconsin defeated Enviro- out of Illinois 16-15 in the 55 Vac Marauders out of British n Sommerville Softball of AAA division. Columbia 24-15 in the 65 Major California defeated DLB of division. Wisconsin 29-14 in the 50 Major n Superior Senior Softball A Beltway Plus division. n Bandits from Virginia defeated God’s Sacramento Islanders of Sports Company out of California defeated Syracuse outfielder, n Team USA of Maryland above, plays California 35-20 in the 60 Major Cyclones out of New York 19-7 defeated Cornerstone of Oregon a ball near Plus division. in the 65 AAA division. the warning 25-23 in the 50 Major division. track, while a Desert n MBA Elite from California n Damaged Goods out of n Stanislaus Sluggers of Dawgs runner defeated Crystal Cobras out of California defeated Chicago tries to beat California defeated ILA Fifty North Carolina 23-13 in the 60 Hitmen 20-16 in the 65 AA a throw in a Plus of Virginia 22-15 in the 50 game against Major division. division. Houston Fire. AAA division. Both games n Hannington’s out of n Connection out of California were in the n MTC Softball Club of 55 AAA divi- Massachusetts defeated Viejitos defeated Vacar Stars out of California defeated Omega IT sion. from California 24-14 in the 60 Virginia 20-4 in the 70 Major Services of Maryland 31-26 in AAA division. Plus division. the 55 Major Plus division. n Hamel Builders/Superior n San Francisco Seals defeated n Scrap Iron Rocky Mountain

Order from your Anaconda Sports: Official Supplier of Senior Softball-USA Senior Softball Store Today!!! TRUMP: Official ball of Senior Softball-USA 800-327-0074 or www.seniorsoftball.com Winter 2014 Edition Senior Softball News 17 2014 WORLD MASTERS CHAMPIONSHIPS Eight Teams Win 2014 Triple Grand Slam

Senior Softball out of Virginia Joseph Chevrolet from Florida defeated Full Circle of 14-12 in the 75 Major Plus. WMC: 62 Teams California 21-5 in the 65 Major n PDR Fastsigns out of Oregon Plus division. defeated Hamel Builders 75’s of Compete in 50 AAA Maryland 19-17 in the 75 Major Continued from Page 1 Forcing nine “If” games n Handeland Flooring of division. and a string of one-run Wisconsin defeated Enviro- helped conduct the games over 37 divisions, Vac Marauders out of British n Florida Investment massive tournament. teams once again Columbia 24-15 in the 65 Major Properties defeated Fairway Over the 10-day period, displayed a high level of division. Ford out of California 19-13 in approximately 16,000 competitiveness. the 80 Major division. players and spectators The tournament n Sacramento Islanders of infused an estimated $23 featured the first 85 California defeated Syracuse n Center For Sight 85’s from million into the local division in WMC’s Cyclones out of New York 19-7 Florida defeated Redwood City economy. history as three teams in the 65 AAA division. Chiefs out of California 20-12 The largest division competed from across the in the 80 AAA division. of the tournament, and in United States to capture n Damaged Goods out of Senior Softball history, the championship: Center California defeated Chicago n B.O.O.B.S out of California was the 50 AAA division 4 Sight (FL), Southwest Hitmen 20-16 in the 65 AA defeated Lew’s Crew/Exceeding with 62 teams. The 55 Stars (TX), and Western division. Expectations out of Maryland AAA division, with 37 Chiefs (CA). (See Story 17-5 in the Women’s 40 AA teams, was the second on Page 18. n Connection out of California division. largest followed by In a major highlight defeated Vacar Stars out of the 32-team 40 Major of the tournament, nine Photos by Jack Eberhard Virginia 20-4 in the 70 Major n Dreamgirlz out of Virginia division. players were inducted A Silver City pitcher, top photo, tries The titles in many to throw a Duke City Dynamite runner Plus division. defeated Ladiez Steel Smackin’ into the National Senior at first base in 65 AA action, while a of California 10-2 in the divisions were decided Cal Xtreme outfielder, above, tracks a n San Francisco Seals defeated Women’s 50 division. by razor-thin margins. Please See Page 18 fly ball with the Vegas skyline in the background in 60 AAA play.

Order from your Anaconda Sports: Official Supplier of Senior Softball-USA Senior Softball Store Today!!! TRUMP: Official ball of Senior Softball-USA 800-327-0074 or www.seniorsoftball.com 18 Senior Softball News Winter 2014 Edition WMC Launches First 85 Division

Softball News Report LAS VEGAS – The first 85 division in the history of the sport competed here during the World Masters Championships, with teams Hugh Brotherton, above, from Florida, Texas and California competing. was force behind 85s. In the three-team round robin, Center 4 Sight of Florida captured the 85 division title. as the first 85 team in the sport. Southwest Stars of Texas managed a 17-13 “We need this division so that we can win against Western Chiefs of California only continue to play,” he said. “I only hope we are to be bested by Center 4 Sight 25 -15. Center creating a 90 division in a few years!” For Sight’s victory also earned them the Triple The 85 teams may have five 83-year-olds Grand Slam once again. and five 84-year-olds. In addition, for the Photos by Jack Eberhard The new division came at the request of 2015 season, the 85 teams can use 12 players, Center 4 Sight captured the first 85 division title - Hugh Brotherton, who formed Center 4 Sight including five outfielders. and won the Triple Grand Slam. WMC: Three Scrap Iron Teams Win Titles Continued from Page17 then defeated Reno Elite, 21-14, to AAA divison. The Syracuse Cyclones find themselves up against the No. Softball Hall of Fame. With friends Softball Club (NY), Jimmy’s Softball 31 seeded Houck once again in the and family by their sides, Senior Club (MN), and Hamel Builders championship. Boombah slugged Softball-USA honored the newly Softball Club also placed in two of their way to victory by defeating inducted members in a prestigious their respective divisions. Houck, 26-18 and 27-24 to win the award presentation during the opening Another major highlight of the division. ceremonies of each session (See Page WMC is the U.S. National Games, The 40 AAA division featured 10 22). which pit the Eastern National teams including three from Hawaii, This year the Steve Simmons Champions against the Western one from Guam and one from Canada. Memorial Sportsmanship award was National Champions in their respective No. 3 seeded Showtime/Titan faced presented to the 50 Caliber Softball divisions. (List on Page 16). their only real test of the bracket when Club of St. Louis. The award, also Perhaps the largest attraction of they squared off with second-seeded presented during opening ceremonies, the WMC is the possibility of teams Enviro-Vac. An extremely close recognizes a commitment to completing their sweep of the Triple game ended with Showtime defeating competition, respect and a love for the Grand Slam. Teams that won their Enviro-Vac, 20-19. Showtime then game. All three 50 Caliber Softball division in the Eastern or Western An A-1 Light Trucking outfielder ran through the rest of the bracket Club teams were honored (in the 50 Nationals earned their chance to do puts everything into his throw in with little competition, winning the Major, 55 Major and 60 Major). exactly just that by winning the U.S. 50 AAA division action. championships by an average of eight Several softball clubs enjoyed National game and then their division runs per game. multiple successes at the tournament. at the WMC. When the dust settled, clawed out a victory, 24-21, once DLB won the championship in The Scrap Iron Softball Club out of eight teams proved their dominance again against Unforgiven to face the 50 Major Plus division by the Colorado saw three teams win their to claim the legendary title (Story on the Fattboyz in the championship. narrowest margins. In the 15-team respective divisions. With Scrap Iron/ Page 16). Prestige showed their perseverance division, No. 2 seed DLB ran off five Phiten seizing a championship in the The 40 Major Plus division through two tough games, defeating consecutive victories on their way to 65 AAA division, Scrap Iron Legacy consisted of 10 teams, eight from Fattboyz, 34-30 and 33-30, to double the title. They defeated Texas Players and Scrap Iron Gray Berets followed California, one from Kansas and one dip for the division title. 30-29, Nor Cal Warriors 25-10, AZ suit capturing finalists spots in the 70 from Virginia. No. 1 seed Unforgiven In the 32-team 40 Major division, Elite 28-27, TSC 25-23 and TSC 21- Major and 80 AAA divisions. lost a tough battle to the fourth Boombah Voodoo also double dipped 19, for the championship. Representing California, R&R seeded Prestige/Premier in the third their way to the championship. As the In the 50 Major division, 31 teams Pumping Unit placed third in the 40 round, 26-25. Fattboyz then defeated No. 13 seed, Boombah ran off four competed, with the eight seeded 50 AAA division, while R&R Strokers Prestige, 23-20, to gain their way into straight victories eventually falling to grabbed the second spot in the 55 the championship game. Prestige Houck Construction, 23-22. Boombah Please See Page 19 Winter 2014 Edition Senior Softball News 19 WMC: 50 Caliber, Rhinos Win Huge Divisions From Page 18 bracket winning by an average of 11 fought back to force the “If” with a runs per game. Their only test came 19-18 victory in the championship, Caliber winning six consecutive in the championship against Northern but their comeback fell just short with games to claim the title. Their two Exposure, but they earned a close Grant’s Posse winning the division. closest games came against Family victory, 18-16, to win the division. The second largest division of the Stone, from Hawaii, 22-21 in the Summy’s Nighthawks battled WMC came in the 55 AAA division second round and So Cal Vandals, 20- their way through the 55 Major as 37 teams competed for top honors. 