WINTER 2019 EDITION Volume 32 • Number 4

Seniorwww.seniorsoftball.com

SoftballMORE THAN JUST A GAME NEWSAMERICA’S LARGEST CIRCULATED SENIOR SOFTBALL PUBLICATION WMC Continues Stronghold as Largest Senior Softball Tournament

Photo from Tommy Terry Members of Live! Casino (MD), Men's 40, take a selfie at the Gate The Angels of

n PAGE 18: Fountain of Youth Found Flight 996 2019 WMC Wrap-Up on Softball Diamond Softball News Report n PAGE 19: s there a doctor on the plane? Triple Grand Slam, Softball News Report For some, the call to U.S. National rom the Roaring 20’s to the Champions, and action must always be an- Final Standings upcoming 2020’s, few senior swered. softball players can say they Following a strong showing n PAGE 23: have bared witness to some of I in the 20-team Men’s 40 AAA All-Tournament the greatest events of the past 90 years. Teams F Please See Page 9 Please See Page 18

Outfielder on Syracuse Cyclones (NY), Men's 60 AA, makes a diving play during First Session of 2019 WMC. Photo by Jack Eberhard 1-1 Count Extended Across All Divisions for 2020 Softball News Report count with a courtesy foul allowed recreation players business conducted during the AS VEGAS – In a in the 40-60 divisions. The to be added to AA teams and convention and two sessions major decision for 65 and older division had increased the time for divi- that are open for public com- the sport, the SSUSA used the 0-0 count (four balls sions playing full round-robin ment. LRules Committee unanimous- and three strikes). This vote formats to 70 minutes from Delegates also inducted ly adopted a 1-1 count for all extended the 1-1 count (three the current 65 minutes. two people into the SSUSA ages here during the annual balls and two strikes with a Those were among the 39 International Hall of Fame SSUSA/ISA National Con- courtesy foul) to all divisions. issues discussed at the annual for 2019: Ken “Bogie” Van vention Dec. 3-6. In addition, the commit- Rules Committee meeting, SSUSA has used the 1-1 tee created a 75 AA Division, which are the centerpiece of Please See Page 4

Winter 2019 Edition Senior Softball News 3 Senior Softball News Index 9823 Old Winery Place, Suite 12 From the Cover: Sponsor Index: Sacramento, CA 95827 (916) 326-5303 OFFICE 2019 SSUSA Rules Committee BSN Sports - Official Ball of (916) 326-5304 FAX Continued...... Pg. 4 SSUSA...... Pg. 2 www.seniorsoftball.com Angels of Flight 996 Adidas - Official Shoe of Publisher Continued on...... Pg. 9 SSUSA...... Pg. 29 W.E. Ruth Fountain of Youth Elite Sports USA - Official Editor Continued on...... Pg. 18 Uniform of SSUSA...... Pg. 31 Terry Hennessy

Managing Editor Anthony Ramos News Index: Tournament Bat 2019 SSUSA HOF Banquet Contributing Writers ...... Pg. 5 Covering the Bases...... Pg. 8 Sponsors: Art Eversole, Carl Gustafson, Carl's Corner...... Pg. 8 Tim McElroy, Donna McGuire, New SSUSA Bat Standard...... Pg. 9 Pg. Stan Reents, Jack Sirard, Journey of a Softball Player...... Pg. 10 13 Dave Weinman Opinions & Letters...... Pg. 12 Umpire's Corner...... Pg. 14 Bat Sponsor of: Tidewater Classic, Southern California State Championships, SSUSA/CAN-Sirs Northern Cali- Internet Director Fitness Column...... Pg. 15 fornia State Championships, Midwest Championships, Scott Flodin Hitting Column...... Pg. 17 Northern Championships. Hawaiian Cruise...... Pg. 32 Art Director Finance Column...... Pg. 34 Pg. 33 Sue Ballenger Bat Sponsor of: LVSSA/ SSUSA Southwest Champion- ships, Atlantic Coast Champi- Photographer onships, Western National Championships, Winter World Jack Eberhard Championships. JacksActionShots.com All-Tournament Marketing Manager Teams: Fran Dowell Nothing in this publication shall be deemed World Masters to constitute in any fashion whatsoever an Champs...... Pg. 23 Pgs. 11 / 16 Bat Sponsors of: Spring National Championships, Jim endorsement by Senior Softball USA, LLC. Sherman Memorial Northwest Championships, Southern (SSUSA), of any information in this publication. SSUSA, LLC., disclaims any and all liability Championships. with respect to any use of, or reliance on, such information. No information in this publication shall be construed in any manner whatsoever as a recommendation of any industry standard, or Winter National as a recommendation of any kind to be adopted Champs...... Pg. 28 Pg. 7 by, or binding on, any person or entity. Nor Bat Sponsor of: Spring World Championships, Rock 'N shall information contained in this publication Reno Challenge Cup, Rocky Mountain Championships, be deemed to constitute in any fashion what- soever an endorsement by SSUSA, LLC., of Winter National Championships. any product or service advertised herein. The material set forth in this publication is provided Winter World on an informational basis only. SSUSA, Inc., is not engaged in the practice of any profession, Champs...... Pg. 30 including but not limited to law, medicine and Pgs. 35 / 36 accounting, and nothing in this publication Bat Sponsors of: Texas State Championships, Northeast should be relied upon in lieu of appropriate Championships, ISA Senior World Series, Eastern Na- competent professional advice. tional Championships, Tournament of Champions. 4 Senior Softball News Winter 2019 Edition Regional Boundary Study to Be Done in 2020 Continued from Page 1 tabled to allow more study. and report back on whether season. The first was a motion to the 11-man equalizer is still In other action, the com- Bogaert as player and Hugh allow 65-year-old teams to effective. mittee passed these proposals: Brotherton as manager. Del- field 11 defensive players. The second proposal was *Equalizers were made egates elected three others That motion was made that borders be adjusted for mandatory – they cannot be for 2020; Tom Amundson in because when 70 teams play the Great Lakes and in the waived. the Player Category, Dave 65 teams, the 70 teams can Southeast. *Use of any recording Sommerville in the Sponsor use their normal 11 players SSUSA generally fol- devices to challenge a call on category and Don Brooks in on defense. Some Committee lows the rule limiting teams to the field was prohibited. the Director category. members said that this cre- players from home states and *Added “base path” in ad- The issues addressed ated an unfair situation for the their bordering states. This dition to a separate definition ranged from double-rostering 65s, who were limited to 10 rule was adopted by most of a “base line.” A base path in the same age division, to defensive players. national associations at the was defined as a line directly moving the batter’s box, to Terry Hennessy, SSUSA’s 1999 Senior Softball Summit between a base and the run- adding under-age players and chief executive officer, ex- because it was a regional rule ner’s position at the time a expanding the regions for plained the original reason for they could all agree upon. defensive player is attempting Major-Plus teams. allowing 11 players on the 70 The SSUSA Rules to tag that runner. Fewer than half passed. and older teams was that they Committee could not find *Created a separate Rules Committee Chair were markedly less mobile agreement on expanding the category for an unreported Donna McGuire, the Midwest than the younger age groups. regions without answering player, as opposed to an il- Umpire-in-Chief, made clear He said that over the years, critical questions about how legal player. at the beginning of the meet- players had remained in better many players lived in differ- SSUSA announced that ing that the purpose was to shape in the older groups and ent states and regions. The the convention would be in improve, not simply change now the sport has 80 and 85 SSUSA staff was directed to Sacramento in 2020 and in rules. divisions, which did not exist complete the study by June 1 Branson, Mo., in 2021. The Rules Committee is when the 11-man rule was put so that the committee could For the complete minutes chaired by McGuire is made into effect. hold a rare mid-season meet- and all action taken by the up of 13 voting members. The Today, the 65 and 70 ing to discuss regions. committee, CLICK HERE. committee meets every year divisions are much closer in The reason, said com- For a quick summary of at the annual SSUSA Conven- ability and mobility, he said, mittee members, was so any rules changes for 2020 season, tion to discuss and vote on recommending that the staff decision in modifying regions CLICK HERE. rules. study the scores when 70 and allowed teams enough time to Two proposals were 65 divisions play each other build new rosters for the next

Annual ISA/SSUSA Wood Bat Game, consisting of Staff Members, Directors, UIC's, and Umpires. SSUSA defeated ISA, 9-5. Winter 2019 Edition Senior Softball News 5 Van Bogaert and Brotherton Enshrined Softball News Report suffered a tragic accident last LAS VEGAS – Senior year that has left him para- Softball USA gave top honors lyzed from the chest down to Ken “Bogie” Van Bogaert and unable to play ball at the of Wisconsin in the Player excellent level of competition category and 88-year-old that had become his hallmark. Hugh Brotherton in the Man- Amundson has played on the ager, inducting these two into top teams on the West Coast, the International SSUSA Hall including MTC, Joe Brown’s of Fame here Dec. 6. All Stars and Timberworks. Two others were inducted *Dave Sommerville of into the SSUSA International Southern California in the Hall of Fame earlier in the Sponsor category. The teams year: Rick Seifman of Ari- Sommerville has sponsored zona in the Director/Umpire have played in 24 World or category and Joe Franco of National Championships in L-R: Terry Hennessy, Bogie Van Bogaert, Steve Imlay Washington in the Player multiple associations and won Category. 16. His teams have won five Delegates at the SSUSA Triple Crowns. Since 2012 Annual Convention also he has sponsored at least two elected three Hall of Fame age groups a year. In 2016, he inductees for 2020: had teams in three age groups *Don Brooks of Texas in 50, 55 and 60 divisions. the Director category. Brooks Those three will be is SSUSA’s longest tenured inducted at the 2020 SSUSA Tournament Director – run- Convention in Sacramento in ning his first SSUSA tourna- December 2020. ment in 1989. He has been In addition, SSUSA hon- the Tournament Director for ored a number of others with several of SSUSA’s premier awards for exemplary service tournaments, including the in 2019. Eastern Nationals, Texas The Hall of Fame Championships and Winter speeches focused both on World Championships. accomplishments on the field *Tom Admundson of and, even more important, the Northern California in the impact these men had on the Player category. Amundson sport itself. Hugh Brotherton with his daughters Bogie was recognized as Bogie has played at the one of the top softball hitters top level of the sport for in the nation – and has taught decades, most recently for the literally thousands of players Powerhouse Pope Transport to hit better, said Steve Imlay, of Wisconsin and Roberts a nationally known hitting Construction. Bogie has been instructor himself, who intro- a force – and an ambassador – duced Bogie. for the sport for decades. Since 1993, Bogie’s Hugh Brotheron, the 2019 ROTATIONAL POWER HIT- SSUSA Hall of Fame manager TING for slowpitch softball, at 88 years young, is a posi- baseball, and fastpitch has tive force of nature. When he sold more videos worldwide enters a room, he lifts every- than any other hitting instruc- one’s spirit with his zest for Legends of the Game (From L to R): Steve Imlay, Bogie Van tor. Bogaert, Ed Rose, Audie Hollis. Continued on Next Page 6 Senior Softball News Winter 2019 Edition Directors, Umpires, Cities, Sponsors Honored Continued from Previous Page “Sponsorship -- espe- softball – and life, said his cially in these times – can daughters Diane Hardiek and never be taken for granted,” Lisa Shreve, who introduced said Hennessy. “It provides Brotherton. us with the backing to be “Hugh was the driving able to continue to offer the force in establish the first highest quality tournaments 80-year-old team in Senior while keeping the entry fees Softball …. and three years manageable for teams – al- ago, he established the first 85 lowing even more players to team,” they said. participate.” He has managed Center The Executive Director Award went to Boulder and For Sight to several World John Stote of BSN Sports (middle) with Michael Broone (left) and Championships and to three Palace Station Casinos in Las Terry Hennessy. Triple Grand Slam titles. Vegas. Hugh’s leadership in the “This award recognizes oldest divisions of senior Boulder and Palace Casinos softball has been an inspira- long-term dedication and tion to younger teams who all support of the largest Senior hope to be playing when they Softball event in the world: reach 85. The World Masters Champi- The top Association onships,” said Fran Dowell, award, the Award of Excel- SSUSA executive director. lence, went to John Stote III “They make all of our wishes of BSN Sports. come true!” “John has sponsored Additional honorees Senior Softball USA for 30 included: years,” said Terry Hennessy, • Joe Diana of Florida - SSUSA’s chief executive of- 2019 Tournament Director of ficer, in presenting the award. the Year “As you can imagine, • Linda Weber of Kansas through three decades much - 2019 Umpire of the Year. has happened – and much has • Will Rogers of Missouri changed. While the company - 2019 Regional Director of he founded and sold has been the Year. acquired by yet another giant • Potomack Lakes recently, John has remained Softball Complex in Loud- and fought the corporate oun County, Virginia - 2019 Linda Weber Will Rogers battles – and there were many Complex of the Year. – to maintain our sponsorship.

