WINTER 2016 EDITION Volume 29 • Number 3

Seniorwww.seniorsoftball.com SoftballMORE THAN JUST A GAMENEWSAMERICA’S LARGEST CIRCULATED SENIOR SOFTBALL PUBLICATION 564 Teams at World Masters Records Shatter Again in Las Vegas LAS VEGAS – The LVSSA/SSUSA World Masters Championships once again set a Photo by Jack record in 2016 with 564 teams traveling to Eberhard Sin City. Over the course of the 13-day tourna- 6 Win Triple Grand Slam: PAGE 15 Please See Page 14 All Tournament Players: PAGE 16

TRENDS New Rules for 2017: Softball Emerging Quickly 1-1 Count for 40-Masters Softball News Report From Central China LAS VEGAS – Dozens of delegates at- Softball News Report tending the annual Senior Softball-USA Con- BAIJI, CHINA vention here debated a score of rule changes – Sometimes, hope that ultimately will affect thousands of players comes in the shape of Please See Page 5 a softball. This tiny village, INSIDE: SENIOR SOFTBALL not too far from the USA Island of the Dancing Tea Leaves, is tucked away in the hills of Central China. WINTER WORLDS in Phoenix Draws It is here, in a Record 209 Teams small elementary Page 12 school with only 36 2TOURNAMENT GUIDE17 students, that the The Baiji tee-ball team (about half the school's stu- dents) and coaches. spark of a sport none SENIOR SOFTBALL-USA,(916) 326-5303; 2701 FAX K(916) STREET, 326-5304; SUITE www.seniorsoftball.com 101A, SACRAMENTO, CA, 95816 young. ducing tee-ball and had seen before is They are the slowpitch softball to CLICK HERE glowing. The small WINTER smallest school in a 17,683 elementary FOR YOUR children here have 2017 NATIONALS pilot project in the and secondary stu- in Starts embraced tee-ball TOURNAMENT 2017 Season Yueyang District that dents in 334 classes. GUIDE Page 18 with the unbridled last year began intro- passion of the very Please See Page 22

Winter 2016 Edition Senior Softball News 3 NewsBriefing CARL’S CORNER Minnick, Blackwell in 2017 HOF By Carl Gustafson Softball News Report winning 90 World, National almost 15 years ago, is also Thou Shalt Not LAS VEGAS – Dan Min- and Regional titles. Black- well known as an excellent nick was elected as player and well’s Sacramento Gold won manager. In addition, Hol- Whenever we have a Norm Blackwell as manager the Triple Grand Slam in dispute on the field, a small into the Senior Softball-USA 2016. Blackwell is a member paperback is pulled out of International Hall of Fame of seven Hall of Fames. some umpire’s pocket and here. They will be inducted at words are read. Those words Minnick of Southern the 2017 Convention. overrule whatever personality had been selected Two players and a man- or emotion is present on the as an All Tournament player ager were inducted during the field. Without them we soon in 21 tournaments and his Hall of Fame Banquet here on descend into chaos, confusion, teams have won 11 National Dec. 2. contention, castigation, con- or World titles. In addition, Audie Hollis Jr. of Florida sternation and catastrophe. Minnick has been selected and Clyde Phillips of Cali- But, once these words are Best Offense or MVP several fornia were inducted into the From Left: Christine Lee, Terry read all goes back to law and times in his 16 International Hall of Fame in the Player Hennessy, Audie Hollis, Fran Dowell order with only the trailing competitions, beginning in category and Al Murray of grumble of, “Well, they ought 2003 in Ireland and Scotland. Florida was inducted in the lis has played internationally to make a rule against that.” Blackwell, 83, is one of Manager category. and spearheaded donations to Who is the “they” that the most decorated softball Hollis, who has competed help grow softball in several ought be making said rule? players in Northern Califor- at the highest level since he countries. It seems like the rule nia, and a manager of teams began playing senior ball Continued on Page 4 book has always been there, descended from Mount Sinai with Moses as an attachment to the Stone Tablets. Once it 3-Year Suspension for Manager is read by the umpire, it seems Softball News Report tered another ballpark with his park a third time. Hennessy as though God has spoken. A Senior Softball USA team and was told he had been opted not to forfeit the cham- But let me break it to you Appeals Board has upheld the ejected from the tournament pionship game because he gently: God didn’t write it suspension of the manager of and must leave. He again said Vicker’s actions should and neither did Jesus, Al- Gem City of Ohio for extreme refused to leave until threat- not result in a penalty for his lah, Mohammed, Buddha, or unsportsmanlike behavior, but ened with police escort. Later whole team. Mahatma Ghandi. And guess cut the suspension from 5 to Vickers snuck back into the In his appeal, Vickers what? It is a relatively recent 3 years. park and came out on the field said, “The 5 year suspension book that never stops being The 50 Major manager with them for awards after is very excessive for what written. of Gem City, Jamie Vickers, Gem City won the 50 Major happened. I feel a 1-year That’s right, it is dynamic, was originally ejected from Championship. probation is more than ample not static, and every year it is the World Masters Champion- Terry Hennessy, SSUSA for this reason. If SSUSA added to, subtracted from, and ships for kicking dirt on an chief executive officer, origi- tournament director had done more accurately written. And official. He refused to leave nally suspended Vickers for his job, none of this would the “they” who does this in until the director told him the one year for his actions after have happened.” the SSUSA…is you. police would escort him from the initial ejection, one year The incident involved a Now true, there is a rules the field. Vickers left the field for refusing to leave the field rule that allows the offensive committee composed of del- flashing the director the finger the next day and three years team to request the pitcher egates from all corners of the and shouting obscenities. for defying the ejection order move six feet left or right of The next day, Vickers en- and sneaking back into the Continued on Page 5 Continued on Page 5 4 Senior Softball News Winter 2016 Edition Awards: Phillips, Hollis, Murray Inducted Continued from Page 3 inspiration to other players Northern California. recovering from significant * Regional Director of surgeries and illnesses. the Year: To Southern Cali- Al Murray, 87, led his fornia Director Dan Haveron Center For Sight team to 56 of San Diego. championships. In 2013, after * Umpire of the Year: managing the Center for Sight To Florida Umpire In Chief 80s team for six years, Murray Joe Lelievre. and Hugh Brotherton wanted * Complex of the Year: to extend softball for not only To Princess Anne Athletic themselves, but for many Complex in Beach, other senior players who still From Left: Fran Dowell, Al Mur- Va. ray, Terry Hennessy From Left: Clyde Phillips, Carl wanted to play, and helped And, in a signature Gustafson launch the first 85 team and * Executive Director wood-bat game played at Big Phillips, an outstand- division in Senior Softball. Award: To the Sacramento League Dreams in Las Vegas, ing five-tool player from Other top awards an- Sports Commission for their the East Team beat the West San Diego, is one of the best nounced at the Convention help in developing both the 10-6. Teams were made up known players in the Top Gun included: Western Nationals and the of convention delegates from organization because of his * Award of Excellence: Northern California Champi- both ISA and SSUSA. power and consistent hitting. To Dale Eeles of Las Vegas onships. The next convention will Phillips had to overcome Events for his superb part- * Tournament Direc- be Nov. 28- Dec. 1, 2017. hip replacement surgery and nership in hosting the World tor of the Year: To National The location will be an- re-learn how to hit, providing Masters Championships. Director Doug Robbins of nounced in January. Appeal: Ejected Twice Continued from Page 3 any tournament functions, the mound if the sun is di- including the AWARDS CER- rectly in the eyes of the batter EMONY. Next, you blamed at the option of field director. the director for not doing his Vickers argued that the option job. The director’s job is to was up to the pitcher, not the represent all teams’ rights in director. He also requested a the tournament, and in this player representative on the case, that is what the direc- Appeals Board. tor did. Every team pays the The three-member SSU- same amount to participate in SA Appeals Board was made the World tournament, so you up of three National Directors, are not permitted any special including a player, who were treatment that is not given to not directly involved with the all teams. incident. The Appeals Board “Regarding the rule agreed that Vickers should involved: Whether you like a be suspended, but ruled that rule or not, you must respect the suspension should be one the rule and the director for year for each incident, or three doing his job ... Mr. Vickers, years total suspension. your unsportsmanlike con- The Appeal Board ruled: duct was not acceptable and “First of all, Mr. Vickers, will not be tolerated in Senior once you have been ejected Softball.” from a tournament, you are Vickers is suspended until not allowed to participate in Oct. 31, 2019. Winter 2016 Edition Senior Softball News 5 Rules: New Rules for 75, 80 and Canada Continued from Page 1 ing to a 1-1 count. The older tive officer. states. coast to coast. the players, the less they liked In another landmark In another regional shift, By the time that the the 1-1 count, with 70 percent move, SSUSA will adopt two the committee merged New convention drew to a close or more against it in the 60 skill divisions, Major and Jersey and into one in early December a trial 1-1 and older groups. AAA, for the Women’s 50 region to help teams build count for 40 Masters was “This one-year pilot pro- division. competitive rosters. enacted as well as relaxing the gram will give us an opportu- “There is enough of a The committee also age limit for 75 and 80 teams, nity to evaluate the 1-1 count skill difference – and enough relaxed the lifetime ban for creating Major and AAA divi- for the 40 Masters division,” teams—to justify two skill di- falsifying credentials. The sions in the Women’s 50s, and said Rick Siefman, who pro- visions,” said George Moreno, lifetime ban was amended new Canada East and Canada posed the rule change. SSUSA National Director / to a suspension of “up to 10 West divisions. The Rules Committee also Ratings. years from the time the player In addition, the states voted to go back to SSUSA’s The Rules Committee also would have been otherwise of and Dela- underage roster composition broke Canada into two re- eligible to participate in that ware were merged for roster for the 75 and 80 divisions. gions, East Canada and West age group and to allow an ap- purposes, the penalty for Men’s 75+ teams may roster Canada, at the Manitoba- peal for a reduction of the ban falsifying credentials was up to seven underage players Ontario border to help teams only after the expiration of eased from a lifetime ban to aged 73 and 74, with not more draft enough players to form five years from the time of his 10 years and the committee than three being age 73; and teams. proper eligibility.” repealed a rule enacted last Men’s 80+ teams may roster In addition, was And the committee voted year that allowed the pitcher up to seven underage players made part of the West Canada to unanimously repeal an rule to be moved if the sun was in aged 78 and 79, with not more Region. Both the Canadian enacted last year that allowed the batter’s eyes. than three being age 78. teams and Alaska teams had for moving the pitcher if the In a landmark decision for “This change allows the requested expanded borders sun was in the batter’s eyes. SSUSA, the Rules Committee 75s and 80s to form the same because of the scarcity of For a complete list of voted 8-4 to go to a 1-1 count rosters for SSUSA and SPA senior players in those areas. Rules Committee Action, for the 40 Masters Division. and will hopefully make it Previously, Canadian prov- please see the Rules page on In the last two SSUSA sur- easier for these older teams to inces were treated as states SeniorSoftball.com. veys, more than 70 percent of compete,” said Terry Hen- and only able to draw players the 40 players supported go- nessy, SSUSA’s chief execu- from adjoining provinces and Carl: Every Player Is 2017 Tournament Part of the Process Guide Released Continued from Page 3 When Donna McGuire, a Softball News with the pertinent GA TAET , but what they serious, meticulous, and Report APS information about bring with them to the annual intelligent woman, who is the The 2017 ERR all Senior Soft- Entry deadline: January 4, 2017 convention, are the belly- chair of the rules committee, Tournament ball-USA tour- aches, blusterings, blisterings, finally gets everything into Guide has been naments as well NT umpire bashings, complaints, a workable number of rules released elec- RD as information outbursts, outrages, letters, to consider, arguments and tronically to on events and TES ETED emails, texts, rants, raves, discussions ensue and the fun ERS R STTES special things to all players on 2016 ND NDN RNE FACTS: EES blithers, blathers, backlashes, begins. SeniorSoftball. WAT T : SPSE : do in and around un eoland ids i and small ill our softball host scoldings, scaldings, bless- Every player is a part of it com and hard loe tis attration t is an eperiene ings, cursings and threats that whether they realize it or not. copies have been you ant miss cities. ain Auurndale Speeday in Winter hell is coming to breakfast. All you have to do is mutter, mailed out to all aen is a must or T Please any person o eels CLICK HERE These then go through “They ought to make a rule te need or off the playing fi eld. managers. Speed a winnowing process elimi- against that,” and you’d be The 2017 to download nating the ridiculous while surprised who’s listening. edition is packed your copy! searching for the legitimate. 6 Senior Softball News Winter 2016 Edition Imlay Launches Hitting Clinic Senior Softball News Report Softball SACRAMENTO – Hall News of Fame hitter Steve Imlay 2701 K St., Suite 101A launched a West Coast Hitting Sacramento, CA 95816 Academy here Dec. 6 that at- (916) 326-5303 tracted about 20 players. (916) 326-5304 FAX The number of players www.seniorsoftball.com was surprising given the fog- gy, unseasonably cold morn- Publisher ing and seemed to attest to the W.E. Ruth attraction of the Steven Imlay Editor Slow-pitch Softball Hitting Terry Hennessy Academy or SLiAcademy. The clinic combined Managing Editors high-tech aids that measured Giovanni Crotti both bat speed and exit speed Anthony Ramos with individual instruction Contributing Writers and overall lectures. There were instructors for every two Pete Davignon, Dave players, allowing intensive Dowell, Jack Eberhard, Art individual instruction through- Eversole, Carl Gustafson, out the one-day academy. Stephanie Hopkins, Ross “The academy’s main McCulligan, George More- goal is to improve your swing The Hitting Academy included individual instrution and measure- no, Tiffany Peck, Susan and consistency as a hitter,” ment of bat speed, exit speed and hitting form. Ruth, Jack Sirard LIMITED EDITION said Imlay. “But we also want you to have a better under- “The academy is designed the bat. Internet Director standing of correct swing me- to provide new technology so o Video recording of Scott Flodin chanics and how to conduct hitters can better understand the swing, drills and Art Director self-analysis to help you for batting swing physics and instruction from Hit- Sue Ballenger the rest of your softball career how to measure progress,” ting Pros. by adjusting these concepts to said Imlay. “The data applies o Data and analysis of Marketing Manager your swing.” to all aspects of today’s hitting bat speed (before and Fran Dowell game and will allow hitters to after hitting the ball),

