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Hall of Famer Looks at 40 Years of Slowpitch Softball
SPRING 2011 Crankin’Craig Elliott Hall of Famer Looks at 40 Years of Slowpitch Softball Ken Sanders and Steele’s Amway Center, NBA’s Orlando Magic and the USSSA Host the 2011 NPF College Senior Draft T H E N AT I O N ’S BE S T SOFTB ALL PL AYERS CONVERGE The 2011 National Pro Fastpitch Championship in Sulphur, Louisiana is the only place you’ll see the nation’s finest softball players compete! On August 18–21, top teams from coast to coast will bring their A-Game and A-List players such as Cat Osterman, Jessica Mendoza, Monica Abbott and Taryne Mowatt to battle for the title. See you in Sulphur! VisitLakeCharles.org • ProFastpitch.com GET YOUR GAME ON Selection and prices vary by store. Prices good through May 31, 2011. 199 199 29 99 EVERYDAY! EVERYDAY! EASTON SALVO SLOW PITCH SOFTBALL BAT EVERYDAY! 49 • Split-hinge web •Also available in left-handed player model • #WTA0360 ES14 NIKE 99 DIAMOND ELITE EVERYDAY! 13-IN. 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SOFTBALL BUCKET • #ACAB618-11-CBKT • #A163103BK Visit academy.com to find a store near you facebook.com/academysportsandoutdoors youtube.com/academydotcom twitter.com/academydotcom 26th presents Annual Budweiser Softball Festival In Bryan/College Station on April 30th & May 1st, 2011 Brought to you by Jack Hilliard Distributing, Bryan/College Station,TX To enter your team, contact Greg Huchingson at (979) 774-9408 CONTENTS M A G A Z I N E 6028 Rayburn Dr. • Fort Worth,TX 76133 (817) 944-7484 • stafford.connor@usssa.com Executive Director, CEO USSSA Don DeDonatis Publisher, USSSA Today Stafford Connor Managing Editor, USSSA Today Greg Huchingson Communications Director, USSSA Tom O’Hara of Famer Helmig 8 Hall reflects on four decades in slowpitch softball NPF Holds 2011 Senior 16 Draft Live Celebrates 24 USSSA National Pro Fastpitch Title, Inducts Ten More Hall of Famers at 43rd National Meeting Design / Printing REEDESIGN Lebco Graphics Contributing Writers Robert Boudreaux Mike Cisneros Bob Egr Van Galeon Rachel “MG” Gossens Janeen Gondek Tommy Hawkins Roy Hess Cathy Hoffman James Keyes Scott Kuhnen Mark Linnemann Luis Mejia Greg McNeese Melissa Moose Daniel Odom Dave Pedersen Rick Phillips Craig Scriven Kirk Tarabokia Kim Titus Gerry Turnberg Dennis Turner Photographers Brianne Cisneros Roy Dean Scott Duffy Rachel Gossens Larry Meraz Daniel Odom Pete Spatula Kim Titus USSSA Today is published quarterly. Publishing offices are located at 6028 Rayburn Dr., Fort Worth, TX 76133. One year subscription is $25; two year is $40. Reproduction or use of the contents in whole or in part without prior written permission of the publisher is prohibited. USSSA Today welcomes unsolicited articles or photographs, but must be accompanied with a self-addressed, stamped envelope for return of unsolicited material. Endorses USSSA’s 31 NFCA UCBL USSSA Youth 52 Tracking Fast Pitch 5th Annual Breast Cancer 58 Awareness Softball Tournament & Fun Race Patty’s Indoor Open 60St. Rocks Omaha Sue Enquist in Las Vegas 62 on “How the Recruiting Process Works” a Smashing Success Orleans Hosts 2K11 32 New Regional Summit Deal Expected 34 Business To Enhance Anaconda Sports Offerings Worth’s DT 36 Details Worth Equipment 38 2011 Bats - Choose Your Weapon 40The Essence of Sport 44Brownsville Sports Park Offers Something For Everyone Starr Hire New 46AD Veterans Develop High America’s Finest City 63 Tournament 66Tiger Town Showdown 682011 Global Sports World Series 70 Atlanta Super NIT 76 Illinois Team Logs Miles to Compete at North Texas Winter Worlds Mourns 86Oklahoma the Loss of Doug Hunt USSSA 88Minnesota Seventeenth Annual Hall Performance Ball Artificial Turf Coming To 50 Big League Dreams In of Fame Banquet 90USSSA Golf In Full Swing Mansfield, Texas USSSA TODAY 7 Hall of Famer Helmig reflects on four decades in slowpitch softball By Greg Huchingson Special thanks to Mike Macenko for securing the earlier photos from the late, Jerome Earnest. Denny Helmig has seen it all in a 40-year career of playing, managing and working in the slowpitch softball industry, giving him a unique and highly-qualified perspective on all facets of the sport. “Softball has been very good to me,” said Helmig. “I’ve seen a lot of changes over the years, but the game today is still not as different as most people seem to think.” Helmig was inducted into the USSSA Hall of Fame in 2007. Helmig, Gary Coats, Paul Schroeder and Glen Eley gathered at the Pizza Village restaurant in Lima, Ohio back in 1971 – 40 years ago – to organize a slowpitch softball team that was to be sponsored by Coats’ business, Steele’s Automotive Parts Company. The team played in just three tournaments in the fall of 1971, winning first place in two of them and finishing second in the other, before embarking on a full-season schedule in 1972. Helmig was the starting leftfielder on those teams. In 1974, Steele’s Automotive finished runnerup in the Ohio State Tournament to qualify for its first ever National Tournament in York, Pa. The team from Lima went 0-2 at their first National, but both games were one-run decisions in extra innings, 12-11 to Champion Landscaping of King’s Mountain, N.C. and 8-7 to Pyramid Café of Cleveland, Oh. Results would get better from there. Using exclusively Ohio players, the team compiled a 717-145 record (.831 winning percentage) over the next six years. “We played in two leagues (Lima and Toledo) for a couple of years and we entered every tournament around,” Helmig said. “We rode a bus two nights a week to play in the Toledo league, and we even played in two tourna8 USSSA TODAY ments one weekend – driving back and forth between Ft.Wayne (Indiana) and Defiance (Ohio).” Beginning in 1980, Steele’s went national with their roster, adding the likes of Mighty Joe Young and Don Clatterbaugh. In 1981, they added a couple more pretty good players – Herman Rathman and Denny Jones – as well as taking on a new business partner, Dave Neale. The following year, Neale bought out the original partner and in 1983 he began managing the team. In his first year as manager, Steele’s made it to the championship of the USSSA World Series, where they got doubledipped by Jerry’s Catering. Helmig’s role evolved over the years. He was a player/manager from 1978 to 1981, when he began to focus more on the management end, especially after Steele’s got into the sporting good business. Helmig became president of Steele’s Sports in 1983 and continued in that capacity all the way through the glory years. He continued filling in as a part-time player through the 1985 season, primarily as a late-inning defensive specialist at third base. Steele’s won the ASA Super National Tournament in 1984, ’85 and ’86. In 1988 they won the USSSA Major World Series, and in 1991 they won three of the four legs of the Grand Slam. “In my mind, that was the greatest team of all-time,” said Helmig. “At one point, we won 144 games in a row. The lineup was a Who’s Who of softball legends – (Mike) Macenko, (Billy) Blake, (Monty) Tucker, (Dirk) Androff, (Rick) Wieterman, (Todd) Joerling and the list just goes on and on.” In 1992, Helmig sold his stock in the company to Neale, and moved on to A.D. Starr Co. He worked there until 1997, when he made the move to Worth Sports where he has remained for the past 14 years. He is currently the Regional Sales Manager of Worth Sports, which was named the 2010 Vendor of the Year by Nation’s Best Sports, the largest volume sporting goods buying group in North America. The biggest difference between his early years in softball and today, Helmig said, is bat technology. “In 1970 a new softball bat cost $9.95. By 1985, you could still get a top-of-theline bat for $50. Today, guys are paying over $300,” said Helmig. “There were more power hitters back then. Mike Macenko was hitting corked softballs over 500 feet with an aluminum bat like they were golf balls. Mighty Joe Young would try to shoot ‘em out of stadiums like he was firing a shotgun. (Former NFL player) Scott Virkus was 6-foot-6, 295 pounds, and brute strong. He would have killed somebody today.” Helmig said the performance of today’s bats is “scary.” “We need to curb the performance of these composite bats, so that the exit speed can never exceed a certain point. Guys are hitting slowpitch softballs further than baseball players can hit baseballs. It’s crazy,” he added. Helmig also quickly admits, today’s players are much better athletically than the old days, while still possessing a lot of power in their swings. Having seen all the best softball players of the past four decades, Helmig detailed his choices as the best players at each position from the Old Era (1970 to 1990) and the New Era (1991 to 2011). BEST FROM 1970 to 1990 P Buddy Slater CC Brick, Howard’s, Campbell’s P Rick Weiterman Steele’s, Ritch’s P Rick Pinto Snyder’s C Craig Elliott Ken Sanders, Steele’s C Herman Rathman Nelson, Steele’s C Gene Fisher Howard’s 1B Cal Carmen Dino’s 1B Don Arndt Howard’s 1B Dennis Graser Steele’s, Ritch’s 2B Mike Macenko Steele’s, Ritch’s 2B H.T. Waller Howard’s 2B James Boyette Jerry’s, Howard’s MI Denny Hogan Howard’s MI Dennis Myers Campbell’s Carpets MI Steve Williams Howard’s, Capital SS Rooster Bradley Campbell’s SS Rick Trudeau Snyder’s, Caesar’s SS Ron Parnell Ritch’s, Superior-Apollo, Sierra 3B Charles Wright Ken Sanders, Elite Coating 3B Rick “Crusher” Scherr Howard’s, Taylor Bros. 3B Bill Ferguson Taylor Bros., Campbell’s 3B Jim Galloway Long Island CountySports LF Doug Roberson Steele’s, Ritch’s LF Cecil Whitehead Elite, Steele’s, Ritch’s LF Ronnie Ford Ken Sanders, Detroit Pro CF Mike Nye Steele’s, Nelson’s, Warren Motors CF Dick Bartel CC Brick, Howard’s, Campbell’s CF Mike Cellura Capital, Howard’s, Campbell’s RF Bruce Meade Nelson’s, Elite, Smythe Sox RF Stan Harvey Howard’s RF Gordon Wheeler Campbell’s, Howard’s UT Mighty Joe Young Nelson’s, Steele’s, Jerry’s UT Greg Fuhrman Steele’s, York, Jerry’s UT Bill Gatti Elite, Apollo, Smythe Sox EH Chick Downing Howard’s, Steele’s, Nelson’s EH Dave Steffan Steele’s, Ritch’s EH Mike Bolen Dave Carroll Sports, Steele’s Extra Denny Jones Howard’s, Campbell’s Extra Clyde Guy Howard’s, Superior-Apollo Extra Doug Brown Smythe Sox Extra Harold Kelly Jerry’s, Nelson’s Extra Curtis Williams Sunbelt Mgr Bobby Lutz Howard’s Mgr Dave Neale Steele’s Dirk Androff (Steele’s, Ritch’s) Bruce Meade (Nelson’s, Elite, Smythe Sox) Dick Bartel (CC Brick, Howard’s, Campbell’s) Craig Elliott (Ken Sanders, Steele’s) USSSA TODAY 9 BEST FROM 1991 to 2011 Mighty Joe Young (Nelson’s, Steele’s, Jerry’s) Rick “The Crusher” Scherr (Howard’s, Taylor Bros.) Herman Rathman (Nelson, Steele’s) Rooster Bradley (Campbell’s) 10 USSSA TODAY P Andy Purcell Sunnyvale, Long Haul, Resmondo P Paul Drilling Ritch’s-Superior, Team TPS, Hague P Ted Larsen Spectrum C Jeff Wallace Team TPS, Long Haul, Resmondo C J.C. Phelps Team TPS, New, US Vinyl, GTL C Wendell Rickard Lighthouse, Budweiser, Williams 1B Dirk Androff Steele’s, Ritch’s 1B Hank Garris Ritch’s, Sierra, Team TPS, Suncoast 1B Jeff Hall Dan Smith, Sunbelt 2B Carl Rose Lighthouse, Williams-Worth 2B Darrell Beeler Sierra, Ritch’s, Chase 2B Greg Connell Resmondo MI Bryson Baker Long Haul, Dan Smith, Resmondo MI Todd Martin ShenValley, Team TPS, Long Haul MI Dennis Rulli Long Haul, Dan Smith, Resmondo SS Don DeDonatis III Mountain Top, Resmondo SS Todd Joerling Steele’s, Bell Corp, Dan Smith SS Greg Whitlock Steele’s, Apollo 3B Rusty Bumgardner ShenValley, Team TPS, Long Haul 3B Mike Shenk Team TPS, Long Haul, Chase LF Britt Hightower Smythe Sox, Ritch’s, Sunbelt LF Brian Rainwater L&L Paint, Resmondo LF Jason Kendrick Team TPS, Long Haul, Resmondo CF Scott Streibel Long Haul, Resmondo, Lighthouse CF Bobby Hughes Bell Corp, Resmondo CF Rick Baker K&G, Resmondo, Dan Smith RF Larry Fredieu Sierra, Lighthouse, Ritch’s, Sunbelt RF Dwayne Frizzell Lighthouse, Sunbelt, L&L RF Doug Kissane Ritch’s, Team TPS, Dan Smith UT Brett Helmer SoJern, Bell Corp, Dan Smith UT Howie Krause Hague, Resmondo UT Dewayne Nevitt Ritch’s, Vernon’s, Bell Corp EH Jimmy Powers Sunbelt, Steele’s, Ritch’s EH Tim Cocco Bell Corp, Chase, Budweiser, Shoppe Extra B.J. Fulk Smokes, Specialty Tank, Resmondo Extra Johnny McCraw Sunbelt, Dan Smith, Laservision Extra Dal Beggs Hague, Resmondo, Dan Smith Extra Robbie Ergle Lighthouse, Dan Smith Extra Brian Wegman Benfield, Bell Corp, Dan Smith Mgr Mike Glasscock Sierra, Team TPS Mgr Buddy Slater Ritch’s-Superior, Smythe Sox So, if the two teams played each other in their primes, who would win? “If you could turn back the clock, that would be an interesting matchup,” said Helmig. “With everyone using the same equipment on 300-foot fields, I think the 1970-90 team would win because of their power. But in baseball stadiums, I think the 1991-2011 team would win because of their athleticism. Neither way would be blowouts, though. In a seven-game series, it would be four games to three each way.” Stan Harvey(left) and Don Arndt (Howard’s) As far as the best player of all-time, Helmig said when pressed that he would likely give the nod to Big Jim Galloway, who played for County Sports out of Long Island, New York back in the early 1970s. “He played third base like Brooks Robinson and hit like Babe Ruth. He hit balls 500 feet using a wooden bat,” Helmig said. Many softball fans today think the five-man infield is a relatively new concept, but “not so” says Helmig. “Snyders Softball Club out of Detroit won the USSSA World Series several times back in the 1970s using the fiveman,” said Helmig. “They would put three infielders between second base and third base, and the pitcher would throw inside to a right-handed batter then back up to the second base side of the mound. Our Steele’s teams also used the five-man extensively in the 1980s.” Dave Neale (Steele’s) Mike Macenko (Steele’s, Ritch’s) 12 USSSA TODAY Wendell Rickard (Lighthouse, Budweiser, Williams) Helmig is a big fan of Conference USSSA, saying it is a “great concept” and an “asset to softball.” Helmig recalls the days of the old slowpitch professional league. There were about 20 teams, with eight showing up at each tournament and as many as three tournaments on a given weekend. Sponsors had a chance to win some of their money back, but there was a resi- dency requirement with players on a team having to live in the same state. “I’m not sure we wouldn’t be better off if we went back to that,” Helmig said. “But it will never happen. You would have to have somebody in each state step up and sponsor their team, and that’s just not going to happen.” Helmig does envision one day seeing an eight-team Super League, with all games played in baseball stadiums and televised on ESPN. Don DeDonatis III- Mountain Top, Resmondo Brian Rainwater(left) L&L Paint,Resmondo and BJ Fulk- Smokes, Specialty Tank, Resmondo Greg Connell- Resmondo Andy Purcell- Sunnyvale, Long Haul, Resmondo Having begun playing in a time when there were no home run limits in softball, Helmig would like to see a return to those days. “Home run rules put a target on the pitchers,” he said. “I think there should be no home run limit at any level. Directors can regulate the teams some other way.” Helmig is a lifelong resident of Lima, Ohio. He lettered in three sports at LimaCentralCatholicHigh School. He was a split end in football, a guard in basketball, and a pitcher and third-baseman in baseball. He played on the summer league Acme baseball team that won the state championship in 1967 and played on the Lima Post 96 American Legion team that won the state championship and finished third at regionals. Helmig played third base for two years at OhioUniversity – where one of his teammates was another pretty good thirdbaseman, Baseball Hall of Famer Mike Schmidt – before transferring to Bowling Green. After college, Helmig coached junior high football and basketball, and junior college basketball – all while holding down the position of district supervisor for the Ohio Parole and Probation Officers. Brian Wegman- Benfield, Bell Corp, Dan Smith 14 USSSA TODAY Scott Streibel- Lighthouse,Long Haul, Resmondo Helmig married his high school sweetheart, Polly, and has one son (Gavin, now a USSSA baseball director) and twin daughters (Sara and Kara). I WOULD HATE TO PLAY ME. BE YOURSELF. ONLY BETTER.™ Deliver hit after hit with the NEW Mizuno Craze Xtreme slow pitch bat, uniquely made with Black Onyx Carbon™ for extreme pop and improved glass fiber for ultimate durability. Bring out the better hitter inside you at mizunousa.com/slowpitch. Available 5/1/11 NPF Holds 2011 Senior Draft Live Presented by MIKEN NPF Diamonds select Kelsi Dunne from University of Alabama for No. 1 Pick The 2011 NPF College Senior Draft was once again sponsored by Miken Sports. Orlando, FL – National Pro Fastpitch (NPF) and its four-affiliate teams held the 2011 NPF Senior Draft Presented by Miken from the Amway Center in Orlando Florida, home of the Orlando Magic. For the second consecutive year, the NPF Draft was broadcast on MLB. com. Each team had at least three selections in the five-round draft. The NPF Diamonds held seven of the 20 overall picks. This was due to several trades that were made prior to the draft. The first pick in the draft went to the NPF Diamonds who selected University 16 USSSA TODAY of Alabama’s Kelsi Dunne. This marked the second year in a row that the first selection overall was a University of Alabama player. Dunne has been a key impact on Alabama’s pitching staff as she became the second Player in Alabama history to be named SEC Pitcher of the Year in 2010. The Akron Racers selected Taylor Schlopy of the University of Georgia with the No. 2 overall selection. The USSSA Pride chose Jenn Salling of Washington at No. 3 and Chicago picked Michigan power hitter Dorian Shaw with the final pick of the first round. USSSA Pride began the second round with the fifth pick overall by choosing University of Florida outfielder Kelsey Bruder. The Akron Racers selected Megan Bush of the University of Florida as the number 6 choice. With the No. 7 pick, the NPF Diamonds chose University of Indiana pitcher Morgan Melloh. Chicago added University of Georgia outfielder Megan Wiggins with the No. 8 selection to close out the second round. The Diamonds led off the third round with the number 9 overall selection by choosing Kentucky catcher Megan ANDREA DURAN FREAK® FX700tm -9 Length/Weight: 34/25, 33/24 FREAK® FX700tm -10 Length/Weight: 34/24, 33/23, 32/22, 31/21 FREAK® FX700tm LIGHT -12 33/21, 32/20, 31/19, 30/18 M AD E IN U SA For full product details visit WWW.MIKENSPORTS.COM find Miken Sports on Facebook Yocke. Akron Racers added East Carolina’s Pitcher Toni Paisley for the number 10 pick. USSSA Pride’s had their third and final pick of the night and selected University of Michigan Pitcher Jordan Taylor as the No. 11 overall selection. With the final choice of the third round, the Chicago Bandits selected Alisa Goler, from the University of Georgia. NPF Diamonds continued a strong 2011 NPF Senior Draft by adding Alabama’s versatile Whitney Larsen. The fourth round continued with the Akron Racers taking Morgan Childres of South Carolina Upstate at number 14 and the NPF Diamonds had the No. 15 pick overall by adding Brittany Hile from the University of Kansas. The Chicago Bandits finished out round four by naming Kristin Shifflet from Radford University as the 16th selection. For the final round of the Draft, the NPF Diamonds chose second basemen Aja Paculba from the University of Florida. The Racers chose Kelly Grieve from the University of Tennessee as the number 18 selection. The Diamonds named Texas A&M standout Rhiannon Kliesing in the number 19 slot. Kliesing will join former A&M teammates Megan Gibson and Jami Lobpries. The final pick of the draft went to the Chicago Bandits who chose Illinois State’s, Kara Nelson. Pride’s CEO/GM Don DeDonatis is flanked by NPF’s Gaye Lynn Wilson (left) and Commissioner Cheri Kempf. The USSSA treated everyone to the Orlando Magic vs. Denver Nuggets game upon completion of the draft. NPF Commissioner, Cheri Kempf, announces the draft order. NPF Diamonds’ Tim Kiernan makes Alabama’s Kelsi Dunne the first pick of the draft. With the number two overall pick, Akron Racers’ Joey Arrietta makes Georgia’s Taylor Schlopy a Racer. USSSA Pride’s Don DeDonatis selects Washington’s Jenn Dunne with their first round pick. Aaron Moore, Chicago Bandits, selects Michigan’s Dorian Shaw to complete the first round. The Amway Center, home of the NBA’s Orlando Magic, provided the beautiful setting for this year’s draft. NPF Commissioner, Cheri Kempf stated, “It has been another impressive draft year for the League. I say over and over again that the NPF is the ultimate challenge for a women’s fastpitch softball player. In light of that, I extend my sincere congratulations to each of the 20 women who have been selected in this year’s draft.” The SEC Conference led collegiate softball with 10 overall athletes chosen in the 2011 Draft. University of Florida and the University of Georgia each had 3 players selected in this years Draft. Re-broadcast information can be found at www.profastpitch.com. Due to NCAA regulations, an active college senior-athlete is not eligible to sign with her respective franchise until her 2011 season is complete. 