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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 2012

Manager Ken Lipinski	RB Thomas wrote, "Ken's commitment to senior softball over the past two decades has certainly qualified him for inclusion in the NSSHOF. Ken and his players have always exhibited excellent sportsmanship, which is sometimes not as noticeable at the Major Plus level. Without question he has managed the most outstanding 50+ team in the US in recent years which should definitely earn Ken a place in the HOF." Conway Waddy says, "Ken is a true gentleman. He really cares about softball and his players. This man has truly shown me how the game is supposed to be played. No matter the challenge, Ken is a born leader. He has been through a lot over the years, and Ken Lipinski has always stood tall." Billy Steele wrote, "I also know Ken to be a strong family man. He is very active in his church and a big supporter of the Big Brother's and Big Sisters Organization. I know he works very hard to support the ideas and success of that program." "I believe Ken is the type of person that will be a big asset to the NSSHOF. He has the credentials and the devotion and hard work to make senior softball the best."
Pioneer Manager Ted Lawson	Tom Canning wrote, "There is not a sport that Ted has not tried and has been successful in most. He certainly would meet any of the three Hall of Fame categories, Manager, Player, or Pioneer. In 25 years of senior softball he has been a player, manager and been selected to 6 All-Tournament teams and has won 7 Championship rings." Helen Tisdale writes, "Ted's love of sports led him to over 40 years of coaching high school and amateur football, baseball, lacrosse, and basketball. Ted has played and managed senior softball teams winning 4 World Championships and three International Championships, and was inducted in the Anne Arundel County Sr. Softball Hall of Fame in Nov. 2001." In a poem dedicated to Ted, Althea Mundena wrote, "…Each of us knows we were blessed to have Ted. Without him we couldn't have done it, we've said. He plans, makes reservations, and phone one and all. Much of his time's spent organizing softball. Sometimes when we 'goof' or get carried away, He settles us down, he knows just what to say. We give him much credit and all our esteem, Without Ted Hamel's would not be a team!"
Pioneer Player Daniel Ayala	Richard Akau wrote, "Daniel's athleticism and defensive softball skills enable him to play ALL positions, a real coach's dream. Ayala's offensive skills are above average and he always hits the ball strategically." D. Michael Hinkley writes, "Despite his actual age, Danny frequently plays, and stars, in the lower age groups. He has always come through in the clutch, whether the team needs a hit, a sharp fielding play, or a smart move on the bases. He has played all infield positions; the outfield; has pitched and caught: He has done it ALL and ALWAYS with grace, courtesy, and sportsmanship." Glenn Morihara wrote, "Danny exemplifies slow pitch softball. He plays with a brillieance and joy that defines softball and creates excitement whenever he is on the field. Danny could beat you in every way possible. The major league defines great players as those having five tools. Danny is one of these players."
Pioneer Player Stephen Boinski	John Rawlings wrote, "Steve (Bo) is one of the most talented players with whom I have had the privilege of playing over the years. His skills include, although not limite to, pitching, shortstop, outfielder, and he is an awesome hitter." Frank Lapple says, "Over the years, Steve has been an integral part of many championship teams. His contributions have manifested themselves in his selection to numerous All-Tournament and MVP awards, all earned at the highest level of softball competition. In addition to his softball skills, his positive attitude on and off the field is exemplary. He is dedicated to the team concept of playing as a unit to obtain its goals." Spider Pitzer wrote, "Bo has everything, run, throw, play outfield, shortstop, and pitch. He has extreme power, hits line drives, runs great, throws hard, with a winning desire and a wonderful attitude."
Pioneer Player Ray Burr	Peter Eaton wrote, "Ray has spent over fifty years playing, coaching and managing in our program. He has always been a leader for every team he has represented. The quality that is most obvious when you meet Ray is the humility. His love for the game and that humility have endeard him to teammates and opponents alike." Rick Marz writes, "Ray has earned numerous All-Tournament, MVP, and team Championship awards over these past 15 years in Senior Softball. I feel his greatest contribution to the game of softball is his outstanding sportsmanship, respect for his teammates and fellow players, and his pure love of the game. Ray is a superb role model for all players." Dick Clarke wrote, "Ray's resume well documents his many achievements on the playing field as a player and manager, but it is his manner and decorum on and off the field that sets him apart from all the rest. He is the epitome of a senior softball player. A true sportsman."