18 in the semi-final. Plus division. The No. 5 seeded Due to the size of the division, the Oklahoma Rhinos claimed their Nighthawks crushed California bracket was split into National and spot in Senior Softball history with a Energy, 47-8, in the first round of American pods. R&R Strokers came victory in the 50 AAA division. The bracket play, then squeaked out a through the National division while victory was significant for the Rhinos victory against MTC, 20-19, in the Team Pound made their way through as they not only proved themselves second round. In the championship the American division. Team Pound World Champions, but did so in a 62- game the Nighthawks won a then defeated the Strokers 18-16 and team division, the largest in Senior competitive game, 25-24, over San 20-11 to win the division title. Softball history. In the 138th game Antonio Softball for the division title. Rocky Mountain Extreme was of the bracket, the Rhinos defeated The 55 Major division included seeded tenth in the 15-team 55 AA Mixed Breed, 30-14, to win the 28 teams. Grant’s Posse defeated division. They were able to cruise division. Old Style/Windy City 18-7 in the “If” through the bracket with little The 50 AA division consisted of game to win the division. Grant’s resistance and faced Champion eight teams competing for the division Posse originally knocked Old Style Pumper out of Washington in the championship. As the No. 2 seed, the into the loser’s bracket with a 15- New Mexico Boomers dominated the 14 win in the fifth round. Old Style Please See Page 21 No doubt - yooouuuur OUT! 2014 World Masters All Tournament Players Selected 2014 LVSSA/SSUSA Doug Kett, Jim Olson, Kurt Ko- Men’s 55 AA – Rocky Moun- Rockey Crews; Enviro-Vac Ma- Milo Richmond, Ken Moses, Andy zlowski, Eugene Snowden, Larry tain Extreme: Lawrence Platt, rauders: Ross Evison, Trevors Endsley; Git-R-Done 70: Gene World Masters Champi- Tostrud; TSC: Henry Houston, Joe Donald Belker, Jon Toledo, Steve Bjurman Dick, Ron Bolton onships All Tournament Torres, Myron Usher; Sommerville Murphy, Richard Rupp; Cham- Men’s 65 AAA – Scrap Iron Men’s 75 MajorPlus – San Players include: Softball: Ronnie Salcedo, Isac pion Pumpers: Gary Miller, Doug Phiten: Mark Soloway, Skip Walk- Francisco Seals: Argie Haddock, Women’s 40 Major – TKP/ (Chito) Alvidrez Payne, John Walkington; 1st Interi- er, Dick Schimmels, Stan Suichta, Jim Phillips, Bob Swarthout, Pete Hunter: Lisa Bull, Deb DiMeglio, Men’s 50 Major – 50 Caliber ors: Brian Williams, Randy Johnson Greg Broeckelman; SoCal Gusto: Conley, Herb Epple, Bill Enos Kim Roter, Carolyn Norman, Edith St Louis: Murray Wortman, Doug Men’s 60 MajorPlus – Superior John Sadler, Chuck Meeks, Tom Men’s 75 Major – Mesa Cardi- Duffey; CPB: Tracy Bougere, Mar- Thompson, Len Kanyo, Len Jones, Senior Softball: Danny Ballard, Aguilar; Suburban Auto Group: nals: Wayne Erickson, Paul Dvorak, celina Smith, Prince Washington Rick Riley; So CA Vandals: Ron Andrew (Pete) Smith, John Davide, Larry Koenig, Tony Perry Neil Riebe, Mike Wlasichuk, John Women’s 40 AAA – Twisted Chenier, Dave Thompson, Pat Dennis Tuck, Billy Cameron; Min- Men’s 65 AA – MN Lum- Anderson; Jimmy’s Minnesota Fossils: Lori Palagi, Tammy Imbriale, nesota Masters: Lon Stole, Gary berjacks: Wayne Peterson, Dick Gold: Lowell Thompson, Jerry Schondelmayer, Debra Larson, Lori Men’s 50 AAA – Oklahoma Hamilton Bunde, Dennis Johnson, Steve Bak- Filipek Beaudoin, Donna McLean Rhino: Willie Schooley, Don Men’s 60 Major – MBA Elite: er, Myron Fluegge; Texas Rattlers: Men’s 75 AAA – Harris Auc- Women’s 40 AA – Northern Dunlop, Jim Yetter, Buddy Holman, Dave Donnan, Jose Moreno, Dar- Bobby Olivares, Gary Lambie, Jesse tion: Marlyn Schroepfer, Richard Construction Fireballs: Elisa Sto- Dale Boyd; Mixed Breed: Stewart ryl Watson, Walt Christian, David Ayala; SoCal Crush: Tom Williams, Bullock, JE Smith, Eddie Glover, Ed kowski, Shelly Lagimoniere, Becky Henry, Willie Winters, Bud Ander- (Lucky) Gonzalez; Pope Transport: Ken Larson Petlick Stone son; Leed Construction: Tyrone Ken Van Bogaert, Rich Olson, Paul Men’s 70 MajorPlus – Omen Men’s 80 Major – Florida Women’s 50 – Dreamgirlz: Maynard, Jim Caterbone Cox; Drillers: Willie Bertran, Ru- 70: Bill Nevis, Tom French, John Investment Properties: Joe Sykes, Fay Jennings, Gwennie Wright, Men’s 55 MajorPlus – Sum- ben Beltran Chacon, Al Oxley, Ron McElyea; Dave Bush, Norm Haltrich, Jerry Beverly Lovett, Shirley Snell, my’s Nighthawks: Scott Camery, Men’s 60 AAA – Wisconsin Florida Legends: Zeb Carter, Jones, Larry McCurdy; Elk Grove Barbara Foxx; Karphone: Vanesa Paul Salow, Mike Toomey, Frank Masters: Mike Haley, Tom John- Roy Hern, Mike Marcum; Stark Renegades: Don Fields, Ron New- Farrington, Mena Johnson, Cindy Ferrara, Mike Lorden; San Antonio ston, Jim Sevals, Jim Hannula, Ken Street Pizza: Jack Robinson, Bob man Coleman; Ladiez Steel Smackin: Softball Club: Mike Garibay, Frank Sheffield; Hannington’s 60: Marvin Gregorich Men’s 80 AAA – Jimmy’s Shawn Moreno, Dina Hidalgo Viver, Ray Cervera Sims, Kevin Lipsett, Thomas Tashea Men’s 70 Major – Vacar Stars: MN Legends: David Belbin, Men’s 40 Major – Boombah Men’s 55 Major – Grant’s Men’s 60 AA – Syracuse Cy- Jim Presley, John Argilan, Bobby Bob D’Amadio, Gene Bartz, John VooDoo/Miken: Corey Mutter, Posse: Keith Erikson, Barry Count- clones: Joe Versace, Rich Iuele Brown, Frank Shotwell, Sal Colloca; Gratzek, Larry Herickhoff; Pro- Chris Tucker, Josh Morrison, Ken ess, Greg Brandt, Dan Hess, Ron Men’s 65 MajorPlus – Full Scrap Iron 70 Legacy: Bob Ross, Health Care: Blake Waterhouse, Manns, Jason Boldt; Reno Elite: Barnhart; Old Style/Windy City Circle: Mack Lough, Chris Dayak, Fred Searle, JC Moore; Michael’s/ Willie Wood, Roger Schroeder; Richie (Mo) Moczkowski, Brian Softball: Brian Campbell, Kevin Rick Mansker, Brian Rooney, Jerry Libby’s: Rod Wilterdink, Jerry Scrap Iron Grey Berets: Don Williford Krahn, Jim Cushing; Wolf Pack: Scanlan; Hamel Builders/Superior: Stremikis Notarmuzi, David Bray Men’s 40 AAA – Showtime/Ti- Ken Childress, Henry Musgrove Jr Danny Ballard, Andy Zitnay, Don Men’s 70 AAA – Texas Leg- Men’s 85 AAA – Center For tan Trucking: Bryan Frantz, Scott Men’s 55 AAA – Team Pound: Clatterbough ends: Nick Nicholson, Joe Harris, Sight: Don Gsell, Ray Rogers, Rick Farrell, Willie Wilbert, Don Johnson, Randy Taylor, Mike Boukal, Matt Men’s 65 Major – 4:13 Rim Alan Smith, Jim Cary, Dick Anish; Mauer, Rich Pavlak, Guy Grasso; Ivo Salvi; Defend Pono: Ronald Schunke, Bruce Ganyo, Ron Wong; Fire: Eddie Rivera, Steve Snow, Joe Chicago Gray Sox: Richie Doug- Southwest Stars: John Rawlings, Ramirez, Craig Okita, Jason Lopez R&R Strokers: Rich Moreno, Bill Falcon, Wendell Rich, Hootie In- las, Jim DuCharme Al Linski, Bill Blakemore Men’s 50 MajorPlus – DLB: Probasco, Rick Vogel; Mayhem 55: gram; San Antonio Silver Streaks: Men’s 70 AA – Syracuse Bob Sandlin, Mark Williams Mingo Garcia, Chris Schneider, Cyclones: Bob Wood, Vern Wagar, 20 Senior Softball News Winter 2014 Edition World Masters Championships MVPs Each team that com- (Chip) Cregar; Sacramento peted in the 2014 LVSSA/ Buds-Tosh Ohara; San Antonio SSUSA World Master’s Silver Streaks-Bobby Saenz; Scrap Iron Diamonds-Jim Championships selected Davidson; Scrap Iron Phiten- one player as an MVP. Tom Reynolds; Sidewinders Here is the list of MVP 65-Bill Jenkins; SW Florida Selections: Thunder-Dennis Schroeder; Texas Rattlers-Tommy John; WOMEN’S 40: Angry The Sheriff-Dale Clem; West Birds-Heather Richard; Kiss Our 94th Street Pub-Drew Pearson; Stix-Laura (LB) Bernadino; Lone Yeagers 65-Jim Thomas Star Elite-Colleen Gillaspy; MEN’S 70: Chicago Gray TKP/Hunter-Lisa Bull; Twisted Sox-Gary Heifner; El Paseo Fossils-Tammy Schondelmayer Bank-Jim Vargeson; Git-R- WOMEN’S 50: Ari- Done 70-Ed Nilsen; Hawaiian zona Dream Team-Terri Davis; Pride-Dennis Holland; Hooters Dreamgirlz-Sylvia Echols; High Casino Hotel Las Vegas/Ginco Desert Diamonds-Joyce Helge- Plumbing Photos by Jack Eberhard -Bernie Tymko, Peter sen; Ladiez Steel Smackin-Darla Eskiw, Nick Pashulka; Kokopelli Sommerville Glen May, holding trophy, and the 50-Caliber 50, 55 and 60 teams won the Steve Eye Institute Scorpions-Bill MEN’S 40: EnviroVac- Simmons Memorial Sportsmanship Award for 2014, the top SSUSA award. Corso; Michael’s/Libby’s-Frank Mike Paynter; Hara’s Dynasty- Caliendo Sr; MidAmerica Hawaiian’s Greg Smith; -Mike CA Vandals-John Birtcher; Som- tegrity Builders-Rod Chambers; Blizzard-Greg (Willie) Wil- Patriots-Frank Perez; Minnesota MidAtlantic Elite DeMate; -Sean merville Softball-Darrell Beeler; Kamikaze 55-Jose Sobalvarro; son; MN Masters White-Don Masters-Norm Setnicker; Omen R&R 40z Newsome; -Raul Tor- Sonoma County Crush-Mike Kona Legends-Stan Grahovac; Tarasewicz; No Dice-Bruce 70-Lynn Anglin; RWC State Rancid/Miken Sports res; -Frank McCamish; Southern Oregon Mayhem 55-Gary Tackett; Mich- Sanchez; No Guts, No Glory- Roofing Systerm-Charley Sher- Reno Elite Perez; -Richie (Mo) Flatliners-Barney Lewis; Steel igan Smash/Top Gun-Robert Dave Neal; OC Mustangs-Jerry rill; Scrap Iron Legacy-Jerry Showtime/Titan Moczkowski; City Sox-Brian Novak; Team Westdrop; Minnesota Prize-John McIntyre; Rezults Realty-Dan Sundberg; Stark Street Pizza- Trucking SOCO -Brian Frantz; Elite/CC/Miken-Howard Cohen; Hill; Motown Stars-Lawrence LoBue; Rogue 60-Tom Witucky; Doc DeMarco; Sun City Side- District Whatever -Santos Reyes; Team USA-Calvin Butcher; Reedus; Mountain Men-Dave Sacramento Islanders 60-Craig winder II-Buster Dickinson; Syr- Softball -Enrique Porchas Texas Elite-Whole Team; Texas Litchfield; New Jersey Metro Nakahara; Scrap Iron Legends- acuse Cyclones 70-Bob Wood; MEN’S 50 50 Caliber St : Mavericks-Herb Oliver; Texas Hitmen-Tony Vodola; North- Dale Daugherty; Sidewinders Triple Play-Glenn Fitzgerald; Louis -Scott Huff, Steve Wilhelm; Softball-Gilbert Saenz; Bulletts- ern Exposure-Dave Zuker; Old 60-Ron Wiebold; SoCal 60-Shig WE Ruth 70-Daryl Idler; Vacar A&C Developers -Gil Stephens; Joe Holloway; Top Gun 50-Jeff Stars-Lovelle Johnikin; R&R Asato; Superior Senior Softball- Stars-Larry Stremikis Bad Seed Big -Nick Iacobitti; Hutchison; Top Gun Thunder- Strokers-Doug Hamlet; Scrap Tommy Dommel; Syracuse MEN’S 75: Arizona 75-Joe Ten Softball -Mike Utterback; Craig Peirson; TSC-Harold Iron Coyotes-Tony Cooper; Cyclones 60-Jim Ranucci; Team Siegele; California Connection- DLB Down -Tim Fredenburg; Kelley Scrap Iron Rocky Mountain Texas (SA)-Carlos Vargas; Tim- Wally Seller, Gene Adams; and Dirty Fifty st -Randy Case; MEN’S 55: 1 Interiors- Thunder-Brad Edginton; Tasty berworks Construction-Roger Git-R-Done 75-George Togo; GZ Florida Au- -Adolfo Leal; Brian Williams; 50 Caliber Pizza-Rod Prather; Team Pound- Sanders; Top Gun 60-Jimmy Day Gold Coast-Jeff Helgeartner; tomated Shade -Charles Larkin; Plus-Dave Melosi; Action Auto Randy Taylor; Tri-C Machine- MEN’S 65: 4:13 Rim Fire- Hamel Builders 75-Ed (Hutch) Git-R-Done -Robert Carrington; Parts-Steve Marcotte; Arizona Rick Glazer; Unpredictable- Bill Gore; Anaconda Sports-Joe Attenberger; Hill Contract- Gizmos/KP Powerwash -Jeff Mc- Legends-Jeff Brian; Ari- Ricardo Ornelas; Wilson and Vancho; Chicago Hitmen-Mike ing 75-Lucky Roton; Joseph Hawaiian’s Neil; -Darin Pacheco; zona Old School-Tony Mauzy; Sons Auto-Mike Wilson; Wolf McLennand; Codgers-Vic Chevrolet-Tom Sides; Mesa ILA FiftyPlus -Jim Williams; Banker & Mann Softball-Jeff Pack-Lorren Dalesky Thompson; Damaged Goods- Cardinals-David Boone; Min- JAXX/Bret JU -Rick Steele; Sheeran, Dave Koelper; Bel- MEN’S 60: 911 Softball Tim Ryan; Duke City Dynamite- nesota Gold Jimmy’s 75- Lowell Entertainment -Roderick (Rah levue Merchants-Ed McKeeken; Club-Sam Grimes; Atlanta Ray Johnson; Event Lab-Lud Thompson; New Concepts I-Eu- Kamikaze 50 Rah) White; -Car- Beltway Bandits-Jose Miranda; Recycling-Randy Broome; Bay Nordahl; Florida Merchants- sebio (Chevo) Duran; New York KC Outlaws len Bratta; -Randy Braves 55-Art Estrada; Cham- Supporters-Robert Standley; Pat McDonald; Franklin Loan Statesmen-Dennis Leach; San Kingman 50 Detring; -Armando pion Pumpers-Doug Payne; Blue Chips-Dan Creeden; Cal Center-Tom Moore; Full Francisco Seals-Terry Nafziger; Leed Construction Caban; -Ron Chicago Prime-Whole Team; Xtreme-Paul Richardson; Chain Circle-Randy Gomez; Git-R- State Roofing Systems-Bill Log Cabin Tavern Uzwiak; -Max CJ&S Express-Gary Duede; Link-Freddy Purvis; Chicago Done 65-Mark Beizer; Hamel Beshore Michael’s Toyota of Williams; Dallas Spurs-Al Schoelen; Deep Hitmen-Paul Carpenter; Crys- Builders/Superior-John Davide; MEN’S 80: Elk Grove Bellevue MN -Russ McDuffie; Purple-George Hamilton; Dou- tal Cobras-Gordon (Elmo) Kansas City Fire-John Gerstle; Renegades-Don Fields; Florida Lumberjacks -Mitch Krause; bleplay/Monarch-Dan Plesitz; Moser; Dallas Spurs-Tom Parris; Last Call-Lowell Moore; Makua Investment Properties-Ray Oklahoma Rhino -Rusty Moore; Family Stones-Chuck Seminara; Dixon ZTR-Craig Long; Edge Alii-Michael Antone; Maraud- Bosetti; Scrap Iron Grey Oxnard Rookies -Jamie Lagos; Four Seasons/Wilkins Truck- II-Thomas Goatley; God’s ers-Steve Adams; Masters Berets-Ken Klauer; Jimmy’s Rochester 50/Bob Johnson ing/Weitzel’s-Mike Wilkins; Sports Company-Jimmy Ross; Marauders-Craig Barraclough; MN Legends 80-David Belbin; Chevrolet San -Butch Crozier; Git-R-Done-Kevin O’Reilly; Hannington’s-Andrew Harmon; Midwest Express-Larry Peter- ProHealth Care-Dick Steinmet; Antonio Gunslingers -Scott Grants Posse-Glenn Stevenson; Hawaiians-Mike Brown; Hollis son; Minnesota Prize 65-Bob Texas Classics 80-Henry Morgan Scrap Iron Rocky Moun- Fritts; Gubiotti/Genesee-Joe Germano; Appraisals-Mike Monnier; MBA Hagen; R&R 65-Phil Stevens; MEN’S 85: Center For tain Thunder -Tim DeJarnette; Hawaiian’s-David Hoopii; Elite-George Robinson; Makua Rose Enterprises-Charles Sight-Hugh Brotherton SoCal Knights-Pablo Lopez; So Houston Fire-Kippy Carr; In- Alii-BuckyMattson; Minnesota Winter 2014 Edition Senior Softball News 21 WMC: Superior Dominates 60 Major-Plus From Page 19 The win also secured the 70 Major division Triple finals. Rocky Mountain Extreme faced their first Grand Slam. With a narrow 14-12 win over Stark real test of the tournament but squeaked out a win, St. Pizza, Omen showed great resolve defeating a 16-15, to win the division. skilled FL Legends team 24-21. Florida Legends Superior Senior Softball dominated the 60 rebounded with a 28-21 win over Stark St. Pizza. In Major Plus division in classic form. They were an evenly matched championship game, Omen 70 seeded No. 1 in the bracket and strung together four defeated the Legends 16-15. straight wins to take the division. They averaged a The 70 Major division saw Scrap Iron 70’s winning margin of 7 runs per game and scored no dig deep to defy Vacar Stars’s control of the less than 25 runs in each of their victories on their bracket. After dropping to the elimination bracket way to the championship. Superior Senior Softball in a tough loss to the Stars 20-12, Scrap Iron also claimed the Triple Grand Slam with their World regained their footing by defeating Michael’s 19- Photos by Jack Eberhard Championships, 60 Major Plus division title 10. With momentum on their side, Vacar seemed Team Pound celebrates winning the 37-team Another large division was the 60 Major’s with poised to seize the title without a loss, but Scrap 55 AAA division - the second largest. 23 teams. MBA Elite lived on the edge with a series Iron delivered a fatal 14 -13 win to deflate their of close wins including a pair of one-run ballgames. with ease. Enviro-Vac, the second seed, was able to confidence. In an exciting “If” game, Scrap Iron They turned it on when it counted and were able reach the semifinals by coming out on top against 70’s fell short 10-9 and Vacar earned the division to slug their way to a 32-23 victory over Pope R&R 65’s 20-15 and SW Florida 25-24, but lost title. Vacar Stars close battle with Scrap Iron also Transport in the championship game. MBA Elites their composure against a tough 4:13 Rim Fire gained them the coveted Triple Grand Slam. victory secured their spot in Senior Softball history squad in a close 14-11 loss. By that time, fifth Featuring another “If” game to determine the as it captured the coveted Triple Grand Slam. seed SA Silver Streaks had clawed their way up the champion, the 70 AAA division showcased the Extremely close competition played out in the elimination bracket winning five games in a row to highly competitive play present here. Knocked into 33-team, 60 AAA division. One-run games littered play Enviro-Vac for a chance to vie for the crown. the elimination bracket 24-19 by a commanding the bracket with the ninth seeded Wisconsin Masters Coming up with a solid 32-24 win, SA Silver Texas Legends squad, Hooters persevered disposing playing a part in many of them. The Masters faced Streaks attempted to dethrone 4:13 Rim Fire but of MN Masters 13-9, Triple Play 17-15, Top Gun the top seeded Hannington’s in the fifth round, they fell a dozen runs short, losing 27-15. II 12-7 and Chicago Gray Sox 22-21 in that order. eking out a 20-19 victory, forcing them into the In a surprising turn of events, No. 12 seed Given a chance to dethrone the Texas Legends elimination bracket. Hannington’s would not go S.I. Phiten and No. 11 seed SoCal Gusto survived in the finals, Hooters pulled off a 23-22 upset away easily and were able to claw their way back to a talented 65 AAA division to duke it out for the win. Seasoned and ready to win, Texas Legends face Wisconsin Masters in the finals. Hannington’s title. SoCal Gusto overcame a late-round loss to answered only their second loss in the tournament was able to force an “If” with a 23-18 win over Suburban 22-21 to climb out of the elimination with a thunderous 35-17 win over Hooters to take Wisconsin, but the Masters came back with another bracket. Eliminating top seed Islanders 20-16 and the division title. 20-19 win in the “If” for the division title. Sidewinders 17-12, SoCal exacted revenge against Terrifying their competitors, the Syracuse No. 8 seed Team Texas was knocked into the Suburban with a 20-16 victory to make it to the Cyclones swept the 70 AA division to win the title. elimination bracket by Relentless in the fourth championship game. Meanwhile, S.I. Phiten blasted Defeating USA Patriots 24-12 and Git-R-Done 25- round of the 21-team, 60 AA division. They strung Sidewinders out of the water with a 15-7 win and 5, the Syracuse Cyclones easily sealed the division together wins in a few closely fought ballgames, squeezed by Suburban 18-15 to play SoCal Gusto by overwhelming USA Patriots again 25-3 in the 15-14 and 21-20, over Fresh Poke and Syracuse for the ring. In a close game, Phiten triumphed over championship game. The Cyclones also grabbed the Cyclones to gain their way into the championship. SoCal Gusto 21-19 to win the championship. Triple Grand Slam in the 70 AA division, marking Team Texas then scored 18 runs in two consecutive Outperforming 19 talented teams, fifth seed the third TGS winner in the 70 age bracket. games, one being the “If”, against Relentless to win MN Lumberjacks captured the 65 AA division title. The 75 Major Plus Division saw Joseph the division championship. Top seed Damaged Goods, after two strong wins Chevrolet and S.F. Seals battle it out for the title. Despite a strong performance by Hamel against Kauai 20-12 and Desert Heat 37-18, fell S.F. Seals proved to be victorious swiftly putting Builders, Full Circle dominated the competition to the elimination bracket in a 19-18 loss to MN away Joseph Chevrolet with two consecutive wins in the 65 Major Plus division. Going into the Lumberjacks. Third seed SoCal Crush punished 14-12 and 27-12. With the win, the legendary team championship bracket undefeated, Hamel Builders the Rattlers 17-11 and Chicago Hitmen 18-15 only out of California claimed another Triple Grand Slam demolished Event Lab 38-19. Omen 65 did their to be beaten by the Lumberjacks 23-21. Trying title. best to knock Full Circle into the elimination to stay alive after their loss to SoCal Crush, the Mesa Cardinals mowed down the competition bracket, but came up short 17-15. With Full Circle Rattlers pulled off some impressive wins disposing in the 75 Major division. Knocking PDR Fastsigns up next, Hamel Builders fell to the elimination of Damaged Goods, Chicago Hitmen and SoCal into the elimination bracket with a resounding 13-0 bracket in a tough 12-8 loss. Undaunted by the loss, Crush. Earning a spot in the championship game, shutout, Mesa went on to beat Hamel Builders Hamel bulldozed Omen 24-7 to replay Full Circle the steadfast Rattlers just couldn’t compete against 17-9. Hamel Builders then defeated Jimmy’s MN for the title. Full Circle’s steadfast bats overpowered a seemingly invincible MN Lumberjacks losing 17- Gold 13-0 in the elimination bracket, producing the Hamel Builders 30-15 to take the division title. 10. second division shutout, to earn a rematch against Fielding 13 teams, the 65 Major division saw In several close offensive bouts, Omen 70 Mesa. Winning the championship game 16-11, top seed 4:13 Rim Fire muscle out their competitors pushed through to gain the 70 Major division title. Continued on Page 22 22 Senior Softball News Winter 2014 Edition