Torye Hurst and Dave Carver of Visit Loudoun (center), with Terry Members of Boulder and Palace Station Casinos Hennessy and Fran Dowell.

8 Senior Softball News Winter 2019 Edition SSUSA 2020 Goal: Online Scores in Real Time Senior Softball-USA has scores and updating brackets However -- and this is been working on a new com- Covering the online, the scores also need to a big however -- the system puter database and website Bases be fed into SSUSA’s relatively then must be thoroughly that would allow us to post By Terry Hennessy complex Team Rating Pro- tested before we launch it to scores online in real time so 2. Why don’t we use one gram, further complicating the make sure it all works in real- that players can follow major of the off-the-shelf products? whole process. life tournaments. tournaments on their cell Good questions. In fact, SSUSA has now We’ve given up on esti- phones or computers as the The answer to both is gone through two experts mating how long this will all games conclude. that there are no off-the-shelf who could not complete the take, but we hope you will see We, or rather a bevy of programs that work for senior development. it up and running in 2020. computer experts, have been softball tournaments using a But there is hope on the Terry Hennessy is chief working on it for three years. three-game guarantee bracket horizon. executive officer of Senior The natural questions are: in several different divisions. The back-end develop- Softball USA and can be 1. Why is it taking so We certainly wish there was! ment of the new database is reached at terryh@seniorsoft- long? In addition to posting nearing completion. ball.com. Let's Discuss an Ornery Cuss, Larry Blankenship He had the diplomacy of CARL’S CORNER you’re going.” He delighted in the char- a bazooka. He cussed with I died and remained dead acters he would encounter at cadence, the proficient profan- By Carl Gustafson for almost 45 seconds while the games and loved softball ity of a drill sergeant who gets as a Medic in two wars where the ambulance personnel players above all the muck right to the point. He learned he was awarded 15 med- revived me. The heart sur- and mire of humanity. His it the hard way: World War II als — and I would beg God’s geon said I’d already begun loyalty was unparalleled, and and Korea. He had skin like a pardon to point out that the to decompose. Fifteen per- his ever-present smirk be- sand lot catcher’s mitt, and no old codger saved my life 10 cent of my heart is still dead spoke the humor that accom- determined little tic ever bore years ago. today and always will be. Had panied his craggy image in a deeper into your hide if he had He and I have laughed Larry been indecisive, or less coruscating aura. He loved to a bone to pick. A cartoonist together many times since be- courageous, or less passionate laugh and was secure enough would have drawn him as a cause the other players in the about his lifetime need to save to allow us all to make fun of badger with his teeth in your league playfully scolded Larry others, he’d have been dis- his age on a daily basis. boot, back-pedaling with all for his heroics because it was suaded by my macho bluster- He had a military funeral his might as you drug him their big chance to get rid of ing and my life would have with gun salutes and flags along. He was ornery, cantan- me. How he did it reveals why ended at 63 years old. and a standing-room-only kerous, and ubiquitous — and we loved Larry and why God This raw, rough, and audience, and now you may everybody loved him. most likely does too. rugged old man was on the want to join in a final salute Larry Blankenship would I had a heart attack after softball field six days a week to this brave little rascal who have been 96 years old this crossing home plate on a until only four days before he made our game his life; who last Pearl Harbor Day, and full run, my lungs on fire. I died. He had all the different would have saved your life now he is gone. Not sure collapsed in the dugout but San Diego league’s softballs had it been you instead of me, where, because if God has threatened everyone who tried stockpiled in his garage and who saved many lives in the a balance scale of good and to help insisting I would be his car trunk was a cornucopia perils of war, and who lives bad it might be bouncing up fine. With anger I forbid any- of softball flotsam and jetsam, on through the descendants and down like a grade school one to call an ambulance. ancient bats, gloves, score- of those he saved who would teeter totter. But I couldn’t intimidate books, spare hats, shirts and never have been born had he An advocate for Larry Larry. When he saw me his socks — dirty and clean. not been the determined and would undoubtedly bring WWII medic’s personality Softball was his society, loyal friend with the tenacity up how many lives he saved kicked in, he examined me his family, his life. He de- of that cartoon badger. bobbing around in the water and begin pushing on my spised rainouts, byes, forfeits Carl Gustafson is an for three hours after the USS chest, and he said, “You can and taking games off for holi- SSUSA So Cal Director and Benevolence sunk. How many kick my ass when you get out days. He wanted to be on the member of the SSUSA Nation- sailors and soldiers he saved of the hospital, but by God softball field every day. al Rules Committee. Winter 2019 Edition Senior Softball News 9 Flight: Players at the Right Place, Right Time Continued from Page 1 been moving back and forth was going to pass out and able number and the patient Division at the 2019 LVSSA/ in the aisle when Mont- did pass out, but woke right noted that he was feeling SSUSA World Masters Cham- gomery and McKie, both back up. They noted that better. I set the patient up pionships, which saw Live! retired United States Air the male patient stated that in a chair and rechecked his Casino 40 (MD) post a fourth- Force personnel, recog- he took two sleeping pills vitals at least three more place finish with a 5-2 overall nized something was wrong and his hypertension medi- times before allowing him record, three members of and inquired about what cation prior to the flight. to go back to his normal the team boarded their flight was happening. The flight “The patient was very seat. During that time, the heading back home in search of some much-deserved rest attendant informed the pale and did not look good flight crew contacted BWI and relaxation. duo that a passenger was at all. I started to use my and let them know of our However, for Dan in distress and were about training and reached for his situation and the patient “Monty” Montgomery, to make an announcement radial pulse and could not status. After that everyone Marvin “Mac” McKie and seeking a doctor. find one, which indicated returned to their seats. Tommy Terry, the adrena- Montgomery informed that his blood pressure “I treated it as I would line rush from playing in them that a medic was systolic was less than 80. while at the firehouse the largest senior softball seated nearby - Terry, a 16- I asked the flight crew for providing care for someone tournament in the country year veteran of the City of any equipment that they who needed care. The big- would continue 30,000 feet Annapolis, MD, Fire De- had. As they went to re- gest challenge was trying up in the air. partment where he serves trieve the equipment, I laid to keep the flight attendants “Sometime mid-flight I as a Firefighter First Class/ the patient down on the calm during this situation.” was signaled by my team- Paramedic. floor with his feet up a.k.a. “Other than that, noth- mates (Monty and Mac) “We were in the last Trendelenburg position to ing too strenuous, just a while I was watching a two rows of the plane so have more blood flow to the basic call way up in the air movie on my phone,” said it wasn’t a long walk,” heart. going about 900 miles an Terry. “I took my head- continued Terry. “I got to “I continued to care hour.” phones off and my team- the rear of the plane with for the patient by taking mates said that they needed two flight attendants and his blood pressure and a paramedic in the back of the male patient. The flight re-checking on his men- the plane.” attendants noted that the tal status. After about 45 Flight attendants had patient came back to them minutes his blood pressure and said that he felt like he came back up to a reason- New Bat Standard to Go Into Effect in 2021 Softball News Report tise,” said Terry Hennessy, national manufacturers. bpf standard will be grandfa- SACRAMENTO – Senior SSUSA’s chief executive The original bpf stan- thered in for use.” Softball USA has announced officer. “He not only certified dard was established so long The Chesapeake lab is the development of a new bat bats, but was an invaluable ago that the balls used in the developing a new standard for standard that will go into ef- counselor whenever SSUSA test are no longer used in the USSSA and tests a wide array fect on Jan. 1, 2021. ran into a bat or ball issue.” sport. The new standard will of NOCSAE standard sports Dr. Richard Brandt, who Beginning in 2020, Senior use current standard balls and equipment for several sports, is retiring this year, developed bats will be tested at the NTS will measure performance including football, baseball, the 1.21 Bat Performance Chesapeake Testing Lab in after bats have been used. softball, ice hockey, lacrosse, Factor (bpf) test at New York Belcamp, Md. “Our goal is to establish a soccer, polo and equestrian University (NYU) and has The new senior bat stan- new standard that allows play- activities. certified senior bats for more dard is being developed in ers to use the bats with the The Chesapeake lab also than 20 years. conjunction with a national same performance as current tests equipment for the mili- “We deeply appreciate baseball/softball equipment bats,” said Hennessy. “Bats tary firearms and equipment. Dr. Brandt’s help and exper- committee made up of top approved under the old 1.21 10 Senior Softball News Winter 2019 Edition The Awakening of a Senior Softball Player By Dave Weinman playing in the same numbers Senior Softball News that we did at that age. They Contributor have more options than we My first memory of had maybe, but this is the way baseball is from seeing the it’s going. game on TV while visiting So I heard from a friend my grandfather when we that there was a softball lived in Indiana. He said he tournament for guys 50 and was watching the Indianapo- over in Syracuse every July- I lis Indians baseball game. I live in Buffalo now, about 150 was about 5 years old. “Are miles away – and I assembled they real Indians?” I asked. a team of guys and we went. I knew a lot about Cowboys A couple of months later, and Indians, but nothing about I got an e-mail from SSUSA baseball. about tournaments to be held We moved to Syracuse in Madrid and Barcelona, when I was 8, and all my new Spain. This sounded really friends played baseball inces- cool to me so I forwarded the From Left to Right: Dave Weinman, Larry Feeler, and Daryl Bruns santly during the summer. I e-mail to my wife Mindy’s in Nice, France, May 2019. had been wearing baseball e-mail address, but I didn’t Olympics, a beautiful stadium there was a little food stand pajamas to bed for a while say anything to her, I just with a perfect grass field. selling hot dogs, hamburg- now, so I was ready to be a figured she’d hit “delete” and Later that week we played ers and its “cheeseburger in real player. that would be it. We wouldn’t teams from Barcelona and paradise.” Someone asked I was pretty bad at first. know anyone, and we’d have Germany. There were primar- the cook, “What’s on the Most of us are. It’s not that to close our dental practice for ily Cubans on the best of their cheeseburger in paradise?” He easy to hit a baseball. Former two weeks, something we had teams, the “Industriales”, and replied, “Cheese. You’re in Pirate Willie Stargell said it never done. To my surprise, again, they were all much paradise.” well: “They give you a round she was interested. younger than us. (Our aver- David Weinman, of NY, is bat and throw you a round ball Soon I received my age age on the SSUSA tours is a current SSUSA member and and tell you to hit it square.” uniform in the mail - dark usually late 60s). Those guys player with Durham Silver Although I never was able blue with a red “USA” across gave us our closest game, but Stix 60 (ON, Canada). He to achieve my dream of being the chest and on the hat, my we left Spain undefeated and formerly managed Rustbelters a professional player, I was last name on the back. I was with lots of new friends. The 50 (NY). good enough to pitch semi-pro assigned to one of the two hammy held up and I was until my late 20s. Arm trouble squads of guys from around named “best defensive player” and the time that baseball the US and we practiced at an for the USA Blue team, a real demands led me to switch to old baseball stadium in Ma- thrill. Heard in the Dugout softball. Fast pitch mostly at drid. I had pulled a hamstring Since then I’ve played first. a few weeks earlier and was on a bunch of the overseas Whether you are 30 or Do you senior softball praying it would hold up. We trips sponsored by SSUSA. 40 or 50 or 60 or 70, players remember when we played a tournament the next Terry Hennessy does a great if you don't rise from looked at 40 year olds and day at two beautiful new arti- job of balancing the itinerary breakfast with a fine thought to ourselves, “I won- ficial turf fields. The Madrid between the softball and the excitement to begin the der if I’ll still be able to play teams were primarily young touring. We love the travel- day, you have missed when I’m old.” men and a few women; few ing and I love the softball but something which is bet- Like many of us I bet, I spoke English but our transla- what really tops it off (and I ter than anything you thought softball had to end tor, Kiko, was a big help. think my wife, Mindy, agrees) around then. Somehow it After a week in Madrid, have got in its place. is the people we meet, the - Stuart Sherman didn’t. We are perhaps the we took an eight-hour bus ride friends we make and the fun largest softball playing gen- to Barcelona. This time our we share with them. eration there ever will be too, practice was at the baseball I’ll end with this: at one because young people are not stadium built for the 1992 of the tournaments in Hawaii Winter 2019 Edition Senior Softball News 11 12 Senior Softball News Winter 2019 Edition Opinions & Letters A Place Where Players Become Family It seems that whenever just a game. It is a very we start a new season of special place where players Senior Softball, someone become teammates, team- always has an idea of how mates become friends, and we can add to our game. friends become family. Perhaps it’s the team’s Almost every day, we manager who suggests a hear how polarized the new strategy or a physical country – and the world— trainer who wants you to has become. add more stretching to your But on the field and pre-game ritual or even a in the parking lots after batting coach who thinks the games, players can he’s found a flaw in your leave all of that behind and swing. concentrate on a common While they’re all good goal, a common love of and reasonable thoughts the game and simply enjoy as we enter the new year, the comradery that comes here at Senior Softball-USA with playing hard and with we’ve got another idea: sportsmanship with fellow Remember that Senior ballplayers…no matter who Softball is really “more they are, where they come than just a game….” from, or what they believe. That’s our slogan – And that is a very spe- because Senior Softball cial place indeed! Sue Ballenger is much, much more than