Imlay has participated in Nothing in this publication shall be slow-pitch softball on a na- develop a pathway to im- time to the ball, hand deemed to constitute in any fashion “ tional level for more than 40 provement.” speed, swing path, whatsoever an endorsement by Senior “ The new Easton FLEX™ barrel technology combined with TCT Softball USA, LLC. (SSUSA), of Composite and CXN ZERO™ has just raised the bar in Softball bats years. He has been inducted To improve muscle and exit speed. any information in this publication. to a whole new level! This is quite possibly the best combination of into the ASA Hall of memory, the academy gives o Electronic portfolio SSUSA, LLC., disclaims any and all liability with respect to any use of, performance and durability that Easton has ever made. Fame, Senior Softball Hall of students a lot of swings – hit- of individual lessons, or reliance on, such information. No Fame and the Florida Senior ting off a tee, pitching ma- drills and practice information in this publication shall be -BRETT HELMER construed in any manner whatsoever Softball Legends Hall of chine, live pitching and game- learned at the acad- as a recommendation of any industry Fame. He has served as a pro situation hitting with a hitting emy to reference at standard, or as a recommendation of pro overseeing individual and home. any kind to be adopted by, or binding hitting instructor for Softball on, any person or entity. Nor shall Magazine’s Senior camp and group instruction. o How to determine the information contained in this publica- The instruction included: correct bat and if an tion be deemed to constitute in any Spring Training camps. He is fashion whatsoever an endorsement a nationally-rated Major Plus o Instruction and drills end load, balance or by SSUSA, LLC., of any product or player and has signed on as a on overall swing me- which size is best for service advertised herein. The material set forth in this publication is provided member of Adidas’ Pro Hitter chanics. individual batters. on an informational basis only. SSUSA, Staff. o How to effectively For more information, visit Inc., is not engaged in the practice of any profession, including but not lim- Imlay said the East Coast utilize a batting tee. www.SLiAcademy.com. ited to law, medicine and accounting, has a number of hitting clin- o Hitting instructor and nothing in this publication should analysis of swinging be relied upon in lieu of appropriate ics, which the West lacked. competent professional advice.

