Recent Classes

Additional Info

The Mission of the National Senior Softball Hall of Fame is to recognize and honor players, managers, directors, umpires, and others, who have achieved the highest honors in Senior Softball.

Class of 2010

Manager Roy Hern	Jack Hatter wrote, "Roy's performance in senior softball has been exceptional in all areas. All the teams he has managed or performed with in National Championships, have been winners throughout his career. His dedication, initiative, and willingness to put forth an extra effort to enrich the teams he has managed, and played with, have helped make those teams winners." "Roy has the ability to deal effectively with players on other teams, as well as his own, and is looked upon as one of the leaders in senior softball throughout the country. When things aren't going well, he is the one manager, and player, you can count on to make the right decision, make the big play, or come up with a key hit."
Pioneer Director Dave Banghart	Tony Riccio wrote, "Dave Banghart exemplifies what is great about senior softball. His love for the game is unparalleled, and I know of no one who does not respect Dave's skills on and off the field." "Nebraska had been one of the few remaining states without senior softball. Dave founded, developed, and promoted Nebraska senior softball starting with two league teams in 2000. That situation has grown to the program that we enjoy today." Glenn Groebli writes, "His leadership skills separate Dave from a lot of other players and his Christian beliefs allow him to be an excellent leader in both managing his team and also in being a tournament director." Pastor Larry Peterson wrote, "Not only is Dave a visionary, organizer, coach, player, and former teammate, Dave is also a quality individual who I am proud to call my friend. He is one of those rare individuals who brings the best out of you on or off the field. I have found Dave to be a man of great integrity and compassion."
Pioneer Manager Ralph Sanchez	Jim Vargeson wrote, "Skip has continually exhibited excellent skills in managing senior softball players of varying skill levels. He has a high level of knowledge in the fundamentals of hitting, fielding, and pitching. Skip has also exhibited a wide range of knowledge of senior softball rules. Skip has shown to be a very dedicated manager. Even though he was capable of hitting for a high average, he often stepped aside so that the players of his teams could get more playing time." "I was immediately struck by Skip's knowledge of the game, dedication to the positive aspects of the sport, and sense of fair play," wrotre John Wells. Thomas Sneddon writes, "Skip was always respected for the way he treated his players and managed. It was more like playing with your family than playing for a team. He earned the respect of his players for his sound knowledge of the game and the fundamentals he displayed while managing."
Pioneer Player Ray Bosetti	Ev Arnold writes, "Ray is a clever pitcher. He rarely walks anybody. Ray takes the bat out of a lot of players hands. He usually forces the batter to hit to the heart of the defense." Ev goes on to say, " Ray is responsible, helpful to others, and always builds quiet confidence in those with whom he associates. He is a leader, a friend, and has a nice-guy attitude, which carry his talents to the fore." "As a former high school coach, Ray has the ability to deal effectively with players, as well as other teams. When things aren't going well, he is the player you can count on to make the right decision, make the big play, or come up with a key hit. He is always up beat, and looking at the bright side of any situation." Jack Hatter
Pioneer Player Wayne Ellithorpe	Spider Pitzer wrote, "The year was 1995 -What a player, great hands, handled all ground balls, rifle for an arm, covered ground. And you talk about hitting, he was cracking out line drives for base hits, long drives for triples and homeruns. Could he run? Like a deer. And to this day he is still doing it." Ron Brown says, "To say that Wayne was just a member of those teams would be an understatement. As far as I am concerned he was the heart and soul of those teams for so many years. His athletic talent is outstanding. Wayne is the total package." Bud Keenan wrote, "This is one great gentleman and softball player. A credit to any team he has and will play with. Wayne is a real sportsman." John Rawlings wrote, "When one considers the person who brings the most immediate impact an any team for which he plays, Ellie must be at the top of the list."
Pioneer Player Rex Finely	Gene Dick wrote, "At 88 years old Rex is the emodiment of senior softball, showing all seniors that the game is fun and giving each person a sense of accomplishment. He is the defender of other seniors of lesser skills for the rights to play ball. Rex has played tournament ball for many years and for his effort he has earned 13 rings." Dan Krepich says, "Rex at 88, is still a valuable member in our senior league. Rex is always there, one of the first to arrive and one of the last to leave. He knows the game, and is eager and willing to promote the game. He has a passion for the game and is an inspiration to all." Dennis McCoy said, "Rex still plays Senior Softball twice a week, year round, and is still a formidable hitter and tough out. Rex is a role model to all who come in contact with him on and off the field."