JOIN THE SSUSA Renew Your SSUSA Player/Team LEAGUE FAMILY! Registration Online

SSUSA provides promotion of leagues on its website The 2020 Senior Softball-USA (SSUSA) season is (www.seniorsoftball.com), which has provided players a underway! Players, if your SSUSA National ID card has way to identify local leagues in their area. expired, now is the time to renew. It has been a very successful partnership. To renew your registration, please visit www.Se- SSUSA also provides the best deals on approved niorSoftball.com, and at the top of the page, sign in with softballs with free delivery when ordering six dozen your e-mail address and password, then click "GO." or more. This is a great program that can work for all If you do not know your password, or never set up leagues! your online account, please email Anthony@seniorsoft- Please call our office at 916-326-5303 and ask for ball.com. Stephanie or Fran for a quote. Managers, if you haven’t done so already, please pay your 2020 team registration fee online and begin build- ing your master roster for the new season. Thanks for playing SSUSA and good luck in 2020! Winter 2019 Edition Senior Softball News 13 14 Senior Softball News Winter 2019 Edition 'In Game' Equipment Interferes? Play On! With more infielders wearing masks Umpire's Corner Plus, if the equipment (the bat in this these days, managers increasingly have case) prevented the defense from making asked umpires and directors what hap- By Donna McGuire an out, the player being played upon is pens when a thrown ball hits a mask that strikes that bat, play on. out. a defender discarded during the play. BUT if the batter squibs a grounder Picture a two-out winning run headed Some players contend that the runner and then throws his/her bat at the ball home when an overthrown ball smacks should get extra bases if the ball touches, while taking off for first, he/she should against a bat the offensive team left lean- bounces off or gets stuck in a discarded be called out if his/her moving bat hits ing near, but outside, the dugout. Instead mask. Others believe the runners should the ball -- or if his/her airborne or rolling of game over, the runner must return to go back to the base they last touched. bat impedes a defender trying to field the third. And if the next batter pops up? Both answers are incorrect — if a ball. Well, you know the answer. Play on. player was wearing the mask when the Back to masks. The same rule applies to other of- play began. Picture a defensive player pulling off fensive team equipment -- gloves, masks, Think of it this way: What happens his/her mask to better track a high pop up etc. -- outside the dugout. So if you are in Major League Baseball when a run- in the infield. He/she holds the mask in coaching third, don’t leave your glove by ner’s helmet flies off as he rounds second his/her right hand as he/she watches the the fence. If an overthrow hits it, the ball base and then a ball thrown from the ball descend. Trying to be cute, he/she is dead, the runners must return to the outfield misses the cutoff man and hits catches the ball with his/her mask instead last base touched, and the umpire must the helmet? of his/her glove. determine whether the ball hitting the The answer: Play on. Because the player used equipment glove prevented the defense from making The helmet started in its correct place not in its proper place, the umpire should an out. If it did, the runner being played _ on the batter’s head. When it came off award all runners three bases. It is the upon is out. So keep your bats and gloves during play, it became part of the playing same if a fielder throws his/her mask or in the dugout. field. As long as a runner doesn’t throw glove at a batted ball and hits the ball. And if you aren’t the on-deck batter his helmet at the ball, there’s no interfer- All runners get three bases. If a thrown or coach, you need to be in the dugout, ence. Play on. glove keeps a home run ball from clear- too. The same is true for when a senior ing the fence, the umpire should award We’ll discuss that rule some other softball player pulls off his/her mask af- four bases. time. ter a ball has been hit and drops the mask If a fielder uses a mask held in his/ Donna McGuire is SSUSA’s Central on the ground. If a thrown ball hits the her hand to catch or stop a thrown ball, Region Umpire-in-Chief and Chair of the mask, play on. runners are awarded two bases. Same SSUSA National Rules Committee. Now, there are circumstances where is true if he/she throws his/her mask, penalties come into play when a batted or his/her glove, and hits the ball. or thrown ball hits a piece of unattached Runners get two bases. I’ve seen this KEEP YOUR equipment. Such equipment includes bats happen when a pitcher wanted to or gloves left outside the dugout by the keep an overthrown ball from rolling EYE ON THE BALL ® offensive team. into the dugout. His/her team would To help keep rules involving unat- have fared better if they’d let the ball WITH VSP tached equipment straight, let’s break the go. situations into two categories: Now, let’s move on to equipment 1. Equipment “in the game,” mean- not in the game. We’ve partnered with VSP Vision Care to provide ing being used during that play. members access to affordable, comprehensive Some teams like to lean bats out- coverage through an Individual Vision Plan. 2. Equipment not part of the current side the dugout. If you are on defense • Low out-of-pocket costs on eye exams, glasses, play. and contacts and leave bats out, and an overthrow • Personalized care from a VSP network doctor Equipment used at the start of the hits the bats, runners will be awarded play becomes part of the field when • Plans start as low as $17 a month two bases from the time the throw discarded – in most instances. Picture the left the fielder’s hand. vspdirect.com/softball/welcome batter dropping the bat in fair territory If the offense leaves extra bats as he runs to first. If the batted ball spins outside the dugout, and a live ball backward or sideways and hits the sta- hits one, the ball is dead and runners ©2018 Vision Service Plan. All rights reserved. tionary bat on the ground, play on. And if VSP is a registered trademark, and VSP Individual Vision must return to the last base touched. Plans is a trademark of Vision Service Plan. a thrown ball headed toward the catcher Winter 2019 Edition Senior Softball News 15

