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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 2020

Pioneer Manager Jim Fulks	Randy Fithian wrote, “Jim has tirelessly dedicated 25 years to the promotion and development of senior softball and dedicated a great deal of time and effort to achieve a place for seniors to play in leagues and tournaments.” Jimmy Lancaster says, “Jim Brings passion and integrity to the game of senior softball because he loves it so much. Jim helps promote goodwill for the game and does so with a joyful spirit.” Mel Steinnett wrote, “Jim goes above and beyond to involve all of his players on the field. He has a keen knowledge of the skills of every player, moving them around in difference positions to keep the team competitive. Jim’s record keeping is meticulous, filling numerous binders, going back years. Jim also shows a personal interest in his players off the field and has opened his home at times for players to spend the night en route to a tournament.”
Pioneer Manager George Masters	Jim Klassen wrote, “George and his Marauder team(s) are well know as he has worked tirelessly at promoting the values of playing senior softball in the NW and is without doubt part of the reason that Western Canada has as many teams as they do participate in tournaments like the Huntsman and the SSUSA.” Terry Hennessy writes “George has consistently put together one of the premier teams in Canada over the past two decades and, even more impressive, he has consistently displayed the sportsmanship and professionalism that have made him a leader in the sport.” Fran Dowell says, “George is a tireless worker who continually brings energy, sportsmanship, class and a stong work ethic to the field every day, no matter the circumstances.” Steve Sloane writes, “George’s team was always ready to play hard and it brought the best out in my team. We needed to play focused or we wouldn’t be competitive against his team. His players exhibited a will to play hard year after year and, I think that’s a reflection of their manager.” Frank Price wrote, " George is a very organized and dedicated coach/manager. He has always run a very strong team. He always has his team at the field as designated on the schedule and they are very competitive in the 50 + league despite their team being generally 65 + in age.”
Pioneer Player David Bush	Hugh Brotherton writes, “David has been our everyday short stop with great defensive skills and one of the strongest throwing arms. David is a good person and is our Chaplin, leading us in a prayer of thanks before the start of each tournament. His talents are seen across the entire softball field in and out of the dugout.” Ronald Pfeiffer wrote, “Dave with his wife Alice live their Christian lives by helping others with hospital visits, giving assistance to the elderly, purchasing and distributing Bibles through the Gideons. Dave’s fielding skills as an infielder are excellent, rarely making an error and turning numerous double plays. His base running is outstanding, always taking that extra base.” Norm Haltrich says, “Dave is a very good hitter. In National and World tournaments he is always one of the leading hitters on the team. He hits the ball sharply and, on many occasions, can hit the long ball. He always displays a levelheaded attitude and is truly a team player.” Mike DeSorbo writes, “Over the years while playing 60 and 65 over for our team Dave was named to numerous All Tournament Teams on offense and defense, along with an All World Player and several MVPs. I would also add that Dave at 70 years old played down in the 65 division for two years.”
Pioneer Player Fred Donaghy	Wayne Ellithorpe writes, "Fred’s personality was such that no matter where he was asked to play, he did so with no complaints nor excuses." Ron Brown wrote, "Playing with Fred not only has been an absolute pleasure but has provided the opportunity to enjoy and benefit from his outstanding skills as a player;’ ‘He is a wonderful example of putting the team first and himself second. He is one of the most unselfish players I have ever played with." Marcel Mathieu says, "You ask anything of him, and it’s always “yes” with no hesitation, always with a helping hand. His character is one to be made as an example." Jack Randall wrote, "To play for Fred was to learn the game the right way. To play for Fred was the play hard and play to win, while respecting the opposing team and the officials. To play for Fred was to support your teammates honor the game, and above all, have fun." "Although Fred has experienced a significant amount of success, as defined in terms of winning, it has always been my feeling that this is not his primary focus. In his approach to athletics, I believe Fred places greater emphasis on sportsmanship and on playing any sport in a fundamentally correct manner and by the rules." –Robert Fisher
Pioneer Player Ray Dye	John Clampitt wrote, “Ray is an excellent player with unbelievable offensive skills. Ray has been an active member in senior softball here since it started around in 1988. He has helped promote leagues, morning batting practice and winter indoor play. He seeks out new recruits and provides them with information on bats, gloves, bags, etc." Ron Hellier writes, “Ray has been our MVP for most of our tournaments and when he was not, he still made the All Tournament team. He is our leading offensive player as well as a defensive standout. Many players look up to him as he gladly shares his game knowledge with them. Whenever Ray’s name is mentioned as being one of our team members it becomes much easier to convince players to come with us.” William Hudson says, “Ray is definitely a great player, well respected by his peers and teammates. Ray plays the game with great desire and is an asset to senior softball. He always conducts himself in a quiet and professional manner.” Raymond Bosetti wrote, “Ray’s commitment to senior softball over the past many years has certainly qualified him for inclusion in the NSSHOF. Ray’s passion and enjoyment of softball are his most obvious qualifications. However, he has a defensive and offensive skill set to match his love of the game.”