Pioneer Player Charles Lindsay	Charles himself said, "I am 83 and have slowed down a bat, but will play as long as I can. I have had the opportunity to play with and against some of the greatest players in the world. I am grateful for this game, it has kept me young and given me many friends." Charles was Named to National Championship All-American teams in the 75 and over Division every year from 2000 to 2005, and again as an All-American in the 80 and over Division in 2005 and 2006. He has been a member of 7 National Championship teams.
Pioneer Player Angelo Mercurio	Al Lavender wrote, "Angelo is a complete softball player. He can hit (particularly in crucial at bats), field and throw very well, and has great speed. He is a 100% team player." Bruce Longenecker writes, "Equally as important was his overall athleticism and his tremendous determination to do his best. He brought his love of competition and his faith in God to every competition with unfailing cheerful sportsmanship." Richard Smith said, "He was a very modest guy and never put anyone down. Rather, he would always give them encouragement and lift them up. He had natural abilities and was capable of player any defensive position. Whenever we needed a runner, our manager would always yell out, 'Angie, go run for so and so.' He was fast and an excellent base runner." "Putting aside his athleticism, he is recognized for his compassion for others. He always had a 'hug' for someone and never an unkind word."
Pioneer Player Charles Partin	Don Farber wrote, "Charlie, at age 73, is a legitimate five tool player. He can do it all. He is also the 'Humm Baby' on the field and in the dugout." "I find that above his softball abilities, Charlie has personal qualities which set him apart. He is friends to all, responsible, and a great ambassador for senior softball," Jack Leach. Michael Brady wrote, "Charles can play any position on the field at a very competent level. His fierce competitiveness makes him a leader and outstanding team player at any level." Noel Lanctot writes, "Charlie is very versiatile, being able to play, infield, outfield, and pitch, as well as, hit at a high level. As a manager, I have called upon Charlie to play with us knowing he is a team player, playing with an infectious smile and always giving 100 percent."
Pioneer Player George Rubelsky	Connie Vitale wrote, "George's approach to the game has always been positive, along with a win attitude. He has excelled in all phases of the game, with his fielding, throwing, running, and hitting. When George goes on the field, he exudes class." Clay Sharick said, "He was an all round player, great shortstop and could hit the ball. He was a team player, who everyone loved to play with and to have on their team. He made everyone else on the team a better player, and was a crowd pleaser." Trit Douglas wrote, "He was looked upon as the Team Leader by his approach to the game. His inspirational leadership was one of the keys to the successes his teams enjoyed. He is deeply religious and deeply devoted to his wife, children, and grandkids."
Pioneer Player Jennings Smith	George Taylor wrote, "Smitty has played in over a dozen championship teams. His playing skills have always been outstanding, and he represents the epitomy of a team player." Tony Germinao writes, "He has always been very competitive and plays to win, but has never forgotten the fun of the game. There's nothing Smitty loves more than softball, and he knows it inside and out. Dale Hanson said, "Mr. Smith was an outstanding player and remains so today in his age group. He is respected and admired by numerous younger players for his softball prowess and his jocular personality. The word often used to describe Smitty is phenomenal!"
Player Philip Biedronski	"Playing top competition in senior softball, Phil is an intense competitor, who is never happy with a personal performance that is not his best" says Don Clatterbough. Don goes on to say, "In the past seven years, Phil has been named as a first team selection in 16 Major Plus Tournaments. Tom Dommel writes, "From the beginning it was a pleasure having Phil as a teammate. He is the ultimate team player and his outstanding on base average, his incredible speed, his smart baserunning, his excellent outfield abilities, and his great attitude are the qualities I see in Phil that make him a Hall of Fame caliber player."
Player Bill Brotherton	"Watching Bill play first is liking watching poetry in motion," says Rainer Martens. "He not only makes the play, he makes it look effortless. If he can reach the ball, he catches the ball, and he does it with a smile on his face. Bill is a savvy player, who knows the game inside and out." Pat Bidelman wrote, "As a batter of exceptional talent, Billy hits with power and to all fields. In nearly 200 at-bats during the 2009 season, Billy's on-base average came to .739, one of the highest averages ever for a member of the Florida Legends." Pat continued, "Without a doubt, Billy's most significan contribution is his fielding prowess. Billy can scoop, grab, block, or stop just about any ball thrown anywhere in his general direction." Ron McElyea says, "I have the utmost respect for Billy as a ball player. I have even more respect for Billy as a person. On the playing field, you cannot find a man that has more love of the game."