Photos by Jack Eberhard Seven players were inducted into the National Senior Softball Hall of Fame during second session Opening Ceremonies. The inductees, from left in the top photo, include: Harry Heller, Jim Douglas, Mike Sisavic, Steve Salter, Dennis Lutz, Don Pierson, Not in photo: George Sylvia. In left photo, Mike Adair, manager of GSC team, left in photo, and Bobby Davis of Hollis were inducted during the third session Opening Ceremonies. Nellis Air Force Base provided the color guard. WMC: TKP, Fossils Winners Continued from Page 21 Legends faced little resistance from division title 22-16. the competition to earn the division Tharaldson Mesa Cardinals dashed the hopes title. One by one, Jimmy’s Legends Softball and Twisted of Hamel Builders and seized the Forty 19-4, Lew’s Crew 19-14 and bested the cream of the crop beating Fossils dominated the Women’s 40 division title. B.O.O.B.’s 13-11, to make it to the ProHealth Care 16-8 and SI Grey AAA division, despite a notable With 12 teams competing in the finals. After losing to Utah Relics Beret 13-10. Salvaging their team’s performance by the Saints. Losing 75 AAA division, Harris Auction 18-17 in a nail biter, No. Const. hopes for the title, ProHealth Care to Team Alaska 14-11 in their first stole the show going undefeated in Fireballs managed four consecutive turned around to defeat Redwood City bracket game, the Saints were able bracket play to gain the title. Both wins to climb out of the elimination 22-11 and Oregon RR’s 22-10. Riding to climb their way up the elimination NY Statesman and Hill Contracting bracket, including a bittersweet 22-21 their winning momentum, ProHealth bracket disposing of DFW Classic, did their best to cut Harris Auction victory over the Utah Relics. Facing a Care went on to silence SI Grey Beret Old Nasty and Law & Order. down a peg to no avail. With NY determined Above the Law squad, the 20-14 to face off against Jimmy’s Tharaldson Softball managed several Statesmen losing 30-21 and Hill Fireballs managed a 15-8 win to force Legends in the championship game. significant wins against Kiss Our Contracting losing 22-12, Harris an “If” game. Undeterred, Above the The Legends powered in 22 runs to Stix 17-5 and Team Alaska 15-1 Auction reached the finals with a Law outgunned the Fireballs 21-8 to ProHealth Care’s 8 to clinched it. to face off against Twisted Fossils. significant edge. Harris Auction the seize the division title. The Women’s 40 Masters Unable to muster enough runs, walloped Hill Contracting 28-15 in the In the Women’s 50 division, Major division fielded eight highly Tharaldson Softball lost 15-11 to championship game. Dreamgirlz crushed the competition competitive teams. C.P.B. started Twisted Fossils and dropped to the The 80 Major Division saw and captured the title. Ladiez Steel out strong triumphing over Team elimination bracket. In a defining some inspiring play by Fairway Smackin did their best to take control Works 21-20 and top seed Old School game, Tharaldson Softball flexed Ford overshadowed by the success of the bracket after solid wins against 20-6. TKP/Hunters also managed a their muscles and overcame a scrappy of Florida Investment Properties. HC Swingers 16-4 and Dream Team commanding start overcoming All In Saints Squad 17-9 to earn a spot in the Starting off strong, Fairway Ford 8-7, but were decimated by the 10-8 and a solid Hafta Play squad 18- finals. Twisted Fossils experienced beat EG Renegades 25-17 only to Dreamgirlz 30-12. Karphone picked 15. Then TKP/Hunters narrowly beat their first loss of the tournament to be decimated by Florida Investment up the reins after being relegated to C.P.B. 20-19 to advance to the finals. Tharaldson 17-13 compelling an “If” Properties 24-8. Falling to the the elimination bracket by Dream Dropping to the elimination bracket, game to determine the champion. In a elimination bracket, Fairway defeated Team in a 4-3 loss. Managing four Hafta Play eked out a nice victory suspenseful match-up, Twisted Fossils EG Renegades again 17-6 to earn consecutive wins, including an against Angry Birds 15-14, but was captured the Championship with a 15- another shot at Florida Investment important 19-8 victory over Ladiez unable to keep up with C.P.B. losing 14 win over Tharaldson. Properties in the championship game. Steel Smackin, Karphone failed to 22-11. Facing off in the championship The Women’s 40 Masters AA But Florida Investment Properties won overcome the Dreamgirlz 14-11. By game, TKP Hunters and C.P.B. both division saw six teams battle it out for 17-15 to win the division title. winning the World Championships, put up a good fight, but TKP Hunters the title. Above the Law laid down With eight teams competing for Dreamgirlz captured the Triple Grand came away with the win and the the law one by overcoming Guam the 80 AAA title, Jimmy’s Minnesota Slam in the Women’s 50 division. Winter 2014 Edition Senior Softball News 23 Southern Teams Vie For TOC Berths By Joseph Ruggiero some fun and exciting bracket play. Boys of Summer 18-17, but the Boys Softball News Report Despite an impressive showing by of Summer rebounded with a nail BIRMINGHAM, ALA. – The DT Express during seeding games, biting 13-12 victory to steal the 60 Southern Championships returned they couldn’t overpower David AAA division title. here for its 8th consecutive year at Bowen 10-8 or Edge II 21-18 and The 65 Gold division showcased the five-field Liberty Park Sports were eliminated. G.A.S. started strong compelling performances by 7th Complex from Aug. 14 to Aug. 17. beating (By) Grace redeemed 23-12 seed, LA Legends, and 8th seed, The Twenty-seven teams attended and Edge II 22-21, but failed to thwart Firm. With both teams going winless the tournament representing seven the hot bats of David Bowen, losing into the championship bracket, they states from America’s southern region 24-15. Falling to the elimination upended the top two seeded teams including Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, bracket, G.A.S. unfortunately faced a to start off bracket play. LA Legends Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi and resurgent Edge II team that decisively beat 4:13 Rim Fire 20-17 and The Tennessee. disposed of them 23-10 to earn a spot Firm upset Sports Lettering 23-22. The tournament’s divisions were in the championship game against Rim Fire quickly rebounded from well-balanced and competitive with David Bowen. With two consecutive their initial loss by handily defeating “If” games determining the winners of one-run wins, Edge II narrowly Team ABC, Sports Lettering, and the 55/60 Gold division, the 60 AAA more confident mustering 29 runs to overcame David Bowen’s offensive Custom Graphics. Almost knocked division and the 65 Gold division. Lighthouse’s 23. An exciting, high- firepower 21-20 and 22-21 to clinch out by Carriage 20-21, Rim Fire One team, Edge II, managed an scoring rematch, Monster Softball the championship. pushed on to spar with the Firm and impressive “double dip” comeback showed why they deserved the title With seven teams competing came out ahead 17-12 to face LA to seize the title in the 55/60 Gold despite the efforts of some talented in the 60 AAA division, 6th seed Legends in the championship game. division. southern competitors. ATL Recycle seemed poised to LA legends, playing hot off of a Five teams did their best to The 50 AAA division saw upset some top-seeded teams and three-game winning streak, stood toe slow Monster Softball’s winning Magnolia Softball and North Georgia entertain a shot at the title. After to toe with Rim Fire, but lost 17-16. momentum in the 50 Major division. Outlaws vie for the title. After losing losing to ATL Naturals 21-7, the In an exciting end to the tournament, With Monarchs and Langston bowing the first game 17-12, the North scrappy ATL Recycle team battled the two teams battled out the 3rd out early, Lighthouse defeated a Georgia Outlaws came back to beat their way through the elimination “If” game of the tournament and LA strong Herrington team 16-8 to earn a Magnolia Softball 16-5. Unable to bracket eliminating AR Naturals 25- Legends persevered 16-8 to claim chance to face an undefeated Monster find any offensive rhythm, Magnolia 13, T.A.G. 22-20 and Randy Smith their division title and a T.O.C. berth. Softball squad. In their first match-up, Softball fell to North Georgia 11-6 19-8. Top seed, Elite 60’s, halted ATL For complete game results, please Monster Softball barely eked out a in the championship game and the Recycle’s winning streak 20-5 to face visit Senior Softball USA’s Southern 22-21win against Lighthouse. In the Outlaws took the division title. second seeded Boys of Summer. In Championships’ tournament page at: second game, Monster softball proved The 55/60 Gold division featured their first match-up, Elite 60’s upset www.seniorsoftball.com.