Pioneer Player Robert Eisenhauer	Bob started playing senior softball in 1988 by putting together a team for the Senior Games in St. George, Utah. In 1989 Bob formed a 55 year old league in Portland also, forming leagues in 1991 a 50 league and in 1992 forming a 60 year old league in Vancouver, Washington. Don Duman wrote, “Bob was instrumental in organizing slow pitch softball in the City of Portland, Oregon back in the 1980s. As a player, and outfielder, he is known for his defensive abilities and outstanding speed.” Ronald “Red” Hangland wrote, “Bob Eisenhauer has received several awards playing softball. He could run like a deer. He had a lefthanded swing that made the ball go down 3rd base line.” John Keller writes, “In 2011 he formed the Senior Softball 75 league in his home in Mesa, Arizona. He was a pioneer of Senior Softball on the West Coast. It was an honor to play with Bob and see the love that he had for Senior Softball.”
Pioneer Woman Player Doris Brown	Gwen Cappadona says, "It’s a pleasure to coach Doris she is dependable and I am never worried when a ball is hit her way. Doris is always ready to practice and play and never misses a tournament. She came thru in the clutch on five occasions in the Myrtle Beach tournament in 2017. I am honored to coach Doris Brown." Paula Klemm wrote, "Doris hits with power, she hits for average, outstanding defense, throwing arm has a zip and she is a team player in every way. Her softball ability and enthusiasm do not adequately reflect all the intangibles Doris brings to the team. She is thoughtful and optimistic. She is a role model who typifies the best in senior softball and women’s athletics." Walter Severhof writes, "Doris’ performance is exceptional and she is a pleasure to coach. Doris is a good athlete, and a giving teammate who shows strong skills on and off the field."
Pioneer Woman Player Ellen Cavins	Paula Klemm wrote, "Ellen hits with power. Her defense is outstanding and her throwing arm has a zip. Ellen is durable and plays every game even with minor injuries. I can’t tell you how many runs she scored for the Blue Chicks as a courtesy runner. Ellen is a lady on the field and never criticizes other players. I cannot imagine a better representative for women’s softball than Ellen Cavins. She is a role model who typifies the best in Senior Softball and Women’s athletics." Walter Severhof writes, "It is extremely hard to find a person who has dedicated their life to softball. Ellen really loves the game and she still has the athletic command of the game. Ellen’s performance is exceptional and she is a pleasure to coach. Ellen is a good athlete and a giving teammate who shows skills on and off the field."