18 USSSA TODAY Low Rider ™ The Original Low Rise Protective Sliding Shorts Play cooler and dryer with Stromgren® moisture-wicking anti-microbial sliding shorts. Available at Hibbett SportS ® www.softballsales.com Black Red Royal Navy Lime Neon Pink White U.S. Patent No. D525765S 1364 2-Ply Sliding Short 1363 Padded Sliding Short 800-527-1988 • www.stromgren.com • Hays, Kansas 67601 122883 4c - USSSA Today.indd 1 2/28/11 4:47:15 PM 2011 NPF Senior Draft Results 1 (1) NPF Diamonds Kelsi Dunne 2 (2) Akron Racers Taylor Schlopy 3 (3) USSSA Pride Jenn Salling 4 (4) Chicago Bandits Dorian Shaw 1 (5) USSSA Pride (2011 Trade with Diamonds) Kelsey Bruder 2 (6) Akron Racers Megan Bush 3 (7) NPF Diamonds (2011 Trade with Pride) Morgan Melloh 4 (8) Chicago Bandits Megan Wiggins 1 (9) NPF Diamonds Megan Yocke 2 (10) Akron Racers Toni Paisley 3 (11) USSSA Pride Jordan Taylor 4 (12) Chicago Bandits Alisa Goler 1 (13) NPF Diamonds Whitney Larsen 2 (14) Akron Racers Morgan Childres 3 (15) NPF Diamonds (Draft Day Trade with Pride) Brittany Hile 4 (16) Chicago Bandits Kristin Shifflet 1 (17) NPF Diamonds Aja Paculba 2 (18) Akron Racers (Draft Day Trade with Pride) Kelly Grieve 3 (19) NPF Diamonds Rhiannon Kliesing 4 (20) Chicago Bandits Kara Nelson Round 1 Round 2 Round 3 Round 4 Round 5 About National Pro Fastpitch: National Pro Fastpitch is headquartered in Nashville, TN. The League, created to give elite female fastpitch players the opportunity to pursue a professional career in their chosen sport, has operated since 1997 under the names of Women’s Pro Fastpitch (WPF) and Women’s Pro Softball League (WPSL) . © 2008 - National Pro Fast Pitch 20 USSSA TODAY Editor’s Note: Special thanks to the following individuals for making the 2011 NPF College Senior Draft a special event: Chris D’Orso, Vice President of Marketing & Ticket Sales Orlando Magic Steve Chamberland, Group Sales Manager Orlando Magic Kristyn Rogers, Premium Suites Specialist Orlando Magic Ashley Vahedian, Catering Sales Manager Amway Center Lisa Hunt, Guest Relations Amway Center “the whole barrel feels like a sweet spot!” “this is one crazy sounding bat!” We listened to what players wanted and here’s the result: the revolutionary new Xeno composite. Our S1 iD technology gives Xeno a unique sound, ultra-long sweet spot and incredible performance. So hit a few with the Xeno and see what all the talk’s about. To find out more, click on slugger.com. “no sting, no vibration, no matter where you hit.” www.slugger.com © 2011 Hillerich & Bradsby Co., Louisville, KY. All rights reserved. NPF Championships to Return to Sulphur, LA. Nashville – National Pro Fastpitch in conjunction with Sulphur Parks and Recreation announced today the site for the 2011 NPF Championship Series. The Series has been awarded again to Sulphur, Louisiana and will be held August 18-21 at McMurry Park in Sulphur. The event will be hosted by, and with the cooperation of, the Sulphur Parks and Recreation Department and the support of the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention &Visitors Bureau. “Sulphur Parks and Recreation is proud to continue the great relationships formed in the 2010 Championships with the NPF League and their outstanding players. We look forward to the many positive aspects the National Pro FastPitch Championship Series brings to Southwest LA,” said Norman Farr, director of Sulphur Parks and Recreation. The NPF Championship Series is the League’s hallmark event and is designed to feature the League’s outstanding talent in a playoff/tournament format. All four NPF Teams participate in the Championship Series. The format is a best of 3 series between the #1 and #4 seed, along with a best of 3 series between the #2 and #3 seeds, with the winners of those two series’ facing off in a best of 3 Final Championship Series. This will be the second time the event will be held in the state of Louisiana. “The people of Southwest Louisiana and specifically the leadership of the Sulphur Parks and Recreation Department along with the Lake Charles CVB welcomed the NPF in 2010 with open arms, which enabled NPF to hold a first class championship experience,” commented Commissioner Cheri Kempf of the National Pro Fastpitch League. “We believe the environment and accommodations in Sulphur and Lake Charles will greatly contribute to making the NPF Championship Series the premier women’s fastpitch softball competition in the world.” In last year’s NPF Championship Series, the #2 Seed of the Series, USSSA Florida Pride, captured the title after first winning a best of 3 series from the #3 Seed Akron Racers, before moving into the Final Series round against the #1 Seed 3-peat Ringor Cup Regular Season Champions, the Chicago Bandits. The Chicago Bandits earned their way to the Final Series through the Tennessee Diamonds. The Pride’s Natasha Watley was named the MVP of the 2010 NPF Championship Series. “The positive superlatives stretch from great Economics to the quality of life additions manifested through their charity works, sports promotion through youth outreach, and other “fun” Fan Fest events. Southwest Louisiana “Can’t Wait” for 2011,” said Farr. The Championship Series will be surrounded by additional promotional events including a Pro-Am Golf Tournament, 5K Race, NPF/ Ringor Friends of the Pros Game (for handicapped athletes) , NPF 2011 Season Awards Luncheon, and a Players Clinic. In addition to that, a series of USSSA youth quali- fying tournaments that coincide with the Championship Series are expected to be announced soon. Television coverage has yet to be finalized. “We are honored to once again host the National Pro Fastpitch Championship Series,” said Eric Zartler, Senior Sales Manager/ Athletics for the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau. “The Southwest Louisiana community truly embraced this event in 2010 and showed their support by turning out in record numbers for the Series. “ “Southwest Louisiana set the bar a long time ago for youth sports and we are thrilled to be a part of bringing professional athletes and a professional Championship Series to the area once again,” Zartler added. “An event like the National Professional Fastpitch Championship Series has large economic implications for the entire area,” said Shelley Johnson, Executive Director of the Lake Charles/Southwest Louisiana Convention & Visitors Bureau. “In addition to the funding generated by the visitor expenditures on food, gas and souvenirs, the Series also brings a national spotlight to Southwest Louisiana.” Tickets for the event will go on-sale February 1st. More information can be found by visiting the NPF Championship Series site at championship.profastpitch.com or by visiting profastpitch.com. NPF and Boombah Announce New Partnership Nashville - The National Pro Fastpitch (NPF) League will have a new look beginning in 2011. When the four NPF teams take the field on June 9, they will be wearing brand new uniforms, custom designed for them by Boombah, Inc. “We are extremely happy to welcome Boombah on board with the NPF this year in our most visible category - uniforms. Boombah is a company that is eager to make an impression on the fastpitch community from grassroots on up, and it is our intention to help them do that. We appreciate the confidence Rick Tollefson and his Boombah team have shown in the NPF and the influen- 22 USSSA TODAY tial potential of the game’s greatest players.” commented NPF Commissioner, Cheri Kempf. The new uniforms are part of a sponsorship and licensing deal that makes Boombah, Inc. the “Official Supplier” of team uniforms and athletic wear, including jerseys, jackets, shorts and practice apparel for the NPF. The agreement also provides value for NPF fans and amateur leagues – the same uniforms developed for the NPF will be available for other women’s amateur teams, schools, and fans for their league, team, or personal use. Replica NPF jerseys will be available for each of the four NPF teams at games and select retailers nationwide. The deal also provides exposure opportunities for Boombah, Inc. at all League Games and the Championship Series. Boombah looks to continue to build its fastpitch brand. “I am very pleased to be working with the NPF. It is the goal of my company to work closely with the fastpitch community and the NPF is a fantastic opportunity for us to promote and develop the finest fastpitch products in the market. It is our challenge at Boombah to make the girls look as good as they play and that won’t be easy, as the NPF features the top fastpitch players in the world.”, President Rick Tollefson. 2010 Team Membership Surpasses 225,000 Milestone… USSSA Celebrates National Pro Fastpitch Title, Inducts Ten More Hall of Famers at 43rd National Meeting The 2011 NPF Cowles Cup Champions, USSSA Pride, received their rings at the convention. Daytona Beach, Fl.—The United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA) celebrated surpassing the 225,000 team milestone, a National Pro Fastpitch title, Gold Medal Baseball Games, and “USSSA Live” video streaming at its 43rd Annual National Meeting November 14-20 at the Hilton Ocean Walk Village Resort in Daytona Beach, Fl. The Association also welcomed ten new members into its Hall of Fame, passed nine slow pitch rule changes and two by-law changes. At its convention, the nation’s largest multi-sports organization continued to bask in its partnership with ESPN’s Wide World of Sports, popular website and USSSA Today magazine, and leading-edge Conference USSSA program, along with its phenomenal growth. USSSA announced that it had registered 230,857 teams through mid-November, marking an increase of some 7,000 teams, officials and directors over the same period the previous year. 24 USSSA TODAY Additionally in 2010, USSSA sent a baseball team - Team USSSA - to compete in Osaka, Japan, expanded its broadcasting reach to the MLB Network and ESPN2, created a unique new line of director and umpire apparel, and opened a new online store at www.USSSAStore.com. In his keynote address, USSSA Chairman of the Board/CEO Don DeDonatis reflected on the Association’s phenomenal growth in the thirteen years since it had become a multi-sports organization, fully embraced cutting edge online technology and electronic communication, relocated from Petersburg, Va. to Kissimmee, Fl., and entered into agreements with Osceola County and Disney’s Wide World of Sports. “By that time, our vision became clear and our mission was unstoppable,” DeDonatis told hundreds of convention delegates at the week’s first General Assembly meeting. “Our relocation to Florida has proven to be very beneficial and has opened many doors and opportunities for us. The potential for Julie Rodriquez (right) receives the National Headquarters Award of Excellence from Stacy Loving. South Texas State Director, Greg Huchingson, accepts Assistant Executive Director’s Award (slowpitch category) from Danny Brown. The Hilton Ocean Walk Village Resort in Daytona Beach, FL. was the host hotel for the 43rd Annual Convention. growth in every sport has made USSSA the undisputed leader in amateur sports today.” DeDonatis went on to report that the Association had reached all of its objectives in 2010, including hosting teams from seven different countries and Puerto Rico in its baseball Gold Medal Games, sending Team USSSA to Japan, expanding USSSA Live video streaming broadcasts, and capturing a National Pro Fastpitch crown. “As in everything we do, we focused 26 USSSA TODAY on being the very best,” said DeDonatis regarding the “USSSA Pride” team. “We put the best possible product on the on the field representing USSSA with a roster that featured seven starters from the national team, the best pitcher in the world, and five of the top college players in the country.” In August, the Pride captured the Cowle’s Cup and the NPF Championship. In 2011, DeDonatis said that USSSA will expand international play in both baseball and fast pitch, affiliate with State Directors of the Year (l to r) Vaughn Kelley (slowpitch), Scott Mobley (baseball) and Bryan Sage (fastpitch). and Gold Elite programs throughout the country through USSSA Pride, further showcase the video streaming and television capabilities of USSSA Live, offer real live scoring through Pointstreak Mobile, create a USSSA App for its directors to access its web features using smart phones and IPads, and bring its National Hall of Fame to the web with a complete rotating 3D tour. In closing, DeDonatis thanked his staff at USSSA National Headquarters, Board of Directors, Vice-Presidents and Directors of all the Association’s sports, stating Anderson all-metal, high-performance bats compete with and beat the best composite bats in performance, durability, and longevity. S L O WPI TCH FA STPITCH Our bats are proudly manufactured In the U.S.A. Visit our website for additional information. www.AndersonBat.com • Made in the U.S.A. G A M E I M P R O V E M E N T B Y D E S I G N The Dwight Hall Spark Plug of the Year for slowpitch (west) winner, Kim Titus, receiving her award from from Kevin Naegele. Dalton Brown (center), recipient of the Distinguished Service Award, is flanked by Danny Brown (left) and Don DeDonatis. The 2010 USSSA Award of Merit went to a deserving T.R. Brockwell. Frank Griffin (left) receives the Assistant Executive Director’s award from Jim Swint. 2010 Hall of Fame Inductees were: Front row (l to r) John McCraw, Hank Garris, Myra Phelps accepting for her late husband, J.C. Phelps, Chuck “Doc” Beckwell, Craig Ciandella. Back row (l to r) Chuck Drewicz, Mike McCarron, Howie Krause, Greg Blackburn, Cleon Deaner. that he “could not be more pleased with where we are as an organization.” “We continue to raise the bar and set our standards high,” said DeDonatis. “Much is expected of us, and I have no doubt that we will continue to meet these expectations. Let’s move forward today with the realization that there is much more work to do and new challenges that need to be met. Thank you for your attendance this week and I wish each of you the very best, and strong and productive meetings in the days ahead.” The USSSA inducted ten new members 28 USSSA TODAY into its Hall of Fame. They are Hank Garris (FL), Howie Krause (OH), John McCraw (NC), and J. C. Phelps (KY) in the male player category; Chuck Drewicz (MI) in the manager category; Cleon Deaner (VA) in the executive category; Chuck Beckwell (MI) in the umpire category; Greg Blackburn (TN) in the sponsor category; Craig Ciandella (CA) in the special service longevity category, and Mike McCarron (LA) in the special service category. Ten new candidates were selected for induction in 2011. They were Dal Beggs (FL), Craig Elliott (AL), and Jimmy Bernie Guenther receives congratulations from Don DeDonatis on having won the E.A. Ramsey/CEO Award. Powers (NC) in the male player category; Sherri “Lynnie” France (FL) in the female player category; Larry Quartuccio (KY) and Frank Webb (MO) in the manager category; David Evaul (TX) in the executive category; Corky Carter (TN) in the umpire category; Don Cooper (WA) in the sponsor category; and Lou Blaha (VA) in the special service longevity category. The ten will be inducted during a Hall of Fame banquet at the USSSA National Meeting on November 13-18 at the Omni Orlando Resort at ChampionsGate, ChampionsGate, FL. 2010 Convention Awards Publication of the Year Award: Making the convention a reality, as well as many other great USSSA events, are USSSA’s Laurie Timmons (left) and Stacy Loving. USSSA Today Rookie Director of the Year Awards: Baseball – Adam Farb, Mill Valley, CA Baseball – T-Rex Program – Kevin Naegele, Hobbs, NM Basketball – John Anderson, San Diego, CA Fast Pitch – Gordon Patterson, Jupiter, FL Slow Pitch – Elliott Clark, Phoenix, AZ National Headquarters Award of Excellence Award: Rick Robertson, National UIC, (middle) with Officials of the Year Carlos Childress (left) and Tony Walezak (right). Julie Rodriquez, Hobbs, NM Dwight Hall Spark Plug of the Year Awards: Slow Pitch (East): Rick Marz, NY Slow Pitch (West): Kim Titus, Choctaw, OK Baseball: Dan Murray, Prairie Village, KS Fast Pitch: Jeff Moose, Hanover, PA William Bradley Hensley Basketball Spark Plug of the Year Award: The 2010 USSSA Black America Award winners were: (l to r) DeWitt Palmore, National Director of the Year, Martina Moore, Rookie of the Year, Sandra Palmore, Special Appreciation Award, Mary Frances Coleman, Special Appreciation, BeBe Kay, Special Appreciation and Otis Brumfield, accepting Lifetime Achievment Award for Columbus “Lum” Williams. Jeff Schneider, Myrtle Beach, SC Complex of the Year Award: Fortune Road Athletic Complex, Kissimmee, FL USSSA Official of the Year Award: Mark Linnemann (left), E.A. Ramsey/CEO Award winner is congratulated by John Pond. 30 USSSA TODAY Baseball Umpire of the Year: Anthony Wall, LA Fast Pitch Umpire of the Year: Chris Kroon, FL Slow Pitch Umpire of the Year: Tony Walczak, MI Official of the Year: Carlos Childress, FL NFCA Endorses USSSA’s UCBL USSSA has formed an Elite College and Beyond League [UCBL]; the league will allow current and past College softball Gordon Glennie, players a chance to Assist. GM/USSSA play against top notch Pride competition during the summer. It also allows the players that no longer have any college eligibility to be exposed to the NPF [National Professional League]. The UCBL will be governed by USSSA and the USSSA Fastpitch Elite National Committee. The UCBL will follow and adapt to the NCAA Fastpitch Playing rules and abide by any restrictions regarding college athletes as outlined in the current NCAA Constitution Operating Bylaws and Administrative Bylaws and any other Collegiate Governing Body. amateurism are being followed, college players will have a great option if they want to continue competition during the non-collegiate season.” Lacy Lee Baker, NFCA Executive Director stated “The UCBL will provide some great opportunities for summer play for college and post-college players. Since the league will make sure all NCAA rules regarding 6. Wagner Maryland Dean Wassmann dean@barnyardball.com Maingate As of March 15, 2011 the UCBL has established 6 teams and is looking for 2 more teams to start the 2011 season. Players from the following teams that have used their NCAA eligibility will be allowed to possibly move up and play for the NPF teams. 1. Wilson Select Georgia Larry Barnes lkbarnes770@bellsouth.net 2. Carolina Elite South Carolina Neal Hopper mnh306@hotmail.com 3. Grand Slam North Carolina Charlie Dobbins cdobbins@peace.edu 4. SO Cal Scorpions California Darryl Joynt djoynt@moultonlogistics.com 5. USSSA Pride Virginia Rick Anderson randerson@uniselectusa.com Rick Anderson, manager of the Virginia USSSA Pride says “We are excited about this opportunity for college players and young lady’s that have exhausted their collegiate eligibility having a place play. It’s going to give younger girls a chance to see the sport played at a higher level. To be endorsed by the NFCA and NPF and supported by USSSA, I know it’s going to help the game! “ The top 4 teams of the UCBL will qualify to play in Sulfur, Louisiana in August in conjunction with the NPF playoff series. Mickey Dean and Gordon Glennie head up the USSSA UCBL with the assistance of an advisory group composed of the following distinguished members: Tom Turley - USSSA Jessica Mendoza - USSSA Florida Pride J D Bancroft - USSSA Texas Elite Rick Anderson - Virginia USSSA Pride Lacy Lee Baker - NFCA Gaye Lynn Wilson - NPF Jennie Finch - Chicago Bandits (Retired 2010) Larry Brushett - Mizuno Venus Taylor - Wilson Kirk Walker - Oregon State University Sue Enquist - ESPN-UCLA Dr. George Davis - NCAA Compliance Sports Teams… Welcome to Kissimmee!!! Best Western Lakeside is a USSSA preferred hotel partner for sport teams, athletes and fans alike. With an ideal location to several sporting venues and only 2 miles from ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex the property is a win with sporting teams! • • • • • 3 pools, basketball court, miniature golf and fitness facility On-site Pizza Hut, Greenhouse Restaurant Hurricane Sam’s Bar & Grill Coined laundry facility Free Coaches room with 10 or more rooms consumed • 100% non-smoking rooms • Visiting fan & family rates • Free high-speed internet access Each Best Western hotel is independently owned and operated. 