WWW.EASTON.COM/SLOW-PITCH Winter 2016 Edition Senior Softball News 7

LIMITED EDITION “ “ The new Easton FLEX™ barrel technology combined with TCT Composite and CXN ZERO™ has just raised the bar in Softball bats to a whole new level! This is quite possibly the best combination of performance and durability that Easton has ever made. -BRETT HELMER

WWW.EASTON.COM/SLOW-PITCH 8 Senior Softball News Winter 2016 Edition Opinions &Letters Softball Ambassadors Over the past three decades, a number of senior softball players have become ambassadors for our sport, promoting the game, friendship and sportsmanship in countries around the world. The most recent ambassadors traveled to Tai- wan to compete in the Fourth Annual Pacific Rim Championships. While the two US teams didn’t win the tournament, they accomplished some- thing much more important – displaying grace and sportsmanship through every game, win or lose, and in the process they laid the foundation for friendships with players from China, Taiwan and Japan. Some international friendships have been nur- Peace on Earth, tured in competition over several years, with play- Goodwill to AllSue Ballenger ers competing against some of the same foreign players throughout Europe, Asia, the Caribbean, Australia and New Zealand. friendships that cross continents and language These friendships underscore a basic positive barriers, political and cultural differences. attribute of humanity: the ability to develop rela- This indeed is reason to celebrate our future. tionships with others through a common interest or love. It proves, once again, that players can Terry Hennessy - Editor tap into the positive power of our sport to spark CAN-Sirs Continues Awarness and Prevention Programs CAN-Sirs as a nonprofit recognizes that cancer affects nearly 1.7 million new cancer organization dedicated to thousands of men over the cases were diagnosed in promoting cancer awareness age of 50. These men often 2016. People over 50 are at an and prevention among senior have a difficult time talking increased risk of developing softball players has grown about health concerns even cancer regardless of family over the past five years. We with their doctors and are history and more than half have stressed the importance slow to report problems. This of all new cancer diagnoses of good health. These same attitude decreases the chances affect seniors over 65. It is health concerns can be applied of an early detection which critical that seniors learn to preventing heart attack and CAN-SIRS can result in more aggressive about the disease, symptoms, stroke. CORNER treatment and increased risks. and treatment. CAN-Sirs calls on By Pete Davignon For that reason, SSUSA has Medical advances players who have a history of supported and participated are continuing to make cancer to make themselves of signs and symptoms, in the cancer awareness extraordinary improvements available to share their story, or just listen and offer program. in early detection, treatment encourage fellow players encouragement. According to the and survivability of most Senior Softball USA to make themselves aware American Cancer Society Continued on Next Page Winter 2016 Edition Senior Softball News 9 CAN-Sirs: Decade-Old Experiment With Better Health 40's an Unqualified Success Choices Lessens which provides rich detail on major TOC Covering the Bases tournaments and our list of National Cancer Risk Qualifiers. By Terry Hennessy We also get numerous requests to Continued from Page 8 add major tournaments in cities through- forms of cancer. Often the cancer can be More than a decade ago, when Senior out the United States. While we would completely eradicated or successfully Softball-USA leaders began discuss- love to add tournaments in all of the cit- controlled. Survival rates for all cancers ing adding a 40 Masters program to our ies that request one, we have to be careful is improving every year primarily Senior program, the issue of sportsman- that they do not conflict with existing because of advancements in diagnosis ship among younger players emerged as tournaments in the same region. and treatment. a major point of discussion. We also try, if at all possible, to Overall, prostate cancer death rates A number of directors argued that avoid dates conflicting with senior tour- decreased by 3.5 percent per year from adding younger players, who were used naments run by competitors in the same 2003 to 2012. These declines are due to using intimidation and foul language region. Conflicting dates result in lower to improvements in early detection and in their games, would ruin the ambi- team turnouts for all the tournaments – treatment. The majority (92 percent) of ence of sportsmanship that made Senior everyone loses. prostate cancers are discovered at a local Softball so much fun for the players and The sport is nearing saturation of or regional stage, for which the five-year their families. senior tournaments in several regions relative survival rate approaches 100 Others felt that the 40 Masters would of the country – and it serves the sport, percent. Over the past 25 years, the five- embrace a chance to play in an atmo- teams and players well when senior year relative survival rate for all cancers sphere that promoted sportsmanship; a organizations work together to avoid date combined has increased from 68 to 99 place where they could once again bring conflicts. percent, some of which is due to the early their families and enjoy the sport. Registration Fees Increasing detection of the disease. According to the And so, the experiment began. SSUSA is increasing both team and most recent data, 10- and 15-year relative In the first years the division was player registration fees $5 this year. The survival rates are 98 and 95 percent, small -- less than 10 teams – and the reason for the increase is the steadily respectively. teams were not only great sportsmen, rising costs of providing services. It has The World Cancer Research Fund but thankful for a chance to bring their been more than five years since the last estimates that about 20 percent of cancers families to a ballpark where they didn’t registration price increase. that occur in the United States are due to have to worry about foul language and The increase goes into effect Jan. the combined effects of excess alcohol base intimidation. 1, 2017. Players and teams registering consumption, poor nutrition, physical Word spread and this year, 111 before Jan. 1 pay the old fee. inactivity, excess weight and lack of Masters teams competed in the World Entry fees remain unchanged. medical checkups. Masters Championships in Las Vegas. Terry Hennessy is Senior Softball- Known risk factors for cancer The vast majority of both Senior USA’s Chief Executive Officer. include age, exposure to carsinogenic and Master players have embraced the sustances, tobacco use, U/V rays, sportsmanship and camaraderie that are alcohol use, family genetics and obesity the hallmarks of Senior Softball. Con- and poor diet. It is our hope that senior sider that of the almost 10,000 players players will look to their teammates and who competed during the World Masters Heard in the Dugout Championships in Las Vegas this fall, competitors who volunteer to the CAN- "You've reached middle age only two were disciplined for unsports- Sirs team for support and information when your wife tells you to to better help themselves and find the manlike behavior (see story on page X). pull in your stomach-and you necessary resources for early detection The experiment has been a resound- already have" and prevention of cancer. ing success for the players, teams – and --Franklin P. Jones CAN-Sirs can be found at www.can- for the sport. sirs.org, email at [email protected] and Why SSUSA Limits Qualifiers Phone 530-680-1614. Every year at this time SSUSA publishes our annual Tournament Guide, 10 Senior Softball News Winter 2016 Edition

Shedding Those Scaly Alligator Arms By Art Eversole depending on how close you take your can be made longer allowing the hands Have you ever walked back to the batting stance from the strike mat, is the to clear the hips avoiding the jam. This dugout after making a weak out and you prime spot where alligator arms usually method is not to be confused with step- hear a teammate say: “You had alligator manifest themselves. Pitches that are ping in the bucket, as that term applies arms”! So, what does it mean for a hitter middle or middle-out normally allow the to all pitch locations to a batter who is to have alligator arms when swinging the arms to be naturally extended. afraid of the ball. bat (See figure 1)? The lead arm is typically the main When the lead arm is too flexed dur- A good guess might be it has to be culprit in having alligator arms in your ing the swing, leverage is lost and bat a guy with naturally short arms as we swing. It should flex a bit when taking speed is diminished resulting in weaker know gators are arm-length challenged. your hitting position and then extend hits (See figure 3). But what if you were born with normal or out during the course of your swing to By taking your hands directly to the even long arms and you hear those words the ball. Make certain not to arm-barred pitched ball and then extending the lead applied to your previous at bat? (i.e. locked and straight) the lead arm as arm the barrel should square up nicely at Let’s say you’re at dinner with your this position is a serious mechanics flaw contact (See figure 4). The trick here and teammates in Las Vegas at the SSUSA and will impede the maximization of bat it takes some practice, is in keeping the Worlds and the check has landed in the speed. ball in fair territory on the inside pitch center of the table. Strangely none of Your backside arm should tuck with the lead arm extended. The bat- your teammates can seem to reach the neatly into the area of the obliques or ter should try and keep the barrel of the bill and you then blurt out – “Alright, I’ll as many like to say, “in the slot” while bat in a direction down the line. It may get it, I can see that all of you guys have taking your swing. An extended lead not be your most powerful hit but good alligator arms”. arm acts as the primary lever in the swing enough to stay fair and with pace on it Hence, if a person is accused of that is essential for providing leverage for and not be jammed. having alligator arms in the restaurant, it creating power. The nearer the pitch is to the inside may be an indication that that he or she When going to the ball the lead corner the more you should open up in is a cheapskate. Cheapskate arms are arm must be extended out when mak- hitting the ball. Now if you’re one of just too short to reach the bill on the table ing contact with the incoming pitch. those guys who stands way off the plate or their wallet in the back-pocket (See If you don’t perform the lead arm ex- then this does not apply to you, but you’ll figure 2). tension and keep your lead arm bent have your issues with the middle-out Having alligator arms in other sports at contact, you’re more likely to get pitches which is another article. like football mean arms that were not jammed. Getting jammed usually is a To avoid those ugly alligator arms, sufficiently extended to catch a pass handle or label contact thereby missing I suggest you make a concerted effort when the pass receiver heard footsteps. the sweet spot and not allowing the best to contact the inside pitch further out in In softball/baseball, alligator arms means barrel trampoline effect. Check out this front of your body by getting to it early a whole other thing. link to a YouTube instructional video and striding with the front foot more to- Many batters when tackling the on this lead arm subject that has some ward the foul line. Remember to always middle-in pitch will make an errant drills to try: https://www.youtube.com/ try and maintain a long lead arm lever adjustment to get the barrel on the ball by watch?v=ThO5Zy3QUrM which will allow for the maximization of bringing their arms in tight to the body To make good contact on an inside bat speed and hitting more balls on the and then swinging with the proverbial pitch, I suggest to open up the hips by sweet spot. alligator arms. stepping with the landing foot more to- Happy Hitting. The inside pitch or middle-in pitch ward the foul line. This way the lead arm Winter 2016 Edition Senior Softball News 11