Yes, Playing Softball Is Good for the Heart By Stan Reents, PharmD during exercise. press hit 480/350. When blood pressure Senior Softball News What about the heart itself? spikes like this occur repeatedly, it can Contributor A stronger heart pumps more blood lead to two undesirable adaptations: The benefits of exercise for the heart during each contraction. Combined • The ventricular walls in the heart are numerous. In this review, we’ll look with improved oxygen delivery means get thicker. This can reduce the amount at several. that resting heart rate can be slower. It’s of blood the ventricles can hold, meaning Regular aerobic exercise strengthens common for elite aerobic athletes to have that less blood is pumped out. the heart muscle and opens up arteries. a very slow resting heart rate. • The major arteries get stiffer. On In fact, it’s been documented that exer- Cyclist Miguel Indurain won the this point, the research is inconsistent. cise promotes capillary growth. Tour de France five times. His resting Bottom line: Resistance exercise is Exercise stimulates the retrieval of HR was once measured at 28 beats per good for you, but it’s best to combine it cholesterol to meet metabolic needs. minute. with aerobic forms of exercise. Cholesterol is pulled out of storage sites In other words, as long as you’re And yes, playing softball is good for like blood vessel walls and is transported not on medications that slow heart rate, your heart. back to the liver on the HDL particle. and, you don’t get lightheaded when you Stan Reents, PharmD, is a health This is why HDL-cholesterol is higher stand up, a resting heart rate of 55-70 care professional and health/fitness in aerobic athletes, especially in women. bpm suggests you have a very healthy coach. He created the website www.Ath- And, it’s why an elevated HDL blood test cardiovascular system. leteInMe.com®, a resource on the health is considered a healthy sign. No question, aerobic exercise is benefits of exercise. He is also the author Cleaner arteries allows for more ef- critical for maintaining heart health. But, of “Sport and Exercise Pharmacology.” ficient blood flow. This is reflected by an because playing softball isn’t continuous increase in VO2max. The highest value like running or cycling, does it afford ever recorded was in cross-country skier similar benefits? Bjorn Daehlie: 94 ml/kg/min. Cyclist In general, yes. Greg Lemond was a close second: 92 Intermittent exercise is now recog- ml/kg/min. A middle-aged man with nized as providing health benefits just as very good aerobic fitness typically regis- continuous exercise does. Heard in the Dugout ters in the 50’s. What about resistance exercise? Aerobic exercise is good for the First, doing any form of exercise is coronary arteries, too. preferable than being sedentary. But, When I was a young man I Clarence DeMar won the Boston some research shows that heavy weight- observed that nine out of ten marathon seven times. During his au- lifting for months and months without things I did were failures. I topsy, it was discovered that his coronary any accompanying aerobic exercise didn't want to be a failure, so I artery diameter was two to three times raises a few concerns. did ten times more work. larger than normal. And a study of Weight-lifting can produce brief - George Bernard Shaw cardiologists revealed that five months of but enormous spikes in blood pressure. running or cycling enhanced the ability Blood pressure in the brachial (upper of coronary arteries to dilate (expand) arm) artery of one athlete performing leg 16 Senior Softball News Winter 2019 Edition Winter 2019 Edition Senior Softball News 17 Play 5-on-5 to Prepare for 2020 Season By Art Eversole the same team pitching to you Senior Softball News for both games (see diagram). Contributor Some leagues like to mix the Now that the off-season teams by odd and even in- is upon us, many seniors are nings. This is more complex beginning to prepare for the and confusion on the field can 2020 campaign by getting be the result. back into the gym and finding All players get to hit a batting cage. Players also even if they are not playing a may want to drop those extra defensive position. Depend- pounds they added from last ing on the number of players season, all in preparation for on a team, a player can get the new year. and maybe finding yourself side, players can play multiple as many as 12 or more plate Another superb way to on base when it’s your turn to defensive positions, or even appearances during a double get ready for next season is bat. The amount of time you take a turn at pitching. header. A five-inning game to participate in five on five have for play will determine Team field assignments to takes about the same time as softball. It’s both a fun and whether your games can be start play: a regular two-team game that beneficial way to ready your longer than five innings. Game 1: plays a full seven innings; body and sharpen your skills. The five-on-five softball • Team (A) batting, about an hour and fifteen min- Like most sports, there’s no format fulfills several pur- • Team (B) infield, fills the utes on average. better way of getting in shape poses, for example: infield positions and provides Advantages of five-on- for your sport than by playing • You can run full-up the pitcher, five: it. This softball variation has tournaments with teams com- • Team (C) outfield, pro- • Teams only need five been around for many years peting for championships and vides the four outfielders and players to participate and is and is played in many parts of trophies, a catcher. the minimum, the U.S. • Form local leagues Game 2: • Players get many more For those of us who may where the numbers are not • Team (A) batting, at bats under this format, not have heard of five on five enough to build 15 player • Team (C) infield, fills the • Players will play two where a team is formed with rosters, infield positions and provides defensive positions during only five players, let’s explore • Use as a preparation for the pitcher, each inning and can play some of its features. The five next season where players hit, • Team (B) outfield, pro- anywhere. on five format entails hav- field and run the bases under vides the four outfielders and • Players work on their ing three five-player teams, game-like conditions to get a catcher. game without concerning two on the field and one in into shape. Each team receives the themselves with the team’s the dugout. We play five in- The third bullet from standard three outs or five outcome as there’ll be plenty nings here in the Northwest above is the one we use in the runs max during their at- time for that with the season and find that most suitable Pacific Northwest, playing bat. The last inning can be starts. for time constraints as there at RAC (Regional Athletic an OPEN inning but this Rules: We use SSUSA is a top, middle and bottom Center) in Lacey, WA. In this is optional. After the team rules, but you can deviate to to each inning. Teams move nuance of the game, teams hitting is retired, the outfield fit local needs. from outfield to the infield to play with the objective of team moves into the infield, Happy hitting! batting after the current hitting affording players to work on the infield team moves to the Art Eversole, of Washing- team is retired, and the rota- their individual skills. dugout to hit. The team that ton, has played on Major and tion continues in that manner. The winning or losing just finished hitting moves to Major Plus teams with W.E. Teams typically consist of games as a team is secondary the outfield and so on until the Ruth Realty. He is the NW five to seven players with five to preparing the individual game has concluded. Senior Softball Webmaster/ being the minimum and seven player for next year. As a In game two of the double Softball Communications/Hit- being the ideal maximum that result, players are free to prac- header, note that the outfield ting Club Admin/NW Leagues provides for the optimal ben- tice things he or she may not and infield teams from game internet coordinator. efit. However, playing only have opportunity to do during one will reverse their infield/ Eversole can be reached five players can lead to a lot of the regular season. Pull hit- outfield assignments. This is via email at rtmyboy01@ base running without a break ters can practice hitting back- done so that you don’t have gmail.com. 18 Senior Softball News Winter 2019 Edition Winter 2019 Edition Senior Softball News 19 2019 WORLD MASTERS CHAMPIONSHIPS: LAS VEGAS, NEVADA WMC Surpasses 600 Teams for Third Straight Season Five Triple Grand Slam Winners Softball News Report 24 U.S. National Champions AS VEGAS - For the third straight season, the Las Vegas Senior Softball Final Standings Association (LVSSA)/Senior Softball- 2019 Triple Grand Slam Winners Florida Investment Properties, 16-8 USA (SSUSA) World Masters Cham- Men’s 85 Major: Center For Sight (FL) def. Lpionships surpassed the 600-team plateau. Sommerville Softball (CA) - Men’s 55 Major Plus Sacramento Gold (CA), 22-8 The 2019 edition of the WMC featured Timberworks/Adidas (CA) - Men’s 65 Major Plus 609 teams competing in nearly 1,990 games Nor Cal Stixx (CA) - Men’s 70 Major Third Session (Men’s & Women’s 40) across eight complexes over a 15-day span Center For Sight (FL) - Men’s 85 Major Men’s 40 Major Plus: Suncoast Adidas (FL) def. (Sept. 19 - Sept. 29 / Oct. 3 - 6). Old School (CA) - Women’s 50 Major Prestige/Elite Sports (CA), 33-18 The tournament began Sept. 19 with the Men’s 40 Major: Thunderstruck (CA) def. LB/Spirits Men’s 55 and 60 age divisions, as 167 teams West/SMC (MD), 20-17 representing 35 states and two Canadian Men’s 40 AAA: Gigantes O.C. (MD) def. Armstrong provinces, competed across seven complexes. Transport (WA), 25-9 A total of 545 games were scheduled Women’s 40 Major: TKP (CA) def. Kryptonite (FL), for the opening session, including eight U.S. 25-11 National Championship Games, making it the 1 Women’s 40 AAA: Fireballs (MA) def. UT-Relics, largest of the four sessions. U.S. National Championship 17-16 Teams from Minnesota, Florida, New York, Tennessee, Washington State and Cali- First Session (Men’s 55 & 60) Fourth Session (Men’s & Women’s 50) fornia won World Masters titles in the eight Men’s 55 Major Plus: Sommerville Softball (CA) Men’s 50 Major Plus: Suncoast Adidas (FL) def. J.K. divisions. def. RBC Wealth Management (FL), 20-10 Inc/Easton (CA), 26-25 In the eight U.S. National Games, which Men’s 55 Major: WPI/Wilson Auto (ID) def. Men’s 50 Major: PDX/DeMarini (OR) def. CPD/ pits winners from the Eastern and Western Ameriprise FL Legends, 17-16 Ancell (MN), 21-15 National Championships, six teams from the Men’s 55 AAA: Desperados NMU (CA) def. Old Men’s 50 AAA: Scrap Iron/Elite (CO) def. High West and two teams from the East prevailed USA Stars (IN), 22-19 Street Bucs (MD), 20-11 – but only one team went all the way to the more than just a game... Men’s 55 AA: Spin Tees (WA) def. Longshoremen Women’s 50 Major: Old School (CA) def. Unfazed Triple Grand Slam: Somerville Softball of 2 3 (VA), 28-19 (VA), 9-5 California in the 55 Major Plus Division. Photos by Jack Eberhard Men’s 60 Major Plus: Summy’s (CA) def. Omega IT To win the SSUSA Triple Grand Slam, 1.) 50 Degrees (MO) and their fans celebrate the team's win in the 64-team Men's 50 Services, LLC (MD), 19-13 2019 LVSSA/SSUSA WORLD MASTERS teams must win either the Eastern or Western AAA Division. 2.) Batter from Fence Brokers Team Kitty/Worth Miken (FL) swings for the fences in the Men's 50 Major Plus Divison. 3.) Former Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Men’s 60 Major: Samurai (CA) def. Cardot/Madalena CHAMPIONSHIPS FINAL STANDINGS Nationals, the U.S. National Game and the Goodman greets the crowd at Big League Dreams during the opening ceremonies of the Construction (NY), 38-28 World Masters Championships. LVSSA/SSUSA World Masters Championships. Men’s 60 AAA: Old Stars (IN) def. Weakend Session 1 (Men’s 55 & 60) The WMC continued with the second Warriors (CA), 26-23 session, Men’s 65 through 85 age divisions, on Men’s 60 AA: Syracuse Cyclones (NY) def. Scrap Men’s 55 Major Plus (9 Teams) Sept. 23 with 147 teams representing 25 states Iron Rockies (CO), 20-12 1. Sommerville Softball (CA) Please See Page 20 2. CornerStone (OR) Second Session (Men’s 65 - 85) 3. Ohio Elite/AMR Men’s 65 Major Plus: Timberworks/Adidas (CA) def. 4. Elite/Dudley (AZ) 90's: Super Seniors Shine Bright at 2019 World Masters New Jersey Hitmen, 27-5 Men’s 55 Major (36 Teams) From Page 1 Sight 85’s, is no stranger to Men’s 65 Major: Pill & Pill (WV) def. Incrediwear 1. Speedwerx (MN) However, a quintet of playing in his 90’s, as the (CA), 17-14 2. 55 Oh My (CA) super seniors taking the field 92-year-old has now played in Men’s 70 Major Plus: Venom (FL) def. Omen (CA), 3. Team Rawlings (CA) in their ninth decade at the nine tournaments since hitting 24-14 4. Texas Stars recent LVSSA/SSUSA World the big 9-0. Men’s 70 Major: Nor Cal Stixx (CA) def. Bradford Men’s 55 AAA (27 Teams) Masters Championships in Joining Schultz this year White/Jersey Masters (NJ), 20-19 1. Globe Trailers (FL) Las Vegas can say just that. at the WMC were four oth- Men’s 70 AAA: Syracuse Cyclones (NY) def. 2. American Mortgage Pro (OK) Edward Schultz of Florida Sacramento Islanders (CA), 15-14 3. Romo’s Derty (TX) Please See Page 22 From left: Edwin Castillo, Paul Janke, Al Murray, Edward Schultz, Michael Smieja and a member of Center For Men’s 80 Major Plus: San Francisco Seals (CA) def. 4. 55 GZ (TX) Please See Page 21 20 Senior Softball News Winter 2019 Edition WMC: Two 64-Team Divisions Drive Tourney Continued from Page 18 teams representing 22 states, division of the tournament, and Colorado won World as well as the U.S. Territory with 139 teams in the Men’s 50 Masters titles in the seven and one Canadian province of Guam, and three Canadian division - powered by the 64- divisions that were played. competing across seven com- provinces, competing across team Men’s 50 AAA Division The Bavarian Royals from plexes. seven complexes. (tied for the largest division Germany made their second A total of 493 games were A total of 444 games of the tournament with the straight appearance in the scheduled for the second ses- were scheduled for the third Men’s 40 Major Division) and tournament, while LVSSA sion, including seven U.S. Na- session, including five U.S. Na- the 59-team Men’s 50 Major fielded a team again as well. A tional Championship Games. tional Championship Games. Division. third team, Latin-American, Teams from Minnesota, In the five U.S. National 158 teams representing 31 included two players from last Florida, California, Arizona, Games, three teams from the states, as well as Guam, two year’s Panama team that was Kansas, Oregon and Nevada East and two teams from the Canadian provinces, and Ger- unable to attend this year’s won World Masters titles in West prevailed. many, competed across seven tournament, along with other the 15 divisions, making it the Proving the competitive complexes during the fourth local players from Las Vegas. largest session of the tourna- balance in the 40’s division, no session. The fourth team and eventual ment by division. team would go on to complete A total of 508 games were champion was from Colorado. In the seven U.S. National the Triple Grand Slam during scheduled for the final session, The full recaps for each Games, four teams from the the third session. including four U.S. National session appeared in previous East and three teams from the Teams from Idaho, New Championship Games. editions of the SSUSA news- West prevailed – with three of York, Pennsylvania, Kansas, In the four U.S. National letter. the seven teams completing Utah and Hawaii won World Games, three teams from the Click the below links to the elusive Triple Grand Slam: Masters titles in the six divi- West and one from the East read each respective session Timberworks/Adidas (CA); sions. prevailed. recap. Men’s 65 Major Plus, Nor Cal The fourth and final ses- Of the four eventual Triple Stixx (CA); Men’s 70 Major sion included the Men’s and Grand Slam contenders, just Session 1 and Center For Sight (FL); Women’s 50’s age divisions, one would complete the task: Session 2 Men’s 85 Major. as well as the second annual Old School (CA) - Women’s Session 3 The third session included International Co-Ed division. 50 Major. Session 4 the Men’s and Women’s 40’s The fourth session also Teams from California, age divisions, as a total of 137 featured the largest single age New Jersey, Missouri, Oregon