Player Dutch Detwiler	"Dutch is one of the best known and recognized softball players in the US. He has dazzled opponents and spectators alike with his power hitting and his friendly mannerism has endeared him to almost everyone he has come in contact with over the years. Every winning team looks for a "Dutch" for their team." Says R.B. Thomas. Glen Bailey writes, "Whether Dutch is playing in the field on defense, at bat, or on the bases, he always gives 110% towards his job. His hitting ability is outstanding whether it be for a base hit or a homerun, he performs. We call him "Dutch the Clutch."" George Hadel wrote, "Dutch is a power hitter, but that's just part of what he does to help his team win. Dutch always keeps his teammates spirits high with a positive attitude and compliments to his team members. These are the things that keep a team moral high and creates a winning atmosphere."
Player E.J. Harrison	R.B. Thomas says, "E.J. is one of the best left handed hitters in senior softball. He can hit it out or line a base hit to score the runners. He is a pure hitter as evidenced by his selection to numerous All-American and All-World teams. There is simply no one better to be at the plate when you need the winning run." Harry Mills wrote, "One of the the more amazing things about his achievements has been that he has played great with two knees which finally had to be replaced." His teammates marvel at his resiliency and remark how he is an inspirational leader to the rest of the team. Glen Bailey says, "E.J. has received many awards including MVP and home run trophies, All-American Honors, and others, which cause him to be an inspiration to new senior softball players."
Player Steven Imlay	Gary Pro wrote, "Steve is known for his awesome power genereated by two of the biggest and strongest arms in Senior Softball. He has consistently put up big numbers in both Home Runs and Average year after year. Defensively he has shown tremendous flexibility and adaptability by playing both 'hot' corners of the infield as well as the outfield." "Steve is one of the true 'gentlemen' of our sport. I don't think there is anyone who knows him, that has a single negative thing to say about him. He is always been a teammate that accentuates the positive. He has a passion for the game and makes great sacrifice to be at every tournament his team plays in." Hank Cluess wrote, "Steve is the ultimate gentleman. Win or lose he is a class act."
Player Edmond Ritter	R.B. Thomas writes, "Ed is one of the most admired and respected players by his peers in the game today. He is one of those players whose presence on a team automatically raises the expectations of his teammates and solidifies the team chemistry to win championships." Tom Dommel wrote, "When playing against Ed, it doen't take long for an opponent to realize that, if he hits the ball to center field and there's any possibility of it being caught, Ed will run it down." "Ed is very tough to defense, because he's mastered the art of placement hitting. He's the ultimate base hitter with great speed that enables him to take an extra base in the blink of an eye." Andy Zitnay said, "I've seldom seen a player with more skill in the outfield and on the bases. As a #2 hitter, he personifies what speed and the ability to hit behind the runner is all about. In the field I'll match his ball pursuit and extraordinary throwing arm against anyone in senior softball."
Player James Stapleton	Pat McGuire wrote, "Jim can play every defensive position skillfully. He has an over .700 'on base percentage' in National Championship competition. He has that special gift to bring out the best in his fellow teammates. He has the personality, chemistry and heart, that make him a true winner." Larry Campbell said, "I have had the opportunity to coach and play with Jim, and have not had a better teammate. Jim is superior ballplayer as well as a gentelman and sportsman." Gary Tryhorn wrote, "Jim is a versatile and energetic player who never complains and can be found helping his teammates when they are not going well. He is a gentleman both on and off the field." Otis Menasco wrote, "Jim is an exceptional player with a slashing style that includes power to all fields. Jim is a ferocious competitor that never gives up in any game, no matter the score."
Player Robert Woodroof	Ron Galvan wrote, "Over the past 25 years I have not met anyone more committed to winning than Bob, and he has always lived within the rules. As a player, he has benn recognized for many All tourney and All American Teams as well as MVP." "The thing that stands out in my mind is his intense competitiveness and his ability to 'come through in the clutch.' He has been at his best when his team needed him most." Billy Steele says, "Aside from his performance on the field, Bob has always acted in a manner that you want from a Senior Softball player. Bob is a great teammate and friend, and his is the type of person that makes senior softball fun to play." Tom Hanratty wrote, "Bob is always thinking the situation through, and trying (usually successfully) to do what is called for. Bob has a rare combination of thinking the game through plus the ability to execute properly. He is in my opinion an outstanding defensive 1st baseman."
Woman Player Brenda Batchelor	Patricia "Stevie" Stephenson wrote. "Having played shortstop for some twenty years, I was in awe of the talent displayed by 'Batch'. She could wing a ball from any positition on the field, including the ground, and nail the runners whether it was first, second, third, or home." "She is the ultimate teammate -- honest, loyal, knowledgeable, talented, and highly motivated." Toni Letaw wrote, "Batch is an exceptional ballplayer, but more than that, she is an outstanding teammate and team maker. Although she is a great player, Batch has the ability to make a team great. She is always ready to coach and help a teammate work on something extra and she is a wonderful inspiration." Margaret Keys said, "Besides her excellent defense, she is a good offensive player, contributing many extra base hits at crucial points in games, and an excellent 'field general', helping teammates play to the best of their abilities."