COMING AUGUST 2016

LLBSP2 - Balanced 13” Barrel

LLESP2 - End Loaded 13” Barrel

LLESP122 - End Loaded 12” Barrel

LIGHTNING LEGEND 2.0 SENIOR BATS FEATURE GRIP SPIN TECHNOLOGY An Innovative advancement engineered into your bat barrel that allows the barrel surface to “grip” the ball on a cut-swing and increase its spin revolutions. This can cause it to rise higher, stay in the air longer and result in longer distance hits. If you are looking for maximum distance, then “Grip It and Spin It”!

Trademark owned by Russell Brands, LLC. or its a liates. © 2016 Russell Brands, LLC. 12 Senior Softball News Winter 2016 Edition Winter Worlds Becomes 2nd Largest SSUSA Tournament With Record 209 Teams Softball News Report Complex, Mountain Vista PHOENIX, GLENDALE Park, Papago Park Softball and SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. Complex, and Rose Mofford – The 2016 Winter World Sports Complex in Phoenix, Championships, the first Saguaro Ranch Park and Vic- Senior Softball-USA qualifier tory Lane Sports Complex west of the River in Glendale and Chaparral for the 2017 season, got the Park in Scottsdale all hosted new SSUSA campaign off to games. a solid start setting a record The tournament began with 209 teams, making it the Nov. 15-17 with the first ses- second largest SSUSA tourna- sion that included the Men’s ment. 65 through 80 age divisions; Teams competing in the while the championships Winter Worlds, sponsored concluded with the second by Adidas, won 26 berths to Another memorable mo- the year (Puerto Vallarta). The session, Nov. 18-20, as the the original Tournament of ment came via the numerous donations included four bats Men’s 40 through 60 age divi- Champions (TOC) in Febru- donations from the generous (one youth weight), 10 gloves sions, and the entire Women’s ary 2018. players at the Winter World (two catcher’s mitts and two field (40’s through 70 divi- One of the highlights of Championships. Debbie youth size), three pairs of sions) took the field. the Winter Worlds was the Bryan, from Albuquerque cleats, one pair of shin guards For complete division California Spirit organization and a member of the High and around a dozen balls. wrap-ups, please CLICK sweeping three women’s divi- Desert Diamonds requested Eight complexes were HERE. sions: winning the 60, 65 and donations from players for used during the champion- 70 brackets during the second her softball league in Mexico, ships: Cesar Chavez Sports session of the tournament. where she lives for much of Complex, Desert West Sports Winter Worlds All Tournament Players Named 2016 Winter World Spirit: Anne Sneden, Cathy Toomey, Donna Gualtiere Frank Dean Championships All-Tourna- Moon, Steffanie Molley, Mar- Men’s 40 Major-Plus: Men’s 50 Major: No Cal ment Players: la Edwards, Perri Jacobs; Cal GTS: Pat Paschal, Chris Warriors: Brad White, Sean Women’s 40 Major: Express: Linda Jones, Terry Hoshaw, Brian Fong, Joey Kelly, Sean Morgan, Paul TKP/Hunter: Lisa Bull, Kris- Clark, Fran DePuy, Connie Smith, Trevor Jones Supat, Paul Wise; ti Whitcomb, Jennifer Stew- Stonier; Arizona Castawaz: Men’s 40 Major: K & Alpha Dawgz: Joe Joice, Dan art, Debra DiMeglio, Jeanna Welly Stavarek, Pat Hixon, B Beverage/AG Painting: Hackett, Terry Newhart Beauchamp; Twisted Fossils: Sandy Lockwood. Tony Holland, Chris Gior- Men’s 50AAA: Team Ellen Spruce, Lori Franchina, Women’s 65: California dano, Dave Wampler, Ignacio SW/Woodies: Bob Culpepper, Lori Palagi Spirit: Janice Robson, Linda Hurtado, Bart Limas; SBOB/ Byron Hollister, Mike Lewis, Women’s 40AAA: Mohrfeld, Kerrie Webb, Voodoo Sports: Arnold Martin Valdez, Craig Vender- Saints: Amy Anderson, Cathy Chavez, Terry Sheldon; Mares, Sammy Rodriguez, lei; Kamikaze: James “JD” Renne Ochoa, Jenise Mergen- Ye Olde Bats: Judy Cothran, Jimmy De La Riva, Jerry Durant, Mike Stater, Mark er, Lydia Acosta, Julie Dale; Judy Leipold, Barb Lang-Ru- Carpenter Toma, Tom Whitmore; No Misfits: Teri Caster, Elizabeth zic, Carolyn Burgess, Missy Men’s 40AAA: GI Excuses: Joe Branch, Terry Gonzalez, Socorro Gonzalez Patton; Fun Bunch: Donna 40: Roger Garcia, Christopher Moffitt, Clifford Grannaway Women’s 50: 2nd Wind: Varga, Peggy O’Neill, Linda Simpson, Heriberto Gonzalez Men’s 55 Major: JJ Sheila Caposio, Donna Van- Silman Men’s 50/55 Major-Plus: Financial Eagles: John dagriff, Deanna Grutz, Teresa Women’s 70: California L.A.F. 50/DeMarini: John Johnson, Jim Hanna, Frank Provost, Lois Hand Spirit: Pam Bedwell, Joni Patterson, Matt Dobyns, Dave Continued on Next Page Women’s 60: California Shirley, Edna Allen, Diane Thompson, Donnie Hudson, Winter 2016 Edition Senior Softball News 13 Winter Worlds All Tournament Players Continued Continued from Page 12 Cummings, Joe Cors; Scrap Fitzer, Dan Serrato; Midwest na: Al Apo, Mel Aoki, Robert Nickowski Iron Legacy: Don Carpenter, Legends: Mike Coulter, Frye, Stan Jensen, Terry Men’s 55AAA: Hard Gene Smith, Rich Buckland, Woody Johansen, John Kelly, Kimura; Las Vegas Coyotes: Tens/Oxnard Rookies: Pablo Dale McLaughlin; Ed Rastouski; Git-R-Done: Ed Schimmels, Jim Hunyady, Garcia, Doug Hamlet, Tony Prize: Don Goltz, Dennis Jimmy Hansen, Dan Milakov- Larry Miller; Git-R-Done: Mulville, Kico Zaragoza, Fred Flanagan, Tim Bothof ich, Bryan Wilkins Dennis Phistry, Gene Dick, Macias; Los Vatos Viejos: Men’s 70 Major: Pon- Men’s 75 Platinum: Jim Vargeson Wayne Barrett, Steve Carson, chos: Brian Hiltz, Larry Minnesota Masters: Norm Men’s 80 Gold: Emerald: Tommy Martinez Kaufmann, Bill Kee, Spence Setnicker, Larry Miller, Carroll Shook, Jim Hann, Men’s 60 Major: Hous- Preston, Terry Schmitgal; Th- Lowell Thompson, Robert Darrell Wise, Bill Winter, Bill ton Fire: David Aguilar, araldsons: Gary Tharaldson, Lenzmeier, John Remington; Reeves; Arizona Prospec- Dana Cote, Bob Schulz, Tony Art Bird, Frank Mower PDR Fastsigns: Tom Brusca, tors: Norman Brooks, Jim , Murray Williams Men’s 70 Silver: Chicago Chuck Bergeron, Jack Scott, Lidster, Fred Donaghy, Hal Men’s 60AAA: Weakend Strikers: Chuck Flucas, Rich Ron Quarantino Kime Warriors: Dave Baydala, Fleming, Tom Vancura, Jack Men’s 75AAA: Hui Oha- Brian Allen, Dave Peterson, Loyd Holland, Richard Bivin; Mountain Mike’s Pizza: Paul Challburg, Butch Maciel, Ray O’Rear Men’s 60AA: Scrap Iron Freedom: Mike Weston, Gregg Pearson, George Wise, Blair Gifford, Pete Piniotes; Warriors: Julio Rios, Steve Harper, Dennis Rosales, Ralph Richards Men’s 65 Major-Plus: Old A’s: Mark Barnes, Wayne Galer, Jeff Kolb, Mark Weber Men’s 65 Major: Top Gun Mavericks: Geo Anas, Arnold Carlos, Dave Seitz, Jim Tetter Men’s 65AAA: Masters: Roger White, Charles Peterson, Glenn Morihara, Mike Hildebrandt, George Meyer Men’s 65AA: Dallas Spurs: Bill Turney, Tom Par- ris, William Kirk, Ray Harty, Andy Paris; Duke City Dyna- mite: Larry Gialouris, Gilbert Martinez, Lawrence Chavez, Jim McCormack; Git-R-Do- ne: Ron Flathers, Ed Gestine, Bill Deutschman Men’s 70 Major-Plus: Omen: John Di Re, Ron McElyea, Bill Nevis, Bob 14 Senior Softball News Winter 2016 Edition Winter 2016 Edition Senior Softball News 15 2016 WORLD MASTERS CHAMPIONSHIPS: LAS VEGAS, 6 Teams Win Triple Grand Slam, 21 Take US Nationals Softball News Report LAS VEGAS – Six teams completed the elusive Triple Grand Slam during the 2016 season, which in- USA cludes winning the Eastern/Western National Cham- more than just a game... pionship, the USA National Championship Game and the LVSSA/SSUSA World Masters Championship. There were two women’s teams that accom- plished the feat, Smack That (CA), 40 AAA and Dreamgirlz 50 (VA). Smack That did it by double-dipping Punisher Sports Apparel (CA) in the Western National, defeat- ing Northern Construction Fireballs (MA) in the USA National Game and winning the World Masters by defeating Above the Law (MO). Dreamgirlz won their fourth straight Triple Grand Slam title by defeating Northern Construction Fireballs in a mixed bracket at the Eastern National, beating Arizona Dream Team in the USA National Game and finally winning the World Masters by double-dipping Karphone 50’s (CA). On the men’s side, Sommerville Softball (CA) 50 Major Plus, Hollis Appraisals (FL) 60 Major Plus, Photos by Jack Eberhard San Francisco Seals (CA) 75 Major Plus and Sacra- mento Gold (CA) 80 AAA all fulfilled the criteria. (Sept. 26-29), while the Men’s 50 division concluded the champi- the country, Whacko’s. The team made a nice run through the Sommerville captured its second straight Triple onships (Sept. 30-Oct. 2). bracket, winning three straight after dropping their opening game, Grand Slam crown by defeating JU AfterShock (CA) The highlight of the opening session came via the five teams before eventually being eliminated by Team 757 from Virginia. in the Western National, downing Team USA (MD) WMC: Teams from Guam, along with scores of supporters from the small U.S. Ten players also were inducted into the National Senior in the US National Game and winning the World Territory in the South Pacific, that brought intense excitement, Softball Hall of Fame during the championships. SSUSA Na- Masters with its victory over Team 1 Sports/Miken wild cheers, and great sportsmanship to the WMC. tional Director Michael Boone and manager Mike Trusty were (FL). From 42 States Umpires, officials and players from other teams all re- inducted during session two, and Robert Ahal, Hugh Brotherton, Continued from Page 1 After securing a spot in the USA National Game marked on how inspirational the Guam teams were when they Mel Schiebel, Roger Williams, Bob Gregorich, Rick Littlejohn, following its play in a mixed