2014 Southern Championships All Tournament Players include: Ron Hager, Manger of Nebraska's A&C 50s Dies Softball News Report Midwest area tournaments with Men’s 50 Major – Monster Softball: Ron Hager, 55, of Nebraska, Nebraska X-Treme. Danny Cloud, Dane Davidson, Clarence Wat- kins, Jay Mann, Rex Lee manager of the 2014 A&C Developers Being part of team was important Men’s 50 AAA – North Georgia Out- 50AAA team, died Aug. 24 after Ron and it showed. He was always laws: Gary Nicholson, Jeffrey Robertson, losing his battle with cancer. supportive of his teammates, family Gary Berrong, Danny Davis, Danny Galloway; Ron also managed the 2012 and and friends. Magnolia Softball: Allen Miles, Alan John- son, Phillip Spence 2013 Dunkin Donuts 50 AAA teams. “Ron loved softball. He was Men’s 55/60 Major – Edge Softball: Ron had been a member of Senior always thinking about and studying Glen Dale Smith, Ben (Chip) Sheffield, Harold Softball since 2010, playing in several the game. He was a stats guy who Fincher, Tom Goatley, Rick Goss; David loved to win. Some guys love to Bowen Sporting Goods: Jeff Cherry, Kevin play and some guys love to be part Hogan, Fred Williams Men’s 60 AAA – Boys of Summer: Heard in the Dugout of something. I think Ron loved Larry Chasteen, Odis Ledbetter, Rex Fletcher, "Conversation is like a boat: both equally,” said teammate Gerald Robert Rook II, David Foster; Atlanta Recy- McCaw. “He was a good guy and he If everyone crowds on the cling: Tony Childs, Johnny Stanford will be missed.” Ron Hager Men’s 65 Gold – Louisiana Legends: same side, it sinks. It needs Ron was employed by Tetrad & Pamela Buffet Cancer Center, in Jimmy Robichaux, Jim Gautreaux, Lynn balance to keep afloat." Guidry, Gary Smith, L. Phil Pittman; 4:13’s Corp, a construction and real estate which he was project manager. Past Rim Fire: Willie Stegall, Ronald (Hootie) -- Marjorie Pither agency, for more than a decade. His projects included work for Millard Ingram, Gill Gore most recent project included the Fred Public Schools. 24 Senior Softball News Winter 2014 Edition Record 116 Teams Compete For Titles In Western Nationals By Ross McCulligan lost their opening bracket game to Softball News Report NorCal Stars, 23-19, forcing them SACRAMENTO – The into the loser’s bracket. No. 1 seed 14th annual Western National Louisville Sluggers, handedly won Championships returned to two in a row to await an opponent in Sacramento and South Placer County the championship. Prestige/Premier for the second straight year. A record fought their way to an ‘IF’ game with 116 teams competed in Central Louisville Sluggers, however the Valley’s first leg of the most coveted Sluggers defeated Prestige, 24-15, in Photos by Jack Eberhard prize in senior softball, the Triple the ‘IF’ to win the division. 12 teams competed in the 40 Men's Masters Major and Major-Plus Grand Slam. The 40 Major division included divisions, including Kraze from California, above. Winners of the Western Nationals six teams from Nevada and California. earn a berth in the U.S. National Epic dominated pool play and the Cornerstone, hailing from Oregon, but Sugamele exacted their revenge Game against winners of the Eastern bracket, defeating their opponents dominated the nine-team 50 Major on Twelve Gauge, 18-17, later in Nationals at the World Masters by an average 10 runs in five games. bracket. They grabbed the top seed the bracket to then face Stanislaus Championships in Las Vegas. In They ultimately took the division heading into bracket play and defeated Sluggers in the championship. addition, winners also receive a birth championship against Reno Elite, 17- Aftershock, 23-22, in the fourth round Stanislaus fell to Sugamele, 14- in the Tournament of Champions in 12. of games. Aftershock then defeated 8, forcing them to the ‘IF’ game. February. Seven teams competed in the Doerflinger, 23-12, to face off with However, Stanislaus fought back to The Western Nationals grew to 23 50 Major Plus division. A barrage Cornerstone in the championship win the game, 19-10, and hence the divisions in order to accommodate the of close games occurred in bracket game. Aftershock was ultimately division championship. 116 teams. The Aug. 5-10 tournament play but in the end, No. 2 seed God’s too beat up to compete, forcing The 55 Major Plus and Major utilized four complexes throughout Sports Company, squared off with them to forfeit the championship to divisions played a mixed round robin the Elk Grove, Sacramento and South No. 1 seed Sommerville Softball in Cornerstone. on Friday and Saturday morning, and Placer region. the championships. Sommerville The 50 AAA division was then split into individual brackets for SSUSA, the Sacramento made quick work of GSC, as they had extremely competitive with nine teams each division. Convention Bureau and Placer Valley with all their competitors, defeating battling for the division. Number California Energy, Goodman Tourism are looking at long-term them, 21-5, to win the 50 Major Plus three seeded Sugamele Golf was Racing and MTC squared off in plans to keep the Western Nationals in division. upset early by Twelve Gauge 13-12, the Major Plus division. California the Central Valley. Energy defeated Goodman Racing “We have developed a great 18-16 to make it to the championship relationship with each CVB and against MTC. MTC forfeited the first believe the Western Nationals will championship game to Cal Energy only continue to thrive in terms of setting up a one-game championship. quality and size here in the Capitol MTC was not forced to regret the City,” said Fran Dowell, executive forfeit as they defeated Cal Energy 23- director of SSUSA. 19 to win the division. Many players sought hydration The 55 Major division also and shade as the temperature reached consisted of three teams, Avenue triple digits for a few days of the Towing, Scrap Iron Rocky Mountain tournament. Despite the heat, the Thunder and Wolfpack Softball. tournament was a great success as Scrap Iron defeated Wolfpack17-11 in teams battled their way to the first step the second round and then once again of the Triple Grand Slam. 13-12 to win the championship for The 40 Major Plus division was Colorado. strictly a Northern California battle. Five teams competed in the 55 Six teams, all hailing from the Central AAA division, four from California Valley, slugged through an extremely and Scrap Iron Rockies from competitive division. A camera crew from Good Day Sacramento interviewed Don Holt, Colorado. All teams went 1-1 in The two seed, Prestige/Premier manager of the Elk Grove 80s, for their morning show. Continued on Page 25 Winter 2014 Edition Senior Softball News 25 Westerns: TRI-C, GSC, Pope, Viejitos Win Titles Continued from Page 24 Photos by Jack Eberhard pool play forcing run differentials into effect for seeding. Baker Boyz lost their third round game to BOOBs and TRI-C Machine 16-4 only to come back and defeat Ladiez Steel- them in the championship 21-11 to force an ‘IF.’ Smackin' TRI-C took control in the ‘IF’ handing the Baker faced off in Boyz a 26-14 defeat to win the 55 AAA division the 40/50 championship. Women's The 55/60 AA division consisted of two 55AA finals. teams and one 60 AA team. Ain’t No Saints (60 AA) grabbed the top seed while Pastimers (55 AA) and Scrap Iron Coyotes (55AA) were seeded two and three respectively. Ain’t No Saints defeated the Coyotes 24-17 and then Pastimers 20-19 to win the division. Pastimers also claimed a TOC birth as the 55 AA division winner. God’s Sports Co. fell to Timberworks Construction in their last seeding game Saturday morning. That would be their final loss of the tournament as they went on to defeat Timberworks games before losing to the Sacramento Islanders after a 15-5 victory in the championship. Both and Arizona Rogue by an average of eight runs per 16-15 advancing the Islanders to the championship teams struggled offensively in the ‘IF’ with game to win the 60 Major Plus division. game. Nor-Cal STIXX, as the No. 2 seed, lost their Kokopelli edging out a narrow 7-4 win for the The 60 Major division was full of tight opening bracket game to the Islanders, forcing them division title. competition. Enviro-Vac, hailing from British to win six games in a row to face the Islanders in The 75 Gold division was made up of two 75 Columbia, grabbed the number one seed only to the championship. Nor-Cal STIXX went on quite a AAA teams, State Roofing Systems and Oregon lose to Pope Transport 13-12 in the third round. run but came up short against the Islanders 19-17 in Roadrunners, and one 75 Major, PDR Fastsigns. Pope Transport then defeated MBA Elite 15-12 and the championship. PDR and the Roadrunners battled for their right to 6-1 consecutively to win the division championship. In the 65 AA division, Damaged Goods and play State Roofing in the finals with PDR winning The largest division of the tournament was the Sacramento Buds squared off in a best-of-three a close game 14-13. PDR went on to defeat State 60 AAA with 11 teams. Because of the size of the bracket. Damaged Goods was too much for the Roofing in the championship 16-9 only to lose division bracket play began on Friday with three Buds defeating them in two consecutive games the ‘IF’ 22-17 crowning State Roofing division games in the first round. Viejitos, out of California, 19-8 and 16-8 respectively. champion. PDR was also deemed the 75 Major went 0-2 in pool play and looked destined for an The 70 Major Plus division was also a best- champion. early exit as the No. 10 seed. They then caught of-three, pitting Omen and Stark Street Pizza The 80 Gold division also drew three teams. lighting in a bottle winning games five in a row competing for the division. Although both games Elk Grove Renegades (80 M), Fairway Ford (80 by an average of 6.5 runs per game, eventually were tight, Omen won the championship with M) and Redwood City Chiefs (80 AAA) competed defeating Cut Loose, 17-7, for the division title. consecutive wins over Stark Street by scores of 15- in the division. Fairway Ford was handed their Full Circle and Omen competed in a best-of- 14 and 17-14. only loss of the bracket by the Renegades in the three in the 65 Major Plus division. Full Circle The 70/75 Platinum mixed division consisted of championship 15-7. Fairway Ford then defeated defeated Omen 19-14 in the first game but Omen four 70 Major teams and one 75 Major Plus team. the Renegades in the ‘IF’ 16-8 to win the division. came back to take the second 15-14 setting up a The San Francisco Seals (75 M+) grabbed the top Redwood City Chiefs was awarded the 80 AAA third and final championship game. The highest seed but lost to Connection (70 M) in the second division championship. scoring game of the division ensued with Full round, 14-13. As the No. 2 seed, Connection ran In the Women’s 40 Gold division, five teams Circle defeating Omen, 22-16 to win the division. off three straight wins including another defeat of competed for the championship. Penguins out of Three teams competed in the 65 Major division. the Seals in the championship game 16-10. The Nevada grabbed the top seed but lost two games in Enviro-Vac grabbed the No. 1 seed to gain a bye San Francisco Seals were deemed the 75 M Plus a row to Old School, 17-16 and 15-14, the later in in bracket play. The Marauders beat Yeagers 14-6 champions. the championship game. Penguins was awarded only to fall to Enviro-Vac 20-15. The Marauders The 70 Silver division included four 70 AAA the 40 AAA division as Old School was the only 40 then defeated Yeagers once again to gain their teams and one 70 AA team. Can-Sirs (70 AA) Major team in the division. way into the championship only to be defeated by played exhibition, not allowing them to advance Northern California was represented in the Enviro-Vac once again 14-9 in the championship in the bracket. Kokopelli Eye Scorpions, out of Women’s 40 AA/50+ division with B.O.O.B.S game. Arizona, defeated Triple Play, out of California 16- competing against Ladiez Steel Smackin in a best- Nine teams, eight from California and one 15 to advance to the championship game. Triple of-three. B.O.O.B.S. got the best of Steel Smackin from Nevada, competed in the 65 AAA division. Play then clawed their way into the championship defeating them 11-6 and 19-6 for the division Game On, seeded No. 1, won their first two bracket as well and forced an ‘IF’ game against Kokopelli championship. 