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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 2014

Manager Carson Chavis	John Davide wrote, "It has been both a privilege and an honor to play for Carson Chavis. I shall always remember the quality of play and treatment of his players. He always made sure each player was an integral part of his teams. His knowledge of talent and dedication to the game was always evident. Carson was able to motivate and direct players to be successful." "Carson always loved challenges and his teams were so good that it wasn't uncommon to have to play younger teams. His words to us were that this challenge would make us stronger. He was right. His attitude of not backing down did make his teams better. Many of his players are in the Senior Softball Hall of Fame." "It is because of all the achievements and his humble ways that I believe Carson Chavis belongs in the National Senior Softball Hall of Fame."
Pioneer Manager Frank Mitchell	Frank Mitchell started sponsoring, playing, and managing senior softball teams in the early 1990's and continued through 2011, when he retired the team due to family illness. In the interim Mitchell teams won 20 National or World Championships. Ted Lawson wrote, "I believe there has never been a more generous, more supportive and less demanding manager and sponsor than Frank." "Throughout the past 25 years, Frank has sponsored, played, and managed Mitchells Eastern States and Mitchells Construction traveling teams."
Pioneer Player Jim Douglas	Pete Conley writes, "can't help but be impressed by the level of his consisistent performance and the high level of his desire to WIN. Jim continually makes the most amazing plays I've ever seen." Charlie Partin wrote, "Besides being one of the best long ball hitters in senior softball, Jim is truly a gentleman and sportsman in every way." Ronald Power writes, "Jim is not only a great family man and loving husband, but a great softball player. His knowledge of the game is great. He's like a field general, he will always call out the play."
Pioneer Player Norman Huletz	Joe Stortini wrote, "Norm is the kind of team member that adds fun, leadership, and a positive attitude. He has been the leading hitter for as long as I can remember. Norm Huletz is a great all-around person." Dale Rickford writes, "Norm played with intense abandoned and was a leader in every way for the team. His favorite hit was a line drive to right center, but if you tried to move in on him, he would pull the ball or hit it over your head." Bill Winter wrote, "Norm is the kind of guy who knows the game and is always there ready to play with a kind word and a smile. Norm is a fine example of a true sportsman."
Pioneer Player Carl Nutter	Jack Hatter wrote, "Carl's performance in senior softball has been exceptional in all areas. His dedication, initiative, and willingnes to put forth an extra effort to enrich the teams he has played for have helped make those teams winners." Pete Kelley wrote, "Carl always gives the maximum effort, displays outstanding sportsmanship, and is the best leader, both on and off the field that I have ever known. Carl is a great family man. Married for over 60 years, he is a loving father and grandfather, and always has time for his family." Ray Bosetti wrote, "Carl is a respected leader; one who takes charge and directs the infield defense."
Pioneer Player Steve Salter	Steve began playing senior softball in 1991 with the original Redwood City Reds. Since then he has played on 8 National or World Championship teams, on 13 National runner-up teams, and 16 Regional Championship teams. He has earned 3 MVPs, 19 All-Tournament awards at the Major or Major Plus level, and is recognized by SPA as an “impact player.” Steve’s fielding abilities at Pitcher provides that all-important extra infielder, and one who can also hit. He dominates both on the mound and with a bat. He has a true love for the game that includes sportsmanship, fellowship, and the ability to communicate with teammates. Steve is a true ambassador for the game and a gentleman both on and off the field
Pioneer Player Mike Sisavic	Rainer Martens writes, "Mike is an outstanding softball player. He's a player-coach, two roles that are difficult to do well at the same time. He is a lifelong student of the game and has the emotional control to make smart decisions in the midst of a heated contest. He is always respectful of fellow players, umpires, and tournament officials, and most of all he's respectful of the game because to loves the sport so much." Mike’s most cherished accomplishments are helping players become aware of cancers and providing support and counseling. He has been a personal inspiration playing the game shortly after triple by-pass, spine and knee surgery, and prostate and thyroid cancer. Mike was chosen as the Comeback Player of the Year by Masters Athlete Magazine.