7769 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy. • Kissimmee, Florida 34747 www.bestwestern-maingate.com For more information or to book your teams call April Trantham at (407) 997-1108 or email atrantham@mill-usa.com USSSA TODAY 31 New Orleans Hosts 2K11 Regional Summit NEW ORLEANS – USSSA Directors from 13 different states gathered in the Big Easy on Super Bowl weekend, Feb. 4-5, for the 2K11 USSSA Midwest & Southern Regional Summit. The hosts for the event were Western U.S. Vice President Kevin Naegele and Eastern U.S. Vice President Robert Beaudreaux, while the site was the fabulous Crowne Plaza Hotel, located near the New Orleans airport. The event included directors from Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Kansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas-North, Texas-South, Texas-West and Wyoming. The itinerary included a Thursday night social road trip to Neal Swanner’s Cajun restaurant, Bubba’s II Po-Boys, in nearby Thibodeaux, La. Friday night included another social event, the popular Screw Yo’ Neighbor card game and an auction to raise funds for the umpire training fund. Saturday featured a full day of informative meetings for both directors and umpires. Among the dignitaries who presented sessions were Wendi 25th Annual Budweiser Softball Festival, Bryan-College Station, Texas Southern Division Tournament of the Year 32nd Annual Busch-Pepsi Classic, Little Rock, Arkansas Midwest Division Complex of the Year City of Amarillo, Texas Southern Division Complex of the Year LaSalle Park, New Orleans, La. Mel Buttrum Award Toni Thomas, Cedar Hill, Texas Randy Smith Award Billy Vaughn, New Orleans, La. Jason Oberlag, Arkansas Midwest Division Director of the Year Kim Titus, Oklahoma Southern Division Director of the Year Vaughn Kelley, Alabama Alabama Umpire of the Year Bob Gabel Arkansas Umpire of the Year Rick Logue Colorado Umpire of the Year Rodney Rivera Kansas Umpire of the Year Neil Hackborn Louisiana Umpire of the Year Gabe St. Pierre Don Stokes New Mexico Umpire of the Year Willis Rich Oklahoma Umpire of the Year Billy Allen Tennessee Umpire of the Year Terry Beard Texas-North Umpire of the Year Texas-West Umpire of the Year Texas-South Umpire of the Year 32 USSSA TODAY Doug Hunt (posthumously), Oklahoma Southern Division Umpire of the Year Mississippi Umpire of the Year The Summit, including the awards banquet, was all put together by Robert Boudreaux and was first class all the way. The highlight of the event was the Awards Luncheon, were the winners were: Midwest Division Tournament of the Year Midwest Division Umpire of the Year A trip to historic Bourbon Street was a must for the Midwest contingency (l to r) Tommy Hawkins, Kevin and Val Naegele, Greg Huchingson and Julie Rodriquez. Brockwell from the USSSA National Office; Atlantic Division Vice President Bob Holland; New England Division Vice President Jon Pond; Kelly Burke of Sports 55 and the ISTS guru; National UmpireIn-Chief Rick Robertson; Denny Helmig from Worth Sports; Mike McCarron from Dudley Sports; New York State Director Gary Godden; and USSSA Today Publisher Stafford Connor. Wyoming Umpire of the Year Danny Malone Award Robert “Scooter” Moore Mario Gonzalez Daniel Gomez Eric Bickell Dwight Gehring, Kansas Business Deal Expected To Enhance Anaconda Sports Offerings Trump softballs are flying off the shelves By Dave Pedersen After Anaconda Sports, Inc. was recently acquired by Genesco Sports Enterprises, the only things that are going to change are all for the better. When John Stote III is asked if things are going to change now that one of the largest independent sporting good dealers in the nation has been bought by “a big public company,” he quickly responds, “absolutely not.” What can be better for “the hottest selling line of softballs” than to add buying power? Trump softballs are now shown and sold by 150 sales people instead of 48. Now that Stote can hand off much of the corporate work, he can focus on developing and improving the products. Stote notes how he founded Anaconda Sports some 31 years ago and his brother and partner Bill has been running the everyday operations. The company has grown steadily through the years when Genesco took over last August. Anaconda Sports joins three other major lines owned by Genesco, including Johnson Murphy shoes, Lids hats stores, Lids team sales and Journey’s kids’ stores. Anaconda is under the Lids team sales umbrella, creating the largest Nike team dealer in the country. “So far it has been great and our hands have not been tied,” said Stote. “In three years we can foresee a double in sales with our on-line store. As for our softballs, I can’t get enough of them to keep on the shelves.” Stote said one of the most popular softballs is the Evil, developed in conjunction with Bob Russell, also known as “Bobby bugs,” who is an exterminator by trade. “We added some stitching and found the right formula for the core,” adds Stote. “It also has a leather cover which is very unusual.” The X-Rock softball, which plays better in extreme heat, also is selling well, says 34 USSSA TODAY John Stote III Stote. He adds how all softballs do well in the cold, but not all do well in hot conditions. “It comes down to who can stick to the threshold of rules without crossing the line,” says Stote. “The rules are so strict now that you better not cross the line.” The most difficult part of producing softballs over the years has been being able to keep up with all the changes and creation of so many different kinds, utilizing different cores and compressions. Stote said the many changes in softballs have “been scary” where manufactures have to worry about inventory at the end of the year. A type of softball may not be in play the next season. He does admit that the softball associations do work well with the softball manufacturers to remedy the situation. “Our catalog has three pages of softballs alone, including the synthetic ball used in rec leagues,” said Stote. “It is coming down to how players know what the best ball is. A league ball better perform or it will be like having crummy fields, and if not good, players are not coming back.” A recent innovation is the Evil batting practice ball, designed with two colors to better see back spin on the ball. Stote adds, “The reason players love it is because it is easy on the bats because of the core and the cover.” Trump softballs are accepted and approved by all major associations. Stote says one reason is due to the work of Eric Jacobson, “the most knowledgeable softball guy in country. He has been our lead sales guy.” Stote says how one of the best compliments he receives every day is by getting hundreds of orders for a half a dozen balls. He figures it means someone is bringing their own ball to a tournament. Anaconda sells a ton of softball bats online, including all major brands. The company has its own exclusive senior softball bat, the Mike Macenko model, made in conjunction with Combat. “We are putting a lot of emphasis on the on-line store,” notes Stote. “This helps us do more business with selling uniforms to schools. A company like Genesco helps with our shipping contracts and our purchasing power.” Sports memorabilia, which was founded by John’s father John, is a special niche where Anaconda maintains a large inventory of autographed items and limited edition commemorative items used for incentives, promotion and auction packages for fundraising events. “We are the largest distributors of Rawlings Major League baseballs in the country,” adds Stote. “We sell them as blanks where they are used in the autograph signing trade. Authenticity is the key to everything these days. There has been a big cutback on the sale of signed items because everything has to be authenticated.” Today, Anaconda sells to high schools, McDonald’s All American, Ariel Massengale, autographs a basketball for Julia Peteiks, 3, at the Ronald McDonald House near Advocate Hope Children’s Hospital in Oak Lawn, IL. Universities, wholesalers, mass merchandisers, distributors and via direct mail to the general public. Corporate sales specialize in sports items with corporate logos for promotions, incentives, premiums, response-getters and sweepstakes prizes. Licensed properties covers the many Anaconda exclusives licensed by groups as diverse as the Babe Ruth League of North America, Boys and Girls Clubs of America, Men’s Senior/Adult Baseball League and Senior Softball USA. General sporting goods sold by Anaconda includes wholesale, retail and institutional operations. Merchandise ranges from clothing to equipment to accessories for athletic activities such as baseball, basketball, football, lacrosse, soccer, softball, volleyball and more. In fact, one of Stote’s best friends is national basketball announcer Dick Vitale, who is the official spokesperson for Anaconda’s brand of basketball called The Rock. The ball is used as a game ball by 72 Division I Colleges. Manufacturing is done under the nationally-known names of Anaconda Sports®, City Rock, The Rock® and Trump®. Textile screen printing and embroidery are services all provided by Anaconda Sports, which has a state of the art production facility for all custom work. Stote jokes how his softballs must be good because, at the age of 55, “even I can hit a home run,” referring to a February trip to Cuba, touring with senior softball players. It had only been 15 years since his last slam. USSSA TODAY 35 Worth’s DT Details Worth Equipment By Dennis Turner HELLO! to all of you slow-pitch softball diehards, and “Thank You” for allowing me to join the family. This will be my first article with USSSA Today Magazine and I am really excited about joining the staff. My goal is to provide you with all the information you need to know about the new Worth branded products in the market for the 2011 season. Worth has a long history with USSSA that goes back decades and we couldn’t be more pleased with our partnership that we have with the home office in Kissimmee, FL with Don DeDonatis Sr. and his wonderful staff. Well let’s get to the main reason why you are reading this article… to find out about all of the new things that we are coming out with in 2011, and some things that not only I know I’m excited about, but I know for a fact that you are going to go crazy over. Let’s start off with the bats, because you know that the bats are always the main topic of discussion any where you go. Well I’m here to say, I have personally tested our new line of bats and the technology that our engineers created is better than what we have ever had before. This season’s new line of bats is called 454. Worth’s patented 454 Technology extends the sweetspot two inches in BOTH directions, giving the 454 line the largest sweetspot in the industry. You will see the advertisement in this issue to get a visual and details of the bat. Some of these bats are already available and the rest are right around the corner. This initial bat is a balanced version similar to that of last year’s Titan 5.4. It has some load, but has more of a balanced swing weight. In addition to this balanced Titan 454 (SB454U) model, we will be releasing two more 454 bats very soon. Since Resmondo is our flagship team, we have come out with a Team Resmondo 454 Titan series bat (SB454L) that has the DeDonatis Jr. signature on it. Like all Resmondo series bats, this model will have the max-end load that players have grown accustomed to over the past several years. This bat will give you the maximum bat speed you deserve to get the barrel through the hitting zone to drive the ball through the infield, into the gaps and over the wall. 36 USSSA TODAY I cannot forget about the new 454 Reload (SB454R). Like all of the Reload bats, this new one still has the 0.5 ounce end load for those players who like this increased weight at the end of the bat. It also partners with the new 454 technology for greater distance and bat speed. Last, but certainly not least is the new 454 ASA (SB454A) model. This bat warrants the 98 mph ball exit speed along with the new ABI (Advanced Break In) technology. For those of you that play ASA in leagues and on the weekends, this is the bat of choice for 2011, hands down. We are really excited about this new line and the amount of effort that went into the 454 at line. From engineering to on field testing, Worth has developed an amazing line. Not only do we have the four new 454 bats in the line for 2011, we will continue to stock the BJ Fulk Mayhem with a new and improved paint job (new model SBMBJ2), and we are bringing back to the line the MH120 Mayhem with the Reload system. Oh yeah, and for you Senior players, the new XXX will have the 5.4L technology of last season with a 0.5 oz. Reload weighting system. But the best part of this bat is the graphics… you’ll see what I mean once you get your hands on one of these bad boys. When you get a chance, check us out on Facebook for information and giveaways. We would love to hear your comments and thoughts on the new line of Worth products. Until next time, stay focused and play hard. DT 2011 Bats Choose Your Weapon By Mike Cisneros At the beginning of each new slow pitch season, the average tournament player is faced with a number of pressing questions – from what the most effective workout might be to which shoes offer the most support to which team he’s going to play with – but the most important question each year is “what bat is the player going to swing?” Gone is the time when there was a consensus “best bat” out there. In these days of performance limits, most companies’ top offerings perform relatively similarly to each other. So it really comes down to which bat has the best feel, gives the best performance, and is the best fit for each hitter. Here are some our favorite new bats: Photos by Jeff Langloff Combat Jason Kendrick Gear Supremacy Reloaded TECHNOLOGY The one-piece, 100% composite, multi-wall Kendrick Gear Supremacy Reloaded carries the name of USSSA Hall-of-Famer and 32-time All-World player Jason Kendrick and features Combat’s top technologies. Blended Fiber Technology uses several different fiber types in varying proportions at carefully controlled angles including carbon and aramid fibers for strength and glass fibers for performance. Separation Barrier Technology, which is different than traditional multi-layer design, allows multiple walls to flex individually and in tandem for maximum performance without having to break through layers of stiff composite in the barrel. Variable Stiffness Technology engineered into either end of the normal sweet spot enlarges the area with which maximum performance and distance can be achieved. Gear Technology, which consists of long grooves around the outside and inside of the taper, dampens vibration to the hands while allowing more whip between the hands and the barrel. The entire thing is put together with Precision Molding Technology which uses computer controlled, machine-hardened steel tooling to strictly control the thickness and consistency of the walls. Finally, Nanocomp Technology Inside allows the fiber and resin to be uniform at the molecular level which fills the natural gaps between fibers and strengthens the entire shell. The Kendrick comes in a balanced model and a Fully Loaded end load. COMPANY LINE “Combat Sports’ mission state38 USSSA TODAY ment includes ‘providing composite sporting good products which improve player performance.’ To achieve this, we have active worldclass players as fulltime employees in our engineering, marketing and sales departments. Plus, we have assembled an advisory board to further supply both player and coach input to the design of our leading-edge products.” – combatbaseball.com REVIEW The Kendrick combines most of what Combat has learned about slow pitch performance into one bat. The multiwall barrel makes for quick, if not instant, break-in; the variable thickness of the barrel ends makes more of the hitting surface viable; the “Gear” grooves in the taper give you more flex than a traditional taper; and the nanocomp helps create consistency from hit to hit. Combat designs bats for distance; the image they have portrayed from the beginning is that of a hammer – you grip it at the bottom, you swing it at the nail, you hit the target out at the end where the swing speed is greatest, and drive the nail as far as it can go. So it is with the Kendrick. However, in addition to the extreme Fully Loaded end load, Combat offers a balanced model for players looking to add control instead of just power to their game. It still feels a bit end-loaded, but the Balanced also swings truer to its listed weight than the Fully Loaded version. The sweet spot does feel longer than in previous models such as the Virus and SX3 as balls were responsive along at least 9 inches of the barrel (as we recorded it). The claim of “hot out of the wrapper” that the company makes is true – the bat seemed to loosen up after about 35 hits, but that may have simply been the hitter getting used to the feel of the bat too. For those not familiar with Combat, the bat makes a different sound compared to the typical Easton or Miken/Worth offering. Because the walls are thin (which helps with the “hot-out-of-the-wrapper” performance) the bat has an intimidating, jarring snap to it even when hit on the screws. The graphics are magnificent, using a wrapper to mimic a carbon weave pattern (we know it’s a sticker as part of it wore off during testing) along with orange and white lettering. Because the bat is designed for immediate performance (no break-in), it lacks the overall durability of some bats, though the number of swings it gives should be similar to the number of swings you get once your “other” bat has broken in completely. DESCRIPTION n Blended fiber technology n Separation Barrier Technology in barrel n Variable Stiffness Technology in barrel n Gear technology in taper n Nanocomp technology in resin n Balanced weighting n Jason Kendrick signature series DeMarini Stadium TECHNOLOGY DeMarini continues to channel the spirit of founder Ray DeMarini with the new Stadium. It was Ray who first created a bat to help average hitters improve performance with the original Doublewall and it was he who created the F1, the forerunner to the company’s Half & Half technology. The Stadium, developed for the Bombers tour where company hitters Chris Larsen and Geno Buck knock balls out of baseball stadiums, has an N-Spec composite barrel which combines a proprietary alloy enriched resin system with exclusive “Hi/Lo” fiber angles designed to allow the barrel to perform as a home run stick regardless of the compression of the softball. The handle is not composite, but an SC4 alloy – an exclusive alloy 12% stronger than any ever used by DeMarini – which makes it the stiffest handle ever in a DeMarini two-piece bat. Half & Half Technology bonds the two pieces in such a way that they flex before contact and the recoil after contact for an extraordinary transfer of energy. It has a Dual Durometer end cap (with the company logo and Larsen & Buck’s numbers designed into it) which helps contain the energy created by the two-piece design. The Stadium has an end load to help with momentum during the swing, which is important when trying to hit home runs. COMPANY LINE “DeMarini is committed to making the best bats for players of all ages and abilities. We design bats with the player in mind to make the perfect bat for each individual, and we scour the earth for the highest quality components to make sure the bats perform. All components are performance matched for optimum distance, durability, and feel.” – demarini.com REVIEW DeMarini bats have always been easy to hit – at least going back to the original Doublewall anyway – and the Stadium is no exception. We tried it with an assortment of balls - .47/525 NSA logos, 44/400 USSSA logos, 44/375 ASA logos and even some unmarked practice balls and a few Incrediballs – and had fairly good performance with all of them. Of course, the harder balls still go farther, but if forced to hit rag balls the Stadium will keep you competitive. The 12” barrel is live as long as you make contact in the center 7” or so; hitting it too far out on the end or too near the handle muffles the recoil and deadens the action. Any type of hitter can use the Half & Half technology, but it seems to make more difference the slower a batter’s swing speed is; for example hitters we measured with 60 mph swings saw more improvement in personal distance than those with 80+ mph swing speeds (who were already hitting the balls pretty far anyway). The main complaint among hitters with the fastest swings was the amount of flex the batter feels during the swing; this flex is also the thing that gives the hitter that extra distance and there was no complaint from the rest of the testers. Even after using it the Stadium barrel was cleaned up and looked practically new. DESCRIPTION n N-Spec composite barrel n SC4 aluminum alloy handle n Half & Half Technology n Dual Durometer end cap n Chris Larsen and Geno Buck signature series Louisville Slugger Z-1000 TECHNOLOGY Think of it as a restrictor plate… Louisville Slugger has returned to the top of the slow pitch world with the Z-1000, a bat that features three technologies never used in a TPS product before, but none so unique as this – Swing1 Inner Disc Technology (S1 iD), which allows the barrel to flex to its maximum allowable performance level on the first swing and never allows the bat to go beyond that, regardless of the number of swings on it. It features two inner discs positioned inside the barrel at the sweet spot to stop the wall from flexing past the performance limit while allowing each swing to reach the maximum allowable performance. In the 2012 model, Louisville Slugger also introduces a new LS-2X composite which is a higher strength yet thinner and lighter weight graphite fiber than the 2011 model which allows for more layers in the wall for added strength, but in a wall that is still thinner than last year’s. The Z-1000 is a two-piece bat with an iST barrelto-handle connector which creates a solid connection between handle and barrel and gives the hitter onepiece feel. The new Z-1000 is a glossy black and shiny chrome color – also unique in the field. improvement over the 2011 model which was prone to early breakage. COMPANY LINE “From the earliest days of the game, Louisville Slugger has always employed the most powerful technology available in the bat business. Back in the days of Ty Cobb and Babe Ruth, that meant having the most skilled craftsmen at the lathe, handcrafting bats to the most demanding specifications of the world’s most demanding players. Today, it means applying the latest aerospace technology to bat making, delivering high-tech aluminum, hybrid and composite bats that give new meaning to the word ‘performance.’” – slugger.com Miken MV3 REVIEW The idea of a performance dampener – which is essentially what the Swing 1 inner disc is – is generally not appealing to players looking for an edge. But Louisville Slugger was able to come at it from a completely different angle: instead of designing a too-hot bat and dialing the performance down below acceptable limits as is the normal procedure, they designed a too-hot bat and put an inhibitor on it to keep it from performing above the limits. But the Z-1000 isn’t only named like a race car, it handles like one. From the first swing the bat was impressive in the hands of all types of hitters, from league players to tournament sluggers. And if it wasn’t the favorite bat of every tester, it was not disliked by any tester. It is a two-piece bat but it doesn’t feel like one: the flex is obviously there during the swing as judged by the results, but it feels as stiff as a one-piece bat. The 12” barrel, standard 7/8 grip and end load give the bat a comfortable feel – you’re not dealing with anything that seems unfamiliar, even though everything about the bat is new. The sound is certainly distinctive, maybe even unpleasant, but that just tells you the technology is working. And what that technology truly gives is distance: some of the farthest balls hit in