26 Senior Softball News Winter 2014 Edition Despite Heavy Rain, East Champs Emerge By Ross McCulligan 11, and then upset West 94th St, 14-2, to face ILA in Softball News Report the championship. Both teams played an excellent RALEIGH, N.C. – The 14th annual Eastern game and in the end ILA edged out an, 11-10, National Championships returned here for its victory to claim the division. seventh straight year attracting 61 teams in the first As a mixed bracket the 55/60 Platinum division leg of the coveted Triple Grand Slam. also comprised seven teams, five 55 Major and two Winners of the Eastern Nationals earned a 60 Major Plus. Due to the one-game elimination berth in the U.S. National Game against winners bracket format, teams only needed three consecutive of the Western Nationals at the World Masters wins for the championship. That team was Triangle Championships in Las Vegas. In addition, Masters, from North Carolina. They defeated High winners also received a birth to the Tournament of Street Bucs 55, Sweet Construction and Superior Champions in February. Senior Softball by an average of three runs per game The Eastern Nationals, played from July 29 to win the division. to Aug. 3 at the beautiful Walnut Creek Softball The 55/60 Gold division consisted of three 55 Complex, drew 15 divisions, with 56 out-of-state AAA teams and one 60 Major team. Old Stars teams traveling to North Carolina. (AAA) dominated two games on their way to the The first session of the tournament went off championship, defeating South Florida Heat, 16-8, well, however tournament directors had to deal with and Chicago Prime, 14-4. As the only 60 Major some torrential rain during the second session. team, Carolina Cobras earned a berth in the U.S. Due to these conditions, all bracket play was Florida Automated Shade (Major) earned a bracket National Game at the World Masters in Las Vegas. cut to single elimination in order to obtain a definite play bye, while Team USA (Major) squared off Six teams made up the 60 AAA division. champion, said tournament director JB Barner. with Omega IT Services (Major+) in the first Hanningtons 60s and Hamel 60s grabbed the The 40/50 Platinum division was comprised of round. Team USA topped Omega 22-5 and then top two seeds respectively in bracket play, four teams, three 50 Major Plus and one 40 Major. Florida Automated Shade, 22-5, to win the division. subsequently earning a first round bye. Both team DLB Softball (Major+) went 3-0 during pool play Omega IT Services also earned a berth into the U.S. won their second round games to square off in the to grab the No. 1 seed. They defeated Mid-Atlantic National Game as the 55 Major Plus representative. championship. Hamel’s came out swinging and Softball 40’s (Major), 16-13, to advance to the The 50 AAA division was one of two divisions held Hannington’s scoreless with an, 11-0, shutout championship against Mid-Atlantic Softball 50’s tied for the largest in the tournament at seven teams. victory. (Major+). DLB handed Mid-Atlantic a significant All teams in the bracket played extremely tough, The 60 AA division consisted of three teams, defeat, 23-6, with some great defense and timely with four out of six games decided by one run. th Chicago Hitmen, Code Electric and Syracuse hitting to claim the bracket. Mid-Atlantic Softball West 94 Street Pub and ILA Fifty Plus both went th Cyclones. The Cyclones were able to defeat Code 40’s also earned a berth into the U.S. National Game 2-0 in pool play with West 94 edging out ILA for Electric, 17-12, in the first round and then defeat the as the 40 Major representatives. the top seed in run differentials and gaining a first Hitmen, 13-11, to win the division championship. The 50/55 Platinum division consisted of round bye. ILA defeated Pacs Softball, 15-14, in The 65 Platinum division consisted of three two 50 Major and one 55 Major Plus teams. All the first round and then defeated Steel City, 9-8, to teams: Hamel Builders/Superior Senior Softball three teams went 1-2 in pool play, forcing run claw their way into the championship. Meanwhile, differentials to determine seeding placements. No. 4 seed Old Corps defeated the Buckeyes, 12- Continued on Page 27 Eastern National All Tournament Players Named 2014 Eastern National Champi- Ray Wimbrough, Pete Smith, Randy Thomas Darnell, Rich Iuele, Paul Lapan, Gary Lasko, Men’s 75 Gold – Joseph Chevrolet: Jim Men’s 55/60 Gold – Old Stars: Kent Chris Bell, Jack Hale; Code Electric: Mitch Bavis, Richard Lines, Frank Vargo onships All Tournament Players: Karr, Tim Cannon, Wayne Weiss, Ron Floyd, Holloway, Danny Deans Men’s 80/85 Gold – Florida Investment Bob Cash; Chicago Prime: John Bathart, Men’s 65 Platinum – Hamel Builders/ Properties: Everett Arnold, Larry McCurdy, Men’s 40/50 Platinum – Mid-Atlantic John Isaac, Elmer Piper Superior Softball: Tommy Dommel, Donald Al DeWerth, Roger Thresher, Jerry Jones, Joe Softball: Danny Grubbs, Ray Anderson, Jose Men’s 55 Major – Triangle Masters: Clatterbough, Andrew Smith, James McLamb, Sykes; Center For Sight 85: Don Gsell, Hugh Gilbert; MidAtlantic Elite: Russ Ramsey, Fred Latimore, Kenny Seagroves, Norman Andrew Zitnay; SW Florida Thunder: Jim Brotherton, Frank Hart, Paul McGillicuddy Michael Dill (Palo) Bogue, Mike Koch, Wade (Oggie) McGuire, Sonny Johnson Women’s 40 Gold – Graphic Expres- Men’s 50/55 Platinum – Team USA: Jeff Heppert; Levin Financial: Leonard Simmons, Men’s 65 AAA – Syracuse Cyclones: sion/Manic Training: Paula Locke, Deb Frey, Jay Ehrhart, Phil Miller, Gerrard Blair, Jennis Sills Steve Johnson, Bill Dunn, Ala Dragomani; Raymond, Gerah Ventresca, Lin Hart, Trish Cal Butcher; Florida Automated Shade: Kurt Men’s 55 AAA – Carolina Cobras: Ro- Riverside/Longshots: Granderson Jones Jr, Rosso; Ladies First: Sonya Fultz, Terri Musial, Chris Coffey, Manny Queipo lando (Rolly) Flores, Tom Stankus Donald Anthony Andreoni, Elondis Mack; Kryptonite: April Men’s 50 AAA – ILA Fifty Plus: Eric Men’s 60 AAA – Hamel 60: Anthony Men’s 65/70 Silver – Carolina Cardi- Blake, Karen Hunger Boles, George Shelby, Reginald Landers, Marlow, Ralph Hamlin, Eric Johnson, Henry nals: Jerry Johnson, Walter Bailey Women’s 40 AAA – Sportsman Shop: Adrian Dixon, Gus Eddens; Old Corps Clas- Eugene Pinkney, Warnell Fletcher; Hanning- Men’s 70/75 Platinum – Hamel Build- Danielle D’Amico, Shannon Moore sic: Scott Cobb, Jim Gardner, Mark Frastak; ton’s 60: Kevin Lipsett, Dan Sides, Thomas ers: Skip Poffenberger, Bill Bahnmaier, Ed Women’s 50 – Dreamgirlz: Lydia Cran- West 94th St Pub: Ken Siler, Bobby Holliman Tashea; Flip Dow 60: KC Ladish, Wayne Attenberger, Bill Nalley, Maynard Wells; dall, Sylvia Echols, Barbara Foxx, Beverly Men’s 55/60 Platinum – Superior Senior Harper Carolina Blue Sky: Lee Wish, Don Morton, Lovett, Shirley Snell, Debra Tucker Softball: Billy Cameron, Clarence Ellison, Men’s 60 AA – Syracuse Cyclones: Bob Wayne Yates Winter 2014 Edition Senior Softball News 27 Western National All Tournament Players Named 2014 Western National Champi- Stixx: Ken (Spanky) Andrews, Steve Etchie- son, Hiroshi (Hero) Tarumi; Game On: Billy onships All Tournament players: Boswell, Tommy Thompson Men’s 40 MajorPlus – Louisville Slugger Men’s 65 AA – Damaged Goods: Tim 40: Jim Heflin, Tom Sanchez, Aaron Gallwitz, Ryan, Jerry Baugh, John Mertens, Ken Leppke, Kevin Foster, Derek Wilson Jose Santana; Sacramento Buds: Rich Del Men’s 40 Major – Reno Elite: Blake Chiaro, Lee Marshall, Tosh Ohara Gundmundson, Richard (Mo) Mockowski, Men’s 70 MajorPlus – Omen 70: Jerry Angel Olvera Ford, Ron McElyea, John Chacon, Tom Best, Men’s 50 MajorPlus – Sommerville Tom French, Billy Wilson; Stark Street Pizza: Softball: Paul Salow, Darrel Beeler, Ron Jack Robinson, John Dire, Bob Williams, Hank Parnell, Mike Reed, Isaac (Chito) Alvidrez; Cluess God’s Sports Company: Scott Camery, Scott Men’s 70 Major – Connection 70: Ken Spalding, Frank Riese, Dwayne Curry Cornelison, Tom Weaver, Jerry Herling, Bill Men’s 50 Major – Cornerstone: Rick Schroeder, Tony Ivarone; San Francisco Snyder, Al Larsen, Jeff Block, Kenny Stewart, Seals: Herb Epple, Argie Haddock, Pete Terry Clayton Conley Men’s 50 AAA – Stanislaus Sluggers: Men’s 70 Silver – California Oaks 70: Gilbert (Peewee) Rosenburgh, Jess Taylor, Bob Scaletti, Gene Hanson Randy Ehlers, Don Stogdell, Marty Winters; Men’s 75 Gold – State Roofing Systems: Sugamele Golf: Paul Smit, Clifford Gan- John Ventura, Bill Guzules, Larry Heise, Den- naway, Steve Fletcher nis Logie, Bill Beshore; PDR Fastsigns: Mel Men’s 55 MajorPlus – MTC 55: Bob Bentley, John Fournier, Arlie Lyons; Oregon Aikman, Kurt Mahaney, Dave Matusich, Gary Photos by Jack Eberhard Cut Loose, above, lost to Viejitos in the largest bracket of the West- Roadrunners: Mike Urtz, Roger Smith Robertson, Ron Webb; Goodman Racing: Men’s 80 Gold – Fairway Ford: RJ Scott Riley, Tom Palmer ern Nationals, the 11-team 60 AAA division. Jerrels, Roger Williams, John Chacon, Frank Men’s 55 Major – Scrap Iron Rocky Men’s 60 Major – Pope Transport: Steve Callan, Randy Gomez, Billy Steele, Perdue, Ken Lockman; Elk Grove Renegades: Mountain Thunder: Mark Troxel, Tim Ryan, Dennis Muth, Ron Bruce, Paul Cox, Mike Tom Hanratty, Four Pitchers (Ellwin Jobe, Don Fields, Ray Newman, Vern Schlotthauer; Chris McTigue, Dave Schultz, Mark Haupt; Baehman, Mike Brown; Ryan’s Way: Lew Ron Danoski, Corky Northrop, Mark Lough); Redwood City Chiefs: Ted Alarcon, Doug Avenue Towing: Brad Spruitenburg, Keith Agius, Tim Eicher Omen 65: Mike Baldonado, Fred Purvis, Dan Luther Erickson Men’s 60 AAA – Viejitos: Kevin Austin, Walsworth Women’s 40 Gold – Old School: Deena Men’s 55 AAA – Tri-C Machine: Dave Joe Daniel, Roderick Faulk, Feliciano Garcia Men’s 65 Major – Enviro-Vac Maraud- Dobbins, Diane Dahilig, Kim Petersen, Wendy England, Mark Markarian, Rick Glazer, Scott Jr, Feliciano Yacap; Cal Xtreme: Dennis ers: Ray Wilson, Ross Evison, Steve Ogin, Hernandez, Alma Guzman; Penguins: Maura Depelo, Mike Wright McNulty, Richard Mansker Trevors Bjurman, Jim Klassen; Yeager’s 65: Penger, Teresa Smith, Cheryl Tamba; Steel Men’s 60 MajorPlus – GSC: Mickey Men’s 60 AA – Ain’t No Saints: Wayne Richard Fink, Jim Thomas Runnin: Jennifer Bennett, Shana Groff Ayala, Barry Oliver, Steve Owens, Barry Scar- McLaughlin, Steve Schuler, Dave Avery, Don- Men’s 65 AAA – Sacramento Islanders: Women’s 50 – Ladiez Steel Smackin: pellino, Marvin Mielke; Rogue 60: Kenny nie Quinn, Robert Navarro Bruce Gilmore, Lou Chavez, Dave Bristol, Melanie Roberts, Sheila Stimmler, Malia Wolf, Vaught, Rober Lawrence, John Vincent Men’s 65 MajorPlus – Full Circle: Perry O’Laughlin, Jody Andagan; Nor Cal Shari McAneney Eastern Nationals: Graphic, Dreamgirlz Win Women's Titles Continued on Page 27 bracket while Spicer Properties was seeded second. In the 80/85 Gold division Florida Investment Spicer defeated the Cyclones, 12-9, in the Properties battled Center For Sight for the (Major+), Handeland Flooring (Major) and SW third round, sending Spicer to the championship championship. FIP was able to score enough