Player Mike Adair	Steven Imlay wrote, "Mike is a highly moral and ethical person who loves this game and playes it the correct way. Mike has consistently demonstrated impactful leadership that is backed up with tremendously consistent awesome stats. Especially in crucial segments of the game and clutch situations he has become Mr. Reliable in these situations." "The other unique characteristic for Mike is that he is a true Power Hitter in a game that really has very few legitimate Power Hitters. I have heard from other players, coaches and fans how unbelievably hard and far that he hits the softball." Ken Lipinski writes, "Mike's ability to recognize and remember opponent's offensive strengths and weaknesses benefited everyone on the field. He indicated where he thought the player way going to hit and then would give a sign as to whether the ball was inside or outside. He is always trying to give his teammates an edge." "Offensively, Mike's bat could always be counted on. Mike is a fierce competitor and a leader on and off the field of play. He develops friendships with ALL his teammates and genuinely care for their well being."
Player Mel Colwell	Randy Fithian wrote, "Offensively Mel is a sparkplug for the team, with one of the highest batting averages and power to hit the ball over the fence. His speed hustle and intelligent base running made it a no brainer to use him as our leadoff hitter." "Defensively Mel is a coach's dream, talented enough to play the infield just as well as he can play the outfield! Besides his awesome offense and defense, Mel brings much more to any team he plays for. His perfect attendance, selfless attitude and upbeat personality are totally team oriented." Larry Lopez wrote, "Mel always puts the team first and willingly accepts any role - from infield to outfield and even some pitching - that is asked of him. Mel performs exceedingly well in any and all positions on the field and at bat. He is well-known, and his abilities are respected by players on the many Major Plus teams that he has played for and against. Mel is one of the rare players who contributes in all aspects of the game."
Player Bobby Davis	Terry Hennessy wrote, "Bobby Davis' athleticism at shortstop and tiching and his superb hitting skills have made him one of the most respected senior softball players in America and beyond." "Not only has Bobby played and starred on some of the best Major Plus teams in the nation, but he has been a model for our sport overseas; always taking time to give players on foreign teams hitting instructions and tips." Audie Hollis writes, "I consider Bobby one of the finest hitters in the senior game as he always is one of the top hitters in average as well as power. In addition, he is an excellent pitcher and when called on can play any position." "While Bobby is a heck of a good athlete, he is an even better teammate and man. On numerous occasions Bobby has been above generous with his time and money to help teammates in need or to buy shirts, shoes, etc. You can always count on Bobby to give 100% on the field and contribute off the field as well. I consider his a total team player that gives back to the senior community with batting seminars and instructions." Ed Rose wrote, "Bobby is a pure hitter and I don't think it is a stretch to say he is one of the best in the country at any given time. He is a student of the game and loves to help other when ever he can."
Player John Emerson	Gary Tryhorn writes, "Mr. Emerson has been one of the most prolific softball pitchers in the nation. He is well regarded by his teammates and competitors alike, as a fierce combatant in the game of softball." Don Clatterbough wrote, "John is a team player and very professional in his approach to the game and its supporters. He is the recipient of numerous personal awards. John's contributions with the bat, his pitching ability and his outstanding defense 'up the middle' was a major factor in the success enjoyed by the Orange Crush teams in 1996 and 1997. He continues to participate at the major level with other teams based in the State of Florida."
Player Harold Heller	Connie Vitale wrote, "Harry brings knowledge and a fair sense of play to the game which is evidenced by his many years of umpiring as well as playing softball. Harry has excelled both in the outfield and at the plate. He exudes class when he plays, with a win attitude." Bob Ahal wrote, "Harry is an outstanding team player as well as individual contributor on the team. He exhibits good camaraderie with team members and good sportsmanship toward opponents. He can be depended on in the clutch and is consistently on of my top hitters."
Player Dennis Lutz	R.D. Howard wrote, "Dennis always rises above the norm with a mental toughness that garners respect and creates an atmosphere for all to elevate their game. He has one of the most precious attributes of an athlete, he plays the game at a very high level, but never loses sight of an opportunity to teach the fundamentals of Senior Softball when appropriate." "He has given his all both on and off the field and has met and exeeded the standards for an exceptional individual both as an athlete and a senior citizen that plays as an elite member of Senior Softball. There is no one in Senior Softball that expects more of himself than Dennis, accordingly, he spends hours thru out the season working on his hitting and fielding techniques and at the same time, will always take time to work with aspiring softball players hoping to improve their game." Bob Wiltgen writes, "His strengths have been high average hitting, with power, and clutch hitting. He has tremendous speed and quickness, which allows him to take the extra base. As an outfielder, Dennis has the uncanny ability to take the proper angle to catch any balls that are hit his way."