Photos by Jack Eberhard Winter 2019 Edition Senior Softball News 21 2019 WMC Final Standings Continued Continued from Page 19 2. Oklahoma Street Outlaws 2. New York Statesmen Men’s 50 Major Plus (11 3. Bags Softball (IA) 3. Chicago Geezers (IL) Teams) Men’s 55 AA (6 Teams) 4. Vancouver USA Wooly’s 4. Redwood City Gold Rush 1. J.K. Inc./Easton (CA) 1. Advil Knights (CA) - TOC (WA) (CA) 2. Fence Brokers Team Kitty/ 2. Spin Tees (WA) Men’s 70 Major Plus (3 Men’s 85 Major (6 Teams) Worth Miken (FL) 3. So Cal Riptide (CA) Teams) 1. Center For Sight (FL) 3. Suncoast Adidas (FL) 4. Arizona Blaze 1. Omen (CA) - TOC 2. Arizona Prospectors 4. Mark Thomas Law & BPA Men’s 60 Major Plus (4 2. Venom (FL) T3. Southwest Stars (TX) (PA) Teams) 3. All American (MN) T3. Sacramento Gold (CA) Men’s 50 Major (59 Teams) 1. MTC/Dudley (CA) Men’s 70 Major (16 Teams) 1. Phoenix Tube (NJ) 2. Summy’s (CA) 1. Nor Cal Stixx (CA) Session 3 (Men’s & 2. Deluxe Bakery (NJ) 3. Texas Crush Sixties 2. Bradford White/Jersey Women’s 40) 3. Dudley Lightning (MO) 4. Omega IT Services, LLC Masters (NJ) 4. Team Dudley/East Coast/ (MD) 3. Poncho’s (AZ) Men’s 40 Major Plus (18 Noble’s Painting (MD) Men’s 60 Major (31 Teams) 4. San Antonio Silver Streaks Teams) Men’s 50 AAA (64 Teams) 1. Cardot/Madalena (TX) 1. GTS (ID) 1. 50 Degrees (MO) Construction (NY) Men’s 70 AAA (16 Teams) 2. Firehouse Pub/Game 2. High Street Bucs (MD) 2. Samurai (CA) 1. Mr. Plywood (OR) Apparel/Absolut (MI) 3. Hawaiians (HI) 3. Windy City Softball (IL) 2. Syracuse Cyclones (NY) 3. All American Athletics 4. Big Hurt/Draft Picks (IL) 4. X-Men (BC, Canada) 3. Sacramento Islanders (CA) (OR) Men’s 50 AA (5 Teams) Men’s 60 AAA (34 Teams) 4. Doughboys (NV) 4. Suncoast Adidas (FL) 1. Oregon Contractors Mobile 1. DT Express (TN) Men’s 70 AA (7 Teams) Men’s 40 Major (64 Teams) App 2. Scrap Iron Xplosion (CO) 1. Southern California Crush 1. Giant Steel/TRUE Point 2. Manifest (TX) 3. Old Stars (IN) 2. El Paso Nine-Elevens (TX) Survey (NY) 3. Gulf Coast Hurricanes (LA) 4. So Cal Braves (CA) 3. Valley Fog (CA) 2. Giannilli’s II (PA) 4. ITV Consulting (BC, Men’s 60 AA (20 Teams) 4. Top Gun Olde Dawgs (CA) 3. Silverbacks (CA) Canada) 1. Vancouver USA Wooly’s Men’s 75 Major Plus (2 4. Midwest Elite (MO) Women’s 50 Major (7 (WA) Teams) Men’s 40 AAA (20 Teams) Teams) 2. Syracuse Cyclones (NY) 1. Omen (CA) 1. Mission: Possible (PA) 1. Old School (CA) 3. 808 Hawaii 2. Tharaldson’s (NV) 2. Torgi Trucking (WA) 2. Karphone (CA) 4. Pellys Stix (ON, Canada) Men’s 75 Major (8 Teams) 3. Gigantes O.C. (MD) 3. Florida Girls 1. Sidewinders (AZ) 4. Live! Casino (MD) 4. Arizona Dream Team Session 2 (Men’s 65 - 85) 2. Hooikaika Kinipopo (HI) Women’s 40 Major (12 Women’s 50 AAA (8 Teams) 3. ProHealth Care (WI) Teams) 1. 50 Caliber KC (MO) - TOC Men’s 65 Major Plus (4 4. California Connection 1. Dudley/Greenspace (KS) 2. NW Lady Legends (WA) Teams) Men’s 75 AAA (8 Teams) 2. Kryptonite (FL) 3. NW Lady Warriors (WA) 1. Timberworks/Adidas (CA) 1. Las Vegas Coyotes (NV) 3. TABU (CA) 4. Guam - Team Mighty 2. Pope Transport (WI) 2. Hill Contracting (TX) 4. Get Nutz (HI) International Co-Ed (4 3. Enviro-Vac Marauders 3. MN Masters Jimmy’s Women’s 40 AAA (20 Teams) (WA) 4. Git-R-Done (CA) Teams) 1. Colorado Hitmen 4. New Jersey Hitmen Men’s 80 Major Plus (2 1. UT-Relics 2. Latin-American (NV) Men’s 65 Major (22 Teams) Teams) 2. Custom Truck (NV) T3. Bavarian Roylas 1. Arizona Ancient 1. Florida Investment 3. Pro Moves (CA) (Germany) 2. Minnesota Masters/Ancell Properties 4. Saints (AZ) T3. LVSSA Co-Ed (NV) 3. RPR Softball (AL) 2. San Francisco Seals (CA) Women’s 40 AA (3 Teams) 4. Nor Cal Reds (CA) Men’s 80 Major (3 Teams) 1. Shut-D XP (HI) Men’s 65 AAA (27 Teams) 1. Top Gun Gold (CA) 2. Guam FIGO Islanders 1. KC Kids (KS) 2. Scrap Iron Gray Berets 3. Guam Team SOTTA 2. No Guts, No Glory (CA) (CO) 3. Team Texas San Antonio 3. LOTA Softball (TX) Session 4 (Men’s 50 & 4. Cut Loose (CA) Men’s 80 AAA (9 Teams) Women’s 50 & Co-Ed) Men’s 65 AA (14 Teams) 1. Minnesota Masters (MN) 1. Los Vatos Viejos (AZ) 22 Senior Softball News Winter 2019 Edition 90s: True Love of the Game Key to Longevity Continued From Page 18 Category. ers who celebrated their 90th during the Senior Softball has also given Mur- 2019 season, including his teammate, ray the ability to play globally, taking Al Murray of Florida (SSUSA Hall of part in various SSUSA International Famer), Paul Janke of California (Na- Tours to Spain, Cuba, Japan, Denmark, tional Senior Softball Hall of Famer) Sweden and Norway to name a few. who played both 80s and 85s, Edwin However, the most memorable senior Castillo of Hawaii, and Michael Smieja softball trip was to Hawaii, where Mur- of Minnesota, an accomplished builder of ray was able to visit the USS Arizona concertinas who also double-dipped with Memorial. Murray was 12 years old on an 80s and 85s team. that infamous day on Dec. 7, 1941, when Schultz’s first tournament as a 90- the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor - kill- year old came at the 2017 World Masters Al Murray (middle) inducted into SSUSA ing 2,403 military personnel and civil- HOF in 2016 in the Manager Category. Championships, and has gone on to play ians, 1,177 of whom were from the USS in the 2017 Winter National Champion- member of the Center for Sight team, Arizona - and marked the United States’ ships, 2018 Tournament of Champions, spanning over 20 years beginning with official entry into World War II. 2018 World Masters Championships, the team in the 65’s age division. Murray “I remember the day well,” said Mur- 2018 Winter National Championships, and Schultz have been teammates for 14 ray. “I came home from delivering papers 2019 Tournament of Champions, 2019 years. and saw my dad crying. I said, ‘What’s Eastern National Championships, 2019 An infielder in his younger days, wrong’, and he said ‘We’re at war’.” World Masters Championships, and most which included playing fast-pitch, Mur- Murray’s advice to the younger play- recently the 2019 Winter National Cham- ray has transitioned to pitcher, where ers is to keep working out, stay active, pionships. he’s been striking the mat for the past 13 and take it one step at a time. Some good luck and genetics may years. Another player making his 90’s debut be the main keys to Schultz’s longevity: Along with playing in his local was Paul Janke, of California. “My mother lived to be 96 and my father league in Collier County two to three Proving that age is truly just a num- 91,” said Schultz. “I haven’t had many times a week, Murray also bikes and ber, Janke pulled off double duty at the injuries other than some balls off the swims to help him stay in shape. Murray WMC, playing first base with his native shin. I had an aorta valve replaced about also credits his longevity in the game to SoCal Titans 80’s team, while also join- 13-14 years ago, and was back playing his years as an NCAA Division I Basket- ing the Hawaii 85’s team as an outfielder. 30 days later. I’ve been active all my ball referee, where he worked throughout Spanning a senior softball career of life.” the Northeast, as well as his late wife, 34 years, Janke enjoys the game, manag- Schultz, originally from Michigan, Pamela, who always encouraged Murray ing teams as well as serving as commis- played in a city league in Detroit with to continue playing. sioner of his local 65 and over league in Manufacturers National Bank from 1953- Like his teammate Shultz, Murray Southern California. He also plays in the 1996. He began playing travel softball in has been able to avoid major injuries in 55 league - only when needed. 2000 when he relocated to Florida. his playing career, just taking the occa- Janke’s most memorable moment on The biggest change in the game for sional line drive off the head or chest. the field was completing SSUSA’s Triple Schultz was moving the bases to 70 feet Murray has had numerous individual Grand Slam with Tiodize D-99, along from 60. “I stopped getting hits I could and team accomplishments throughout with his enshrinement into the National beat out.” his 25-year career in senior softball. Senior Softball Hall of Fame in the Pio- Schultz’s fondest memories on the di- Murray counts 68 titles for his Center For neer Player category, as part of the class amond has been the comradery built with Sight squad, including winning the most of 2008. teammates and opponents alike, as well recent Men’s 85 Division at the WMC, Janke’s message to the younger play- as traveling, having played in 20 states. which capped off the Triple Grand Slam ers is to enjoy yourself. “Be positive,” “Everyone I’ve met through the game has as the team also won the U.S. National says Janke. “Do the best you can do, it’s been nice, win or lose,” said Schultz. Championship game. still a game. Young guys take it more Schultz wasn’t the only super senior Murray, who played a key role in seriously - mellow out.” on the Center for Sight team, as he was the development of the Men’s 85 Divi- Edwin Castillo, of Hawaii, who joined by fellow teammate, Al Murray, sion by creating the first 85’s team, was played with Janke on the Hawaii 85’s making his 90’s debut. inducted into the SSUSA Hall of Fame as Murray, of Florida, is a longtime part of the class of 2016 in the Manager Continued on Next Page Winter 2019 Edition Senior Softball News 23 90s: 90-Year-Old Division on the Horizon argue, and be on the best teams,” says Castillo. “Just work and keep going, don’t quit. And take advice, I still take advice.” Like his compadres, Castillo credits his overall good health - other than two back surgeries and two knee replace- ments - to his playing longevity. “I look forward, not back,” says Castillo. “Everything is good, I love the game.” The fifth and final 90-year old at the Michael Smieja, in 2007, showing his WMC was Michael Smieja, of Minneso- concertina made of clear plexiglass, allowing the mechanisms to be seen ta, who like Janke, pulled the double-dip, inside. playing with ProHealth Legends 85’s and Credit: MPR Photo/Chris Roberts Minnesota Masters 80’s. going.” “Never give up,” says Smieja, who Along with playing in his local of the five has had the toughest obstacle league in St. Paul, Smieja also builds in his playing longevity, dealing with and rebuilds concertinas to keep active epilepsy since 1947. “It comes and goes,” and busy, and even carries one to tourna- Paul Janke was inducted into the National says Smieja. “My teams have stuck by ments. For his work, Smieja was induct- Senior Softball Hall of Fame (NSSHOF) in me and I plan on playing as long as I can. ed into the World Concertina Congress 2008 in the Pioneer Player Category. Just be with the team.” Hall of Fame in 2004. Continued From Previous Page Smieja played baseball while in the Smieja hopes to one day see a team, agrees. service (Army Air Forces) in 1946-1947, 90-year-old team, which shouldn’t be “Go with the flow,” says Castillo, and hung up his cleats until the early 90’s too far off in the horizon, as the Silent who’s been playing senior softball for 30 when he began playing softball. Generation continues to make noise on years. Smieja credits his ambition to still the ballfields. “A lot of the young guys like to be playing the game today. “I just keep World Masters Champs All-Tourney Teams The top four finishing Robinson, Brian Hausner. teams in each division at the CornerStone (OR): David World Masters earn all-tour- Dahilig, David Adams, Jeff nament selections, with first Black, Kurt Keintz. place earning five selections, Ohio Elite/AMR: Tim second place receiving four, Linson, Kevin Birkofer, Larry third place getting three and Tostrud. fourth place selecting two. Elite/Dudley (AZ): Dave Player earning all-tour- Thompson, Chuck Henninger. nament selections from the Men’s 55 Major WMC earn points towards the Speedwerx (MN): Kenny National Senior Softball Hall Carr, Donald Hoffman, Ron- of Fame. ald Ehoff (Team MVP), Den- nis Knapp, Kris Slettedahl. Session One 55 Oh My (CA): Jeff Daniels, George Gonzales, Sommerville Softball (CA) won the Men's 55 Major Plus Division Men’s 55 Major Plus Mark Carmichael, John An- Spalding. Men’s 55 AAA Sommerville Softball thony Miller. Texas Stars: Raul Ortiz, Globe Trailers (FL): Don (CA): John Heller, Michael Team Rawlings (CA): Richard Charles, Martin Fer- Michael Adams (Team MVP), Reed, Scott Logan, Robert Rick Baker, Jim Roach, Scott guson (Team MVP). Continued on Next Page 24 Senior Softball News Winter 2019 Edition World Masters Champs All-Tourney Teams Men’s 60 AA Cut Loose (CA): Earl Vancouver USA Wooly’s (Sam) Grimes, Rudy Valdez. (WA): Jose Villalpando, Jeff Men’s 65 AA Bushor, James Taylor, Gerard Los Vatos Viejos (AZ): Bartlett, Pete Sagisi. Bob Sismondo, Bill Saunders, Syracuse Cyclones (NY): Victor Johnson, William Ong, Jack Baxter, Don Huelsman, Roy Moreno. Peter Johnson, Louis Rossi. Oklahoma Street Outlaws: 808 Hawaii: Joe Queja, Larry Strassle, Victor Seidel, Darrell Wong, Bruce Matsui. George Basore, Alvin Cross- Pellys Stix (ON, Canada): ley. Marty Dupuis, Kenneth Pel- Bags Softball (IA): Rich- ley. ard Venzke, James Bailiff, Charlie Aldrich. Session Two Vancouver USA Wooly’s Globe Trailers (FL) won the Men's 55 AAA Division (WA): Garry Rapp, Steven Continued from Previous Page ray Williams, Mike Jimenez, Men’s 65 Major Plus Purcell. Glenn Looper, Kenneth Reid, John Roach. Timberworks/Adidas Men’s 70 Major Plus Timothy Bohlmann. Omega IT Services, LLC (CA): Vernon Fowler, Jimmy Omen (CA): Chris Dayak, American Mortgage Pro (MD): Hosea Harris, Garland Ross, Hank Alonzo, Steve Wayne Ross, Daniel Wals- (OK): Randy Owens, Rusty Johnson. Hillman, Roger Sanders, Rick worth, Peter Houghton, John Moore, Ben Myers, Robin Men’s 60 Major Littlejohn (Team MVP). Denham, Bob Cummings Timm. Cardot/Madalena Con- Enviro-Vac Marauders (Team MVP). Romo’s Derty (TX): Kirk struction (NY): Peter Zep- (WA): Rick Parker, Marlin Venom (FL): David Clo- McBride, David Etling, Jim petella, Mike Yargeau, Patrick Harris, David Mueller. ver, James Davidson, Stewart Layman, Raymond Torres Kelly, Gerald Bielak, Curt New Jersey Hitmen: Mi- Casterline, Dennis Schroeder. (Team MVP). Kirchmaier. chael Boone, Richard Meltz. All American (MN): 55 GZ (TX): David Samurai (CA): Jose Cotto, Men’s 65 Major Mike Trewick, Paul Trewick, Juarez, Gary Kubenka. Mark Toma, Vince Skandu- Arizona Ancient: Ken Rick Hoen, Douglas Swenson Men’s 55 AA nas, Jack Doty. Sheffield, Dick Reader, Mark (Team MVP). Advil Knights (CA): Windy City Softball (IL): Barnes, Alan Hawkenson, Men’s 70 Major Harvey Crosthwaite, Greg Tom Cahill, Gary Holland, Ken Johnson. Nor Cal Stixx (CA): Da- Abejon, Mark Speer, John Steve Misewicz. Minnesota Masters/An- vid Flores, Daniel Burbank, Prybylla, Gary Evens, Norm X-Men (BC, Canada): cell: Jeff Handevidt, Gary Steven Etchieson, George Kellogg (Team MVP). Dale MacDonald, Brian Bennett, Steve Pease, Donald Garcia, Johnny Melvin. Spin Tees (WA): Grant Tucker. Tarasewicz. Bradford White/Jersey Brown, Kevin Johnson, Bill Men’s 60 AAA RPR Softball (AL): Dar- Masters (NJ): Joseph DiFabio, Jones, Will Henderson. DT Express (TN): Ray- rell Moreland, Monte Miller, James Siers, Frank Taparata, So Cal Riptide (CA): mond Mason, Gary Daven- Glenn (Dale) Smith. Richard Polonitza, Joe Romeo Geoff McKiney, Harry Scha- port, Ronnie Joslin, Jimmie Men’s 65 AAA (Team MVP). fer, Ken Tracy. Young, Jeff Cherry, Tim KC Kids (KS): Mike Poncho’s (AZ): Paul Arizona Blaze: Philip Moore (Team MVP). Hildebrandt, George Kramer, Gayer, Michael Wolfe, Spence White, Fortino Garcia. Scrap Iron Xplosion Dan Potter, Randy Rowe, Preston. Men’s 60 Major Plus (CO): Danny Silvey, Dave Lonnie Smith, David Cook San Antonio Silver MTC/Dudley (CA): Schultz, Charles Kunkel, John (Team MVP). Streaks (TX): Chris Schnei- David Matusich (Team MVP), Bellatti. No Guts, No Glory (CA): der, Robert Saenz. Gary Robertson, Vern Ramie, Old Stars (IN): Peter Jon Forbes, Joe Guerrero, Men’s 70 AAA Kim Smylie, Wayne Doty. Headley, Geoffrey Biltgen, James Henley, Randy Van Mr. Plywood (OR): David Summy’s (CA): Michael Bob Cash. Essen. Harms, Joseph Savage, Rich- Babb, Kevin O’Reilly, Scott So Cal Braves (CA): Bob Team Texas San Antonio: ard Scorza, Leslie Gipe, Ralph Camery, Greg Brandt. Loenhorst, Curtis Shur, Art Tyrone McClellan, Charles Davis. Texas Crush Sixties: Mur- Estrada (Team MVP). (Mike) Johnson, Ray Pilgrim. Continued on Next Page Winter 2019 Edition Senior Softball News 25 World Masters Champs All-Tourney Teams