testing were with this bat. The 2012 model is made with a stronger composite, which should be an DESCRIPTION n LS-2X Composite design n iST Composite Connection n S1 iD Technology n End load weighting TECHNOLOGY The MV3 can trace its lineage back to the original 100% composite bat, the 2001 Miken Velocit-E. The Maximum Velocity 3 is similar to its predecessor in that it too is a one-piece, 100% composite. But the similarities end there as the technology of the MV3 outstrips the original bat by more than just the 10 years that separate them. It is made of R900 Carbon fiber, the bat industry’s highest grade carbon, which is up to 40% stronger than Miken’s previous fibers. Multilayer Biaxial Technology precisely aligns those fibers for maximum performance and durability. The MPa7 resin is exclusively calibrated to optimize the performance of the fibers. Then the whole package is put together with Advanced Innerflex Technology – a design where the barrel is customized for maximum performance and batted ball speed and the handle is precisely calibrated to flex for optimum energy transfer and barrel rebound. It features the industry’s longest barrel at 14.5” and the knob features X-Tack coating to enhance grip for those hitters who like to place the knob in the middle of their palm. It is available in Maxload end load or Balanced weighting. COMPANY LINE “Miken continues to lead the industry with the game’s most innovative high performance equipment, the nation’s leading composite engineers, patented processes, premium materials, rigorous field testing and player feedback: the proven formula to deliver ‘Certified Miken High Performance Equipment’ and ignite the field.” – mikensports.com REVIEW Miken has always had some of the best bats on the market as well as some of the easiest bats to use. The MV3 is the perfect example of that kind of stick. It features Miken’s top materials (R900, MPa7) and processes (Innerflex Technology) combined with a long and responsive barrel and a complete absence of sting, which makes the batter fearless when attacking his pitch. Never underestimate the power of confidence in the batter’s box. We hit the balanced version and were impressed with how the ball jumps off the barrel; line drives and gappers come off this bat with the easiest swing. It is a good bat for distance too, though it is so easy to chop, slap, drill, drive or push the ball with this thing that home runs are just a small part of what the MV3 can do for you. It is a multi-layered bat which means it starts tight and loosens up with use. On the plus side, we find the MV3 to be one of the most durable of the high performance bats. DESCRIPTION n R900 Carbon fiber n MPa7 Resin system n Multi-layer Biaxial Technology n Advanced Innerflex Technology n X-Tack knob coating Reebok Hank Garris Vector O Plus TECHNOLOGY It’s all about the O. The thing that makes the Reebok unlike any other bat in softball (or baseball, hockey or lacrosse as well) is its O-Technology, a design which places three strategically arranged ducts (“Os”) in the taper of the bat that allow air to flow through the bat during the swing, reducing drag and wind resistance. As a pure, aerodynamic concept for softball, the increased bat speed helps determine how far the ball travels. As a product, the Vector O Plus helps achieve increased bat speed. Independent wind tunnel analysis has shown the Vector O Plus has 7% less drag than the leading bat by the competition. And a 7% improvement could put a 285-foot fly out over a 300-foot fence with all other factors being the same. The Vector O Plus is the bat of choice for Suncoast/Reebok and the 2011 model carries 20-time All World slugger Hank Garris’ signature; Garris still holds the record for home runs in a single Major season with 228. The Vector O Plus has a two-walled 13” barrel made of a high-strength blend of carbon and glass fibers designed CONTINUED ON PAGE 74 USSSA TODAY 39 The Essence of Sport by Scott Kuhnen Scott Kuhnen, Central OH State Director and sportsmanship proponent The essence of sport is sportsmanship. This is the first article on sportsmanship since my appointment as new National Program Director for Youth Slow Pitch. I appreciate the opportunity to serve and believe strongly that the youth slow pitch program holds many keys to the future of our adult game. I’m writing this first article of the season as the National Football League (NFL) is in the middle of its championships and, when the media isn’t covering the games, they are covering multiple stories about “Trash Talking.” Just as the NFL has to wrestle with this issue, it’s also true that softball has been dealing with trying to eliminate foul language, and even fighting, for decades. Frankly, we’ve made some headway in all those years and the teams themselves, the managers and the players, should be thanked for their part in helping to clean it up. I recall many years ago now, a letter to the editor of my local newspaper, written by a father who had taken his two kids to the park to watch some softball. The long and the short of it was that he would never take his kids to that park again. He explained that the foul language was so bad he had to get up and leave after only about two innings. He described it as a total lack of class and sportsmanship for such behavior and that he didn’t care to expose his young kids to it. Who could blame him? In the years since that letter appeared, I have shared that story with many local softball programs and many softballers themselves. Certainly some have been influenced by it, as I can honestly say, in the last few years, we’ve definitely noticed a better atmosphere at our parks. Private parks, who track such things as gate and concession revenues, will tell you that since the concerted effort by softball to try to clean up foul language, their gate revenues have improved. Every private park I know would much prefer that their facility be “familyfriendly,” and language is a big part of that atmosphere. I believe that not just the use of more civil language at the park, but also an emphasis on sportsmanship in our youth programs is a leading indicator of future behaviors in the adult game. Thus, I would ask the coaches in all our USSSA youth sports, not just slow pitch, but also fast pitch, baseball, soccer, etc. to lead by example. Coaches and parents alike should do their best to teach our young athletes what it is to be a good sport and set a good example both on the field and off the field. Good Luck this season and, please, continue to be a Good Sport! Editor’s Note: The author invites you to share your stories of good sportsmanship in the game. Whether as a player, coach/manager, sponsor, director, or umpire, please feel free to send your favorite moments of sportsmanship to: dayton_ softball@hotmail.com Worth® Launches Fastpitch Experts (FPX) Initiative Fastpitch softball’s category leader aims to better educate consumers ST. LOUIS, MO – Worth Sports today announced its new brand and product education platform, Worth FPX® or Worth Fastpitch Experts®, designed to highlight the specific needs for the fastpitch athlete. Armed with a new and expansive product line of fastpitch softball-specific products, including fielder’s gloves, helmets and performance apparel, St. Louis-based Worth hopes to better engage and interact with players across all skill levels to ensure they have the equipment necessary to take their games to the next level. “Our product team has worked closely with elite fastpitch players to find out what she is looking for in her gear,” said Maria Marrs, brand marketing manager for Worth, a subsidiary of Jarden Team Sports. “When the fastpitch world has a product question, we want them to think ‘Worth FPX.’” 40 USSSA TODAY Available at every price point, the Worth FPX product portfolio employs a wide array of educational tools to help the beginner player to the elite athlete select the best equipment and apparel to fit her individual game. All Worth FPX products include 2D bar codes, allowing consumers with smartphones a point-of-purchase video demonstration of what exact product they should purchase to match their size and skill level. For instance, a player or parent having a difficult time choosing which bat length and weight to purchase could scan the 2D bar code and instantly watch a video featuring one of Worth FPX’s 17 professional ambassadors explain how to select the right length and balanced weight of any fastpitch softball bat. “If there is a question on proper bat size, ball size, or even how-to questions for practice and training, we want the girls to be able to come to us to have those questions answered,” Marrs said. In addition to the concept, design, production and technology explanation of Worth FPX product, a staff of 16 distinguished fastpitch experts will cover the country this year to interact with the fastpitch community. The Worth FPX staff is comprised of Olympic and professional fastpitch players, including: Monica Abbott, Callista Balko, Kristen Butler, Tonya Callahan, Rachel Folden, Megan Gibson, Kristin Schnake, Tracy Jester, Loryn Johnson, Jamee Juarez, De De Justice, Audrey LaFountain, Danielle Kinley, Gabrielle Rendon, Samantha Ricketts and Amanda Scarborough. The Worth FPX staff is actively making appearances, hosting clinics and connecting through social media to build brand awareness and educate fastpitch players across the country. Worth® 5-Tool Camp Features Past and Present NPF Stars St. Louis, MO—Worth Sports®, the official bat and helmet of National Pro Fastpitch (NPF), is stepping outside its box to host camps around the country, and this Friday’s camp in Tucson, AZ features familiar NPF faces Callista Balko and Jamee Juarez. The Worth 5-Tool Camp, hosted by Pima Community College on February 25 in Tucson, is an unusual approach to promotions for an equipment company, but an extraordinary opportunity for fastpitch players. The foundation for the camp supports Worth’s platform as the leading fastpitch experts (FPX) in both technology and development knowledge. The camp combines learning the best mechanics for the game from the best players with the chance to learn what product tailors to the young, aspiring NPF player’s game. It works on developing the all around game-- hitting for average, hitting for power, speed, throwing and fielding-- with Worth’s 5-Tool training products. 4 Participants are only required to bring their glove and all other equipment is provided by Worth. This idea follows the camp plan for the participant to learn everything from what equipment suits them best to how to use it. Balko was signed as an undrafted agent by the Washington Glory in 2008, the summer following her final season at the University of Arizona. Balko was an all-star catcher at the U of A, and was a member of four consecutive Women’s College World Series appearances with her battery mate and current NPF member, Taryne Mowatt. Balko is also a Worth FPX staff member which is the face and backbone of Worth’s Fastpitch product. Juarez is entering her 5th year in the NPF with the Akron Racers. After attending The Ohio State University, she traveled the short distance from Columbus to Akron and into a professional uniform. Juarez earns her veteran status every year as she boasts not only great ERAs, but batting averages too. Juarez is also a member of the Worth FPX staff, promoting in and representing Southern California. For more information about future camps visit www.facebook.com/worthfastpitch. Spalding signs softball star Jessica Mendoza to be centerpiece of Dudley marketing efforts Bowling Green, KY – Today Spalding announced the signing of Jessica Mendoza, one of the best softball players in the world, to a multi-year endorsement deal with its DUDLEY® brand. The fourtime All-American at Stanford has won two Olympic medals and is an outfielder for the National Pro Fastpitch champion, USSSA Pride. “We are proud to partner with Jessica as she is one of the most versatile professional athletes in the country and a role model both on and off the field,” stated Gary Barfield, Executive Vice President of Spalding. “She will bring increased exposure to Dudley’s unparalleled history in softball and mirrors the brand’s focus on quality and performance.” Mendoza joins the growing Spalding pro staff roster which includes Paul Pierce, Robinson Cano and Colt McCoy. With Dudley, Mendoza will be actively involved in fast pitch product development and a focal point of the brand’s marketing efforts beginning with next month’s dudleysports. com website re-launch. Dudley will also be the official ball of Mendoza’s softball clinics. “I am very excited to be a part of the Spalding/Dudley family. Dudley is a leader when it comes to innovative technology and I know the partnership will only increase the quality of product Dudley has within fastpitch softball,” stated Mendoza. “I can’t wait to show the world of fastpitch the exciting Dudley products to come.” Off the field, Mendoza is the President of the Women’s Sports Foundation, works as an announcer for ESPN and is on the board of the National Education Association. As you have probably aware, the rules regarding legal baseball and softball bats are changing. To understand those changes and how they may impact you or your team and the use of legal bats in USSSA sanctioned play, you should carefully review following USSSA.com information. IMPORTANT NEW BAT ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR SOFTBALL. Please go to USSSA.COM under the SOFTBALL Tab and review the following NEW for 2011 Announcements: 1. Important USSSA Baseball & Softball Announcements - January 2011 UNDER NATIONAL ANNOUNCEMENTS 2. Worn/AbusedDamaged/Foreign Substance Bats – FEBRUARY 2011 UNDER NATIONAL ANNOUNCEMENTS 3. Sofball Bat Standard Announcement – 10/19/2010. – UNDER LICENSED EQUIPMENT IMPORTANT NEW BAT ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR BASEBALL. Please go to USSSA.COM under the BASEBALL Tab and review the following NEW for 2011 Announcements: 1. Important USSSA Baseball & Softball Announcements - January 2011 UNDER RULES, EQUIPEMENT AND LEGAL INFORMATION 2. Worn/AbusedDamaged/Foreign Substance Bats – FEBRUARY 2011 UNDER NATIONAL ANNOUNCEMENTS 3. USSSA Baseball Bat Performance Standards Announcement for 2011 & 2012 – UNDER RULES, EQUIPEMENT AND LEGAL INFORMATION 4. Licensed Baseball Bat Manufacturers – NEW 2/1/2011 – UNDER RULES, EQUIPEMENT AND LEGAL INFORMATION 42 USSSA TODAY Brownsville Sports Park Offers Something For Everyone By Roy Hess Brownsville’s newest, most expansive playground for softball, baseball, soccer, outdoor basketball, beach volleyball and more is located on a 150-acre tract of land a few minutes north of the city limits. Brownsville Sports Park, a more than $30 million investment, is situated just off U.S. Highway 83/77 in South Texas’ Rio Grande Valley and is considered one of the premier sports entertainment facilities in the Lone Star State. It opened in December 2008, and in 2010, attracted more than 450,000 visitors, according to park records. The park’s visitors -- participants and spectators alike -- are turning out to indulge in softball, baseball, soccer, flag football and beach volleyball, while others make use of the park’s extensive walking and jogging trails, outdoor lighted basketball courts, the BMX bike track and the 16,000-foot cement skateboard park, which is also lighted. There’s also fishing available at the park’s two 3/4-acre lakes along with a playground area for children, party pavilions and picnic sites. Boxing shows, concerts and fun runs also have taken place at the park in the brief time since it opened. Basically, the busier things become at the park, the better it is for Brownsville, said Venustiano “Tuffy” Martinez, Brownsville Sports Park’s 46-year-old superintendent. “This position is about harnessing events to take place here for the City of Brownsville,” Martinez said. “We’re working diligently to attract events, and we try to make sure that they turn out to be great events so that maybe they can be held here again the next year.” The park’s state-of-the-art facilities for softball and baseball are one of the main attractions. There are five fullsized, lighted softball/baseball fields with an adjoining concession area complete with a kitchen and clean restrooms nearby. The park has already hosted several statelevel tournaments in softball and has plans to attract even more such events. “It’s great to play there,” said Gilbert Rodriguez of Brownsville, who plays in a men’s open league at the park on Tuesdays and Thursdays. We enjoy the facilities, and it’s very easy to get there.” Martinez said the park prides itself on having something to offer for everyone in a family environment. “The amenities of the park are such that it’s not only about dad coming out to play to play softball or baseball,” Martinez said. “We have outdoor basketball courts, we have skateboarding, and there’s a walking trail just in case mom wants to exercise by walking while dad is out playing, and the kids are out there as well enjoying them44 USSSA TODAY selves playing basketball or using the skateboarding park. “We’re pretty much providing everything out here that a family that likes to be outdoors can do,” he added. “Another big asset here is that it’s easy to get in and out of the park. We’re right off the highway. Hotels, restaurants and business centers are minutes away.” Another important feature of the park is its soccer complex, which includes 10 lighted grass fields along with a regulation-sized, artificial turf main field that is currently being upgraded with stadium seating for 5,000 plus two locker rooms and another concession area. The renovations were due to be completed by April. During the past summer, the turf field was home to Rio Grande Valley Bravos FC, a semipro soccer team that competed in the Premier Development League under the auspices of the United Soccer Leagues. In recent months, the Bravos became the Ocelots, who will continue to play home games at the park. The turf field also serves as the site for home games for the Brownsville Outlaws, a semipro football team. “From the soccer coach’s or player’s point of view, it takes a little getting used to playing on that (artificial turf) field,” said Salvador Garcia, a local high school boys soccer coach who also helped coach the Bravos last summer. “But if you advance to (the high school) regionals or the state tournament (in Texas), you’ll probably be playing on that type of field anyway, so it’s a good place to get used to it. “A lot of soccer fields now have that type of artificial surface,” he added. “With the addition of the stadium seating and locker rooms there at the sports park, it’s going to be a beautiful place to play. It’s going to be awesome.” Juan de Dios Garcia, another local high school boys soccer coach who served as the Bravos’ head coach, said, “Once the stadium with expanded seating is completed for the main field, it’s going be quite an impressive place for our young players to play. I believe it will soon become a top-of-the-line facility to host all levels of soccer tournaments and entertainment events like concerts as well.” As is the case with the softball/ baseball complex, there are a number of leagues playing at the soccer complex from the youth all the way up to a 55-and-older men’s league. Youth league football teams also frequent the park. “With all our leagues, we estimate that 975 softball players in various leagues make use of the park’s field on a weekly basis,” Martinez said. “And that’s just counting the softball players.” The park is becoming a vital part of the community it serves, Martinez said. “There are many athletes who played sports in high school and maybe even college who want to stay active and healthy,” he said. “We’re here to help them reach that goal by offering softball, soccer, flag football or whatever. Staying active and healthy is something to pursue for a lifetime, and I’m glad to see that people are doing just that. “People are out here and they’re still active and competing, whether it’s softball, soccer, flag football or any other sport,” he added. “The bottom line is nobody out here likes to lose.” All in all, the park’s future appears to be bright. “Down the road -- we’re talking at least five or six years from now -- there could possibly be an addition of some fields strictly for baseball along with an indoor facility for basketball and volleyball,” Martinez said. “Those are things we’re hoping can happen in the future. “This park is like a baby,” he added. “Slowly, it’s gotten up from crawling to walking pretty quickly.” USSSA TODAY 45 Tattoo You AD Starr Hire New Veterans Develop High Performance Ball By Michael Cisneros making Dudley a major ball brand while Schullstrom, a former player, started in the bat industry as the maker of Catapult and in 2000 moved to Anaconda Sports where he worked developing the popular Trump line of softballs. It was a little over 10 years ago when businessman Dave Kalla and salesman Chuck Fusina decided to get together and buy a tiny baseball/softball manufacturing company called AD Starr. They found the small, privately owned company operating out of Kennisaw, Ga., and moved it to their home of Pittsburgh, Pa. “The company has really changed,” said Fusina, working from the office one early Saturday. “When it started it was mostly a ball company, baseballs and some softballs. It used to be a 10-page catalog, now it is 80 pages; we are working to become a one-stop shop for whatever your needs are.” AD Starr’s latest mission brings them back to their own roots in a fashion. Because 2011 is the year they try to break into the high performance softball ball market. The company has always made the Spirit ball, a decent league night offering, but now they have developed the Tattoo which could become the next big thing in tournament play. “We are really excited about the Tattoo,” said Fusina. “That is why we brought in Kevin and Bobby. They’ve got a wealth of knowledge and experience and we were fortunate to bring them in. And they’ve developed a really good ball for high performance play. We are really excited about getting into that arena.” Kevin and Bobby are Kevin Schullstrom and Bob Hildebrand. Hildebrand is entering his fifth decade in the softball industry and is best known for 46 USSSA TODAY “Anaconda was a small, privately owned company but when they sold (last summer) to a public company, I chose to leave to go back to a privately owned company,” said Schullstrom. He came to AD Starr on September 1 of last year and began work immediately on what would become the Tattoo. The ball was released to the public on Jan. 15 and early word has been “very good.” “We’ve always had the Spirit - and we still do – AD Starr did well with it as a ‘parks & Rec’ ball,” said Schullstrom. “The Tattoo has a new poly core formula, a better cover made of composite materials … we’ve developed a better highend ball.” “We are looking for consistency, a ball that is going to be true, something that is effective in high humidity and reduces injuries,” said Fusina. “So far the response has been positive. The last few years we have been working very hard at increasing market share with our Fastpitch Softballs and our Tournament Baseballs. We hope that this momentum continues. We are also very excited about the possibilities with our Tattoo Slow Pitch Softballs.” Fusina earned his degree in marketing from Penn St. While there he also quarterbacked the Nittany Lions to a 29-3 mark as a starter including an 11-0 record in 1978 where he finished 2nd in balloting for the Heisman Trophy. After taking time out to lead the USFL’s Baltimore Stars to two championships as well as play for the Tampa Bay Bucs and Green Bay Packers, he worked in sales until meeting Kalla, striking up a friendship, and deciding to go into business for themselves. The company has grown in their decade of ownership in a way that only a privately owned business can – at the behest of their customers. “We basically go by what the customer wants,” Fusina said. “We would get calls from people saying ‘we are already getting this and this from you, why don’t you have this?’ As they ask we respond. We’re a small company so we can be very flexible. We have no plans to change that. We love what we are doing. Dave and I wear many hats. We even answer the phones here. We do whatever we can.” 2011 is the first year AD Starr is going hard into softball. “A big part of making this work is the marketing,” said Schullstrom. “You need a big network to get the ball out. Bob and I, both, have extensive networking contacts. So we are getting it out and it is being received very well as a high-end product.” “Bobby and Kevin just bring a wealth of knowledge with them,” said Fusina. “When we meet with those guys, I just sit and listen. They can tell me how the game has developed and what to expect in the future. But the most important thing at AD Starr is to bring in good people. Both of these guys are good, honest men. They wouldn’t be in this business this long without that kind of personality.” Now the main concern is getting the Tattoo and the AD Starr name out there. “It’s a big market,” said Fusina. “We have to let people know that there is a new option out there. And we have people here who give us credibility right away. They have been working very hard on this and with their leadership and the contacts they know I am really excited about what we can offer. I hope people will give us the opportunity.” The Hotter The Better. TM By: A.D. STARR A.D. STARR an Official Licensed Supplier of Softballs and Baseballs with USSSA. WWW.ADSTARR.COM 800-487-2448 Dreams Do Come True Artificial Turf Coming To Big League Dreams In Mansfield, Texas opened in March 2008, it has been widely acclaimed as one of the top baseball/softball complexes in the country. The upgrade to synthetic turf infields is certain to bolster that claim. Big League Dreams-Mansfield, TX GM, Steve Navarro is all smiles knowing that his park will be playing ball while others in the area will be rained out. Artificial turf infields are coming soon to all eight replica baseball/softball stadiums at the Big League Dreams Sports Park in Mansfield, TX. The Mansfield City Council approved the installation on Monday, February 28. Since the Sports Park (located just south of the Dallas/Ft. Worth Metroplex) 50 USSSA TODAY “These new infields will offer teams and tournament promoters predictable playing conditions and will make Big League Dreams Mansfield even more of an attraction than it already is”, said Jeff Odekirk, the co-founder and Chief Operating Officer of Big League Dreams. “We’ll be playing ball when other parks in the area will be rained out. And infielders will love playing on these fields because they’ll never see a bad hop”, Odekirk added. The Big League Dreams Sports Park in League City, TX (near Houston) also has artificial turf infields. In nearly six years of operation, League City has never had a tournament cancelled due to rain even though League City gets more rain than Mansfield. Installation of the synthetic turf is scheduled to start the week of March 7th. Barring weather delays, all of the fields will be completed by May. The synthetic turf will consist of two colors. Green turf will be installed where grass would be located on a standard infield, with rust colored turf where dirt would be. The City of Mansfield selected Shaw/Sportexe to manufacture and install the synthetic turf. Ten Big League Dreams Sports Parks are now operating throughout the United States. Six are located in California (Cathedral City; Riverside (Mira Loma); Chino Hills; West Covina; Manteca; and Redding), with two others in Gilbert, AZ and Las Vegas, NV in addition to the Mansfield and League City parks in Texas. An eleventh park is currently under construction in Riverside County in southern California. Over 3,000,000 players and spectators passed through the gates of Big League Dreams Sports Parks in 2010. DENNY CRINE M AD E IN U SA For full product details visit WWW.MIKENSPORTS.COM find Miken Sports on Facebook Tracking USSSA Youth Fast Pitch Fast Pitch Vice Presidents Agenda, Vision, Results By Rick Phillips During a three part series USSSA TODAY will be hosting a Q&A with the three USSSA Vice Presidents of Fast Pitch on many subjects in regard to the Fast Pitch world. The passion and knowledge that these leaders employ is unmatched. Our first visit begins with V.P. Jeremy McDowell out of Kansas. Q - How long have you been in the Fast Pitch arena and how did you get started? JM - I started as a volunteer at a local facility back in 2001. I was asked by the President of the Association to run some tournaments to help raise some money for the association. I was 23 years old at the time and the only knowledge I had on how to run tournaments was the past experiences I had while playing in baseball tournaments growing up. 52 USSSA TODAY Q - You came to USSSA from another association, what influenced you the most on that decision? JM - When I left the association I was with, it was solely because of the vision and direction I saw in the leaders with USSSA. I was very successful where I was at, but my visit to the national office back in 2007 sealed the deal for me to become the USSSA Kansas State Director. This was prior to USSSA making the commitment they have today to the overall program with the NPF and Pride. Mr. DeDonatis gave me his word in our meeting in 2007 that USSSA would commit to making the USSSA Fastpitch program the biggest and the best within 2 years. He stood by his word as we are currently working to give these girls the most opportunity with Fastpitch and with USSSA. © Disney DO IT ALL Fabulous Facilities, Fabulous Fun We believe more is more so Kissimmee gives you more of everything … more superb facilities for your tournaments and more fun for everybody. Ride horseback • Zipline across the tree tops • Soar in a hot air balloon • Play golf Yes, you can do all this and more. Take in all of Orlando’s exciting theme parks and water parks, plus explore historic downtown areas, shop, or just relax. Learn more about Kissimmee’s sports facilities at KissimmeeSports.com. Snap the tag at left to see our Kissimmee vacation video. Get the free mobile app for your phone at gettag.mobi Q - As a V.P. of Fast Pitch describe what a monthly calendar looks like as you deal with some 50 states? JM - I was named as V.P. back in August of 2009. Just as any new position, you spend much time getting used to the daily routines and expectations the job holds. Immediately, I wanted to gain the trust of many of the great directors we had across the country and spent countless hours communicating via the telephone and email as I learned more about each program. Currently, the job of the V.P. is divided between Bill Dowell, Brian Sage and myself. We refer to this as a 3 header monster. Some of the tasks include, working with the National Office on marketing the program and then launching new and exciting opportunities to our Directors, working with directors on their success and any obstacles they need help as they continue to grow their program. Communication is the biggest key to success as we keep those doors open between the V.P.’s and the directors out in the field. We are also working on more tools for the director that can help them with growing their program. Q - In our sub-title we list agenda, what does your agenda hold for the rest of 2011? JM - For the rest of 2011, we are working on new appointments for the 2012 playing season. We have some states where we currently have no State Director and looking to fill this void for the 2012 season. We will also stay in touch with our directors that are in place now to see if they are experiencing the growth they expected for 2011. Will continue to market our World Series events across the country and really highlight our Disney World Series Event where we currently have OVER 300 teams committed to play in July. We have a couple new projects we are working on also that we hope to be able to announce come August of 2011 or the beginning of the 2012 playing season. Q - Vision? JM - The vision I have for this program is to have the biggest and the best program out there for the girls that play this game. Many believe that you can’t be both, but with the infrastructure we have in place with leadership and their vision, the V.P.’s truly believe that is possible. Just like any large business or organization we know this is not possible without the army. The army is all the directors in the field and we know they are the ones that truly will make this a reality. It will take 100% buy in by everyone involved for this to happen but we truly believe this is a reality within grasps. To look at where we were a year ago in this program and then just look back over the past 5 years, we know USSSA Fastpitch is growing both in size and quality. It was just 14 years ago when USSSA launched the Fastpitch program and to see where we are today could not have happened without our leadership. Q - Results is a loaded question as time will tell however, with the leadership we have as well as the plan in place would you say that the results is a foregone conclusion? JM - Yes and no, I believe we have everything in place to be successful, but complacency will kill all these efforts. We want to continue to be transparent and lead the way with youth sports. As of now, our overall numbers are far exceeding last year’s numbers to date. Q - What is your goal for USSSA Fast Pitch, you know the one thing that drives you the most on every day you wake up? JM - As stated earlier, my goal is to be the biggest and the best. What drives me every day to wake up and do this job is the people around me. I look forward to talking every day with the other 2 V.P’s and working with the National office. What I probably enjoy the most though is working with our directors in the field. When I can see their hard work and effort going in to making USSSA #1 that truly motivates me to be the best support system I can be for each and every one of them. Jeremy can be contacted at Jeremy@playmsp.com for additional information. Seven Things I Think I Think 1 By Rick Phillips I think with Fast Pitch club ball dues being at about a $100 a month for most club teams and with the economy as it’s been that there is no better deal out there? The team’s typically practice twice a week and play in two tournaments a month. The Parents meet new friends, go to tournaments and watch their daughters play while all of this fills a couple of days a week as well as two weekends a month. A bang for the buck to keep your kids healthy, active and competitive. 2 3 I think that being able to use two additional players (AP) is a great thing. With all players paying dues this is a valuable tool to get all into your Saturday pool play games as well as expanding your strategy for Sunday. I think that when all is said and done with regard to the use of the composite bat as well as the debate on its continued use that we are possibly closing in what will be remembered as, “the composite bat era”. Will there be asterisk associated with this time? 54 USSSA TODAY 4 I think that a pitch count in the 10u division can be very productive for a kid. With this being said, an older and more experienced 10u girl in the circle can handle the pressures while pitching 130 plus pitches in a day. Some claim that the less experienced pitchers appear to have more productive outings while logging fewer innings in a given game. 5 6 7 I think that when a Coach approaches the Director’s table and introduces himself by name, team, record in last 50 games, and national ranking, all of this before saying hello, well, I don’t know what to think! I think that playing games without fences changes the feel of the game as well as how a game can be managed, played, won or lost. . I think that the leadership in USSSA Fast Pitch and its trickledown effect has us at warp speed to break all records for USSSA World Series entry’s in 2011! Shell Vacations Hospitality Hill Country Inn & Suites at Salado Creek Villas Official Hotel Sponsor of Time Warner Park! LOCATED ONLY 4 MILES FROM THE PARK Discover why softball teams and individual players choose to return to Hill Country Inn & Suites year after year! Reserve your room online at www.stayhci.com and use promotional code THEPARK to access special rates or call us at 1-866-729-7186 For more information contact: Sheila Donoghue, Director of Sales Email: sdonoghue@stayhci.com www.stayhci.com Hill Country Inn & Suites at Salado Creek Villas 2383 N.E. Loop 410 San Antonio, Texas 78217 Phone: (210) 599-4204 Fax: (210) 599-0356 Dome Sweet Dome By Melissa Moose While the weather report is calling for more snow and the holiday shopping season is in full swing, one would think the last thing on anybody’s mind would be softball. Yet, as it stands, this is not the case for Jeff Moose, the USSSA fastpitch softball director for Central and Western PA. Starting in early November and running through late March, Jeff has been planning and directing indoor softball tournaments and coordinating league play for the past four years. The USSSA tournaments at times will require us to hold a day time session to be followed up by another overnight session which typically starts at 10pm and will end around 8am on Sunday morning. Most recently, Jeff coordinated and directed a Triple Threat Softball Camp, featuring USSSA’s own, Kelly Kretschman, Caitlin Lowe, Megan Willis and Cat Osterman. The camp provided offense, defense and pitching instruction to one-hundred and ten participants. Jeff believes this camp, the softball tournaments and league play, gives girls the chance to remain competitive during the winter months while allowing them the opportunity to work and build on their playing skills in the off season. The tournaments, running most weekends from early Saturday mornings through Sunday evenings, are currently being held at the Wyoming Valley Sports Dome, located in Wilkes Barre, Pennsylvania. The Wyoming Valley Sports Dome opened in 1998. It measures twohundred feet in width by three-hundred eighty feet in length with a seventy foot ceiling, allowing for two softball fields. Over the past two years, owners Ed and Sue Suchoski have noticed an increase in softball leagues who take advantage of what the dome has to offer. They believe that in the coming years these numbers will continue to increase. When Ed and Sue first thought of building a dome they thought it would be a great opportunity to provide kids with a chance to participate in year round sports activities. In turn this would increase their chances of improving their game, be that soccer, field hockey, flag football or softball. In fact, within the past seven years alone, they have seen a local field hockey team win nine state championships, both in AA and AAA competition. In part, they contribute their success to being able to practice their skills year round. As for softball, it turns a seven month season into a year round program. Whether to improve their skills or to just have fun, kids can continue to participate in a variety of sports activities, day or night, rain or shine. Kelly Kretschman, Megan Willis, Sarah Moose, Jeff Moose, Caitlin Lowe, Cat Osterman 56 USSSA TODAY T H I R T E E N C O L O R S. O N LY O N E 2 011 G 2 R P M T M L I T E T U R F. Order online by May 15, 2011 and receive a FREE pair of batting gloves. Use coupon code USSSA during checkout at tanel360.com. C L E AT S • T U R F S • B A G S • A P P A R E L • TA N E L 3 6 0 . C O M Like us for exclusive offers. © 2011 Tanel® 360°® 5th Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Softball Tournament & Fun Race By Kirk Tarabokia and Janeen Gondek West Windsor, NJ Once again, Columbus Day Weekend proved to be a huge hit for the 5th Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Softball Event at Mercer County Park in West Windsor, NJ. This years tournament produced 32 women’s teams, and 12 men’s teams and continues to grow each year. As a result of 5 years, we added some additional elements for the community and their families, such as an inflatable wonderland for the kids, live bands featuring Shorty Long & The Jersey Horns, Element K and a few others, food, raffles, and of course, some of the most competitive softball in NJ. Kirk Tarabokia of USSSA NJ is and invaluable part of this event as well as the umpires who come out and give their time for such a worthy cause. Kirk, and USSSA have been a huge part of making this event what it has become, and we are looking to continue growing year after year and possibly making this one of the largest charity tournaments on the East Coast. If you or your company is interested in becoming a sponsor, please visit our website at www.bcatournament.com. Special thanks to Jeff Whitney for 2 days of fantastic photography, The Mercer County Park Commission, Jim Haggerty, Frito Lay, and all of the volunteers that come out to help. Without all of you this would not be possible. The winning teams this year were Men’s Divisions Preferred Freezer Bristol Myers Squibb Women’s Divisions NJ Gems Simpson & Brown Simply the Breast Thank you to all of the teams that participated in this years event. The sanction reports are found at the following links: Mens: www.usssa.com/sports/ Tournament3.asp?TournamentID=607593 CONTINUED ON PAGE 64 58 USSSA TODAY From great sporting events to waterslides to shopping, Panama City Beach is a destination that’s about fun. playpanamacitybeach.com 800.PCBEACH (722.3224) St. Patty’s Indoor Open Rocks Omaha By Greg McNeese Omaha, Nebraska (Youth1) – The Omaha Sports Complex was home to nearly 30 teams for the 2011 St. Patty’s Indoor Open tournament, and teams from Nebraska, Kansas, Missouri, Iowa and Colorado made up the deep tournament field in each of the age brackets—10U Open, 12U Open and 14U Open. After the long weekend of great action, three teams survived the competitive field to take home the championship: KC Crunch ’00, Nebraska Nemesis ’98 and HitStreak 14A. 10U Open Participating in their first USSSA tournament of the 2011 calendar year, the KC Crunch looked simply dominant. On Saturday morning they set the tone with a 6-2 victory over fellow Kansas Statesman the X-Plosion, and with the win they advanced to the quarterfinals. Awaiting the Crunch in the quarterfinals was a formidable opponent, the Pine Red ’00. The battle between the two class ‘A’ teams was well played, but the pitching and defensive efforts of the Crunch were superb, as they advanced to the semifinals with a 4-1 win, while sending Pine Red to the losers’ bracket. Despite being placed in the losers’ bracket, Pine Red would not accept defeat easily and would cross paths with the Crunch again. Following a 5-1 defeat of the Diamond Skilz in the semifinals, the Crunch secured a spot in the finals and waited to see who they would meet. Sparked by their early loss to the Crunch, Pine Red took the losers’ bracket by storm and by earning three victories by the combined score of 23-1, fought all the way back to earn a chance for redemption against the Crunch in the finals. In the finals, Pine Red came in confident and excited to avenge their lone loss of the tournament, while on the contrary, the Crunch came in with quiet confidence. The game was close throughout, but ultimately the Crunch received tremendous pitching and put the clamp down on Pine Red, downing them for the second time, 4-1. Fresh off a 2010 season that saw the girls’ record eight top three finishes, the Crunch kicked off 2011 in stellar form. Coached by Eric Jones, Scott Sparks and Chris Jordan, the 2011 Crush roster is composed of Maci Cunconan, Lindsey Gilbert, Emma Golden, Grace Hawley, McKenzie Jones, Sydney McKinney, Hannah Miller, Sydney Nichols, Sydney Parker, Jordan Richards 60 USSSA TODAY this year and hope to be a strong contender for the class ‘A’ National Championship. By outscoring their opponents 49-1 over the weekend in just their second tournament of 2011 it’s easy to see the Nemesis will be a force to be a force to be reckoned with in 2011. Their roster is made up of Cheyanne Baumann, Calista Best, Allie Davis, Skylar Huls, Taylor Marshall, Kailee McFadden, Danica Meierhenry, Bobbi Singleton, Brooke Steiner, Cassie Vasa and Katelyn Willis. 