Pioneer Woman Player Peg Moyer	Patricia (Stevie) Stephenson wrote, "Peg is a dedicated and talented player and coach. She has coached the Golden Girls for many years and has been honored with a multitude of awards both as a coach and player. She is multitalented as a player with the ability to play many positions. Although it is difficult to be a player/coach she handles the responsibility with grace and devotion." Brenda Batchelor writes, "Peg has been the heart of their traditionally strong defense. She has the best feed into 2nd to start a double play. She demonstrates the knowledge of the game and situations that are necessary to play at a high level. And she has improved with age." Terri Lee Drake says, Peg’s footwork shows a person that has always been a topnotch defensive player. She still has an excellent glove and range and throwing arm. She serves on many boards in Northern Virginia. Peg exhibits a passion for the game of softball." Peggy O'Neill writes, "Peg has improved women’s senior softball with her suggestions, coaching and playing. She is always a threat when she comes to the plate. Hits all fields, a base hitter and can also hit the long ball. Very hard to defend. Peg has gotten stronger as the years go. She is a valuable asset to any team."
Pioneer Woman Player Mary Niessel	Gwen Cappadona says, "Mary has played for her the entire time she has been coaching with the exception of one season during which she battled and defeated cancer. Not only did she beat it but she returned to play the very next season. That is the ultimate example of the fight and determination that runs through this fine lady’s blood. She is an inspiration to all. Sissy’s main position is first base, but she plays rover, second, third and infield. She is always up for a challenge and will do whatever we need her to do for the good of the team. She is a good solid hitter. She is a defensive machine at first base. She has the ability to make our other infielders look like superstars by scooping and stretching even if they aren’t sending the best throws her way." Walter Sevehof wrote, "Sissy’s performance is exceptional, and she is a pleasure to coach. She is a good athlete and a great teammate who shows strong skills on and off the field. It is extremely hard to find a person who has dedicated her life to softball and who really loves the game and has the athletic command on the field."
Point Director David Dowell	Dave has been a SSUSA Director since 2003 and has developed what many consider to be the finest tournament administration system being used today, in scheduling and bracketing the largest events in the history of Senior Softball. He has authored the game schedules for almost every SSUSA regional and world/national tournament since 2004. In addition to his scheduling duties, Dave has been on the SSUSA Rules Committee since its inception and has served as chair in 2014-2015 and is the editor of the Official SSUSA Rulebook. Michael Boone says, “He sets a great example for all within SSUSA to be the most thorough, and best that they can possible be, to achieve tournament success.” Ted Battistone writes, “Dave never seems to be rattled or under pressure and is most accommodating. When Dave is asked, where are we playing? – What fields are we on? – Who is our opponent? – What time do we play? Dave always has an answer and fields all those questions in a very courteous, gentlemanly manner.”
Point Manager James Sears	James began his softball managerial career in the 1970’s with a team of young men. He has built on that start by coaching the Superior Senior Softball Team to 58 national championships in the major plus division of play. Don Clatterbough says, "Jim has been instrumental in keeping the core of this team together for 7 years." John Davide states, "Jim’s steadfast knowledge of the game and his obvious love of the game is easily observed at all of our team’s tournaments." Stephen Pierson writes, "As a natural leader, Jim stands out as a true gentlemen and Ambassador of the great sport of Senior Softball. His ability to implement, organize and coordinate a very complex and demanding seasonal schedule is bar none a full time job." Tom Dommel wrote, "Although Jim is very competitive he has a way to keep everything in proper perspective. His desire to win is only surpassed by his concern for his players and their families. Everyone tries to define this thing called character. It’s not hard as character is doing what’s right when nobody is looking. Jim is truly a ‘Man of Character’ and is deserving of being in the National Senior Softball Hall of Fame in the manager category."
Point Player David Clover	Steven Imlay writes, “Dave is one of those players that comes along only so often possessing the rare five tool player skillset that makes him a special Senior Softball player. He is an individual that is always offering support and help for his teammates when they are struggling." Hank Cluess writes, "I have played with David for some of the years he lived in Las Vegas and he has been selected to numerous All Tournament teams over his years in senior softball." Bob Woodroof writes, "Managed David for 3 years" and said he considers him to be a good friend and an excellent teammate. Billy Steele, says, "He was not only a great player but a great teammate. David Reed says, "He plays hard and is softspoken at the same time. He is always a gentleman on and off the field." Ed Rose wrote, "As a manager I see Dave as quite an unassuming player who never complains and always a smile."