division in the Eastern ment, there were an incredible 1,837 games scheduled and played competed. One Guam team competed in the 40 Major Men’s, James McLamb and Bill Nevis were all inducted in session three. National, Hollis Appraisals defeated Old Dawgs 60 across 10 sports complexes and 39 fields. two teams competed in the 40 AAA Men’s, one each in the 40 Session three also included the presentation of the 2016 (CA) in the US National Game and then won the The largest tournament in the sport, which featured 32 AAA Women’s and the 50 Women’s divisions. Steve Simmons Sportsmanship Award, which was presented to World Masters after double-dipping Hendricks Sports divisions, was split into four sessions with teams from 42 states. Session two (Men’s 55’s and 60’s) was the largest of the the San Antonio Silver Streaks (TX), 65 Major, during the open- Management (TX). The 40 Men’s and Women’s Masters and the 50 Women’s divi- four sessions with 182 teams, while the largest division occurred ing ceremonies. The San Francisco Seals and Sacramento Gold sion kicked off the World Masters Championships (Sept. 16-18), in the fourth and final session in the Men’s 50’s, as 59 teams For complete division wrap-ups of every division, please did not have an opponent for their respective USA while the Men’s 55 and 60 divisions followed (Sept. 23-25). The competed in the 50 AAA division. The 50 AAA division also fea- click the respective session: SESSION I SESSION II SES- tournament continued with the Men’s 65 through 85 divisions tured a team that consisted entirely of deaf players from around SION III SESSION IV Please See Page 17 16 Senior Softball News Winter 2016 Edition 2016 WORLD MASTERS CHAMPIONSHIPS: LAS VEGAS, NEVADA 2016 LVSSA/SSUSA World Masters Championships All-Tournament Players Named 2016 LVSSA/SSUSA World Masters chants: Dave Archer, Steve Green, Karl Championships All Tournament Play- LeBret, Ron Mullberg, Rich Orrison; ers: Bulldogs: Larry Bue, Jim Engels, Robert Men’s 40 Major: Layer Cake Webb; Fierce Firearms: Cliff Howard, Wines: Robert Cook, Dennis Davis, Tim Kyle Holdaway Landrum, Tony Marelich, Brandon Men- Men’s 60AA: Base Hawgs: Mario denhal; Cody Staffing: Aaron Bayer, Borroel, Mike Boyer, Steve Koontz, Rick Shawn Ebert, Eric Rheaume, Greg Smith; Patterson, Tony Russo; Family: Brad Diablos: Chris Boggs, Billy Zapata Fawcett, Mike Gazarek Men’s 40AAA: Pattie House: Gary Men’s 65 Major-Plus: Hamel Build- Adams, Ed DeCouto, Tommy Morissette, ers/Superior Senior Softball: John Ray Plum, Collin Schmidt; Mach One: Davide, Vance Gudmundsen, Johnny Chris Little, Danny Van Daele Team 757 & Dead Sailors play in the US Scruggs, Andy Zitnay; Old A’s: Dave Men’s 50 Major-Plus: Sommerville National Game. Briones, Tom Ott, Bob Rohatch; Omen: Softball: Keith “Benji” Benjamin, Greg Brian Rooney, Jerry Scanlon Bovero, Jimmy Ferguson, Scott Logan, Men’s 55 Major: High Street Bucs: Men’s 65 Major: R & R 65’s: Dick Paul Salow; Team 1 Sports/Miken: Anthony Allen, Chris Fleisch, John Hall, Markota, Duke Nash, Hank Ornelaz, Donnie Burke, Junior Gutierez, Bob Dave Maertens, Mike White; Triangle Mike Quigley, Mike Young; Red Heat: O’Brien, Alan Tanner; Doerflinger/De- Masters: Todd Burris, Kenny Hart, Gary Charlie Bell, Steve Brand, Roy Oak, Marini: Lamon Bradshaw, Jerry Garnett Hicks, Fred Latimore Grant Snary; Handeland Flooring: Ron Men’s 50 Major: Texas Mavericks: Men’s 55AAA: Southern California Bruce, Carl Budnik, Bill Dolphin; Min- Braves: Art Estrada, Darryl Hunt, Ron nesota Masters/Ancell: Dick Kuyath, Larrieu, Matt Palmer, Ricky Shepard; Lud Nordahl Precision Ford: Jack Morgan, Bobby Holliman Men’s 55AA: Antiques of City: Mike Hartman, Kent Juergens, Steve Paulsen, Kirt Sickels, Brian Wil- liams; New Mexico Boomers: Antonio Hernandez, Harvey Ladesma, Richard Rodriguez, Kevin Thompson; Tucson Buds/Los Buds: Barry Jackson, David Reece, Wayne Siros; Pastimers: Doug Tex-Vets Celebrate a victory in 50 Majors. Fredrickson, Ed Minshull Men’s 60 Major-Plus: Hollis Ap- Mark Cerny, Kurt Dorf, David Velas- praisals: Richard Meltz, Mike Monnier, Joseph "Candy" Candelaria crosses the quez, Steve Veronie Dave Motta, Randy Parker, Larence scoring line in 70 Major play. Men’s 50AAA: Escobar Body Reedus Jr.; Hendricks Sports Manage- Shop: Paul Alvarez, George Govea, Raul ment: Curtis Chiasson, Michael Francis Men’s 65AAA: KC Kids: Jack Ba- Ortiz, Charlie Russell, Robert Saucedo Sr., Joe Read, Reggie Simmons; Kinnco sore, Dennis Clauder, Gary Conner, Lon- Men’s 50AA: Romo’s Old School: Services: Steve Rogers, John Van Wag- nie Smith, Chuck Tipton; Sidewinders Steve Casarez, Steve De LaVega, Vic- ner 65’s: Orie McDonald, Jim Montgomery, tor Flores, Candy Perez, Ernest Reyna; Men’s 60 Major: J.G. Drywall: Bob Peck, Bob Schmidt; Auto Accesso- Minnesota Lumberjacks 50: Brian Rickey Catalogna, James Daley, Ben- ry Dist.: Al DeAngelis, Gary Tauscher, “Woody” Armitage, Joe Loos, Ken Nel- nie Peterson, Mike Todd, Ronald Wiss- Richard Wheeler son, George Zabadal; Fifty GZ: Bobby inger; NCI Finish Strong 60: Kenny Men’s 65AA: Texas Rattlers: Marty Avant, Steve Canty, Barry Needle; Bice, Gary Bronner, Lonnie Magnusen, Cavazos, Ron Freund, Billy Gollihar, Manifest 50’s: Walter Firova, Freddie Chuck McKenney; TRI-C-Machine: Larry Parrack, Terry Wong Urrutia Gary Holmes, Roy Reid, Darryl Watson; Men’s 70 Major-Plus: Venon: Dan Men’s 55 Major-Plus: MTC 55’s: Hannington 60’s: Marvin Sims, Thomas Beard, Frank Krawczyk, Tols Milhailoff, Dan Arevalos, Dwayne Brekke, Darren Tashea Bob Schreyer, Robert Swindle; Omen Idler, Donnie Long, Charlie Pennes Men’s 60AAA: Bellevue Mer- Continued on Next Page Winter 2016 Edition Senior Softball News 17 2016 WORLD MASTERS CHAMPIONSHIPS: LAS VEGAS, NEVADA 2016 LVSSA/SSUSA World Masters Championships All-Tournament Players Continued Continued from Page 16 ots: Joe Barrientos, Cletus Linenberger, Charlie Adams, Al Fiori 70: Ed Cary, Otis Menasco, Gary Try- Charles Workman Men’s 85 Major: Jimmy’s Legends horn Men’s 75 Major-Plus: San Francis- 85’s: David Bray, Larry Herickhoff, Men’s 70 Major: Minnesota Prize co Seals: Bobby Davis, Leroy Gallardo, Ray Keller, Norm Robinson, Bob Rose; 70’s: Curt Callstrom, Bob Goldstrand, Mike Leitner, Jim Phillips, Fred Santos; Southwest Stars 85’s: Dominick Greco, Keith Irlbeck, Larry Orth, Steve Strom- : PDR Fastsigns: John Fournier, Tom Paul Janke, John (Jack) Vaughn; Center men; Tri-State Diamondbacks: Roger Imming, Dan Minnick, Bob Quarantino for Sight: Hugh Brotherton, Kit Kittrell Assink, Ray Maxey, Les Poland, Ernie Men’s 75 Major: Pfeiffer/Doc’s Women’s 40 Major: TKP 40’s: Tafoya; Hooters Casino/Ginco: Don Boys: Barry Griffin, Ron Hellier, Larry Stephanie Fryar, Kim Roter, Jen Stew- Larson, Bernie Tymko, Erwin Wiens Martin, Bob Willoughby, Bill Wolf; Top art, Kristi Whitcomb, Davette Williams; Gun 75 Classics: Dave Duarte, Tony Kryptonite: Kellie Berning, Sonya Iavarone, Bob Kapeller, Larry Thomp- Brooks-White, Valorie Mullins, Veronica son; Scrap Iron Beans: Joe DeCristo- “V” Shaw faro, Ronnie Guest, John Wunderli; State Roofing Systems: Arnie Bray, Noel Lanctot Men’s 75AAA: Minnesota Masters 75: Earle Anderson, Ken Bentfield, Tom Daniel, Howard Schaber, Norman Set- nicker; Kokopelli Eye Scorpions: John Bellavia, Al Grefsheim, Wayne Poindex- ter, John Seigla; Top Gun Silver 75’s: Norm Blackwell accepts the 1st place Ron Chapman, Paul Johnson trophy in the 80AAA division. Men’s 80 Major: Fairway Ford: Men’s 70AAA: Sons of Pitches: John Chacon, Al Kumm, Frank Perdue, Smack That completed their quest for the Prentiss Byrd, Carl Craft, Bob Leather- Jack Scott, Duf Sfreddo; Florida Invest- Triple Grand Slam winning the Women's 40AAA division. wood, Chris Mills, Dave Taylor; Scrap ment Properties: Hutch Attenberger, Iron 70 Reds: Joe Burton, Bob Sims, Dave Bush, Bob Johnson, Frank Murth, Women’s 40AAA: Smack That: Vera Skip Walker; Masters Marauders: Jake Wood; Jimmy’s MN Legends 80: Arellano, Jodi Howe, Janelle Ito-Orille, Euerette Holmes, Frank Laky Bob Damadio, Darryl Laschen, Willie Heather Richards, Trina Valencia Men’s 70AA: Silver City Brewers: Wood Women’s 50: Dreamgirlz: Deborah Bob Ayers, Ordell Gustafson, Dave Hare, Men’s 80AAA: Sacramento Gold: Franklin, Fay Jennings, Mona Onyeme- Dale Linklater, Laurie Sianchuk; Texas Norman Blackwell Jr., Dave Fairchild, lukwe, Shirley Snell, Debra Tucker; Classics: Jack Boykin, Roy Bull, Steve Ray Newman, Howard Smith, Roland Arizona Dream Team: Kim Moore, Kent, Billy Lantrip; Mid-America Patri- Stiarwalt; Redwood City Chiefs 80’s: Cynthia Nelson, Kristy Palmer Triple Grand Slam: SF Seals, Sacramento Gold Take Title Continued from Page 15 Game is scheduled during seeding play pions from the East and 12 champions National Championship Game. at the World Masters Championships. from the West. There were 11 divisions The San Francisco Seals defeated It pits the champion from the Eastern with no USA National Championship PDR Fastsigns (OR) in the Western Na- and Western National Championship Games (Men’s 40 Major Plus, Men’s tional and later defeated PDR Fastsigns in each division. If the champion from 40 AAA, Men’s 50 AA, Men’s 65 AA, once again in the World Masters. the Eastern/Western Nationals does not Men’s 70 Major, Men’s 70 AA, Men’s Sacramento Gold secured its first attend the World Masters, the runner-up 75 Major Plus, Men’s 75 Major, Men’s step towards the Triple Grand Slam after from the respective age division can play 75 AAA, Men’s 80 AAA, Men’s 85 playing in a mixed bracket in the Western in the USA National Game and represent