12U Champion, Nemesis 98’s. and Kamryn Sparks. 12U Open Unstoppable, Unhittable and unbelievable would be three words to describe the Nebraska Nemesis ’98 and their performance at the St. Patty’s Indoor open. It didn’t take long for the Nemesis to get started, as they looked sharp in their first two games of the day. After breezing past the Urbandale J-Hawks Red 8-0, they put on a hitting clinic in their 16-0 triumph over the Indians Black to advance in the tournament. The Nemesis continued their winning ways through the quarterfinals, defeating the eventual runner-up Diamond Skilz 5-0 to advance to the semifinals. Awaiting the Nemesis in the semi’s were the Rams Black. The Rams had been the surprise of the tournament to that point, as they entered the tournament coming off a less than stellar performance in the Fall Freeze (their last USSSA tournament), where they finished 0-4. However, in Omaha the Nemesis couldn’t be stopped, as they easily cruised to the 11-1 victory and advanced to the finals for a rematch with the Diamond Skilz. Dating back to September, the Diamond Skilz have reached the finals in three of the five USSSA tournaments they entered, so their early loss to the Nemesis came as a bit of a shock. After being sent to the losers’ bracket, the Diamond Skilz went on a tear stringing together three consecutive victories and recovering to earn a spot in the finals. Despite the hard work to get back to the finals, it simply wasn’t meant to be, as the Nemesis defeated the Diamond Skilz for the second time by the final score of 9-0 to capture the tournament title. After finishing 3rd in the ASA State tournament last season, the Nemesis, managed by Beth Singleton, have lofty expectations 14U Open Playing in their first USSSA tournament of 2011, the HitStreak 14A Elite, the lone Colorado team in the bracket, looked to establish themselves early by gutting out two close victories in their opening games. In the first game of the tournament, the Hit Streak defeated the upstart KC Vandals 3-1. The Vandals, playing as a 13U team in the tournament, were able to give the HitStreak all they could handle before the Streak put the game away. In their second game, the HitStreak again squeezed out a victory, as they defeated the Elkhorn Slammers Red in a 1-0 ball game. In the semifinals, the HitStreak met the Iowa Rebels Black for the first of three games the two teams would play on Sunday. With the game tied at 1-1 headed into the HitStreak’s last at bat, they managed to load the bases and following a ground ball force out the HitStreak pulled out a 2-1 victory, sending the Rebels to the losers’ bracket. Following a Rebel’s victory in the losers’ bracket, they earned the right to play the HitStreak again. In the first game, the Rebels avenged their loss with a 7-0 shutout over the HitSteak, setting up a do or die final game. Reeling from the loss, the HitStreak could have easily thrown in the towel, but the talented Colorado natives would use the loss as motivation. In the final game, the HitStreak lived up to their name, as they went up 6-0 in the third inning before ultimately winning 7-3 to claim the title. Managed by Jeff Ohman, the HitStreak improved their overall record to 7-5-1 in the early season and in doing so, claimed their first championship of 2011. The 2011 HitStreak 14A Elite roster is made up of Erin Fincher, Megan Hansen, Sierra Jones, Annie Keesen, Danni Klein, Kendall Ohman, Morgan Petrone, Jenna Pluemer, Taylar Saul, Isy Simondet and Brooklyn Travis. & at Sue Enquist in Las Vegas on “How the Recruiting Process Works” a Smashing Success Left to right: Francesca Enea (USSSA Pride Player), Shelly Whitaker (Whittier College Head Coach), Mike Smith (Cal Baptist Head Coach), James A. Keyes (USSSA Nevada State Director), Bob Cheney (Western Region UIC), Paula Conglton (Santa Barbara JC Head Coach), Andrea Duran (USSSA Pride Player) On January 29th in Las Vegas Sue Enquist headlined a panel of coaches at the USSSA Nevada hosted “How the Recruiting Process Works”. As always Sue was very engaging and delivered a very powerful message that all student athletes can find a place in the college recruiting process if they work hard and do the process correctly and find where they fit in the different levels of college softball be it at a Division I University or a Junior College. This seminar was put together to help educate the parents, players, and coaches on what the different levels expect and need to get you into there institutions. 62 USSSA TODAY The seminar panel consisted; Mike Smith (NAIA) from Cal Baptist Head Coach, Shelly Whitaker (Div III) Whittier College Head Coach, and Paula Conglton from Santa Barbara City College. Each coach made points of what is expected from each of there prospective divisions and how they recommended a student athlete to proceed with the process for each institution. This seminar event was run I conjunction with Showcase in the Deserts which hosted a 2 day Showcase style tournament at the New Big League Dreams park in Las Vegas. The Showcase had 37 teams from CA, NV, and AZ. A comment from San Diego Renegades coach Daniel Aguirre after the seminar was “Best seminar I have ever been too, I will make sure to have all my parents and players here in January next year. This information is what they all need” This event is schedule for January 27-29, 2012 again with Sue Enquist being the keynote speaker and Big League Dreams being the host site for the event. If you would like more information regarding this event please contact James Keyes the USSSA Nevada State Director at james@usssanvfp.com or visit www. usssa.com America’s Finest City Tournament USSSA Pride players and the best weather in the nation, along with over forty major universities from the PAC 10, SEC, Big Ten, and other conferences in attendance made the 11th Annual Winter Showcase for America’s Finest City Showcase (AFC Showcase) January 21-23 the place to be in America for softball. This was by far the best one ever to date, as showcases go the AFC Showcase continues to grow and has quickly become one of the premier events in Southern California year in and year out. This year’s event included some new twist as AFC hosted an unsigned game for 2011, 2012, 2013, and 2014 unsigned players for college coaches to see the talent laden field all in one evening and at one venue. Each player was outfitted with a jersey that represented their year of graduation by color to help make it easier for scouting purposes. Each team was made up of players that were unsigned and hand picked by there travel ball coaches. Stacy Fish, Francesca Enea, Alissa Haber, Andrea Duran, and James A. Keyes There were four games total and each team was coached by college coaches except the 2011’s were coached by players from USSSA Pride team. The coaches for the games were: 2011 Game Coaches: Andrea Duran, Francesca Enea, Alissa Haber, and Desiree Serrano (All USSSA Pride Players) 2012 Game Coaches: Mike Smith and Assistant Coach Kristen Karanzias Cal Baptist University (2009 NAIA National Champion) 2013 Game Coaches: Dave Williams and Assistant Coach John Coelho from Cal State San Marcos 2014 Game Coaches: Ashley Evans and Alex Arias from Concordia University, and Mark Dupuy from Hope University The next AFC Showcase is slated for Oct. 21-23, 2011 and the Winter Showcase is set for Jan. 20-22, 2012. If you would like more information please visit www. afcshowcase.com Anrdea Duran selling product Alissa Haber and Francesca Enea Coaching All-Star Game USSSA TODAY 63 Breast Cancer Awarness CONTINUED FROM PAGE 58 Womens C: www.usssa.com/sports/Tournament3. asp?TournamentID=607594 Womens D: www.usssa.com/sports/Tournament3. asp?TournamentID=607595 Womens E: www.usssa.com/sports/Tournament3. asp?TournamentID=607596 This year the Breast Cancer Awareness Softball Tournament teamed up with the Fun Race to give everyone, not only softball players, an opportunity to help raise funds for such a great cause. The Fun Race pits six teams of four people against each other and sends its participants on a course of wacky and challenging tasks, with only written instructions to follow. Each team strategizes in its own way to complete one task at a time before getting their clue to the next task. The Fun Race offers kids and adults of all ages the opportunity to test their physical and mental skills in these silly/wacky challenges. In its first pairing with the highly successful Breast Cancer Awareness Tournament, the Fun Race held one race of six teams and raised over $3,000 for the Princeton YWCA - Breast Cancer Resource Center. At next year’s event, we are looking to fill two to four races. If you’d like to participate at next year’s event, please contact Robyn Malcolm at robyn@thefunrace. com or at 973-714-6888. To view pictures and a video of prior events and for more information on the Fun Race, please visit www.thefunrace.com. In addition, if you are looking to raise money for your team, group or organization and are looking for a new and unique way to get people involved, try the most outrageous race of them all. The Fun Race ... it’s more FUN than RACE!!! It’s easy, it’s fun and it’s an opportunity you won’t want to miss. USSSA Fall/Winter Fast Pitch State Championships Twin Creeks Sports Complex, Sunnyvale, CA By Luis Mejia The Fall/Winter State Championships were held on February 12-13, 2011 in Sunnyvale, CA at the Twin Creeks Sports Complex, 13 teams competed on this event in two different age groups 12u and 14u. The 12u consisted of 6 teams and was won by the Salinas Storm-Satow defeating Valley Stomper in the championship game 7-3 and going 5-0 in the tournament, the runner up were the 64 USSSA TODAY Valley Stompers, compiling a 3-3 record. The 14u had 7 teams dueling for the title; coming on top was the CA Kryptonite 97 by defeating Lady Wolfpack in the championship game 8-4 and going undefeated with a 5-0 record and the runner up was Lady Wolfpack Black with a 4-2 record. The top two teams in each bracket were awarded berths to the 2011 USSSA World Series. Tiger Town Showdown By Daniel Odom This Sports Productions event was the first Global Qualifier in 2011 for Louisiana USSSA. Last year this event had fallen short of being one the bigger Global Qualifiers in the state with only 35 teams entered since it was scheduled in February when most teams had yet to start playing baseball. However, in 2011 when the first pitch of the tournament was thrown there were 80 teams eagerly waiting to step on the diamond. If you asked the coaches before the tournament why so many teams had entered they will simply tell you because they were trying to qualify for the Global World Series. At the end of the weekend if you asked the same question again and what would bring them back to this event you would get a total different answer. “THE RINGS”. Sports Productions awarded championship rings to 1st and 2nd place finishers in each bracket and will be giving rings in all upcoming events in 2011. 66 USSSA TODAY A Condo for the Price of a Hotel Room Spacious condominium suites with private Gulf view balconies, kitchens and separate living and sleeping areas. Two swimming pools, tennis court, fitness center, barbecue/ picnic areas and much more. Centrally located to all the attractions, shops and restaurants on Galveston Island. JUST STEPS FROM THE BEACH FREE INTERNET VARIETY OF FLOOR & DÉCOR PLANS GUEST LAUNDRY AND GIFT SHOP VALUE. VACATION. VICTORIAN. 6300 Seawall Galveston TX Check Out Special Offers on our NEW Website. www.facebook.com/galvestonvictorian 800 231 6363 www.victoriancondo.com 2011 Global Sports World Series Over 700 USSSA Teams participated in a Global World Series in 2010 By Bob Egr Teams may enter World Series starting on January 17, 2011 at noon. Teams must participate in a Global Qualifier and must participate in a State Tournament for World Series Entry to be validated. Open to all Classifications. Elite World Series participating teams are ineligible to play. Ages 7 - 14 limited to 24 teams per age group. Pool play followed by championship play. Teams will play 6 or 7 games. Champions of the 3 divisions will be crowned World Series Champion. Teams earn World Series USSSA Points How to qualify: Teams of ages 7 - 14 qualify to participate in a Global World Series by participating in a Global World Series Qualifier and also by participating in their USSSA State Tournament or Global Sports State Tournament. Teams must be registered with USSSA and registered with Global Sports to participate in Global Sports World Series Qualifiers. Team may register at www. usssa.com. Global Sports registration is $15 per year and can be registered at the same time as USSSA Baseball. Please check with your USSSA State Director for qualifiers in your area. How to enter: Teams earning a berth at a Global Sports Qualifier may participate in any state’s Global World Series. Teams must enter the Global Sports World Series at www.usssa.com on a first come, first served basis started on January 15th at noon. Teams that qualify will not be assured a spot at a specific World Series location. Qualified teams may enter multiple Global Sports World Series. Global Sports World Series entry is $695. 2011 Global Sports World Series Sites DATE AGE(S) LOCATION WEBSITE 6/29-7/3 6/29-7/3 13,14 (54/80) 11 8MP, 12 6/29-7/3 13 Knoxville, TN 6/29-7/3 11 Knoxville, TN 6/29-7/3 8 thru 14 Charlotte, NC 7/6-10 7/6-10 7/6-10 7/6-10 7/13-17 7/13-17 7/13-17 9 thru 14 7,8,10,12 7,8,9,10 10,12 9,11,13 11,13 8,10,12,14 (60/90) 9 10,11,13,14 (60/90) 9 thru 14 7/13-17 9 Knoxville, TN 7/13-17 7/13-17 7/20-24 7/20-24 7/20-24 12 10,11 9 thru 14 13 7,8,9,12 9 thru 14 (60/90) 9 thru 14 11,13 10,11,14 10,12 11,13 12,14 Ypsilanti, MI Hamilton, OH Denver, CO Ypsilanti, MI Memphis, TN http://www.alabamausssa.org/ http://usssapsp.pointstreaksites.com/view/usssapsp/global-and-usssa-worldseries/9u-global-world-series http://www.michusssa.com/ http://usssaohiobaseball.com/ http://www.rockymtnusssa.com/ http://www.michusssa.com/ http://www.midsouthusssa.com/ Charleston, SC http://www.gamedayusssa.com/scglobalworldseries Gulf Shores , AL Cypress Mounds , LA Seattle, WA Dallas, TX Council Bluffs, IA Cypress Mounds , LA http://www.alabamausssa.org/ http://www.cypressmounds.com/content/global-sports-world-series/ http://www.houstonbaseballtournaments.com/ http://www.txusssabaseball.com/ http://www.iowausssa.com/ http://www.cypressmounds.com/content/global-sports-world-series/ 6/29-7/3 7/13-17 7/13-17 7/13-17 7/20-24 7/20-24 7/20-24 7/20-24 7/20-24 7/20-24 7/27-31 68 USSSA TODAY Kansas City, MO http://www.kcsports.org/new_page_43.htm Branson, MO Liberty, MO Gulf Shores , AL Fort Knox, KY Ruidoso, NM Tulsa, OK Fort Knox, KY Houston, TX http://www.kcsports.org/new_page_46.htm http://www.kcsports.org/new_page_43.htm http://usssapsp.pointstreaksites.com/view/usssapsp/global-and-usssa-worldseries/13u-global-world-series http://usssapsp.pointstreaksites.com/view/usssapsp/global-and-usssa-worldseries/11u-global-world-series http://www.ncusssabaseball.pointstreaksites.com/view/ncusssabaseball/ tournaments-2122/world-series-events/charlotte-world-series http://www.alabamausssa.org/ unknown: http://www.usssabaseballnewmexico.com/ http://www.neousssabaseball.com/ unknown: http://www.txusssabaseball.com/ Des Moines, IA http://www.iowausssa.com/ Cedar Rapids, IA http://www.iowausssa.com/ Southaven, MS http://www.midsouthusssa.com/ Orange Beach , AL Legacy Sports Park is a newly constructed tournament only complex on the West side of Houston, Texas. A complex that offers events all year around for teams wanting to play on the best possible fields that were designed and built for the complete TOURNAMENT EXPERIENCE. The complex continues to change as new amenities’ are added like warm up areas for the teams that will be playing the next games from pitching mounds to ground ball and hitting warm up areas. Take a look at www.legacysportspark.com to see everything about us and our events. Legacy Sports is also offering full teams and training at our 10,000 sq. ft. cages and training complex for baseball and softball teams. Waller, Texas www.LegacySportsPark.com A 455 Team Super NIT? By Matt Trebuchon It must be March in Atlanta, Georgia…you can smell the boiled peanuts, popcorn popping and fresh cut grass. Temperatures are hitting the high seventies and baseball teams are ready to hit the diamond! And boy, are they hitting it hard. As of press time, the 2011 Atlanta Super NIT had just accepted its 455th team for the Seventh Annual “Who’s Who of Travel Baseball”! That’s correct; this is not a misprint…455 teams. Every year Atlanta continues to be the early season hot spot for teams aspiring for the Elite World Series. Teams have traveled from as far away as California, Connecticut, Kansas and Michigan every year since the events humble beginnings with 114 teams in 2005. Participation has grown to 163 teams in 2006, 245 in 2007, 277 in 2008 and 339 in 2009. Last year’s event 70 USSSA TODAY drew 345 teams and Tournament Director Matt Trebuchon (VP – National Events) felt positive they could eclipse the 350 mark this year. “I always felt that 350 was the magic number this time of year”, Trebuchon stated. “Never in a million years could I have envisioned 400 teams, yet alone 425, 450 or 455”, this surpasses my wildest imagination”, Matt added. The staff to run this mammoth event played in 20 venues on 78 fields over the mid-March weekend totals 184 dedicated persons who share Trebuchon’s goal of making sure every child regardless of age or ability leaves the Super NIT feeling like a winner. Final results for the event will be available in the summer issue of USSSA Today. 2011 Garland Softball Association GARLAND Date Garland 03/26/11 Mens D NIT 04/09/11 E/X 05/21/11 D/E/X AN (Fri) 06/04/11 E 06/18/11 D/E/W 07/16/11 D/E/X 07/23/11 Open State 08/20/11 D/E/X AN (Fri) 09/17/11 C/D/E/X 10/15/11 D/E Iron ROWLETT Date Rowlett Date Rowlett 04/02/11 D/E 08/06/11 C/D State 04/16/11 D/E/X 08/13/11 D/E/X 04/30/11 D/E 08/27/11 D/E/X 05/07/11 D/E/X 09/10/11 D/E 05/14/11 D/E 09/17/11 C/D/E/X 06/11/11 D/E 10/08/11 D/E/X 250 06/25/11 C/D/E/X 10/22/11 C/D/E/X 250 07/09/11 E 10/29/11 D/E/X 250 07/30/11 D/E/X 11/12/11 C/D/E/X 250 11/19/11 C/D/E/X 250 C = Men’s C D = Men’s D E = Men’s E Garland M. G. “Jerry” Carter, Sr. Softball Complex 550 West Oates Drive Garland, TX 75043 Tourney Line (972) 613-7729 Walter Reed , Tournament Director W = Women’s X = Mixed Rowlett Rowlett Community Park 10200 Saint Andrews Lane Rowlett, TX 75088 Tourney Line (972) 475-9988 Mike DeLatte, Tournament Director Tommy Hawkins Permian Basin USSSA Area Director 13 OPEN 12 OPEN Place State Team Team Class Wins Loses Place State Team Team Class Wins Loses 1 TXW Shockers BBboys13Maj 4 0 1 TXW Lubbock Blacksox BBboys12AAA 4 1 1 TXW Texas Biggs BBboys13AAA 3 2 1 TXW T.T.A. 11 BBboys11Maj 3 1 2 NM Carlsbad Drillers BBboys13AAA 4 1 2 TXW TTA 12 BBboys12AAA 3 1 2 TXW Lubbock Avalanche BBboys13AAA 2 2 2 TXW West Texas Thunder BBboys12AAA 1 2 Contact your local OC Sports Team Dealer 72 USSSA TODAY Proud sponsor of 5th ANNUAL SPACE CITY CLASSIC JUNE 3-5, 2011 ★ BIG LEAGUE DREAMS ★ LEAGUE CITY (HOUSTON), TEXAS LARGEST CONFERENCE USSSA EVENT 2 YEARS RUNNING FEATURING 48 TEAMS IN BOTH 2009 AND 2010 PREVIOUS TOURNAMENT CHAMPIONS 2010 1st: The Scene 2nd: Wood Law 3rd: Front Row 2009 1st: T&R Stucco 2nd: Wood Law 3rd: Fence Brokers 2008 1st: Resmondo 2nd: Jean Shoppe 3rd: T&R Stucco 2007 1st: Resmondo 2nd: Fence Brokers 3rd: Wood Law USSSA TODAY MAGAZINE WILL ONCE AGAIN COVER THE TOURNAMENT WITH PHOTOS AND COMPLETE REPORT HOST HOTEL: SPRINGHILL MARRIOTT HOUSTON-CLEAR LAKE Spacious suites with pantry area, mini-fridge, microwave. Free wireless internet access. Complimentary Deluxe Hot Suite Seasons Breakfast Buffet at this Clear Lake/Webster, TX hotel. Complimentary on-site parking. Less than 1 mile from NASA. For reservations, call (281) 332-2999 or e-mail: c.waln@concordhotels.com “HOUSTON HAS 2 MAJOR AIRPORTS: BUSH INTERCONTINENTAL(IAH) and HOBBY(HOU)” To enter Tournament, go to the front page of www.LoneStarSoftball.com and click “Online Registration” For more information: Greg Huchingson Phone: (979) 774-9408 E-mail: Info@LoneStarSoftball.com 2011 Bat Reviews CONTINUED FROM PAGE 39 to feel “soft” but also be durable. The bat is not end loaded, but as there are holes in the taper, the majority of the bat’s weight is in the barrel. COMPANY LINE “The 3 ‘O-Ports’ are real and aerodynamics is a simple story to grasp; secondly, the O-Technology is fullypatented and is protected by law. No other bat manufacturer can engineer this type of technology in a ball-bat. It is a technology that totally differentiates us from everyone else and is not a one-hit wonder as several platforms off of this basic design are being designed for many years of new introductions … it’s a technology that really can work to enhance the efficiency of a hitter’s swing. It’s not just smoke and mirrors like some bat marketing stories are year in and year out.” – John Loiars, Reebok REVIEW The Vector O Plus has a nice feel to it. Though it is heavier on the end than a balanced bat would be, it swings pretty true to its listed weight; and if you make sure to open the O Ports toward the pitcher when you swing, it gets through the hitting zone very quickly. For someone with slow hands or below average swing speed, this bat is a godsend. The O has been out for more than a year now so the worry that the