Point Player Sam Golden	Larry Lopez writes, “Sam is consistently among the team leaders in batting average and his performance increases as the importance of the games increases. He is a gentleman on and off the field, demonstrating the highest level of sportsmanship”. Randy Hendricks wrote, “Hendrick Sports Management won a number of national/world championships, specifically in SSUSA, SPA, ISA, NSA, ISSA and USSSA. Sam was instrumental in that success, making many All American/All World teams”. Mel Colwell says, “I have known and played with Sam for almost 20 years and he exhibits two very distinct abilities with regard to his Senior Softball play. Initially, if the game is on the line he’s the one you want at the plate, and secondly, although serious about winning, Sam has that special gift of making the game fun”.
Point Player Wade Heppert	Wade B. “Oggie” Heppert started his Senior Softball career in 2000 with Mid-Atlantic Softball’s major team. He has played at the major level his whole senior softball career. Don Clatterbough states, "He has been an intense competitor, an outstanding outfielder and a solid clutch hitter. I respect him as a player and a person. Mike Rose says, "Wade leads by example, is an intense competitor and exhibits great sportsmanship." John Scruggs wrote, "He considers him a true 5 tool player). His willingness to play anywhere and anytime shows his love of the game." Teammate Stephen Pierson) commented, "Wade is a natural leader, stands out as a true gentlemen and Ambassador of the Great sport of Senior Softball."
Point Player Raymond Hubbe	Pat Carey wrote, "Ray was one of the best players to even come out of the state of Maryland; helped lead out team to 15 National Major World Champs.” Don Ward writes, “He is a leader on the field keeping everyone fired up with his winning attitude.” Ran Sandy says, “He keeps the team loose with his dry sense of humor and helps pump us up when we need to be pumped up! Ray is a prime example of the camaraderie that makes senior softball great.” Steve Dye wrote, “In tournaments, Ray plays against the tougher competition and is always encouraging the team to keep playing hard.” Drew Martin state, “Ray is not one of those players who berates a fellow team member for an error or an out at a critical point in the game but rather one of those players who offers a kind word and a joke to uplift a teammate.” Sonny Johnston wrote, “Ray brings all the tools to the game…fielding, throwing, hitting for a high average, and running not only for himself but is the first one off the bench to run for others.” Frank Freitas wrote, "Ray is a strong defensive player and an outstanding hitter with his tournament average consistently above .800. All of his teammates hold him in the highest regard as one of the team leaders and foundation.”
Point Player Richard Kuyath	Ed Korba writes, “Dick was one of the most productive power and clutch hitters on our roster, leading the team in home runs, RBI’s, and was one of the leading hitters for average in all those years.” Gordy Gerlach wrote, “Dick is a pure hitter. He always batted 3rd in the lineup and was always a team leader in home runs and batting average. He is a clutch hitter, and a student of the game. He always gave 100% and played every game to win.”
Point Player William Macuch	Tom Dommel writes “I have played with and against Bill for approximately 40 years and have always found him to be a fierce competitor. Whether teammate or opponent, it’s always been a pleasure to play with him on the field. He is a genuinely nice person, who leads by example and makes his team better." Ray Wimbrough wrote, "He is one of the first players you would pick when starting a senior team. He excels in pressure situations and is an excellent hitter with considerable home run power as well as very good defensively." Pat Carey, his current manager writes: “He has been a member of the High Street Bucs softball teams for the past 11 years, as a starting player and also being elected as our Team Captain. Bill has earned the respect of all who competed with and against him. Bill is a player who leads by example, who would never ask, or expect a player to something, that he wouldn’t do himself."
Point Player Paul Salow	Jon Kramer says of Paul, “though he has a quiet demeanor and an unassuming attitude on and off the field, he is incredibly talented both offensively and defensively. In our multiple National and World Championships, Paul has often led in homeruns, RBI’s Gold Gloves, and MVP awards. His competitive attitude and great desire to win separate him from other superstars that he plays with”. Phil Ledesma writes, “Mr. Salow is one of the top three players I have ever known”. Mike Trusty wrote, “Paul is the ultimate coach’s dream, as he is the most consistent hitter and outfielder, in my opinion in Senior Softball”.