Major). Nationals and went on to capture the title the division. For a complete list of USA Nation- following its win over Davis & Associ- There were 21 USA National Cham- al Championship Games, with results, ates (CA) in the World Masters. pionship Games during the 2016 World please CLICK HERE The USA National Championship Masters Championships, with nine cham- 18 Senior Softball News Winter 2016 Edition 127 Teams Kick Off First Major TOC Qualifier of 2017 Season Softball News Report 1-3, while the Men’s 40 through the 60 FT. MYERS, CAPE CORAL & age divisions concluded the champion- NAPLES, FL – The first Tournament of ships, Nov. 4-6. Champions (TOC) qualifier of the new The 21-team 60-AAA division season, and the largest SSUSA tourna- marked the largest division of the Winter ment east of the Mississippi River, the Nationals, as No. 11 seed Long Island Winter National Championships saw 127 Jaguars 60’s (NY) defeated top seed teams, from 18 states and Canada, com- Slug-A-Bug (FL) in the “if” game 23-9 pete across 14 divisions. after falling 18-11 in the championship The six-day championship event was game. held in three complexes: Lee County In total, 18 teams secured a bid to the Sports Complex (Ft. Myers), North Col- TOC in February 2018. lier Regional Park (Naples) and North- For complete division wrap-ups, west Sports Complex (Cape Coral). please CLICK HERE The Men’s 65 through 85 age divi- sions started off the tournament, Nov. Winter Nationals All Tournament Players Named 2016 Winter National Championships Straub, Scott Donaldson, Nick Nicometo, Davidson, Dennis Schroeder, Terry All-Tournament Players: Wayne Berryhill; Spanky’s Gang: Tony O’Donnell, Bob Schreyer, Mike Marcum Men’s 50/55 Platinum: Florida Williams, Manny Aneson, Joe Racanelli Men’s 70 Major: Bostonian 70’s: Automated Shade 55: Jimmy Nelson, Men’s 65 Major Plus: Hamel Build- Thomas Hall, David Joseph, Raymond Donnie Lloyd, Larry Veahmon, Doug ers/Superior Senior Softball: Ronnie LePage, Tom Malvesti, Teddy Wess; Knerler, Hank Culley; Miami Power: Collins, Billy Cameron, Andy Zitnay, Windsor Chiefs: Ernie Holden, Gerry David Bogaiz, Mike Brock, Richard Clarence Ellison, Vance Gudmundsen; Mayea, Wayne Dupuis, Pete Aubry; TB Clark, Robert Minaya Hollis Appraisals: Ed Carrington, Jack Financial Group: Dick Kanyan, Lin- Men’s 50 AAA : Central Penn Lambert, Rocky Scott, John Smutnick; wood Manning, Floyd Williams Caveman Softball: Alan Martel, Kevin Beef O’Brady’s Southern Trace: Paul Men’s 70 AAA: Sun Country Crowley, Brian Kratzer, Rob Gratkowski, Preuitt, Dave Paterson, Jack Doan Cleaners: Don Benn, Tyce Pearson, Bill Rick James; No Shows: Frank Nadotti, Men’s 65 Major: High Street Bucs: Hoover Donnie Romeo, Duane Flagg, Antonio Mike Snyder, Bill Macuch, Howard Men’s 75 Major: Pompano Beach Adamo Brinkley, Jimmy Muncy, Mike Rohleder; Bums: Bill Brotherton, Ron Hampton, Men’s 55 AAA: Ball Busters: Les Jersey Masters Blue: Mike O’Shea, Carl Sultz, Matt Callahan, Larry Sweet; Millman, Ricky Tate, Carlos Moreira, Al Rich Tomasik, Harry Lisser Pro Health Care: Jack Simmons, Bill Nunez, John Popov Men’s 65 AAA: Acousti: Terry Rutzinski, Larry Von Rueden, Harry Men’s 60 Major Plus: Team Flori- McIlrath, Bob Gwiszcz, Dave Jolly, Matt Nelezen da: Peter Bassignani, Tim Fincher, Ricky Matson, Joe Pavlock; Vios Sports: John Men’s 75 AA : Senior Red Birds Leith, Louis Reyes, Jr Farnen, Bob Raucci, Rob Pentino, John 75: John Laurenti, Dale Pashea, Rick Men’s 60 Major: High Street Bucs: Colonese Rakowski, George Ruh, Lenny Suess Ross Roberts, Steve Propert, Tim Saler- Men’s 65 AA: Action Auto Parts: Men’s 80/85 Gold: Florida In- no, Gary Canoon, Steve Pope; Golden Al Mello, Ken Sheehan, Tom Purvis, Jim vestment Properties: Joe Sykes, Jack Vipers: Ron Beeman, Chuck Maiorana, Gemma, Steve Panzini; Jersey Masters Morris, Jake Wood, Bob Johnson, Duffie Dan Fritz Red: Larry Berra, Eddie Kushner, Steve Stone; BackOffice Associates: Jim Men’s 60 AAA: Long Island Bauer, Frank DeLuca; Southern Tier Parmelee, Vince Van Norman, Jim Van Jaguars: David Didio, Rick Caravag- Express: Nick Sheldon, Jim Kruckow, Baalen, Michael Onnembo gio, Jimmy Kiernan, Jimmy McDowell, John Burge Michael Cohen; Slug-A-Bug: Frank Men’s 70 Major Plus: Venom: Jim Winter 2016 Edition Senior Softball News 19 ISA Last ISA Last Chance All Tourney Players Named 2016 ISA Last Chance TOC Automated Shade 55: Kip Bolter, Tom Knott, Dave Sto- Chance Qualifier All Tournament Grant, Jim Nelson, Willard verink, Jim Zgorzelski Players: Shope, Tim Workman; CKM Men’s 65AAA: Steve Men’s 50/55+ Major: Wealth Management: Pete Levin Old School: Don Ca- Draws 10 Miami Power: Mike Brock, Bassignani, Craig Knowles, bral, Bill Hans, Denny Miller, Edwin Garcia, Roberto Manny Quiepo Al Smith, Pete Tighe; Oasis Teams Minaya, Mike Rafferty, Jo- Men’s 55/60AAA: Team 65’s: Rene Carde, Tom Cole, Softball News Report seph Varachhi Jr.; Florida Flagler: Rick Albert, Steve Randy Scott, Randy Weaver WINTER HAVEN, FL --- Ten teams vied for the elusive Tournament of Champions (TOC) berth at the 2016 ISA Last Chance TOC Qualifier Sponsored by Senior Softball USA and Hawai‘i Island United Way held here at Diamondplex Sports Complex, Sept. 3-4. Starting off with the 5th Annual Hawai‘i Island 65-AAA division, Oasis 65’s Senior Softball- and Steve Levin’s Old School played a best two-out-of- mayor’s Cup three game series, with Steve Levin’s Old School sweeping Oasis 65’s by scores of 14-10 J a n u a r y 15 - 19, 2 017 and 21-17, respectively. M a k a e o ( O l d A i r p o r t ) Pa r k In the four-team, ‘ 50/55-Major division, last seed Miami Power (50 Major) PLAY BIG! BRING YOURSELF OR rolled through bracket play BRING A TEAM AND JOIN US FOR A defeating top seed Florida GREAT TOURNAMENT ON THE Automated Shade 55, 19-5, B IG ISLAND OF HAWAI‘I and CKM Wealth Manage- ment, 22-18, before defeating REGISTRATION FEE: Florida Automated Shade for EAM NDIVIDUAL a second time, 21-16, in the $400 T / $45 I championship game. Florida PROCEEDS TO BENEFIT Automated Shade’s runner-up HAWAI‘ I ISLAND UNITED WAY finish would earn the team a TOC bid as the top finishing K UPUNA TOURNAMENT 55 Major team in the mixed AGE GROUPS: LADIES 50+ bracket after emerging from MEN 60-69 & 70+ the elimination side of the bracket. ALL SENIOR SOFTBALL USA RULES The final division of the APPLY ISA Last Chance TOC Quali- fier, the four-team, 55/60- FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT AAA division, saw top seed TOURNAMENT COORDINATOR Team Flagler defend its No. K ERRY CROSSON 808.329.0101 1 spot, going 3-0 in bracket play, including a 9-3 victory EMAIL: KCKONA@GMAIL. COM in the championship game over No. 3 seed Acousti. 20 Senior Softball News Winter 2016 Edition Top Gun Celebrates 30th Anniversary in San Diego Softball News Report players in 2016. SAN DIEGO – The Top Top Gun has the distinc- Gun Softball Association cel- tion of being the first – and ebrated its 30th Anniversary by only -- organization inducted inducting three members into into the SSUSA Hall of Fame. its Hall of Fame here Dec. 4. “The SSUSA Hall of Steve Vin Curek, Dave Fame recognition of Top Seitz and Bob Kapeller were Gun was the result of the inducted in a bittersweet cer- association not only accom- emony as Kapeller died two plishing its mission state- weeks before the induction ment so exceptionally well, ceremony. but in sharing with others Top Gun also presented a since its inception,” SSUSA check for $1,000 to the Navy- Chief Executive Officer Terry Marine Corps Relief Society. Hennessy told the Top Gun Bob Kapeller’s widow ac- members at the induction cepted the induction on behalf ceremony. of her husband, telling the The mission statement 100-plus Top Gun attendees Top Gun presents donation to Navy-Marine Corps Society. From of Top Gun Softball is to that she appreciated the strong left: Terry Hennessy, John Spadea, Retna Shaw and Bob Johnson. enhance the health and well- support of members after her played with many Top Gun ment and donating the pro- being of San Diego seniors husband’s unexpected death. players over the years, and ceeds to the Miramar families. through the promotion of The Menifee Valley Up- Vin Curek joked that running Top Gun has donated softball and other participa- per Division Senior Softball was not one of the “five tools” thousands of dollars to the tory activities. league is hosting a Bob Ka- that earned him the Hall of Navy-Marine Corps Relief In 2012, the Top Gun peller Memorial Tournament Fame induction. Society, money that all goes Senior Softball Association on Feb. 22, 2017 at the Big At its inception 32 years to directly help the families of joined forces with SSUSA to League Dreams Sports Park ago in 1984, a small group hundreds of sailors and Ma- offer high quality qualifying in Perris, CA. This event will of softball players in San rines. The $1,000 donated this tournaments. The popular- honor disabled veterans. Diego County decided to do year was the result of a raffle ity of the Winter Classic and Vin Curek and Seitz both something nice for families of at one of the Top Gun/SSUSA Summer Classic tournaments credited Top Gun teammates military personnel serving at tournaments. can be best illustrated by both for much of their success in Miramar Naval Air Station. The association has grown tournaments filling up within the sport. Seitz told several So they began holding a from the original 60+ team five days of advertising the humorous stories, having benefit senior softball tourna- in 1989 to 10 teams and 150 tournament.