OMEN (CA) won the Men's 75 Major Plus Division Minnesota Masters won the Men's 80 AAA Division Continued from Previous Page Jay Larson, Michael Lavis. (CO): Joseph DeCristofaro, Kennelly, Thomas Buck. Syracuse Cyclones (NY): California Connection: Ken Nakauchi, John Wun- Redwood City Gold Rush George VanDeusen, George James Kenney, Mike Mc- derli, William Brown, Don (CA): Charley Aragon, Ray- Cole, Jim Miller, Ted Storto. Cassey. Pierson (Team MVP). mond Johnson. Sacramento Islanders Men’s 75 AAA Men’s 80 AAA Men’s 85 Major (CA): Jerry Enfield, Bob Las Vegas Coyotes (NV): Minnesota Masters (MN): Center For Sight (FL): Joe Smith, Richard Edwards, Dale Clem (Team MVP), Lowell Thompson, Stephen Sykes, Robert Johnson, David Robert Milano (Team MVP). Larry Miller, Henry Cluess, Agard, Robert Lenzmeier, Drakulich, David Goldberg, Doughboys (NV): Robert Robert Lane, Jeff Wagner. Donald Carruth, Earle An- Tom Ingham, David Bush Rink, Dale Alcorn. Hill Contracting (TX): derson, Tom Daniel, Norman (Team MVP). Men’s 70 AA Michael Donahoo, James Setnicker (Team MVP). Arizona Prospectors: Southern California Torrence, Alan Smith, Larry New York Statesmen: Richard Payseno, Roger Wil- Crush: Robert Jackson, Rus- Lentzner. Thomas Ladd, Douglas liams, Ted Alarcon, Robert sell Young, John Parker, Larry Minnesota Masters Hogue, Lee Southworth, Tom McElrea, John Vignati (Team Wagenbach, Steve Swager. Jimmy’s: Ronald Davis, Tom Silvia. MVP). El Paso Nine-Elevens Lundberg, Richard Bunde. Chicago Geezers (IL): Southwest Stars (TX): (TX): Mickey Saucedo, Git-R-Done (CA): Lyle Raymond Hafertepe, Gary Albert Lenski (Team MVP), Robert Ward, Steven Schiller, “Rick” Waters, Don Stern- John Cowan, Ron Perdue, James Graham. berger, Roger Tim Haug Dick Skinner. Valley Fog (CA): Kenneth (Team MVP). Sacramento Gold (CA): Leppke, Kent Grant, Allen Men’s 80 Major Plus Norman Blackwell, Raymond (Bill) Neri. Florida Investment Prop- Everingham, Dave Fairchild, Top Gun Olde Dawgs erties: Frank Gordon (Team Ray Newman (Team MVP). (CA): Randy Martinez, Leroy MVP), Ronald Hellier, Vin- Messenger. nie Remson, Ray Dye, Fred Session Three Men’s 75 Major Plus Cronin. Omen (CA): Tom Bussey, San Francisco Seals (CA): Men’s 40 Major Plus Joseph Cors, John Di Re, Robert Hannah, Robert Ban- GTS (ID): Brian Higgin- Michael Hoffberg, William chero, Terry Nafziger, Robert botham, Dann Rogers, Beau Wilson, Ronald McElyea Davis. Hamilton, Dan Romero, Brian (Team MVP). Men’s 80 Major Fong. Men’s 75 Major Top Gun Gold (CA): Gary Firehouse Pub/Game Sidewinders (AZ): Melvin Adams, John Chacon, Vincent Apparel/Absolut (MI): Doug Bentley (Team MVP), Rich- (Dave) Duarte, Gary Evans, Kett, Dennis Nourry, Robin Sidwinders (AZ) Men's 75 Major Roberts, Don Sikora, Jeff ard Collins, Jerry Bianchi, Robert McCormick. Champions Harold (Buster) Dickinson, Scrap Iron Gray Berets Continued on Next Page 26 Senior Softball News Winter 2019 Edition World Masters Champs All-Tourney Teams