Point Player Anthony Vodola	Don Clatterbough writes, "I played against Tony for years and have also been teammates. He was and is an intense competitor, an outstanding outfielder, and a good hitter. He has proven to be a better teammate than opponent. I respect him as a player and as a person." John Davide writes, "The true greatness of this player lies in his humbleness and team first attitude. Tony is a fine example of sportsmanship as well as excellence on and off the field." Mark “Boo” Canegallo commented, "Tony is a total team player and hits for average and power. His persona off the field is as exemplary as his playing skills." Andrew “Pete” Smith stated, watching him play with his uncommon abilities, defensive skills, high average and power hitting has made me believe he would be a difference maker on any team. Tony is a level-headed remarkable person and playing with him has always been a good experience. The accomplishments far exceed the nomination requirements for consideration of induction into NSSHOF."
Point Player Stephen Wilson	Stephen (Steve) H. Wilson started his Senior Softball career in the 1999 with The New York Statesmen in South Hampton, NY and that gave him the love for “Senior Softball”. John Wick wrote, "Steve is a close friend and a wonderful teammate. He is a multiple position player who can adjust to any situation." Teammate John Davide writes, "Steve has been on many winning teams and he was a big part of their success. Steve is and will always be a great friend and teammate." Gary Richter states, "Steve has been a great competitor his whole life, a great teammate and a super class person! He has been a great pitcher, hitter and fielder, consistently excelling ad leading our teams." Joseph Czarnecki wrote, "Steve leads by example. In addition to Steve’s offensive and defensive prowess, he exhibits a great passion and dedication for the game and shows respect for the players who play it."
Point Player Michael Wingard	Ray Winbrough wrote, "Mike has always been a great base hitter with home run power when needed. One of Mike’s biggest assets is his speed for a senior player. He is versatile and energetic player that always helps his teammates when their games are not going well." Bruce Fairchildwrites, "I have played against Mike many times on the Senior Circuit and Mike has played at the highest level. He is always such a great competitor and a good sportsman." Andy Zitnay wrote, "I have played with and against Mike for many years and he has always been a feared hitter and more than a competent defender. As a teammate there are few with his positive demeanor and never say die attitude." Don Clatterbough stated, "Not only is Mike a devoted player and team leader, on and off the field he exhibits character, class and sportsmanship." Manager Pat Carey wrote, "Mike is an outstanding leader, and teammate. From the time the game begins, he leads by example, and constantly is encouraging his teammates to play “smarter” and “better”."
Point Woman Manager Karen Honey	Connie Stewart state, "Karen’s management skills produced many excellent results with the team. Her success was proven by bringing together such talent, mixed personalities and coaching them to act like a team, play like a team and win like a team." Cathy Nicholson writes, "Karen’s leadership skills attracted quality players and one might thin that would lessen her task, however, that would not always be the case. Strong personalities, loud mouths and second guessing can cause any coach to run for cover but not Karen." Suzy Brazney wrote, "The California Spirit teams that Karen has coached in the 50 & 55 divisions had over a .700 winning percentage, won many Huntsman and Senior Olympics championships, as well as a few Triple Crown championships. In addition, the 2004 and 2011 seasons, they won every tournament that they played in that year." Cathy Moon says, "When I think of the word dynasty, I think of Karen Honey and the California Spirit senior women’s softball teams. She took a skeleton of a team in the early years, formed, molded and created one of the winningest women’s softball teams. Karen’s main philosophy was very simple “have fun”
Point Woman Player Shirley Karper	Gale Harris wrote, "Shirley always gave 110%. If she ever made an error, she was bound, and determined to not make another. Shirley was hard on herself…push, push, push. I feel as though Shirley is one of the 'Best All Around' players I've ever coached."