Woman Player Delphine Bowyer	Jan Ellis wrote, "As a player Del is the best outfielder witht he Freedom Spirit. She is a great hitter, and a very smart quick baserunner. She is a team organizer who is able to keep the fun in practices and games. Always willing to try anything new." Midge wrote, "Del is so consistent in the field - both with her skills and more importantly with her knowledge of the game. Her leadership is unquestionable.... No matter how many games they have played, whenever they need a runner out comes Del ready, willing, and able. She never seems to tire." Linda Van Valkenburg writes, "She is more versatile than most players, as she can play any position, and play it well. She is an excellent fielder with a wide range and a really good arm. She is a very good hitter who can spray the ball to any field. She is also a very fast runner." DonnaLee Holcomb wrote, "I have taken my daughter and grand daughters to watch Mom play ball. They are the fourth generation on the field. Mom is an inspiration to her great grand daughters."
Woman Player Ruth Fellmeth	Ethel Lehmann wrote, "Ruth is a 'natural' athlete playing softball, tennis, or any other sport that she participates in .... Besides being a phenomenal softball player, she is a great person, willing to help anyone in need. " Karen Campbell writes, "She has been playing this game we all love since she was a young girl and doing it better than other players. She knows the game so well and is always ready to help another ball player get better." "Ruth is the first person dressed on a game day .... Anyone knowing softball knows 'pepper' is a practice routine, and when Ruth calls out 'Anyone want some peppah?', we all laugh, then groan and get up to take some pepper from this tireless teammate." "Ruth loves the game. Her dedication is total to the team and to winning, but I've never seen her angry over missed plays or losses. She is a great third baseman." Harriet Mair wrote, "Ruth has what is call a 'sweet swing' - one that our coach tries to have the rest of the team imitate. Her swing looks effortless, never changes, yet generates great power."
Woman Player Juanita Grandstaff	Renee Page Wrote, "Juanita is one of the best pitcher's I have ever tried to hit off of. I was always glad I was on her team and not hitting against her. Over the years she has learned her hitters and all of them will tell you they don't like to face her. She can take the bat right out of your hands." Donna Hackney says, " Juanita has a great knowledge of the game and is one of the best pitchers in the game. She has never exhibited any fear of young hitters who hit a hard ball up the middle. Juanita has always managed to step up to the plate for a base hit, consistently, when her team needs it the most." Jim Hoback wrote, "When she is on the mound, she is the field general. She has adapted to all the changes in women's softball over the years with grace and style. Having Juanita on the mound in any game is the greatest asset any team could have." Gale Harris writes, "There are just not enough words to say about the good caliber of ball player she is and always will be as long as her health is good. She is a winner on and off the field."
Woman Player Diane Hein	Cathy Nicholson wrote, "Diane brings a wealth of skills at the catcher position unlike few others. Of course one of her strongest assets would be her powerful swing at the plate. We could always count on her ability to hit the ball over an outfielder's head at just the right moment in a championship game." Kathie Lloyd wrote, "Diane absolutely loves softball! It is evident when she is at practice, on the field, in the dugout, before the game, in between games or afterwards. Her enthusiam, competitiveness and sense of humor permeates throughout." Gilda Ozuna writes, "Our most consistent player is Diane ... She is among the top three players on the team in RBI's, slugging average, and on-base percentage. She plays 2nd base for us and is Infield Captain. She is Co-captain of the team." "Diane continues to be a force with the Mighty Legends, as well as being the only female in a Men's league in Fallbrook, California. She brings more than mere talent to a team and an organization."
Woman Player Adeline Rosmus	Sylvia Mergl wrote, "Adeline is a loyal and dedicated player and has exceptional skills in the sport of softball. Usually playing shortstop or third base, she is able to throw an accurate fast ball, and bats a long ball to the opposite field." Lorraine Purnell writes, "To say that Adeline is an inspiration to all that know her is an understatement. She has played every position and primarily pitches You would think that maybe playing against women much younger that her, she would not play such a high profile position. But not Addy." "She can hit, run, catch, and throw. She loves the game. What more can anyone say." Doreen Garrett wrote, "Addie has fun on the ball field. Her husband and family support her in her sport, and ball is a very important part of her life. She never seems to slow down, and I often think of her as the energizer bunny of softball."