Pioneer Player Wayne Campbell	Jack Hatter wrote, "Wayne is an outstanding outfielder, with good speed, strong arm, and great range. Always hitting for a high average, he is also a long ball hitter, who can hit in the clutch. Wayne is a fine person, on and off the field, and is a great ambassador for the game. Ted Battistone says, "Wayne plays an outfield position and performs in an excellent manner. He moves quickly and always hits the cut-off man or throw to the appropriate bases. While at bat, Wayne is a very powerful hitter and is the man you want at the plate in a clutch situation." Dewey McVicker wrote, "Wayne is a power hitter who sprays the ball to all fields and always carries a high batting average. He is a five-star player who is comfortable playing all positions in the outfield. He is always anticipating the next play, throwing to the right base through the cut-off man and backing up all his teammates. Wayne has a calming effect on the bench and always has an encouraging word for all his teammates, whether they get a hit or make an out." Larry McCurdy wrote, "Wayne not only is a great player, but equally a great person. He is a fine representative of what Senior Softball is all about."
Pioneer Player Ray Petty	Jerry Simon wrote, "Mr. Petty has for years been one of the most outstanding Senior Softball players in the country. He has performed at the highest level regarding not only his softball play, but his personal attitude towards the game." George Taylor writes, "Ray has played with me and against me, always with great sportsmanship and love of the game. His loyalty and zeal are apparent in his many well-earned trophies. He is a worthy opponent and an excellent team mate. Ray has played several positions. In the outfield, his ready the hitters and knowing where to play them is most unusual and very productive. As a hitter, he has always held a high average, and high on-base average. He's basically a hit'm where they aren’t type of hitter." Paul Janke wrote, "I firmly believe Raymond Petty would be a credit and a fine addition to the Senior Softball Hall of Fame."
Pioneer Player Charles Sarver	Frank Lapple wrote, "Charlie is a multifaceted individual. An outstanding hitter, team player, teacher and innovator. Were I a manager, I would want the luxury of writing Charlie Sarver's name on the lineup card for every game!" Paul Janke writes, "Since his retirement, Charles continues to play softball and has a passion for teaching by conducting skill drills. For the past 12 years, he has trained all individuals who have an interest in slow pitch softball. Incidentally, it's absolutely amazing how many show up for the two day a week practice." John Rawlings wrote, "Charley brings to his teammates a knowledge of sports therapy and physical care for muscles and bodily structure. Teammates go to him for advice about a strained tendon, a sprain, or a muscle tear and his understanding about one's problem is most helpful and resourceful." "Charley is also very devoted and concerned about the welfare of persons who do not have the opportunity to participate in sports that we in the USA have. For instance, he keeps in touch with a former player, who is in a mission in Africa. Charley collects and sends equipment and uniforms to that mission so that boys there can enjoy sports too."
Pioneer Player Marlo Termini	Paul Oliver wrote, "Marlo is an outstanding softball player who has won numerous All-Tourney, All-World, All-American, and MVP certificates. He is a superb defensive player, an accomplished runner (who also runs for other players), a player with exceptional instincts and an excellent accurate throwing arm, and a good hitter. He is a spark plug who ignites success." Connie Vitale writes, "Defensively, he is the proverbial fleet of foot in ANY of the outfield positions. Marlo is a student of the game both offensively and defensively. All of the acheivements Marlo has ganered has been through sheer determination and love for the game which is not ebbing." Paul Orlousky wrote, "Given the high profile our team often has, he is as good ambassador for the game of softball as anyone I've ever met. Whether it is mingling with a local mayor, or a child interested in the game, Marlo is always welcoming, engaging and ready to talk about the game and the rich history of the game in Cleveland. I might add that he is an integral part of the history. Marlo is the glue that has held our team together." Iron Mike Tedesco wrote, "I can honestly say Marlo was the best lead-off man I have ever seen! He has served as one of my commissioners. He was also inducted into the Professional Greater Cleveland Hall of Fame."