runs Florida Thunder (Major). Hamel’s grabbed the No. and the Cyclones to the loser’s bracket. Syracuse defeating Center For Sight, 14-9 and 22-16, in 1 seed while Handeland and SW Florida battled in Cyclones defeated Riverside/Longshots, 17-10, to consecutive victories for the division championship. the first round. SW Florida won their first meeting, square off with Spicer Properties once again in the The Women’s 40 Gold division included one 24-9, then lost to Hamel’s, 21-9, to face Handeland championship game. In an excellent battle, Spicer major and four AAA teams. once again in the loser’s bracket. Handeland Properties squeaked out a victory, 16-15, over Due to the adverse weather conditions, exacted their revenge on SW Florida with a 19-14 Syracuse Cyclones to win the championship. bracket play was forced into single elimination victory, however lost the championship to Hamel’s, The Syracuse Cyclones 70’s team fared better format. Kryptonite (major) was defeated by four 22-10. Handeland Flooring did gain a berth in the than their 65 counterparts. The Cyclones were seed Graphic Expressions/Manic Training in their U.S. National Game as the 65 Major representative. seeded second in the five team, 65/70 Platinum opening round game, 9-1. Graphic then squeaked Joseph Chevrolet, 75 Major Plus, and Vacar division. They won a series of consecutive close by Ladies First, 11-10 to win the division. Stars, 70 Major, squared off in a best-of-three games defeating Monkey Joes and Chicago Hitmen Dreamgirlz (Women’s 50) and Lew’s Crew bracket in the 70/75 Platinum division. Vacar Stars (twice) by an average of 1.5 runs. Ultimately they (40 AA) went head-to-head for the Women’s 40 took the first game, 13-10, and Joseph Chevrolet beat the Chicago Hitmen in the championship, 9-8, AA/50 division. Dreamgirlz played great ball and won the second, 12-10. In the championship ‘IF’ to win the division. was able to defeat Lew’s Crew, 13-4 and 17-12, in game Vacar Stars banged out 13 runs against Joseph Hamel Builders (Major) and Carolina Blue consecutive victories for the championship. Chevrolet’s 6 to win the division. Sky (AAA) went head to head in a best-of-three for For complete scores and bracket results, please The 65 AAA bracket included six teams from the 75 Gold division. An ‘IF’ game was needed to visit www.seniorsoftball.com. Georgia, Maryland, New York and North Carolina. decide a winner as the Builders defeated Blue Sky, Syracuse Cyclones grabbed the top seed in the 13-10, to win the division. 28 Senior Softball News Winter 2014 Edition 51 Teams, 9 States Play in Rocky Mountain By Joseph Ruggiero The 50 AAA division fit Brook’s description Windy City Thunder cleaned house in the 50 Softball News Report perfectly showcasing some fun, but highly Major division going undefeated. They topped AURORA, COLO. – Returning here for competitive championship bracket play. Of the Sac Pac 20-16 and Scrap Iron/RM Thunder 19-14. the second year in a row, the Rocky Mountain 9 teams competing, fourth seeded S.I./Moore Putting up a valiant effort during the championship Championships hosted 51 teams in 12 divisions over Plumbing got off to a fast start by beating the top game, SI/RM Thunder almost pulled off an upset the Aug.15-17 weekend. Growing since its inception seeded Texas win but ultimately lost to Windy City 23-22 in a in 2013, 10 more teams participated in this year’s Elite 27-13 and suspense-filled final game. tournament than last year. Animo 20-14. With six teams competing in the 60 AAA Gathering teams from Arizona, California, Texas Elite division, Scrap Iron Legend’s impressive Colorado, Illinois, Kansas, Missouri, New Mexico, proved their performance kept the division interesting. SI Texas and Utah, the tournament continued to attract resolve however Legends were knocked into the elimination bracket a diverse set of teams from all over the country. ousting Universal by a tough Dixon ZTR squad in a close 15-14 This is due, in no small part, to the beautiful 25-22 and Rio match-up. SI Legends regrouped to outdo Wizards 12-field Aurora Sports Complex – named 2014 Grande 19-12 12-11 and Dugout 15-6. With Dixon ZTR’s 18-17 SSUSA Complex of the Year – as well as great to rally their loss to the KC Renegades, SI Legends were given weather. way out of the a chance to eliminate Dixon ZTR, which they did Director Don Brooks noted that the complex did elimination in a well-earned 23-8 victory. Riding that winning not disappoint senior players, nor did the weather as bracket. With momentum, SI Legend’s came out swinging and “many of the teams, especially the traveling teams, only Animo handedly defeated KC Renegades 18-11 in the were extremely complimentary of the complex and standing in their way, Texas Elite quickly dispatched semifinals. With an “If” game deciding the winner, the playing conditions.” them 23-14 to earn a rematch against S.I./Moore. KC Renegades seized the division title with a close Featuring a talented pool of teams, Brooks Losing the first game 14-9, S.I./Moore refused 19-18 win over the formidable SI Legends. remarked that “all games and divisions were very to go down easy. In a climactic “If” game, Texas The 55/60 Platinum division saw the TUC competitive,” but a couple of divisions set the bar Elite scored 29 runs to S.I. Moore’s 28 to claim the Continued on Page 29 high. division title. “Ask us about the ... AARP® Auto Insurance Program from The Hartford.” NOW AVAILABLE IN YOUR AREA! Find out more about the Special Benefits of The Hartford’s Program for AARP members and our Competitive Rates! You’ll also enjoy a Six-Point Claim Commitment – designed to exceed your expectations from the moment you report your claim, to the moment your settlement check is issued! 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107792 2nd Rev Winter 2014 Edition Senior Softball News 29 Cancer Claims Tom 'Coach' Sneddon, Former DA By Ross McCulligan the World Championships in 2002. position until his retirement in 2006. Softball News Report He played and managed up until Sneddon was He was influential in many Veteran senior softball player shortly before his death. well known in different organizations around the Thomas Sneddon died after a battle His passion for history extended Southern Cali- Santa Barbara community including with cancer on Nov. 1. He was 73. He to his fight with cancer, living by the fornia softball. the Council on Alcoholism and Drug was born in Southgate, Calif., on May words of Winston Churchill, “Never Abuse, the Court Appointed Special 26, 1941. give in – never, never, in nothing great Advocate for Children program, During his softball career, or small, large or petty, never give in and the Rape Crisis Center, along Sneddon played on two teams: the except to convictions of honor and with many other agencies and Channel Island Pirates and the Silver the Santa Barbara Youth Football good sense.” organizations. Sox. Sports were a large part of his League for more than a decade and Tom attended the University of He had a ‘what you see, is what life. many people simply knew him as Notre Dame and then UCLA Law you get’ genuine personality. He He played in the Babe Ruth World “Coach.” Softball became a passion School. He ran for Santa Barbara loved his family, his work, his friends Series at the age of 15. He coached of his later in life and his team won District Attorney in 1982 and held the and his community. NJ Outfielder 'Tuffer' Wilton Dies at 72 Rocky Mountain By Joseph Ruggiero If I asked him to come out and play All Tourney Picks volleyball and Softball News Report on Christmas, he would be there,” 2014 Rocky Mountain Champi- Moreland “Tuffer” Wilton, 72, of said his manager and teammate, Bob roller-skating were well-known, onships New Jersey, a reliable outfielder and Pietrzyk, “We lost a great player.” Men’s 50 Major – WC Thunder: Jim impressive base-runner, died at Robert An avid hot rod mechanic and nothing gave Watson, Tonny Gilchrist, Scott Klein, Tom Wood Johnson University Hospital at co-owner of Reese Performance in Tuffer greater joy Hubek, Terry Feeney Somerset, Somerville, N.J., on Aug. Somerville for 24 years, Tuffer could than spending Men’s 50 AAA – Texas Elite: Rey Gar- cia, Walt Lowry, Steve Vinson, Jerry Wicks, 21. always be found taking a car apart, time with is grandchildren. A Alan Walcott; Scrap Iron/Moore Plumbing: Tuffer, as he was known by his repairing one or putting one back Ron Levitre, Lawrence Hernandez, Randy friends and family, played for the New together. Still working on cars at notorious jokester, Strandberg Wilton Jersey Jaguars and New Jew Jersey Corbo’s Automotive at the time of his known by many as Men’s 55/60 Platinum – Tucson Bandits: Masters since 2008. death, Tuffer remained committed to a “big-kid,” Tuffer Dave Quenzler, Mike Swank, Mark Reagin, loved to pull pranks at the delight of Dave Niles, Kenny Hill; Scrap Iron/Rocky “Tuffer loved softball. Tuffer ran his lifelong passion. Mountain Thunder: Rick Stillwell, Michael like a deer and was a great outfielder. Though his love of cars, softball, his grandchildren. Mouton, Mark Troxel Men’s 55/60 Gold – Integrity Build- ers: Rod Chambers, Mike Fitzgerald, Roger Rocky Mountain: Colorado, Minnesota, Missouri Win Hein, Chuck Grubb, Ted Bliss; KC Kids: Bob Continued on Page 29 With four teams competing in the consecutive games 15-12 and 19-9 Knowles, Bill Radford, Ron Sanell; Mountain 55 AA division, Rocky Mtn. Extreme and seize the division title. Men: Mike Seegmiller, Jaime Miranda Bandits put up a strong offensive came away with the title. Facing little R&D Leverage swept the SI 65 Men’s 55 AA – Rocky Mountain Ex- treme: Rich Shaum Jr, Don DiFiore, Scott showing to snuff out the rest of the resistance from Dallas Spurs 18-7 Classics 18-11 and 17-14 to clinch the competition. Going undefeated during Brian Ritter, David Sprino Hernandez, Joseph and SI Coyotes 15-9, Rocky Mtn. 65 AA division title. Hernandez championship bracket play, the TUC Extreme easily sealed the division title Scrap Iron Force appeared to be Men’s 60 AAA – KC Renegades: Pat Bandits demolished Tasty Pizza 38- by defeating SI Coyotes19-7 in the the strongest contender at the start Bales, Randy Rowe, Dave Cook, Steve Likes, 20 and MWC 20-13 in their first championship game. of round robins in the 70/75 Silver Larry Rodgers; Scrap Iron Legends: Lupe two games. Facing Scrap Iron/RM Three evenly matched teams division. Cutting down New Concepts Pena, Don Poulter, Terry Roberts Men’s 60 AA – Scrap Iron Freedom: Thunder in the finals, Tucson Bandits duked it out for the crown in the 60 10-8 and Scrap Iron Force 75’s 14- clinched the division title with a Asa Jenkins, Bob Templeton, Mike Westin, AA division. MN Blizzard barely 13, they were poised to easily win the Ken Mason, Rich Vieria strong 27-12 victory. snatched a victory from the Dallas division title. Scrap Iron 75’s however Men’s 65 Platinum – High Desert Road- The KC Kids showed true grit Spurs 31-29, but fell to SI Freedom bounced back defeating M.A. Patriots runners: Ronne Mercer, Johnny Battaglia, against impressive performances by 22-16. In a welcome rematch, the 12-4 and Scrap Iron Force 16-12 to Roger Assink, Austin Kramer, Lucky Near Integrity Builders and Mountain Men Dallas Spurs managed a 23-16 compel an “If” game. However the Men’s 65 AAA – Scrap Iron Diamonds: Hans Benes, Ron Kemmerer, Ralph “Obie” in the 55/60 Gold division. After being comeback over MN Blizzards and teams decided not to play the final pushed into the elimination bracket by Oberhelman advanced to the championship game. game, with Scrap Iron 75s giving Men’s 65 AA – R & D Leverage: Ron Mtn. Men 16-11, KC Kids went on to Calm, composed and undefeated, SI the title