bat would be weak and break around the ports is forgotten: swing as hard as you like and you will not feel like the bat is going to break off in your hands. Once you get used the faster swing speed, making good contact is not difficult. The 13” barrel is pretty lively, as were Reebok’s previous offerings such as the Dictator and Melee, but this two-wall barrel seems to be able to produce much more distance than those older models. It is obviously designed for distance but is not just for power hitting: I was able to push the ball softly to right, drive it wickedly to left, chop it over the middle and spray line drives all around using no more effort than with my personal bat. It does take some getting used to – any time your swing speed changes there is a period of adjustment where you are going to pop things up. But the Vector O Plus seems to be a good bat to put your faith in, as long as 74 USSSA TODAY you are willing to put the practice time in too. DESCRIPTION n O-Technology with 3 O Ports n High strength carbon/fiberglass multi-wall barrel n Tacky grip handle n Hank Garris signature model Worth Mayhem Greg Connell TECHNOLOGY The Mayhem has been a part of the Worth line for as long as the company has offered 100% composite bats and though it is no longer the flagship bat line for the company, it has remained popular among players. That’s because from the beginning the Mayhem has been simple and effective … well, maybe not exactly simple. The 100% composite onepiece bat features a Performance Inner Core - two layers of composite fibers assembled with layers of different materials between them then cured with high heat: between the inner and outer layers of carbon/ graphite/glass fibers are a single layer of braided aramid (the material used in bullet-proof vests) and two different layers of braided carbon. A Rapid Air Vacuum process is used where pressurized molds hold the layers in place as air is rapidly vacuumed out of the composite; simultaneously the Epoxy Induction Process begins as a two-part proprietary epoxy is pulled through the woven layers under constant heat and pressure. The handle flex has been optimized to provide maximum batted ball speed. The Reload adds a half ounce to the weight of the bat and is the model used by Worth’s Greg Connell. COMPANY LINE “Due to the RAV and EIP processes, Worth composite bats are free from air pockets and impurities, creating bats with the largest sweet spots and highest durability in company history.” – worthsports.com REVIEW After 5 years, swinging a Mayhem is akin to playing softball with a good friend and longtime teammate. There are no surprises and it is appreci- ated. While the Mayhem has evolved a bit each year, it is essentially the same bat everyone fell in love with in 2006. It has the stiffness of a one-piece bat and the durability of a multi-layer shell. It has a long 14” barrel and plenty of effective hitting surface. It has a pleasant sound and no hand sting. We hit the 26.5 ounce model and the performance was easy to praise. Since everyone had hit Mayhems many times before, there was no introduction period – batters simply picked up the bat and hit it. The Connell model has an extra halfounce added to the end and that tiny difference may not mean much physically but it does plenty for the confidence as each of the testers came up expecting to hit the ball farther than usual. And they were not disappointed, with a healthy ratio of home runs to line drives. Being a multilayer composite shell, the Mayhem does need swings to break-in before delivering truly hot performance but the feel is so familiar and comfortable that even before the break-in period is over the hitter will be in love with this newest old friend. DESCRIPTION n Performance Inner Core n Layers of braided carbon and aramid n Rapid Air Vacuum process n Epoxy Induction Process n Reload 0.5 ounce extra end load n Greg Connell signature model DeMarini One.12 TECHNOLOGY The ONE.12 it the next step in DeMarini’s ONE line – a 100% composite, two-piece bat that recalls DeMarini’s revolutionary “Doublewall” technology and onepiece feel. It is made of 4.ONE composite, a proprietary design that uses narrow, multiple lay-ups to create one of the stiffest composites found in softball. The 13.5-inch barrel features Stacked Technology – the latest generation of Demarini’s Doublewall – with multiple walls separated by Power Ply sheets to allow the walls to flex independently for performance whether one wall or all walls flex on a given hit. The handle is also made of the same stiff carbon fiber and is bonded to the barrel through Half & Half technology. The stiffness of both pieces results in a feel like a one-piece with more feel than is normal in a twopiece. The ONE.12 is different from the 2010 ONE in that is it balanced and it is approved for all softball sanctions. COMPANY LINE “The ONE.12 provides players with the stiffness and responsiveness of a one-piece feel in an end-loaded twopiece bat with a specially designed 12 inch 4.ONE Stacked Composite Barrel and same rigid composite material used for the barrel was utilized to make this the stiffest composite handle in the DeMarini lineup.” – demarini.com REVIEW Most tournament softball players do play in more than one sanction in a given year; even those trying each and every weekend for the chance to go to USSSA Worlds will find themselves in an ASA league night here or there. And in these hard financial times, perhaps they can only afford one bat for the season. The DeMarini ONE.12 is an example of an ASA-approved bat that will not put a hitter at a disadvantage in USSSA. It is a balanced bat and it registers 98 mph batted ball exit speed, but it also performs well and feels great. The stiff barrel and handle relays feedback to the hitter unlike most other two-piece bats, which is essential for hitters who rely on more than just super strength or swing speed to play the game. You can really feel what you are doing. The sweet spot seems the same as in the Stadium, about 7 inches of the 12” barrel is live. And the stiff handle and Half & Half design help you swing quickly without feeling whippy or flexy. And the performance is first-rate. Since most fences are 300’ away, the ONE.12 has more than enough pop to get the ball over the fence in any ASA, NSA or USSSA tournament. Or league. All for the price of one bat. DESCRIPTION n 4.ONE Composite barrel and handle n Stacked barrel technology n Half & Half technology n Clutch endcap and knob n Positack grip BIG LEAGUE DREAMS HOST HOTEL Special Big League Dreams Rate Available • 2 miles from Big League Dreams - Mansfield, TX • Free Hot Breakfast • Indoor Pool/Spa • Micro/Fridge • Free WIFI Contact Person: Kim Chong 201 Hwy 287 N. • Mansfield, TX 76063 817-453-8722 • 817-453-8792 (fax) hiexpress_mansfield@yahoo.com www.hiexpress.com/mansfieldtx Illinois Team Logs Miles to Compete at North Texas Winter Worlds By Van Galeon MANSFIELD, TEXAS – With their hometown of Chicago buried under a foot of snow, the Klub’s softball team did what any other softball maniacs would do in mid-January – rented a couple of vans and drove 17 hours, one way, to North Texas to play in a USSSA Winter World Tournament. “Most of my guys are younger and couldn’t afford an airplane ticket, so we rented two vans, loaded up and took off,” said Klub’s manager Kevin McCabe. “This place (Big League Dreams) is awesome. It feels like we’ve died and gone to softball heaven. We’ll definitely be coming back here.” Big League Dreams in Mansfield is a three-year-old complex located between Dallas and Fort Worth. Each of the eight fields is a replica of a current or former Major League ballpark, such as Yankee Stadium, Wrigley Field, Fenway Park (complete with a “Green Monster”) and, of course, Rangers Ballpark, among others. The complex also features two climate-controlled restaurants on-premise, where ballplayers can relax in comfort out of the elements between their games and watch softball games out of the windows or sports on the multiple televisions. Klub’s had their wish granted, when they got to play their first game in the Men’s D Division on the Wrigley Field replica, which they won over the Fakeouts (14-13). In their second game, the Illinois team faced eventual tournament champions Elite Screen Print and dropped a close game (5-3). After dropping to the loser’s bracket, Klub’s got on a roll and scored wins over Balco Inc. (20-10), Monsters (17-5), Southern Attitude (15-3), Outlaws/ Louisville Slugger (12-4) and Aztecas (10-9), before finally being eliminated by West Texas Mafia (19-6). While the other teams back in Illinois were still hibernating for the winter, Klub’s posted a 6-2 record and placed seventh at Winter Worlds to get their season off to a fast start with 130 USSSA Points. While Klub’s traveled the farthest distance for Winter Worlds, they were by no means the only out-of-towners among the 115 teams entered. There were also teams from Colorado Springs, CO; Omaha, NE; Kansas City, KS; Fayetteville, Little Rock and other cities in Arkansas; Shreveport, Monroe, Ruston and other cities in Louisiana; Oklahoma City, Tulsa and other cities in Oklahoma; and from all corners or the huge state of Texas, including Amarillo, Lubbock, El Paso, Del Rio, San Antonio, Houston, Waco and DallasFort Worth. In the Men’s B/C Division; Texas Brewed/TST/RR, a B team based in the East Texas town of Livingston, went 5-0 to capture first place in the 22-team bracket. Texas Brewed defeated Famous Softball (20-9), F.T.P. (24-15), Old School (22-10) and Jokers (11-8) to advance to the championship game, where they defeated Old School again (22-18) to win the championship and the 300 USSSA Points that came with it. Runnerup Old School is a registered D team from Houston, but they added several B pickups for this tournament so they did not get double points for their 5-2 second place finish. Jokers, a true C team from Fort Worth, made a strong showing to finish third and with double points they started their year with 400 USSSA Points. Absolut Softball came in fourth place with a 3-2 record, while F.T.P. from Odessa and Smoke/GKITravel from Ft. Worth tied for fifth, and Budweiser from Bryan-College Station and Famous Softball from Ft. Worth tied for seventh. Marcus Thornton of Texas Brewed was named Most Valuable Player of the division, while Chris Smith from Old School was the Gold 76 USSSA TODAY Glove winner. Texas Brewed players named to the All-Tournament team were Jason Allen, Dwain Anderson, Mike Scoggin and Josh Bratz. Others named to the All-Tournament team were Aaron Grimes, Doug Waindel and Dante LaPoint, of Old School; Johnny Reyes, Edward Sanchez and Victor Guadalupe, of Jokers; and Eric Zachary and Louis Vasquez, of Absolut. Men’s D was the largest bracket of the tournament, with a whopping 52 teams. Elite Screen Print from Fort Worth, a team that was bumped up from E to D following the 2010 season, proved the bump was merited as they went 6-0 to win first place. ESP defeated Klub’s (5-3), Righteous (17-13), Tribe (22-15), Apollo Fitness/The Core (20-17) and TWP (14-9) to advance to the championship game, where they defeated TWP again to claim the crown and 300 valuable USSSA Points. TWP, a strong team from Oklahoma City, finished second with a 5-2 record and earned 225 USSSA Points. Tribe Del Rio, another team bumped from E to D following 2010, came in third place with a 5-2 record and earned 200 USSSA Points, and Trouble Inc./Aw Ready from Austin came in fourth also at 5-2 and earned 175 USSSA Points. West Texas Mafia from Odessa and Apollo Fitness/The Core tied for fifth place; while Klub’s from Chicago and Righteous from Justin tied for seventh. The rest of the Top 10 consisted of DFL Construction from Shreveport, Aztecas from Dallas, Tribe from Converse, and Rehab-It Happens from San Antonio all tied for ninth. Chris Burns from Elite Screen Print was named Most Valuable Player of the division, and Gene Stanley of TWP was the Gold Glove winner. Other Elite Screen Print players named to the All-Tournament team were Brian Elliott, Daniel Sloan, Bruce Kennedy and Nacho Sanchez, while other TWP All-Tourney players were Joey Anderson, Chris Townley and Zac Dennis. The rest of the Men’s D All-Tournament team included David Espivea, Gerardo Garcia and James Hufstedler, of Tribe Del Rio; and Gil Soto and Justin Graves, of Trouble Inc./Aw Ready. In the Men’s E Division, there was some post-tournament controversy. Why So Serious from Monroe, LA went undefeated through six games to win first place, but 24 hours later they were disqualified for having played with too many D players. Therefore, the first place award and the 300 USSSA Points went to Circus Motorsports from Ennis. Circus Motorsports won their first two games over Tacabron (14-4) and Rally Dawgs (18-5) before losing to Hard Knox (22-7). But Circus Motorsports dropped to the loser’s bracket and reeled off consecutive wins over H&H (14-13), Wrecking Crew (14-2) NTX Blaze (15-3), Hard Knox (20-11) in a re-match, and Texas Crew (15-5) to make it all the way back to the championship game with a 7-1 record. Texas Crew/T.S.G.H. from Kennedale earned second place and 225 USSSA Points with a 4-2 record. Hard Knox/Texas Shock from Ft. Worth also went 4-2 and finished third to receive 200 USSSA Points. Dawgs from Dallas took fourth place at 5-2 and NTX Blaze from Arlington took fifth at 3-2. North Texas Takeover from Waxahachie and Wrecking Crew from Texarkana, AR tied for seventh; while Disfunctional from Wichita Falls, H&H from Waxahachie, Warriors from Dallas, and Arkansas Suicide from Little Rock all tied for ninth in the 32-team bracket. Jeremy Guana of Circus Motorsports was the Gold Glove winner of the division. Guana was joined on the All-Tournament team by teammates Bruce Sanots, Robert Castillo and James Guana. Other continued on page 80 t igh t igh we we ng ng wi wi dS dS oa ce SB 12 Z e– en dl an al –B SB1 2ZB When you step up to the plate with the Z-1000™, you’re armed with the best there is. And your competitors know it. Our exclusive iST composite technology provides a solid connection between the handle and barrel, giving the Z-1000 a great solid feel and ultra-long sweet spot. That means maximum performance and minimum vibration, even on inside hits. And this powerful performer is USSSA approved. So put some intimidation in your game. Swing the hot, new Z-1000 from Louisville Slugger / TPS. www.slugger.com © 2011 Hillerich & Bradsby Co., Louisville, KY. All rights reserved. dule e h c S nce e r NV e f n o Vegas s C a L 1 1 20 FL ee ssic Sin City Cla l Event 3 lassic - Dua 1 C l e m a Apri F f o USSSA Hall 7 1 orial 4 1 l ri p A Turney Mem e ik /M h rt o ay 1 W April 29 - M sic Cactus Clas 1 y a M ds April 29 Texas Legen l a u n n A th 11 May 6 - 8 ajor olumbus M C 5 1 May 13 lassic Music City C 2 2 0 May 2 hootout ach State S e P 9 is Memorial v a D e May 27 - 2 ik M l 23rd Annua sic June 3 - 5 ce City Clas Annual Spa th 5 ational June 3 - 5 dy City Invit in W dweiser June 10- 12 l Dudley Bu a u n n A th 8 2 ootout 9 ortheast Sh June 17 - 1 N s rt o p S n Easto 6 June 24 - 2 epsi Classic /P h c s u B d n 32 VENT jor - DUAL E July 1 - 4 a M t a b m o The C lassic July 1 - 4 Mountain C y k o m S rd 43 en’s Major July 8 - 10 Cincinnati M th 2 1 otout July 15 - 17 ountain Sho M y k c o R 27th ut lina Shooto July 22 - 24 Annual Caro th 5 July 29 - 31 Chance Worth Last 7 5 August Kissimm Kansas City Phoenix Euless Columbus Nashville Atlanta Concord Houston MO AZ TX IN TN GA CA TX IL Joliet nter MN Brooklyn Ce CT N Brantford AR Little Rock WA Kent TN Maryville OH Cincinnati CO Aurora NC Raleigh MI Sterling Hgts 2011 Conference Teams John Glidewell will be overseeing 2011 Conference USSSA play from above...we will all miss you Johnny. Arkansas Sportswear/Bear Hollow Ranch /Sports55/Worth AZM/Cartel Blitz/Weller/Watanabe/The BallYard/Easton BWW/Buzinisports.com/Baden Sports Clutch Apparel/Save Second.com/GKI Travel.com Craig’s BullShippers Darkside/TYJA/Easton DMC Softball/Resmondo Sports Doerflinger Software/TSC/Combat Down2EarthSports.com/Worth EWS/Shirts & Logos/Easton Famous Sports/Logo Express/Easton Fence Brokers/Game Time Supply/Worth Gas It/Easton Gold’s Gym GTL Cartel/DeMarini Shoppe/TPS/D2E/Elite LineDrive Sportz/Triple SSS Sportscards Magic/National Gold/S&S/TYJA Sports Midwest Swing/Miken Pace/TPS Peak Contracting/TLG Pipac/TCP/Easton PrimeTime/Easton Resmondo/Specialty Tank/Phone Masters/Worth RFC/Hub’s Pub/Syndicate Sinister/Pritchard/Miken Sonny’s/Beacon/Sidelines/Cowboys Suncoast/Reebok TaylorMade/TM Sports/Mizuno Team 454/Worth/B-Pharm Team Combat/Laservision/Down2Earth Team Combat/Pharmapar Texas Miken The Scene/AJS/Easton T’s 13 Turano/LB/Easton/Sports 55 Victory/Demarini/Tyja Wheelhouse Sports/Reebok Wood Law/Mizuno AR AZ OH MS TX PA NY MO WA GA IL CA AR SC TX WA KY MI MA IN NY CO IA GA FL KS MI WY FL VA VA WA WA TX FL NE MD CA WI TX members of the Men’s E All-Tourney team were Jordan Hall, Cody Boyle and Richard Franklin, of Texas Crew; and Andy Linder and Zack Stepehens, of Hard Knox. The tournament also featured nine teams in a Women’s C/D bracket. Lady Canes II from Cedar Hill went 4-0 to capture first place and the 300 USSSA Points that went along with the crown. Lady Canes II defeated Resurrection (21-8), Bad Intentions (18-13) and Shocker Softball (24-11) to advance to the championship game, where they snuck past Shocker Softball again (16-15) to win it all. Shocker Softball, from Abilene in West Texas, finished second with a 3-2 record, while Hit List from Oklahoma City came in third at 3-2, and Bad Intentions from Euless finished fourth at 2-2. Team Dallas Women and The Elite tied for fifth. Kyna Bradford of Lady Canes II was named Most Valuable Player of the division, while Nicole Cortez of Shocker Softball was the Gold Glove winner. Other players from Lady Canes II named to the All-Tournament team were Sonya Fields, Anntron Barrett, Yasminda Chambers and Sandy Sanchez. Others named to the All-Tourney team were Sierra Saenz, Cameron Mackey and Laura Ortega, of Shocker Softball; Melissa Willis, Dana Askins and Stephanie Moore, of Hit List; and Nancy Myers and Shaunna Lynch, of Bad Intentions. North Texas Early Bird Shoot Out Big League Dreams-Mansfield,TX Men Class C Champions Sagnasty/TPS/ASP Nation Men Class C Runner Up Mafia/House of Pain 80 USSSA TODAY North Texas Early Bird Shoot Out Big League Dreams-Mansfield,TX Women Class C Champions Lady Canes II Women Class C Runner Up Team Dallas USSSA TODAY 81 North Texas Early Bird Shoot Out Big League Dreams-Mansfield,TX Men Class D Champions Apollo Fitness/T-Fast/The Core Men Class D Runner Up Turmoil Softball 82 USSSA TODAY • All Suites ~ 3 miles from Big League Dreams-League City (Houston), TX • Spacious Suites with separate living areas and 1 ½ baths • Refrigerators, microwaves, & coffee makers in each suite Marriott SpringHill Suites Houston/Webster/Clear Lake 1101 Magnolia Avenue Webster, TX 77598 Direct Line: 281.724.6091 Fax: 281.332.2993 www.marriott.com/housb For reservations, call (281) 724-6091 or e-mail: c.waln@concordhotels.com • Full Service Bar open daily in lobby • In walking distance to many restaurants • Fresh, hot free breakfast buffet daily • Outdoor salt water pool • Free high-speed wired & wireless internet access throughout the hotel • 24-hour on-site Fitness Center New Turf At Big League Dreams Saves South Texas Winter Worlds By Van Galeon Dedicated employees working right up until the last minute helped save the day at South Texas USSSA Winter Worlds, held Jan. 15-16 at Big League Dreams in League City. Following the 2010 season, their fourth in business, which included a 2009 visit from Hurricane Ike, some well-worn parts of the Field Turf infields (especially the sliding areas) at Big League Dreams were in need of replacement. The renovation project began on Dec. 20 and continued through the holiday. In addition to replacing much of the infield surfaces, Field Turf was installed over the batter’s boxes as well, leaving virtually no dirt anywhere in the park. Four of the six fields at the modern complex were completed in plenty of time for Winter Worlds, while a fifth was projected to be ready less than 24 hours before the first game. Workers were tucking in the turf right up until two minutes before the first game was to be played on that field. Even with the five fields at Big League Dreams, some Saturday games had to be played at two nearby complexes – Kipper Mease Park in Pasadena and Wayne Gray Complex in Baytown – in order to accommodate the 95 teams who registered for the tournament. Saturday games were no problem, as the weather was mild by Texas standards for early January. But on Sunday, when all brackets were finishing at Big League Dreams, rain started falling at dawn and continued non-stop through the completion of the tournament. The new Field Turf, particularly over the batter’s boxes, was the only thing that allowed the games to all be completed – and players were certainly grateful. In the 15-team Men’s B/C Division, it was Texas Miken from Pearland – the only B team in the bracket – that captured first place, but not without some struggles. Texas Miken, which has entered Conference USSSA for the 2011 season, snuck past Slapaho (16-15) in their first game, and didn’t exactly destroy Fidelity Medical (12-8) in their second. Then, in the finals of the winner’s bracket, The LA Chargers defeated Texas Miken (23-17). Texas Miken dropped to the loser’s bracket and defeated Fidelity Medical for the second time (7-3) to advance to the championship, where Texas Miken doubledipped the LA Chargers (13-2 and 15-2) to capture the crown. 