Pioneer Player Jack Westbrook	Arden Siegendorf wrote, "As Jack's manager for the past 12 years, and as his friend for many years more, I have had many occasions to obersve and evaluate his performance. Jack has consistently displayed maximum effort, ability, and production." Jim Bender writes, "Jack's normal position is an outfielder, but has played short stop and middle infielder when needed. He does a great job at all these positions. Jack is a high average hitter that will hit for power. He also is able to and will pinch run for any player. Jack is a fine gentleman. He is enjoyable to be around, and is a positive influence to his teammates. Jack is an unselfish team player, very well respected, and dedicated to the sport and his team."
Player Robert Conrad	Rainer Martens wrote, "Offensively Bob is known for hitting with power, but he also knows how to adjust to the game situation to hit for a single when that's the percentage play. Defensively, he is an outstanding outfielder. He 'reads' the ball off the bat very well and thus gets an excellent jump on the ball. With good speed and his long arms, Bob reels in fly balls that most players would miss." "Bob is gentelman on and off the field. He always is polite, never argumentative, and demonstrates the highest level of sportsmanship. He is never disparaging of others; instead he is a significant contributor to the cohesiveness and camaraderie of the Florida Legends." Vincent Melograno wrote, "I am convinced that Bob's outstanding accomplishments and personal characteristics clearly qualify him for selection into the NSSHOF. I am proud to know Bob as a teammate and friend. He is a remarkable person and richly deserves this honor."
Player Randy Fithian	Gary Tryhorn wrote, "Randy has been one of the most dedicated team members that I have ever had the privaege to coach. He is a versatile and energetic player who never complains and can be found helping his teammates when they are not going well." "Doc" DeMarco says, "Randy is one of those selfless players, coaches always hope to find. His teammates know they can always count on his steady and high caliber of play. He carries a high batting average and when the team need a clutch hit, Randy can deliver. He is extremely reliable, showing up for all the games with a smile on his face, inshape, and ready to play." Tom Best wrote, "Randy has een a consistent .700 hitter, and a player that invariably gets more than his share of extra base hits. He's a player I want on my team when the game is on the line." "Randy's beat personality is always present on game days and is the kind of player that every team depends on to help them through tough championship match-ups."
Player Jesse Martinez	Gary Tryhorn wrote, "Jesse is always a pleasure to manage in that he comes prepared, plays the game hard, and is never critical of his or other teammates. He is considered a ferocious competitor and at the same time a true gentleman. Larry Lopez wrote, "Playing against the highest level of competition in Senior Softball, Jess is never happy with any personal performance that is less than his best. Jess is the type of player who does not call attention to himself - he 'let's his bat do the talking.' He excels in pressure situations and is an excellent hitter with considerable home run power, outstanding on base percentage, a smart base runner and a very good outfielder." Tommy French wrote, "Dr. Martinez brings to the team an enormous amount of talent as an outfielder and a great power hitter. Jesse is a player that puts the team first before himself."
Player Pat McLellan	Ed Rose writes, "In my opion, Pat is one of those players that I refer to as a 'franchise player'. He is generally money in the bank in terms of base hits and getting you a hit when you really need it - he is one of the better hitters in the game." John McCarrick says, "Pat started playing Senior Softball with the Florida Crush. His position in the line-up was behind Bruce Meade, which was short lived as the teams at first would walk Bruce to pitch to Pat. By the second tournament that stopped, as it didn't take long to find out that Pat was a power htter who could hit with anyone. His accomplishments over the past 10 years include 33 National Titles, 29 of them All-World selections, Including 12 Most Valuable Player Awards." Audie Hollis wrote, "PattyMac has consistently hit in the .750 to .850 range, and played excellent defense at 1st base. However, the best part of Pat has been what he has meant to our team. He is a natural born leader who gives his all and leads by example. He is a fiery player driven to be the best that he can be and is always upbeat and trying to encourage his fellow players. He is the perfect candidate for the Softball Hall of Fame as he is a recognized leader in Senior Softball and backs that up with unmatched athletic abilities."