Player Don Pierson	Bob Parella wrote, "As a candidate for the NSSHOF, I can think of no better player than Don Pierson. Worthy competitor, terrific leader, and hands down the most respected player on the squad. Though he was a very solid hitter, it was his presence on the mound; pitching, fielding and directing the team from that position was Don's strength. Don presented himself as quiet and confident and the players around him know that with Don on the mound, we had the best chance for success." Gary Tharaldson wrote, "Don is a real gentleman and a fierce competitor, who plays the game with passion and integrity; he is well respected by his peers." "Don is a great offensive player and is always a tough out. His defensive skills are equally impressive. He's a pitcher who can throw strikes at will and can field his position with the best of them." R.D. Howard wrote, "Don remains among the elite pitchers of all time while maintaining a .700 plus batting average. His athletic abilities enable him to play any position on the diamond."
Player George Sylvia	Larry Lopez wrote, "George is a consummate softball player - a consistent high average hitter and an excellent defensive player at shortstop. His defensive skills include terrific hands and anticipation to be in the right place to make the play. George is one of the finest players I have had the pleasure of playing with. He is a true gentleman both on and off the field, demonstrating the highest level of sportsmanship. He is recognized as a great player who plays even better in big games." Bob Woodroof writes, "George is on of the toughest outs around and is a very solid defender. As an infielder, George has great anticipation, almost always places himself in the path of the ball, and he knows what to do with it onces it's in his hands."
Woman Pioneer Player Jean Mills	Sylvia Mergl wrote, "Jean has been playing with the Sportaculars Canada Senior Women's Softball team for 22 years. She has played various positions over the years and was an excellent third base with a great glove and throw. Jean also is a place hitter and has great ball sense. Her positive attitude is an inspiration to all softball players." Doreen Garrett writes, "Her ability to hit over third base and in front of the left fielder is well known by those who have played with and against her. Jean is supportive to everyone and most willing to be a part of the team in whatever capacity is required. You can count on Jean knowing what is happening and what should be done." Heather Dunseith writes, "In the last few years I have een umpiring in a ladies league where Jean is both a coach and a player. She sure keeps us officials on our toes! Her knowledge of the fundamentals are atonishing as is her great love for the game."
Woman Pioneer Player Evelyn Nealeigh	Walter Severhof wrote, "It is almost impossible to find a person who has dedicated her entire life to softball, who really loves the game, who still has a real athletic command of the game and will do anything to play softbal! Evelyn's consistent performance is to be admired; she has a DURACELL of effort; and definitely is a pleasure to coach. She is a selfless teammate wh has strong skills on and off the field." Katie Horstman wrote, "I was impressed with Evelyn's worth ethic on the field. She never missed a practice or a game, and always hustled on and off the field. Her batting was uniue in that she could place the ball either to right or left field advancing runners in scoring position. Her defense in the outfield was just outstanding, always catching and throwing the ball to the proper base. Evelyn has my highest recommendation to be inducted into the National Hall of Fame."
Woman Player Rebecca Stanfill	Will Grandstaff wrote, "Becky is a true competitor who always gives 110% effort, knows the game, and has worked to perfect the fundamentals necessary to contribute both offensively and defensively to her team's success. She is a champion both on and off the diamond." Bobby Jones wrote, "Becky's talent was apparent to everyone she played with, including opposing players. Her ability and strength as a player and as a competitor was hard to match. The opposing team may not have liked to lose to her, but also they could not deny her talent. Becky, by far was the most talented player I have ever coached." Judy Lee Schrieber wrote, "She has played senior softball for a long time and is known as one of the best shortstops in the softball world. She not only has a great arm, but is also one of the best long ball hitters. You can always depend on Becky to bring a lot of runs in every game.