Giant Steel/TRUE Point Survey (NY) Won Men's 40 Major Division Continued from Previous Page Smith, April Blake, Valorie Graus (Team MVP). Mullins (Team MVP). J.K. Inc./Easton (CA) won the Men's 50 Major Plus Division Suncoast Adidas (FL): Women’s 40 AAA BPA (PA): William (Kirby) Stephen Cartwright, Lamont Kyle Cowart, Rhodney Don- UT-Relics: Kathy Chris- Murphy, Tim Cress. Griffin, Derick Stevenson. aldson. tiansen, Marty Hurtado, Kel- Men's 50 Major Hawaiians (HI): Mike Men’s 40 Major lina Whiting, Malia Krogstad, Phoenix Tube (NJ): Chris Moniz, Richard Hosoda, Clar- Giant Steel/TRUE Point Heather Bernard. Giordano, Joseph Hennessy, ence Alcoran. Survey (NY): Angelo Mar- Custom Truck (NV): Hol- Rob Clancy, Bill Prezioso, Big Hurt/Draft Picks (IL): sella, Ciro Cascella, Ralph ly Schmillen (Team MVP), Nick Martini. Larry Mueller, Tim Walker. Mordente, Carlo Cannone, Kelly Field, Christina Jenkins, Deluxe Bakery (NJ): Da- Men's 50 AA Charles Baumgartner, Gary Chris Evans. vid DeSantis, William Sam- Oregon Contractors Mo- Fontana (Team MVP). Pro Moves (CA): Heather polski, Robert Cleaver, Rick bile App: Jeff Bushor, Willis Giannilli’s II (PA): Mike Michaelis, Lisa Maxey, Brown. McCollum, Allen Walters, Koerntgen, James Caterino, Natalie Parsons, Lori Jarrells Dudley Lightning (MO): Billy Luisi, Bob Downs. Mark Carns, Gary Noonan. (Team MVP). Dennis Turner, Jim Bathon, Manifest (TX): Steve Midwest Elite (MO): Tim- Saints (AZ): Ramona Troy Kerr. Garcia, Steven Cantu, Wayne othy Sanders, Corey Jaggie. Llerenas, April Bosley. Team Dudley/East Coast/ Tysinger, Andy Santiago. Men’s 40 AAA Women’s 40 AA Noble's Painting (MD): Nor- Gulf Coast Hurricanes Mission: Possible (PA): Shut-D XP (HI): Rochelle man Forbes, Russ Ramsey. (LA): Michael Rolerat, Troy Robert Marcks, Keith Sim- Poaha (Team MVP), Jennifer Men's 50 AAA Parker, Mike Cekinovich. mons, Chad Gerstenberg, Samson, Bobbie-Jo Victorino, 50 Degrees (MO): Rod- Ryan Hogan, Christopher Toni Elia-Mendiola, Nancy ney Lofton, Jack Meredith, Continued on Next Page Van Luvanee, Shawn Fillman Harper, Sunshine Taketa. (Team MVP). Torgi Trucking (WA): Session Four Chad Gillingham, Leon Tolentino, Joshua Hicks, Rich Men's 50 Major Plus Torgison. J.K. Inc./Easton (CA): Gigantes O.C. (MD): John Johnny Bailey, Scott Logan, Kindley, Charlie Piekanski, Ernie Gutierrez, Ron Hayes, Matt Boden. Brian Wheatfill. Women’s 40 Major Fence Brokers Team Kit- Dudley/Greenspace (KS): ty/Worth Miken (FL): Andy Tawna Williams, Christian Purcell, Reynaldo Gutierrez, Dowling, Carrie Kaberline, Albert Davis, Dal Beggs. Shannon Higginbotham, Cara Suncoast Adidas (FL): Coughenour. Terry Patesel, Hank Garris, Kryptonite (FL): Sara Darryl Waddy. 50 Degrees (MO) won the 64-team Men's 50 AAA Division Payne, Karen Hunger, Colleen Mark Thomas Law & Winter 2019 Edition Senior Softball News 27 World Masters Champs All-Tourney Teams

Oregon Contractors Mobile App won the Men's 50 AA Division Old School (CA) won the Women's 50 Major Division Continued from Previous Page Women's 50 AAA Women's 50 Major 50 Caliber KC (MO): Old School (CA): Sabrina Joyce Hickmon, Michele Hen- Bobkowski (Team MVP), ning, Sheryl Meyer, Emma Jana Sissenstein, Patty Felker, Harris, Tracy Hasty. Deena Dobbins, Donna Van- NW Lady Legends (WA): dagriff, Alma Guzman. Nedra Jerry, Kelli Asbjornsen, Karphone (CA): Gretchen Theresa Gotter, Lora Flewel- Gruber, Elena Song, Gina ling, Lisa Bull (Team MVP). Oliver, Lillie Green. Managers, if your all- Florida Girls tournament selections are Arizona Dream Team: missing, please submit them Shelly Patrick, Terri Davis, to anthony@seniorsoftball. Sonya Fultz (Team MVP). com. 50 Caliber KC (MO) won the Women's 50 AAA Division World Class All-Tourney Rings By Jostens Players, be sure to commemorate any of your All- Tournament selections from 2019, as well as champion- ship victories, by purchasing your one-of-a-kind ring from Jostens, maker of championship rings for MLB, NFL, NHL, and NBA. Contact Cindy Johnson via email cindy.johnson@ jostens.com or by phone 1-800-854-7464 (ext. 56533) for more information. 28 Senior Softball News Winter 2019 Edition Winter National Champs All-Tourney Teams LEE COUNTY, Fla. - The Stephen Cohen, Thomas New York Statesmen: Art Derby City 55 (KY): An- 19th Annual Winter National Frierson. Barnes, Evan Lloyd, Marvin thony Ferrell, Hank Adams, Championships, held here, Men’s 65 AA Kravitz, Douglas Hogue, Rob- Donny Harper, Tim Powell. Nov. 5 - 10, kicked off the Kentuckiana (IN): Greg ert Wardle. K & I 55 (IN): Kevin 2020 season. Ellerkamp, David Stringer, Cape Cod Sharks (MA): Jones, Tim Smith, Dennis To read the complete John Hall, Charlie Duggins, Robert Robidoux, Ray Castel- Williams. recap that appeared in the last Richard Heil. lano, Gerald Street, Robert Men’s 55 AAA newsletter, please CLICK Action Auto Parts (RI): Blakeslee. Twin Trees (NY): Mi- HERE. Jim Gemma, Gerry Deshaies, Men’s 85 Platinum chael Scanlon, John Martin, The top three finish- Tom Kopytko, Donald Ardito. ProHealth Legends (MN): Jack Durant, Edward Bragg, ing teams in each division Robinson’s Furniture/ Norman Ellis, Robert Lenz- Michael Garvey. OTS (DE): Steve Carey, Jerry meier, Stephen Agard, R.C. Palm Beach Thunder earn all-tournament selec- Foley, David Grimshaw. Brown, Norris Kruse, Dave (FL): Joseph Candela, Jay tions, with first place earning Men’s 70 Major Hunt. Mattatall, Bryan Douglass, five selections, second place Frankie Brinn (FL): Center For Sight (FL): Daniel Woodcum. receiving four, and third place Charles Martin, Gary Nicolay, Roger Thresher, Dwight Maryland Classics (MD): getting three. John Smutnick, Marvin Swo- McVicker, David Drakulich, John Hickman, Bill Beckett, sinski, Jim Shingledecker. Tom Ingham. Joe Valentino. Men’s 65/70 Major Plus Men’s 70 AAA Men’s 40 Platinum Men’s 60 Major Team Florida/Hollis Long Island Jaguars Suncoast Adidas (FL): Louisville Senior Slug- Appraisals: George Roberts, (NY): George Bundt, James Philip White, Rafael Negron, gers (KY): George Roberts, Ronald Scott, Tony Vodola, O’Gara, Ronald Ray, Ken Tony Elrod, Rhodney Donald- Robert Hauke, Jeffrey Con- Greg Wacha, Dave Motta. Kohn, William (Butch) Schul- son, Kyle Cowart. nor, Stephen (Frank) Hardin, Venom 70 (FL): Dennis theis. Men’s 50 Platinum Keith Springer. Schroeder, James Davidson, Tabor Franchi VFW Team TBA (CT): Gary Action Auto Parts (RI): David Clover, David Whitney. (RI): Kevin Lipsett, Thomas Mendillo, Jeffrey Rodo, Keith William Lee, Alfred Borges, Bradford White/Jersey Mooney, James McMahon, Anderson, George Legierse, Ken Franklin, Randall Fiske. Masters 70 (NJ): Richard Steven Aldrich. Reggie Moore. High Street Bucs II (MD): Boehmer, E. Gary Krause, Florida Southern Force: Suncoast/Adidas/Shades David Maertens, Mark Fra- Lou Vilotti. Gary Bowers,Carl Roberts, (FL): Darryl Waddy, Paul stak, Daniel Heinrich. Men’s 65 Major Frank Tomolison. Gilligan, Jose Santiago, Lee Men’s 60 AAA Ted Todd Insurance (FL): Men’s 75/80 Platinum Trotter Vector Scorpions (FL): Norman Edwards, Manuel Venom 75 (FL): David Men’s 50 AAA Thomas Brown, Michael (Mike) Correa, David White, Kester, Bob Buchanan, Dave Avalon Insurance (FL): Mouton, Ernest (Skip) Ryan, William Sorenson, Paul Sellars, Michael Marcum, Rick Notaro, Regis Easler, Bob Niderno, Dale Blanken- Steinitz. Alan Balfour. Tom Hinkle, Steven Ward, Joe ship, Michael Chnupa. Beef O’Brady’s Southern Chadwell Supply 75 Galewski. Northeast JackHammers 2 Trace (FL): Randy Mur- (FL): Gene Smith, Miguel PA Senior Hitmen: Scott (NY): Jerry Passamonte, Rick gittroyd, Rick Rivard, Bob Rodriguez, Billy Scarbrough, Dietrich, Brent McFeaters & Fitzgibbon, Charles (Mike) Winder, Donald Geisler. Ronald Russell. Terry Miller. Wallace, Daniel Kelley. Slug-A-Bug (FL): Ste- Florida Investment Men’s 55 Major Plus Playmakers (WI): John phen (Matt) Matson, Rickie Properties 80: Thomas Sides, RBC/Team Miken-Worth Pyszka, Steve Burbick, Dave Harder, Ray Mazara. Ray Dye, Jacob Wood, John (FL): Richard Clark, Reynal- Gerdman. Men’s 65 AAA Fournier. do Gutierrez, Arnaldo Torres, Men’s 60 AA Texas Thunder: Thomas Men’s 75 AAA Alan Tanner, Denny Russo. Glory Daze (KY): Danny Rizzo, Harold (Butch) War- Blaze/Ted Todd Insurance Suncoast/Adidas/Shades Hall, Denny Hall, Roger den, Ricky Latiolais, Glenn (FL): Herman Griffith, Bill (FL): David Bogatz, Jerry Cochran, Steven Bell, David Scattergood, Michael Beard. Hoover, Neil Bishop, Esteban Reynolds, Larry Veahman, Johnson. Universal Softball Team Castro, Dale Marker. Dave Crawley. Managers, if your all- (OH): Robert Walker, Bill Indianapolis Classics Men’s 55/60 Platinum tournament selections are Friedlinghaus, Rex Hicks, (IN): Bob Willoughby, Steve Action Auto Parts 55 (RI): missing, please submit them Terry Conley. Zwick, John Loiacano, Dick David Tokanel, Jeff Bloch, to anthony@seniorsoftball. Long Island Jaguars Douglass. Steven Dupont, Ernest Bacon, com. Red (NY): Michael Crocco, Men’s 80 AAA Robert Smith. Winter 2019 Edition Senior Softball News 29 30 Senior Softball News Winter 2019 Edition Winter World Champs All-Tourney Teams PHOENIX - The 2019 Win- (NM): Jerry Hester, Spence Pres- Boomtown (NV): Nick Weakend Warriors (CA): ter World Championships, held ton, Ronald Brooks. Davidson, Mike Bittle, Victor Mike Price, Richard Cruz, John here Nov. 12-17, kicked off the Men’s 70 Silver Souza. (Jack) Buss, Kent Skidmore, first SSUSA qualifier of the 2020 Last Call (NV): Larry Men’s 40 Gold John Leavitt. season, West of the Mississippi. Berger, Kenneth Lamb, Gary 4 Base Error Softball (AZ): Sidewinders (AZ): Randy To read the complete recap Landaburu, Ernie Cozzalio, Ryan Mittendorf, Nathan Bois- Tompkins, Mike Braman, Bruce that appeared in the last newslet- Richie Velasquez. vert, Reginald Jackson, Thomas Thaete, Dennis Dalton. ter, please CLICK HERE. Chicago Strikers (IL): Bob Hall, Juan Reynoso. Vancouver USA Wooly The top three finishing Darrah, Larry Hall, Rob Jesk, Whatever (AZ): Alvaro (WA): Gerhard Greve, Jose Vil- teams in each division earn all- Tony Inzerillo. Yanez, A.J. Garcia, Don Schenck. lalpando, Charles Hudson. tournament selections, with first USA Patriots (OK): Charlie Men’s 50 Major Men’s 60 AA place earning five selections, Myers, Bobby Pruitt, Michael Homer Lovers (ON, Cana- Texas Legends: Nate Willett, second place receiving four, and Seraphin. da): Kevin Bruder, James Bridge, Shawn McKenzie, Bert Feinberg, third place getting three. Men’s 75 Major Plus Scott Watson, Grant Garrett, Bill Huston, Joseph Ylda. Sidewinders (AZ): Jerry Bi- Steve Daize. El Paso Bad Boys (TX): Men’s 65 Major Plus anchi, Billy Kee, Frank Mower, Thunderstruck (AZ): Chris Miguel Medrano, Sam Terrazas, Timberworks/Adidas (CA): Ronald Wiebold, Chuck Gibson. Carda, Greg Milbrandt, Randy Vince Gomez, Leonso Barraza. Murray Williams, Ron Barnhart, Men’s 75 Gold Pongratz. Full Throttle (AZ): Steven Kenneth Vaught, Hank Alonzo, Tri-State Diamondbacks: Men’s 50 AAA Giese, Kevin McCoy, Lyman Steve Hillman. Roger Assink, Ed Sullivan, John Maher Homes Nebraska Thompson. AZ Ancient: Dave Quenzler, Florence, Ted Roluffs, Leigh Elite: Rick Colwell, Brian Kot- Women’s 40 Major Duane Hopkins, John Barresi, Charboneau. / Midwest Legends tich, Rich Morse, Scott Opfer, Colorado Ohana: Tyressa Dennis Dalton. (NE): Marvin Carr, Ronald Pe- Michael Edison. Johnson, Tanya Norton, Alyson Men’s 65/70 Platinum terson, Edward Rastovski, Larry Romo’s Trouble (TX): Ron- Carter, Becky Gee, Rebekah Arizona Scorpions 65: Stolte, Edward Tworek. nie Esparza, Lawrence Tucker, Ratzell. Tommy Burrell, Reyes Gonzales, Arizona Outlaws: Manuel Leon Mosby, Robert Fuentes. Utah Relics: Jayme McWid- Bruce McClain, Sam Newby, Hurtado, Thomas Grubb, Lenny ETX: Thomas Clayton, Da- ener, Virginia Benard, Heather Rick Oien. Mykland. / Triple Play: Fred vid McDavid, Michael Hackett. Bernard. Scrap Iron High Octane 65 Pratt, Ron Swenson, Doyle Men’s 55 Major Women’s 40 AAA (CO): Nicholas Longo, James Daniel. Doerflinger (WA): James Tharaldson Softball (NV): Gowdy, Terry Roberts, Larry Men’s 80 Major Buchanan, Bob Hubbard, Kevin Rhonda Hilpipre-Maier, Crystal Voorhees. Scrap Iron Grey Berets Juma, Brad Doerflinger, Jeff Schubitzke, Heidi Raymond, Jen- OMEN 70 (CA): Ludwig (CO): Joseph DeCristofaro, Paul Small. nifer Handy, Danelle Murphy. Nordahl, Wayne Ross, Thomas Durbin, Tom Imming, Robert Arizona Old School: Gino Saints (AZ): April Bosley, Ott. Bush, Robert Fontaine. Fiasche, Barry Jackson, Rod Kimmie Mars, Anita Matas. Men’s 65 AAA Emerald (WA): Bob Lennon, Gibson, Willie Goolsby. Women’s 40/50/55 Sidewinders (AZ): Ron Jim Dolman, Don Crandall, Fred Scrap Iron/Rocky Mountain NW Lady Legends 50 (WA): Scrivner, Rob Merrill, John Vanouck. Thunder (CO): Michael Wilmer, Lisa (Bully) Bull, Maria Christy Miller, Mike Cahill, Dale Gress- Minnesota Masters: Ken Ken Lindow, John Corlett. Romo, Helen Balabanis, Kelli man. Koch, Larry Michels, Stephen Men’s 55 AAA Asbjornsen, Theresa Gotter. Oshkosh Ambassadors (WI): Agard. Team Southwest/Woodies Women’s 70 Bob Amundson, Greg Kargus, Men’s 80/85 Gold (NM): Mike Gonzales, Oton Saints Express (CA): Bev- Rollie Johnson. Sidewinders 80 (AZ): Moreno, Randy Case, Kevin Fer- erly Burger, Susan Cary, Cheryl Men’s 65 AA Howard Schaber, Joseph Siegele, raro, Byron Hollister. Linendoll, Sylvia Salazar, Lila Blue Chips (IL): Rodney Arvid Peterson, Wayne Sutton, Hustle (TX): Joe Aragon, Spiritwalker. Hunter, Dean Porzel, Ronald Larry Benjamin. Pedro Resendiz, Oscar Sigala Spirit (CA): Bernadette Michalski, Dan Kairis, Charles Git-R-Done 80 (CA): Ron- Puga. Garcia, Pam Bedwell, Diane Pionczynski. ald Quarantino, Bob Quarantino, Men’s 55 AA Toomey, Annie Gronau. 911 Softball Club (CA): Charles Barracato, David Boone. Spin Tees (WA): Todd LV Neons (NV): Pat Lawlis, Eloy Chavez, Larry Chavez, Hui Ohana (HI): Guy Ruiz, Arndt, Grant Brown, Dominic Marcia Payson, Barbara Lang- David Olivas, Dave Puentes. Albert Apo, Terence Kimura. Dunn, Mariano Benavides, Kevin Ruzic. New Mexico Boomers: Julio Arizona Prospectors 85: Johnson. Managers, if your all-tour- Rios, Dean Bearup, Jose Payan. Jack Scott, John Vignati, Robert Men’s 60 Major nament selections are missing, Men’s 70 Major McElrea. Hawaii Five-O: Vern Ramie, please submit them to anthony@ Sidewinders (AZ): Orie Men’s 40 Major Plus Fabian Loo, Mark Gomes. seniorsoftball.com. McDonald, Larry Adams, Mike Roster Check (AZ): David AZ Legends: James (Dusty) Staudt, Alan Caillouette, Sebas- Block, Dominic Fratus, Jimmy Lee, Alex Carrasco, Dan Melosi, tian Muzio. Zampier, Shane Pullen. Bruce Thompson. Desert Bats (AZ):David Men’s 40 Major Arizona Old School: Jarvis Lingen, Robert Wicks, Lawrence EPT (TX): Artie Ramos, An- Quenga, Paul Cooley, Michael Kaufmann, Paul Gayer. thony Ramos, Gabe Lara, Chris Gregg. Tri-State Diamondbacks Locke, Rusty Harris. Men’s 60 AAA Winter 2019 Edition Senior Softball News 31 32 Senior Softball News Winter 2019 Edition Hawaiian Cruise Adventure of a Lifetime