Player Mike Pickett	Rainer Martens writes, " When competing against Mike, we feared his bat. If you're lucky enough that the ball remains in the park, you better get the ball into the infield in a hurry because with Mike's great speed, he'll be standing on second or third. He is a high percentage hitter who hits with power." "Blessed with speed, Mike is an outstanding outfielder with an exceptionally strong throwing arm." Tom sides wrote, "Mike is a great athlete. He can run and hit with the best of them. He is tops in the outfield. Most of all he is a great person on the field and off the field. I have never heard him argue with an umpire. He is a great team player." Dave Foltz said, "Mike's on field softball skills have resulted in him being recognized for either MVP or All-Tournament/All-American honors in many, many region and national tournaments over the years. His achievements have made him a well known major-plus level player and clearly have earned him the right to be honorably recognized by the NSSHOF."
Player Thomas Tudor	RB Thomas wrote, "Tom is one of the most admired and respected players by his peers in the game today. Tom brings a winning attitude to the game, lifts up all his teammates and inspires everyone around him to play at the top of their ability. Tom is an outstanding athlete, and one of the best middle infielders in the senior game today." Don Clatterbough writes, "Not only is he a devoted player and competitive team leader, on and off the field, he exhibits character, class and sportsmanship. Tom is an intense competitor, he is never happy with a personal performance that is not his best." Michael Kosar wrote, "With his quick hands and strong arm, he is one of the best I have seen at turning the double play. Tom 'reads' opposing batters and positions himself accordingly, more often than not taking away a sure base hit."
Player Truman Wade	Donald Duell wrote, "As a teammate he has been a joy to watch as he has a unique way of pitching. He keeps hitters off balance with his unorthodox way of mixing up his pitches. Truman is also a great hitter in that he can hit line drives or burn the outfielders when they play too close. " Brooks Tinsley writes, "I know of no player that serves as a better or more positive ambassador for senior softball than Truman. Whether it's windmilling his pitches in weekend tournament play across the country or kicking back for local league action during the week, Truman is always quick to promote the virtues and benefits of Senior Softball to both seniors and young adults alike." "His commitment to individual greatness has translated to team successes as well as several of his teams through the years have claimed National Championships at the highest levels in various age groups." Dave Foltz wrote, "Over the past 14 years, I have had the good fortune of being not only a 'benefactor' of the outstanding softball skill that Truman brings to the game, but more importantly the honor of being closely associated with such a class person."
Player Raymond Wimbrough	Tom Dommel writes, "I believe Ray is one of the best senior pitchers in the country. He's a crafty, experienced pitcher who has been participating in slow pitch softball for 41 years. His pitch selection, accuracy and control, as well as his style of pitching have been contributing factors to his team's victories. His reflexes and competitiveness enable his to shut down the middel making him a double threat on the mound." Don Clatterbough writes, "Ray is a devoted, competitive team player, and exhitites character, class, and sportsmanship on and off the field. Playing top caliber softball, Mr. Wimbrough is an intense competitor who is never happy with a personal performance that is not his best." Andy Zinay wrote, "I have had the pleasure of playing with Ray for 11 years, and in that time I have seen no pitcher control the middle like he does. Ray has catlike quickness and the determination to dive left or right to stop anything and actually changes the tendencies of opposing hitters."
Woman Director Connie Stewart	Terry Hennessy wrote, "Connie has been a guiding force of the women's program in Senior Softball for several years, representing LVSSA, SSUSA, and as Chair for the Women's Advisory Board to the National Senior Softball Summit." "Connie's passion for the sport is intense, first as a player, then coach, then National Advisor, and as National Women's Director." Vicki Oltean wrote, "Connie has dedicated herself to making the women's program successful by listening to what the teams want and need. It is time to honor this individual, who has devoted much energy and effort to be a successful tournament director, and is a good spokesperson for Senior Softball." Betti Garnett wrote, "Connie loves this great game. How many people do you know, who get married on a softball field in the middle of a tournament!"
Woman Pioneer Player Jerry Gawura	Kay Oswalt wrote, "Jerry is ow 91 years old, and would still be playing if we had enough players over 80 to play. She played shortstop in 1988 in St. Louis in the Women's Senior Olympics." Ruth Ann Meyer writes, "I had the privilege of playing against her and with her. She played various positions, but noted for her stamina with her pitching. She was a good hitter. Jerry's personality is one of graciousness and humbling demeanor. She is competitive, but in a civil way. She cares about others on the team and opponents." Monica Daig wrote, "Jerry was our pitcher and a wonderfully strong hitter all of the 20 years we were active. We could always depend on her. Jerry was our most senior in age, but certainly not in attitude, strength, and ability. She consistently played as someone many years younger, and was an inspiration to the rest of us to continue playing. Her enthusiasm was boundless and infectious."