Past All Tournament Players Named All Tournament players se- USA: Robert Cook, Andy Dudley/Elite Sports USA: Frastak, Dave Maertens, Don lected by the teams for Past Hankins, Bobby Jordan, Robert Cook, Dennis Davis, Seyfferth Tournaments listed in the James Kaul, Tony Marelich Andy Hankins, Timothy Lan- 2016 Rocky Mountain Newspaper: 2016 Rock ‘n Reno drum, Deratio White Championships: Men’s 2014 LVSSA/SSUSA Challenge Cup: Men’s 40 2016 Western National 50AAA: Never Say Never: World Masters Champion- Major: Layer Cake Wines/ Championships: Men’s Courtney Cluff, Jim Hansen, ships: Relentless: Richard Dudley/Elite Sports USA: 65AAA: Kokopelli Eye Tim Ryan, Kelly Taylor; Battle, Mike Davis, Joe Robert Cook, Raul Cornier Scorpions: John Bellavia, Men’s 65/70 Silver: Dallas Dayoc, Art Thompson Jr., Andy Hankins, Bobby Bob Cord, Al Grefsheim, Ken Spurs 65: Terry Cross, Ray 2016 CAN-Sirs/SSUSA Jordan, James Kaul Ponzio, John Seigla Harty, Tom Parris, Jaime Vil- Nor-Cal Championships: 2016 Southern Califor- 2016 Eastern National larreal Men’s 40 Major: Layer Cake nia Championships: Men’s Championships: 55 Major: Wines/Dudley/Elite Sports 40 Gold: Layer Cake Wines/ High Street Bucs: Mark Winter 2016 Edition Senior Softball News 21