to Scrap Iron Force in a 7-0 Nieman, Larry Branson, Howard Helm; Scrap win four consecutive games, including Freedom confidently beat Dallas Spurs forfeit. Iron Classics: Danny Bradfield, Bill Shaffer, a tough 20-15 rematch against Mtn. 17-12 to claim the division title. For complete game results, Jerry Vigil Men to earn a spot in the semifinals. MN Prize 65s and High Desert Men’s 70 Major – Scrap Iron Legacy: Unable to keep up with Integrity please visit Senior Softball USA’s Dave Cox, Jerry Sundberg, Jim Brown, Dennis RR’s vied for the 65 Platinum division Rocky Mountain Championships’ Lutz, Don Pierson; Tri State Diamond Bar: Builders, KC Kids lost 19-8. The title. MN Prize 65s gained the edge tournament page at: www. JW Perry, Tom Grubb undefeated Integrity Builders gained with a close 27-26 early win. High Men’s 70/75 Silver – Mid America Pa- the division title in a clean sweep. Desert however persevered to win two seniorsoftball.com. triots: Don Applebaugh, Robert Hill 30 Senior Softball News Winter 2014 Edition 138 Winter Nationals Teams Kick Off 2015 By Dave Dowell Softball News Report FT. MYERS, FLA – The 13th annual SSUSA Winter National Championships in Lee County kicked off the Eastern portion of the 2015 Tournament Season with 138 teams descending on Ft. Myers, Cape Coral and Naples for six days of spirited competition. The Winter Nationals continue to grow annually, with teams hailing from as far north as Ontario, Canada, and as far west as Dallas, Texas, and just about everywhere in between. “We are pleased to host such a great group of softball players each The First and Second place teams in the 75 Major Division pose together at the Winter year to start the new senior softball Nationals in Florida. The winners were Bucs & Bulls, in light jerseys, and Premium Seats season,” said Allison Gruber, a USA, in dark jerseys, took second place. sports division executive with the Lee County Visitor and Convention Investment Properties) and 85+ with the High Street Bucs (MD) and It was a similar story in the five- Bureau. “We see many of the same (Center for Sight) Divisions. Jersey Masters (NJ) second and third, team 65-AA division, with the Long players from year to year and enjoy F.I.P. defeated the scrappy Center respectively. Island Jaguars (NY) winning the rolling out the red carpet while they for Sight 85’s squad 23-10 by virtue The largest division of trophy in the “If” game (19-14) over are here,” she added. of a big open inning and capped an the tournament was the highly Kentuckiana after the two teams had Session 1 began on Tuesday with impressive unbeaten tournament with competitive 25-team 65-AAA bracket, split the winner’s bracket final (Long 72 teams in the age 65 and older a Championship game victory over with Spicer Properties (MD) and Island by 11-7) and Championship divisions playing at the Lee County, Jimmy’s Minnesota Legends (15-2) on the Lake Wales Legends (FL) being game 1 (Kentuckiana by 20-14). Northwest and Cape Coral sports Thursday. Center for Sight did defeat the last two standing. Spicer won The Men’s 70-AAA crown went complexes. The highlight of the first the other two “younger” 80+ teams the winner’s bracket final (16-10) to the Senior Red Birds (IL) coming session, judging from local press on the way to a very impressive third over lake Wales before dropping the out on top of the Bostonian 70’s and coverage and attendance, was the first place finish. Championship game to the Legends the Jersey Masters (NJ). The 70-AA ever game between the defending In the Men’s 65+ Divisions, (17-15) and bouncing back to take the final was an all-Indiana finale with LVSSA/SSUSA World Masters the Windsor Chiefs (ON) won the “If” game (22-7) to complete the run the Indianapolis Classics slipping by Champions from both the 80+ (Florida 12-team 65/70+ Platinum bracket, to the title. Continued on Page 31 Winter National All Tournament Players Selected 2014 Winter National Champi- Men’s 50/55 AA – Silver Foxes: Norman Roy Oke, Grant Snary, Wayne Dupuis, Bill Sticks: Jim Ogilvie, Roger Gildersleeve, onships (2015 roster event) All Tour- Caribo, Danny Woodcum, Dan Covey, Art Wislon, Ernie Holden; High Street Bucs: Bill David Adwell; Blaze (SW Florida): Conrad Permenter, Paullie Grillot, Scott Jones; The Macuch, Bobby Lehman, Pat Carey Madaleno, Bob Schneider nament players included: Grey Geese: Kelly Goswick, Kevin (Goose) Men’s 65 AAA – Spicer Properties: Joe Men’s 75 Major – Bucs and Bulls: Men’s 50 AAA – All Secure: Louis O’Kiefe, Bob (Oz) Darrah, Tom Collins Fry, Martin Harahush, Ron Miller, James Ross, Wayne Mundy, Roy Gardner, Doug McLellan, Reyes Jr, Alvin Berkhall, Carl Lockhart, Marty Men’s 60 MajorPlus – Hollis Apprais- Ken Ruffo; Lake Wales Legends: Donnie Randy Hill, Bill Miller, Rich Kelly; Premium Thiessen, Marvin Kelly; New Rule Softball: als: Pat McLellan, Dave Motta, Jack Aronson, Atkins, Eric Johnson, Don Held; Bradford Seats USA: Tom Ladd, Don Gsell, Scott Scott Bowden, Warren Jenkins, Dave Leon, Charles (Chip) Cregar, Lewis (Gunny) Grace; White: Rob Wolf, Jim Siers Logan, Wayne Hughes Danny VanCamp, Curt Kreisler Minnesota Masters: Steve Pease, Steve Sch- Men’s 65 AA – Long Island Jaguars: Men’s 75 AAA – ProHealth 75: Barney Men’s 50/55 Platinum – Good Times: letty, Garry Morris, Dave Mattson, Dave Slack William (Butch) Schultheis, Billy Meyler, Bob Slowey, Bill Rutzinski, Ozzie Oswald, Dennis Ray Bonnell, Donny Burke, Tim Fincher, Ned Men’s 60 Major – High Street Bucs: Gutkowski, Wayne Hillen, Tom Granito Jr; Driebel, John Heisdorf; BackOffice Associ- Johnston, Craig Lisa; WC Thunder: Jim Timmy Potter, Steve Propert, Joe Herr Kentuckiana: Terry Stallard, Charlie Abell, ates: James VanBaalen, James Parmelee, Weber, Jim Watson, Larry Mueller; Tri-State Men’s 60 AAA – Minutemen/Pepco/ John McGarry Michael Sullivan; Peach Tree Restaurant: Merchants: Bob Baker, Pat Daley SFS: Manny Patton, Tom Coyne, Barry Ben- Men’s 70 AAA – Senior Redbirds: Len Dan MacDonald, Donald Germer Men’s 55 Major – Six Pac: Mark Har- jamin; American Scaffolding: Bob Bosse, Suess, Bob Moutray, Carlos Lindo, Gary Men’s 80/85 Gold – Florida Investment rison, George Roberts, Donnie Katzman, Alan Mike Hanselman, Jim Richardson Schad, Jim Welch, John Meeden; Bostonian Properties: Larry McCurdy, Ferrell Sparks, Gibson, Frank Cebe; CNM Wealth Mgmt/ Men’s 60 AA – No Stars: Bruce Walsh, 70s: Dave Clark, Tom Hall, Stuart Gray, An- Don Deaton, Dewey McVicker, Bob Johnson; Snyder’s Lance: Roger Bard, Doug Schram, Allan Parenteau, Stan Duncan, Bill Coyne, gelo Scarcella; Jersey Masters: Dick Lillich, Jimmy’s MN Legends: Bob D’Amadio, Brad Rector, Pete Bassignani Harry Freedman; Action Auto Parts: Mario Bob Zimmerman Norm Robinson, Don Hutchinson; Center For Men’s 55 AAA – The Bank: Tom For- DeAngelis, Bob Pierce, Paul Danesi, Frank Men’s 70 AA – Indianapolis Classics: Sight: Paul McGillicuddy, Don Gsell rest, Gary Lewis, Joseph Lucas, Mike Johnson; (Flip) DeCorpo, John Martins, Manny Costa Dave Abney, Wayne Weber, Bill Wolfe, Ken Ballbusters: Dan Stewart, John Popov, Doug Men’s 65/70 Platinum – Windsor Chiefs: Bonham, Floyd Edwards; Columbus Silver Brooks Winter 2014 Edition Senior Softball News 31 Winter Nationals: Teams From 9 States, Canada Win Titles Continued on Page 30 than 10 runs, the last of which was by they had split the first two games with 9-6 over the WC Thunder (IL) in the The Grey Geese 50’s (FL). the Columbus Silver Sticks in the Championship game. Lastly, the 60+ Divisions “If” game (15-14) after dropping the The eight-team 50-AAA was completed play in Naples, but not Championship game (17-13). moved on Sunday to Naples from in Lee County or Cape Coral. The The Men’s 75+ championships Ft. Myers in an attempt to beat the 60-Major+ title went to Hollis went to the Bucs & Bulls (FL) in the rains, but bracket play was suspended Appraisals in their two-game sweep 75-Major with an exciting last at-bat and ultimately cancelled with two (9-3 and 23-10) over the previously 23-22 “If” game win over Premium teams, All Secure (FL) and New Rule unbeaten Minnesota Masters while the Seats USA (FL) while ProHealth Care Softball (FL) the only two unbeaten Metro Hitmen (NJ) became the only 75 (WI) swept through the tournament in bracket play being declared co- other team to compile an unbeaten unbeaten with their Championship champions. tournament. The Hitmen swept game win over Back Office Associates Session 2 commenced on Friday The 55+ divisions also suffered through the 60-Major bracket from (MA), 16-8 with another 62 teams in the mix rain issues that resulted in champions the top seed position, culminating the and the tournament expanding to the being declared based on results to perfect run with a 33-15 victory over N. Collier Regional Park facility in date when play was terminated. The the High Street Bucs (MD). Previous Naples. In contrast to the first session, 55-Major championship went to The 17-team 60-AAA bracket All Tourney Players Mother Nature played a major role the Six Pac 55’s (KY) over CNM champion was declared to be Slug- over the weekend as rains hampered Wealth Management (FL) when the A-Bug (FL) as they were the only These All Tournament selections play, especially here and in Cape Championship game was cancelled, remaining unbeaten team when play came in after the deadlines for the Coral. leaving Six Pac the only unbeaten. was cancelled. There was a six-team editions in which the original list ap- In the 50+ Divisions, the AMR The same result occurred in tie for second place. peared: 50’s (OH) swept the first two in the the 55-AAA’s with The Bank (DE) And in the 60-AA, Action Auto Best 2 of 3 from previously unbeaten declared victors following their Parts (RI) and No Stars (FL) were Rock ‘n Reno Challenge Cup Steve Levin/Dudley (FL) by scores winner’s bracket win (16-5) over declared co-champions when play Men’s 55 MajorPlus – Summy’s Night- of 22-19 and 27-12 for the 50-Major+ the Ballbusters (FL) late Saturday was cancelled. They were the only hawks: Jon “Bully” Kramer, Scott Camery, afternoon, prior to Sunday play being unbeaten teams in the winner’s Randy Holbrook title. The 50/55-Platinum winner rained out. bracket at the time. California State Championships was Good Times (FL), who won all In the 50/55-AA Best 2 of 3, the For complete scores and Men’s 40 Major – Epic: Elbert Certeza, the close ones, three times winning Silver Foxes 55 (FL) bounced back bracket results, please visit www. Robert Contreras, Eric Mauldin, Robbie bracket games without scoring more strong in the “If” game (24-8) after seniorsoftball.com. Ortega, Jamie Robles Men’s 50 Platinum – NorCal War- riors: Robert Gibbs, Ken Block, Brian Crisp, Gary Hoffman, Willie Gomez; L.A.F.: Matt Dobyns, Terry Shinn Men’s 50 AAA – Kamikaze: Jeff Law- less, Jaime Gillette, Mike Stater, James Durant, Mike Grimm; Sugamele Golf: Bill Colt, Alan Derow, Glenn Gann Men’s 55 Silver – Kamikaze: Vinny Gallo, Mark Toma, Mario Penados, Tony Valencia, Dan Fallon Men’s 70 Major – Connection 70: Mel Makos, Bob Manzer, Rudy Morfin, Mike Rivera, Tony Iavarone

Northeast Championships Men’s 55/60 Gold – Syracuse Mer- chants: Ron Mitchell, Dan Kelley, Butch Sweeney; Team Deluxe/Bradford: Bill Swanson, Ron Weikel Men’s 65 Gold – Brantford Nissan: Jim Banyard, Phil Riley, Tom Gorman, Terry Keys, Brian Kernaghan; Rochester Classics: Jerry Schiffhauer, Joe Gogolsky, John Milne 9 Softball Fields  Musco Lighting System Men’s 65/70 Silver – Syracuse Cyclones: FieldTurf Synthetic Grass  Daktronics Scoreboard Ken Moses, Tony Galeazzi, Vern Wagar, Rob- ert Wood, Ted MacCarrick Men’s 70 AAA – Hannington’s of MA: Ray LePage, Ed Finnegan, Pat Romano TravelMedford.org/Softball Senior Softball News Winter 2014 Edition