Woman Pioneer Player Harriet Mair	Del Bowyer wrote, "Harriet catches and throws with one motion. She is so smooth. Many of us have tried to imitate that throw-but alas there is only one Harriet. She hits long balls that bring in many of our runs. She runs like a rabbit. Harriet is an all around athlete and we are very fortunate she chose our team." Helen Boyd writes, "Her glove is beyond good and her bat is the same. Excellent! I have seen her make phenomenal plays both at shortstop and 2nd base. She is an excellent pivot player for getting the double play. She is also a woman of faith, and it shows in her loving quiet mannerisms." Karen Campbell says, "Harriet is generally quiet on the field, just concentrating on the game, but she is among the first to compiment fellow players or boster spirits when that is needed. She is always upbeat in the dugout too. I am so blessed to know this gentle, Christian woman, to play on the team with her, and to call her my friend. Bill Hess wrote, "Harriet is endowed with a superlative natural ability, both offensively and on defense. She is top of the line with her glove, has excellent range, has a fine throwing arm, and possesses great batting and running abilities. Further, when teammates request advice, Harriet delivers her observations and knowledge in a calm and efficient manner, so often a grand plus fro creating the 'team' effort."
Woman Pioneer Player Jerri Turner	Rene Page wrote, "Jerri was dedicated at every level of the game. Helping coach and playing was not only hard but it takes self-discipline. You have to be able to perform and lead others to the level you set by example for them to be. There were many times she would play and be eligible to make the All Tournament team, but whe asked that someone else make it instead of her. Donna Hackney wrote, "In 2005 in a 65+ Senior World Tournament, Jerri led her team to victory by batting .804, with 15 RBI's, four doubles, and a 285 foot three run homer in the finals." "Jerri coached with the same passion in which she played. Always conducting herself as a lady, being a teacher and a friend, listening to any concerns her players may have." Judy Lee Schreiber says, "Jerri has brought so much to the Senior Women's softball. She not only is a great player, but also a great coach. She knows the game of softball inside and out. Jerri is a home run power hitting awesome player."
Woman Player Patricia Stephenson	Pat Blackmon wrote, "Patricia Stephenson has been an outstanding player and sportsman since she started playing senior softball in the late 1990's" Batch Batchelor writes, "Stevie has been a fixture in the top of our line-up for many years, being one of the most valuable cogs in the Golden Girls offense. Her ability and willingness to move runners, hit for average, and her high on base percentage are the things that make her such a dangerous hitter and a fabulous teammate. She is truly a five tool player, respected by teammates and opponents alike." Peg Moyer wrote, "Stevie is always 'in' the game and aware of what needs to be done. Our opponents respect her ability and do not try to challenge her arm very often for fear of being put out at the plate. She can deliver the clutch hit and place the ball well based on what the team needs."
Woman Player Judy Wrather	Donna Hackney wrote, "Judy has the natural ability that couldn't be taught. You don't have to tell her what needs to be done when she's up to bat, she just knows. If you are on base and she's up, she will hit you in." Will Grandstaff writes, "Judy's greatest contribution to our team was the leadership she provided both on and off the field where she led by example. Nobody worked harder in practices than Judy; therefore, the rest of the team was inspired to work harder." Will goes on to say, "In my thirty years of coaching women's softball teams, I have not encountered a player more deserving of inclusion in the Hall of Fame than Judy Wrather." Gale Robinson wrote, " I am proud to be a teammate of this wonderful wife, mother and sister, and have been honored to go into battle with such a fine person. I learned to much about character from this lady and not only does she deserve to be in the Hall of Fame for her athletic achievements, but the character and sportsmanship she brings to the game each time she steps foot on the dirt." Janet Bryan wrote, "It was difficult to understand how hard she effortlessly threw from deep behind second base, unless you were playing first base. Incredibly powerful, but more importantly razor like precision. Not only was her fense ironclad, but she was amazingly intuitive at the plate."