84 USSSA TODAY The LA Chargers, from Baton Rouge, were the best of the C teams to finish second with a 4-2 record. And since there was a B team in the bracket, all the C teams received double points so the LA Chargers began their season with a whopping 450 USSSA Points. Fidelity Medical from League City was the top Texas C team by placing third with a 4-2 record and earning 400 USSSA Points. Ambush from Houma, LA (near New Orleans) placed fourth with a 3-2 record and racked up 350 USSSA Points. Cash Money from Harlingen and Tx Imperial/Raza from Houston tied for fifth place, while Organized Chaos from Spring and Terror Squad from Bryan tied for seventh. Ryan Riddle of Texas Miken was named Most Valuable Player of the division, and Ed Anthony of LA Chargers was the Gold Glove winner. Other Texas Miken players named All-Tourney were Keith Taylor, Kerry Doan, Nick Mitschke and Kevin Cooper. The rest of the All-Tournament team consisted of Dustin Whaley, Justin Schmidt and Chase Kleinpeter, of the LA Chargers; Zachary Lacheir, Charlie Murray and Jonathan Sowyrda, of Fidelity Medical; and Jonathan Doucet and Jake Porche, of Ambush. In the 35-team Men’s D Division, You Who from Carencro, LA went undefeated at 6-0 to capture 300 USSSA Points and haul the first place trophy back over the Sabine River into Louisiana. You Who, who was also the unofficial winner of the Best Dressed Team Award, defeated Dirty South (14-1), Old School (19-9), Team EGO (14-9) and the Brewskies (13-5) to advance to the winner’s bracket finals, where they snuck past the Woodpeckers (15-13). The Woodpeckers dropped to the loser’s bracket and knocked off the BTX Outsiders (21-10) to get another shot at You Who in the championship game. But You Who pulled out a narrow (16-15) win to claim the crown. The Woodpeckers, from nearby Galveston, settled for second place with a 6-2 record, while the BTX Outsiders from Beaumont came in third at 5-2, and the Texas Bombers from Houston finished fourth at 6-2. Trouble Inc./Aw Ready from Austin and the Brewskies from Katy tied for fifth; Slaughterhouse from Corpus Christi and SA Canes from San Antonio tied for seventh; and Team EGO from Houston, Tribe from Converse, Aerial Assault from Cypress, and Dream Street from Beaumont all tied for ninth. Roy Meaders from You Who was named Most Valuable Player of the division, and Sal Aguilar of Woodpeckers was the Gold Glove winner. Other players from You Who named All-Tournament were Jacob Dwyer, Ty Meche, Mark Ford and Blake Domec, while Woodpeckers were Charles Hagan, Robert Orosco and Andrew Kidd. The rest of the All-Tourney team consisted of Mike Perry, Greg Shivok and Justin Ancelet, of BTX Outsiders; and Oscar Santos and Robbie Rojas, of Texas Bombers. Men’s E was the biggest bracket in the tournament with 45 teams, and Rack Em Up from Houston went undefeated through six games to win first place. Rack Em Up defeated TX Rip (10-8), Cabo (8-4), Bad Decisions (10-6), Dirty Sox (13-10) and DC Outlaws (12-4) to advance to the championship game. DC Outlaws dropped to the loser’s bracket and snuck past the Scrappers (18-17) to get another shot at Rack Em Up. But Manager Chris Fernandez’s team scored a 10-8 win to wrap up the championship and 300 USSSA Points, even though 24 of the 44 other teams in the bracket exceeded Rack Em Up’s single-game high of 14 runs. DC Outlaws from Houston finished second and earned 225 USSSA Points, even though their average margin of victory was just 2.37 runs. The Scrappers from College Station came in third with a 6-2 record and earned 200 USSSA Points. Bad Decisions from San Antonio finished fourth with a 5-2 record and earned 175 USSSA Points. Dirty Sox from Conroe and KC Boys from Katy tied for fifth place; Cash Money/ CC Twins from Harlingen and FTP-Lethal Assault from San Antonio tied for seventh; and Head First from Dickinson, Bad Habit from Bellaire, New Boyz from San Antonio and Showtime from Texas City rounded out the Top 10 by tying for ninth. Sal Lopez of Rack Em Up was named the Most Valuable Player of the division, and John Charles of DC Outlaws was the Gold Glove winner. Other Rack Em Up players named All-Tournament were Larry Hernandez, Jordan Bosquez, Art Avila and Jared Williams. The rest of the All-Tourney team consisted of Angel Millan, Larry Juarez and Eddie Lazano, of DC Outlaws; Patrick Turner, Zach Weyand and Kyle Mertz, of the Scrappers; and Steve Vasquez and Cory Jacobi, of Bad Decisions. -------Original Message------From: Greg Connell To: John Stote Any questions on the 2011 Greg Connell Worth Mayhem Reload? Call Greg personally on his cell... (229) 589-2045 hi John if I had to estimate I would say that the bat I was swinging had about 200 swings on it and the ball they are speaking of went over the flags in left into the parking lot at the men’s coed major! they said it was around 510 feet! SBMGC2 $229.95 2011 GreG Connell Worth MayheM reload 34” 26.5 oz., 27.5 oz., 28.5 oz., 30.5 oz. (800) 327-0074 www.AnacondaSports.com Oklahoma Mourns 454 Homerun the Loss of Doug Hunt Contest By Kim Titus Big League Dreams MANSFIELD, TX Doug’s wife, sons and several Oklahoma USSSA umpires trained by Doug pose at the gate of the new Doug Hunt Softball Complex in Midwest City, OK. The park was re-named in Doug’s memory on March 24, 2011. The Oklahoma softball community mourns the loss of a teacher, umpire, Austin Peacock (left) received a Worth 454 , from Lone coach, and an extremely compassionate Star Softball’s Scott Duffy, for winning the contest. man. On a fall evening in October of 2010, Doug Hunt finished umpiring his Friday set of games at Regional Park in Midwest City and had gone to see the homecoming festivities at the high school where he had taught and coached when he suddenly collapsed. Doug held on until the good Lord called him home November 13, 2010 at the age of 57. Clay Smitherman (left) received a Worth backpack for finishing second. All entrants received a Worth 454 t-shirt. Time Warner Park SAN ANTONIO, TX (left to right) Lone Star Softball LLC CEO, Greg Huchingson, champion Mando Alejandro and Worth Sports’ Travis Stolle. For the past 8 years, his day job was a Logistics Training Specialist at Tinker Air Force Base. Prior to working at Tinker Air Force Base, Doug was a teacher at Midwest City High School, teaching Government and Law and Justice. He also coached the girl’s softball team and the golf team. For the past 20 years, Doug had served as the UIC at Midwest City Regional Park. Hundreds upon hundreds had known him as “The Glove Doctor.” For $24, his price dating back to the Reagan administration, he would re-lace, repair or condition a glove. If it was just a matter of new laces, Doug could sit in a living room chair, equipment bag at his side, and have one finished before the end of the first quarter of a Monday Night Football game. During the summer, he’d do about eight to 10 gloves a week. In over 20 years, Doug repaired more than 750 gloves and stuck a ball in them for the Christmas Connection charitable group. Second place and a Worth backpack was won by Brack Herrington. 86 USSSA TODAY Softball had always been in his blood. He played national level competitive softball in his playing days. He umpired softball for over 30 years, and earned the Oklahoma State Umpire of the Year, the Midwest Divisional Umpire of the Year and was inducted into the Oklahoma USSSA State Hall of Fame. More than15 years ago Doug approached the Oklahoma State Director about giving back to the game he so loved. He proposed to start a Rookie Umpire Clinic to help others to succeed. This was something that had not been done and he, being a lifelong teacher knew that he could help others be better officials. Every year right after the state meeting he would hold a rookie clinic every Tuesday and Thursday night for the 3 weeks prior to the start of the season. He would cover everything from how to dress, to rules, and most importantly how to conduct themselves with class on the ball field. In Oklahoma, the Doug Hunt Rookie of the Year Award will forever carry his name. In the words of Andy Casey, Oklahoma State UIC “We lost a true gentleman of the game when we lost Doug. Doug never called in the World Series, although anyone who watched Doug work would tell you he would have done a great job. Doug gave to our program and to the game he loved in his way helping others to succeed.” A few days after Doug’s death, Russell Parton went to an online guest book and returned the words of comfort Doug had once given to him: “Doug, your mission is complete.” On March 24th, the Midwest City Regional Park will be renamed after Doug. Doug leaves behind his wife of 26 years, Patty, his sons Charlie and Daniel and many friends and admirers. Minnesota USSSA Seventeenth Annual Hall of Fame Banquet Kevin Naegele (right) ,USSSA’s Executive VP of Slowpich Operation, traveled to the frozen tundra to take part in the festivities. Gerry Turnberg (left) is VP-Central Division and Minnesota State Director. Front row left to right Scott Holum, Mike Ellenz, Michelle (Erlien) Masters, Jack Kirk, & Dick Anderson, back row New Hall of Fame member Jackie Werner & left to right State Director Gerry Turnberg, Jackie Werner Jr, Ardell Moeller, Greg Schwab, John Locke, Doug Bryant. Kevin Naegele relax after the festivities. USSSA Extends Agreement with USL KISSIMMEE, FL. - United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA) announced that it has extended its agreement with the United Soccer Leagues (USL) to serve as the player registration and insurance administrators for the Super Y-League. “We are very pleased to have renewed our agreement with USL and look forward to continuing the relationship we have built over the past two seasons,” USSSA Vice President of Soccer Craig Scriven said. “The system they have created for their members offers a high level of youth soccer in an environment that focuses on development; we are excited to be able to assist in helping the youth game grow throughout the country.” USL’s partnership with USSSA Soccer, allows clubs to directly register players with their respective USL youth teams via the registration system on USLsoccer. com. USSSA will also continue to serve as the insurance conduit for the Super Y-League. In addition to enhanced administration benefits, the registration and insurance aspects of the agreement 88 USSSA TODAY reduces player registration costs for Super Y-League teams and provides member clubs the opportunity to register their teams and players at all levels with USSSA. “Our partnership with USSSA has been a huge added benefit for our clubs during the past three seasons,” USL Senior Director of Youth League Development Brian D’Amico said. “Not only has it streamlined the process, it has significantly enhanced our ability to service our clubs while reducing their costs as well.” United Soccer Leagues is celebrating its 25th anniversary, and has become the largest organization of elite-level soccer leagues in North America by building on the vision, commitment, and passion of players, fans and investors. Now in its third decade of operation, USL continues to be a driving force in the growth of soccer in the United States, Canada and Caribbean. USL provides a clearly defined path for the progression of male and female soccer players beginning at the youth level (USL Super Y-League/ USL Super-20 League), continuing up through the amateur level (USL Premier Development League/USL W-League) and on to the professional level, both outdoor and indoor (USL PRO, I-League). A platform for countless players to reach for their dreams each year, USL is devoted to developing the sport at the grassroots level in every community across the region. Based in Kissimmee, Florida, USSSA is a non-profit organization whose mission is to develop and expand the game of soccer in the United States. Founded in 1968, USSSA originally stood for United States Slow-pitch Softball Association. In 1997 the United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA) became the first multi-sport governing body to oversee slow and fast pitch softball, baseball, basketball and golf. In July of 2001, USSSA added soccer to its multi-sport organization by becoming a member of U.S. Soccer. In the past decade, they have aggressively grown their soccer membership base by providing high quality / low cost services to competitive and recreational teams throughout the country. For more information visit www.usssasoccer.net SUPER BOWL OF SOFTBALL USSSA Slow Pitch Softball Invitational October 7-9, 2011 Divisions of Play: Men’s B, Men’s C, Men’s D, Men’s E Women’s C, Women’s D, Women’s E Entry Fee: $315 Information: Bert Frederick 575-647-3034 or email usssabert@aol.com USSSA Golf In Full Swing By Robert Boudreaux Boys 15-18. L-R. Gabriel Coleman, Devon Fontenot, Sutton Farmer. Boys 12-14. L-R. Hunter Cooley, Jevon Perry, Logan McGee. Boys 9-11. Matthew Houston. USSSA Golf in Louisiana is off to a great start having conducted four events since the last publication of USSSA Today. thank Kevin Tracey and the fine staff at Gray Plantation for a great weekend of golf, at a fabulous golf facility. Lake Charles Open Hub City Classic place was Logan McGee, Raceland, with a 202 total 105-97). With the victory, Drew becomes the first player to record two wins in USSSA Golf. Gray Plantation served as the venue of the “Lake Charles Open”, conducted on the weekend of December 11-12. Cold, and extremely windy conditions made for difficult conditions for the 13 golfers who braved the 30 degree weather. In Boys 15-18, Sulphur High School golfer Sutton Farmer posted a 161 total over the 6540 yard, par 72 tract. Sutton’s second round score of 80 vaulted him from fourth position after day one, into the championship. Devon Fontenot, also a Sulphur High golfer, finished in second place with a 163 total (79-84), while fellow Sulphur golfer Gabriel Coleman settled for third place with a 166 score (78-88). Farmer’s two day quest to the championship included 18 pars and two (2) birdies. Jesse Hebert, Jennings was the top birdie man for the weekend, as Jesse posted eight (8) birdies on the weekend, and a ninth place finish. The Wetlands Golf Course, Lafayette, an Audubon Golf Trail location, provided the next stop for USSSA Golf in Louisiana. The “Hub City Classic” welcomed Kirk Tarabokia, New Jersey Golf Director, as an honorary Cajun for the weekend, as Tarabokia made the trip to South Louisiana to see how his Cajun counterparts conducted successful golf events. In Boys 12-14 action, Hunter Cooley, DeRidder, posted a two day total of 202 (93-109) and outdistanced Jevon Perry, Iowa, 213 (103-110), and Logan McGee, Raceland, 235 (120-115). Cooley was able to post six (6) pars over the two day event. In Boys 9-11 play, Matthew Houston braved the elements and captured the title for the young boys, while playing 9 holes each day, and posting a 124 total (64-60). USSSA Golf Louisiana would like to 90 USSSA TODAY January 22-23 weekend proved to be a great weekend for Ryan Desormeaux, Broussard, Comeaux High School golfer, who posted a 156 (77-79) two day total. Desormeaux navigated the long, windblown facility, recording 22 pars and 3 birdies in two days of action. Capturing second place honors was Matthew Delaney, Shreveport and Evangel High School, posting scores of 75 and 83, for a 158 total. Delaney was able to record 19 pars and two birdies in his two days of action. Third place honors went to Skye Mejia, Ascension Episcopal High School, Lafayette. Mejia, the top point player in Louisiana, recorded his third TOP THREE FINISH to remain atop the Louisiana and National Rankings. Mejia’s scores included 19 pars, and resulted in 81-82, 163 total. In Boys 12-14 action, Drew Gonzales, Lafayette, utilized 25 pars, and only one birdie, to record a 153 total (77-76) over The Wetlands GC. Finishing in second The Hub City Classic also provided USSSA Golf with its second Girls event. Brooke Thibodeaux, Teurlings Catholic High School, Lafayette, posted scores of 93 and 89, 182 total, and outdistanced her Teurlings team mate, Maura Maher, who recorded scores of 112, and 109, for a two day total of 221. Ms. Thibodeaux recorded nine (9) pars in route to her first USSSA Championship. Maher’s second place finish also moved her atop the USSSA Rankings Board for Girls 15-18. David Gary, and his staff did a wonderful job in welcoming the USSSA Golfers and staff, and provided a great venue for a Junior Golf Championship. President’s Cup The third event hosted by USSSA Golf Louisiana was the “President’s Cup”. Riverlands Golf & Country Club, Laplace, provided the venue as this stately, mature course gave our junior golfers a true test of junior golf. John Kacpura and his staff are to be commended for their hospitality and their desire to help promote Junior Golf in the Eastern portion of the State. Boys 15-19 action saw second time participant Connor J. Taylor, Hammond, LA, capture top honors with a 165 (82-83) score and outdistanced second place finisher Skye Mejia by six (6) Boys 15-18. L-R: Matthew Delaney, Ryan Desormeaux, Skye Mejia. Boys 15-18. L-R: Tanner Towns, Connor J. Taylor, Skye Mejia. Boys 12-14. L-R: Davis Field, William Meyers, Triston Elston. Girls 15-18. L-R: Brooke Thibodeaux, Maura Maher. Boys 15-18. (L-R). Matthew Delaney, Dillon Dunbar, Blake Derouen. Girls 15-18. Sarah Elizabeth Smith. Boys 12-14. L-R: Drew Gonzales, Logan McGee. Boys 12-14. (L-R). Derick Pillai, Logan McGee. Boys. 9-11. Daniel Pillai. strokes. Taylor recorded 16 pars and three (3) birdies in route to his first USSSA Championship. Mejia posted 11 pars, and two (2) birdies to capture second place, with a two day total of 171 (82-89) and his fourth TOP THREE finish. Playing in his first USSSA event, Tanner Towns, West Monroe, recorded scores of 89, and 82, for a 171 total also, and lost to Mejia in a playoff. make our first six events huge successes. by Evangel High School Senior, Matthew Delaney, Shreveport, who recorded a 158 (73, 85). In Boys 12-14 action, William Meyers, Baton Rouge captured the gold, with scores of 81 and 79 for a two day total of 160. Meyers tied with Davis Field, St. Francisville, however defeated Field in a playoff. Meyers recorded 13 pars and four (4) birdies on his journey to the President’s Cup Championship. Field’s identical 160 total (80-80) was the result of 18 pars, and three (3) birdies. First round leader Triston Elston, captured the third place honors with scores of 78 and 88, for a 166 total. Elston also recorded 18 pars, and three (3) birdies over the 36 hole competition. USSSA Golf Louisiana would like to thank the 60+ golfers who have registered with USSSA Golf and helped to For registration info, or to enter a future USSSA Golf event, go to www.usssa.com USSSA Halloween Classic Beaver Creek Golf Course, Zachary, Louisiana, served as host for the USSSA Halloween Classic played the weekend of October 30-31. Blue skies, and mild temperatures provided the backdrop for the most recent USSSA Junior Golf event. No tricks were in order for Dillon Dunbar, Marksville, as the Marksville High School Senior posted a 74 on Saturday, and followed that with a two under par, 70, on Sunday, to claim top honors in the Boys 15-18 division, over the 6345 yard, par 72 tract, with an even par, 144. Dunbar posted six (6) birdies during the 36 hole championship, and felt he left several birdies out on the difficult course. Claiming second place was Blake Derouen, Lake Charles, who posted scores of 79 and 75 for a 154 total. Derouen stood alone in fourth place after the first day, and quietly played his way into second place on Sunday. Third place trophy was claimed Girls 15-18 action was claimed by Evangel High School Sophomore Sarah Elizabeth Smith with scores of 121 and 107, for a two day total of 228. Derick Pillai, Metairie, Louisiana, claimed his second USSSA Golf tournament title, making it back-to-back wins, as he also claimed the Pop-A-Lock Championship played in September. Playing in the Boys 12-14 division, Derick posted a 78 and a one over par, 73, for a two day total of 151. Pillai posted three birdies during his 36 hole trek to the championship. Newcomer Logan McGee, Raceland, LA, claimed the second place award, which was quite an accomplishment, as McGee began playing golf in August. Logan posted scores of 106 and 111. Boys 9-11 action saw Daniel Pillai, Metairie, younger brother to Daniel, also claiming a back-to-back victory. Young Pillai posted bookend 44s, for a two day total of 88, and his second USSSA Golf Championship. USSSA TODAY 91 Save up to 25% on your car insurance It’s easy with Nationwide Family Plan®. If saving on your car insurance sounds good, then Nationwide Family Plan is going to sound great. It allows parents to share some of the discounts they’ve earned with their young drivers, and save up to 25%, compared to leading competitors. Plus, when you add the special members-only discount you receive just for being a member of the United States Specialty Sports Association, you’ll save even more. Don’t wait any longer. Contact us to start taking advantage of the savings you deserve today. To learn more, or to get a FREE, no obligation quote, talk to a local Nationwide agent, call 1-866-238-1426, or visit www.usssaauto.com and start saving today! Nationwide may make a financial contribution to this organization in return for the opportunity to market products and services to its members or customers. Products Underwritten by Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company and Affiliated Companies, Nationwide Insurance Company of America, Nationwide Lloyds and Nationwide Property & Casualty Companies (in TX). Home Office: Columbus, OH 43215. Subject to underwriting guidelines, review, and approval. Products and discounts not available to all persons in all states. Potential savings based on comparison to major national competitors, for a teen driver on their parents’ policy, conducted 2008. Nationwide, Nationwide Insurance, the Nationwide framemark, On Your Side, and Nationwide Family Plan are registered service marks of Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. ©2011 Nationwide Mutual Insurance Company. All Rights Reserved.
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