The ORIGINAL

TOURNAMENT2017 OF CHAMPIONS

THE ORIGINAL TOURNAMENT OF CHAMPIONS! February 8-12, 2017 in Polk County, Florida

CONGRATULATIONS To all of the teams that have won a berth to the Tournament of Champions. Your team has won the privilege of competing against the very best Senior Softball teams in the country: the Champions of all 24 of Senior Softball-USA’s Regional, National and World Championships and the ISA Senior World Champions as well as the Canadian SPN National Championships, The Tournament of Champions, sponsored by the Pacifi c Rim Championships. Senior Softball-USA and Central Florida’s Polk County Sports You are in a very select group: Marketing, is designed to celebrate the Champions of Senior ONLY CHAMPIONS OF TOP Softball in the most exclusive and spectacular event of the TOURNAMENTS ARE INVITED. season! Topped off with a gala banquet for 1,500 people!

The Tournament of Champions includes two days of Special Events before the games begin, including a Hitting/Fielding Clinic, an All Star Game, and skills contests. Don’t miss the inspiring Louisville Slugger Warriors game on Saturday. Each player receives a free TOC shirt. And there’s a Special Edition Miken Ultra II bat for the MVP of each division.

FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT THE SENIOR SOFTBALL-USA WEBSITE: www.seniorsoftball.com 22 Senior Softball News Winter 2016 Edition China: Softball Pilot Program Taking Shape Continued from Page 1 The tee-ball progress has been so remarkable that the national Chinese gov- ernment has taken notice and is consider- Beijing ing expanding the program to kindergar- Lanhou teners throughout the country. Ironically, seniors from the United States are partners in this program to introduce tee-ball and softball to some of Baiji the youngest students in China. Yueyang Senior Softball-USA has developed City the training guides and worked with the International Career Sports Research As- SSUSA CEO Terry Hennessy gives out pins sociation (ICSRA) to train teachers and to Chinese middle school students provide equipment for the program. “The future of softball and baseball in China, I believe, will depend on giving youngsters the opportunity to learn the sport,” said Terry Hennessy, SSUSA’s chief executive officer. “Introducing tee-ball and slow-pitch softball in schools throughout China is the perfect way to introduce a sport that will bring not only physical benefits – but will help students learn to work together in a positive way toward a common goal.” The longtime one-child policy in China, which was recently relaxed, has The staff at Baiji school. Young student holds up training guide. had a significant impact on Chinese teaching the students sports concepts that Last year softball and baseball col- society, according to researchers in that can benefit their lives and society,” said lege players from Japan held seminars country. Chen. in the schools for teachers and this year Children are cherished and heavily The tee-ball and softball classes SSUSA sent a representative to review protected by parents and Chinese schools started in the schools in October 2015. the training program and generate excite- have been severely limited in offering The rapid success that caught the eye of ment. physical activities with even a hint of sports officials in Beijing was the 5-6 In addition, the Chinese Softball danger. grade tee-ball class in Yongji Middle Association and SSUSA are working on The result is these only children School from the Yueyang District. This a training agreement that would ex- develop “non-appropriate personalities in middle school team captured second tend Zhaoli Chen’s program to schools dealing with people,” according to Zhaoli place in national competition only 10 throughout the country. There are ap- Chen, who is spearheading the program. months after starting the program. proximately 200 million primary and “We feel these kids need to be inte- “This program has shown amazing secondary students in China. grated into the mass majority of soci- results,” said Dr. Xu Yang, secretary- “Next year, we hope to hold an ety through certain types of sport team general of the Chinese Softball Associa- exhibition and training session using U.S. activities,” said Chen, who is a researcher tion. “We think it could be a good model players coming to China to compete in at Waseda University in Japan, a Board for our other schools.” the 5th Annual Pacific Rim Champion- Member of the Teeball Committee of The pilot program focuses on train- ships in China,” said Hennessy. The Pa- China and heads China’s Teeball Nation- ing teachers, many of whom had never cific Rim Championships are planned for al Research project Committee. seen a baseball or softball, much less Langzhou on Oct. 14-15, 2017. SSUSA Why teeball and softball? played the game. The training is twofold, officials said details would be available “They introduce U.S. sports cul- using training guides and generating sometime in January. ture into our physical teaching courses, excitement by bringing in experts. Winter 2016 Edition Senior Softball News 23 A nternational or reent The 2017 Alpine Fairytale Tour ne nd l th, Only a few spots left! Deadline is December 31, 2016 ont i ti i oortnit to eore te ntr et o ritetr on der int o nd o i o ri nnr r nd onder ienn nd o ore tere i e ot tornent

ter iitin te rin it o ni nd tin te oenie e e te in or r otoro to e ntein te o irte te tt inired Wt ine

r dentre i t trtin riie nd e ne to eet e iit te in ine it o te drin er rt on nnr nd ie te etr trd ternoon it ro iter Ee et retret e t eeend o te or e i oete in te ienn i We ed to r tro te onored te ret ot nd tt ond o i de e in tri ed te o nd te it ere ort oe nner ei eent trd nit i inde i The 5th Annual Pacifi c Rim Cham- orn en e re o to te ioni i e ed in n o e e one o te roided te trin on eeent nd o in toer 1t nd ot eti e in Eroe 1t 201 oete itinerr tt tood ine 10 r ine irte or i for SSUSA’s Pacifi c Rim Cham- ioni or i e reeed Our fi nal stop is Vienna, where we rete eorie nd riend ort oin nd e rt o i e iered in te tre o i tt i t ietie e te riendi nd iteein te one o te ot eore itie reitrtion dedine i eeer Pacifi c Rim Championships have to in Eroe eore tin rie on 1t o in nd dont i or oer te ne ier r ree ne to oin te dentre dinner, fi ttingly, will be in the his- ■ ■ or ore inforation on te tor tori ine ie o rinin o to ttsseniorsoftball lease ontat oss llian nd o ore te in etre oae for fll itinerary at ossSeniorSoftballo or o te or i ot n ni an ost all -- for ore infor- e te rin ion ation i int oe irited ern te onored te reiin 40 WORLD / NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS 46 TIME ALL WORLD / ALL AMERICAN TEAM SELECTION

J a s o n K e n d r i c k Freak PlaTinum MAXLOAD MAXLOAD • 14” • SSUSA MODEL: MFPTMS TWO-PIECE SIZES: 34/26, 34/27, 34/28, 34/30 TRIPLE MATRIX CORE • F2P • 100 COMP mikensports.com