The United States hosted the seventh annual Pacific Rim Championships, welcoming five other nations to Hawaii. Softball News Report concluded in Oahu Oct. 25. HAWAII – Nine players The United States hosted from China and Hong Kong the 7th Annual Pacific Rim joined about 30 American Se- Championships in Hawaii nior Softball Players to form with teams from Canada, three international teams and China, Taiwan, Japan, Hong compete in a series of games Kong and America. against teams on Maui, in About a dozen players Kona and on Kauai in Octo- and friends on the China and ber. Hong Kong teams decided to And along the way join about 50 American play- something amazing happened ers and their families on the – players who didn’t speak the cruise after the championships same language and came from concluded. vastly different cultures be- The international teams came teammates and friends. played against teams that “The beauty of sports is included Maui Mayor Mike that it constantly proves that Victorino (the father of MLB As part of the Hawaiian Cruise, Maui Mayor Mike Victorino (father building teamwork through of MLB All-Star Shane Victorino), a member of the Dragons All Star Shane Victorino) (purple jersey) is honored during a pregame ceremony on sportsmanship can create and Bob Fitzgerald (a can- Sunday, Oct. 27. Teams from Maui and three combo USA/China bridges across differences as didate for mayor of the Big teams competed against each other. vast as culture and as deep Island). On Kauai, Mayor very experienced in the sport. aged by John Fournier of as different languages,” said Derek Kawakami didn’t play, However, one of the Florida: Most Valuable Player Terry Hennessy, SSUSA chief but showed up to cheer on the Chinese players had played on Larry Feeler of Florida, Best executive officer and president winning Kauai team. the national China team and Offense Mike Quigley and of the Pacific Rim Federation. The more experienced earned Best Defensive Player Best Offense Xueming of The teams cruised togeth- American players spent time honors on the USA White China. er on the Pride of America working with a number of the team. USA Blue Team, man- ship and played together on Chinese players. Softball is Each team selected top aged by Ed Schell of Hawaii: the three islands after the relatively new in China, so players including: Most Valuable Player Bobby Pacific Rim Championships some of the players were not USA White Team, man- Davis of Florida, Best Offense Bob Hubbard of Washington and Best Defense Jim Goff of Iowa. USA Red Team, man- aged by Terry Hennessy: Most Valuable Player Dave Prins of Iowa, Best Offense Mike Davis of Illinois and Best Defense, Dale Myers of Washington.

SSUSA members line up during a pre-game ceremony. Winter 2019 Edition Senior Softball News 33 34 Senior Softball News Winter 2019 Edition Create Personal My Social Security Account By Jack Sirard at least 12 consecutive years. Social Security has launched a dedicated Senior Softball News Of course, it's not really a raise in the online form at https://oig.ssa.gov to With the coming of the New Year, truest sense of the word given that COLA receive reports from the public of Social Social Security recipients can expect to is merely designed to keep pace with, not Security-related scams. These scams see a little more in their monthly check outpace, inflation. — in which fraudulent callers mislead from Uncle Sam. While Social Security and SSI ben- victims into making cash or gift card And by a little, I mean precisely that. eficiaries are normally notified by mail in payments to avoid arrest for purported The government is boosting payouts early December about their new benefit Social Security number problems — sky- for Social Security and Supplemental increase, most people who receive Social rocketed over the past year to become Security Income (SSI) benefits by just Security payments will be able to view the largest type of fraud reported to the 1.6 percent. their COLA notice online through their Federal Trade Commission. In fact, the pay increase is much less my Social Security account. To combat these scams, Social Secu- than the 2.8 percent that we received this The government urges those who rity will use the new online form to cap- year, and only a smidge higher than the haven’t signed up for an online account ture data that will be analyzed for trends. average of 1.4 percent over the last 10 to do so at www.socialsecurity.gov/myac- Those getting the calls are urged to use years. count. the new online form to report Social For the typical beneficiary, that Through their personal my Social Security phone scams including robocalls works out to about an extra $24 a month, Security account, people can check and live callers, as well as email, text, or $288 a year. If you want to see how personal information and conduct busi- and in-person scams. you measure up with your retiree peers, ness with Social Security. If they already Jack Sirard is a retired nationally know that the average retirement check receive Social Security benefits, they syndicated financial columnist and Se- of $1,479 in 2019 will rise to $1,503 can do things like change direct deposit nior Editor for Senior Softball News. a month when the COLA kicks in in online, and if they January, according to the Social Security need proof of their Administration. benefits, they can And while the 69 million Americans print or download a who will be pocketing the extra money benefit verification will take anything they can get these letter from their days, it certainly won’t lead to any dra- account. matic change in their lifestyles. Social Se- AARP notes that Social Security is curity points out the largest source of retirement income that people not yet for most retirees, so the 1.6 percent receiving ben- COLA increase, while modest, will help efits can use their Social Security beneficiaries and their online account to families a bit as they try to keep up with get a personalized rising prices. statement, which The cost-of-living adjustment is tied provides earnings to the increase in the Consumer Price history information Index as determined by the Department as well as estimates of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics. of future benefits. However, as most seniors already The portal also know, the annual COLA amount typically includes a retire- does not keep pace with all the increases ment calculator and in living expenses that most seniors face, links to information including housing, food, transportation about other online and, especially, health care and prescrip- services, such as tion drugs. applications for In fact, AARP's own research has retirement, disabil- found that retail drug prices increased by ity, and Medicare twice the rate of inflation during 2017, benefits. and have exceeded the inflation rate for In addition, Winter 2019 Edition Senior Softball News 35

www.worthsports.com 36 Senior Softball News Winter 2019 Edition mikensports.com