Softball History USA

1997 ASA Women’s Major Fast Pitch Nationals

1997 held at Phoenix, Arizona.


Champion – California Commotion, Woodland Hills, California (15-0)
Runner Up – Southern California Jazz, Bellflower, California


This year of the 44 total games played, 29 were shutouts.

Christa Williams pitched a shutout to lead the Jazz to a 2-0 victory over the Redding Rebels and Michele Smith in the semi-final. In the Championship game, it was all Lisa Fernandez as she pitched the California Commotion to a 4-0 victory and the championship. This is the second straight year the Commotion has defeated the Jazz in the finals.


  • MVP – Lisa Fernandez, California Commotion
  • HR Leader – Sheila Douty, California Commotion – 4
  • Batting Leader – Cindy Smith, Phoenix Sunbirds – .534
  • Bertha Tickey Pitching Award – Lisa Fernandez, California Commotion
  • Erv Lind Defensive Award – Jennifer McFalls, Redding Rebels

FIRST TEAM ALL-AMERICANS

P – Lisa Fernandez, California Commotion (4-0, 29 IP, 46 K, 3 shutouts, 0 Runs, 10 K in the final; 5-20, .250 batting)
P – Michele Smith, Rebels
P – Christa Williams, California Commotion
C – Gillian Boxx, California Commotion
1B – Sheila Cornell Douty, California Commotion (6-17, .353, 4 HR, 6 Runs, 8 RBI)
2B – Julie Smith, Rebels
3B – Jennifer Brundage, California Commotion
SS – Jennifer McFalls, Rebels
OF – Yvonne Gutierrez, California Commotion
OF – Amy Chellevold, California Commotion
OF – Cindy Smith, Phoenix Sunbirds (11-21, .534, 2 runs, 2 RBI)
OF – Kim Maher, Rebels
DP – Jen Cline, California Jazz
UTIL – Kathy Stahl, Rebels
UTIL – Trinity Johnson, California Jazz

SECOND TEAM ALL-AMERICANS

P – Susie Parra, Phoenix Sunbirds
P – April Faircloth, Cig Twisters
P – Desarie Knipfer, California Jazz
C – Stacey Nuveman, California Jazz
1B – Kim Wuest, California Jazz
2B – Amy Pera, Cig Twisters
3B – Nina Lindenberg, California Jazz
SS – Randi Berg, California Players
OF – Nancy Evans, California Players
OF – Leah O’Brien, California Players
OF – Dana Morrill, Montclair Majestics
OF – Barbara Jordan, Rebels
DP – Veronica Nelson, Phoenix Storm
UTIL – Laura Berg, California Players
UTIL – Kirsten Voak, Phoenix Storm

THIRD TEAM ALL-AMERICANS

P – Kristine Karr, California Hurricanes
C – Jen Bruno, Michigan Cruise
1B – Marisa Semmel, Montclair Majestics
2B – Dani Tyler, California Players
3B – Tairia Mims, Phoenix Storm
SS – Ann Rowan-Pedersen, Sunbirds
OF – Natalie Quinn, Cig Twisters
OF – Mindy Bond, Cig Twisters
OF – Vicki Morrow, Montclair Majestics
OF – Amy Doyle, Memphis Saints
DP – Jen Schock, Montclair Majestics
UTIL – Jessica Yanosy, Brakettes
UTIL – Missy Nowak, Cig Twisters
UTIL – Jackie Cipolloni, Topton VIP’s
UTIL – Lori Harrigan, California Players (pitched a 1-0 8 inning shutout to eliminate the Brakettes)


FINAL STANDINGS

1. California Commotion, Woodland Hills, CA (6-0)
2. California Jazz, Bellflower, CA (6-2)
3. Rebels, Redding, CA (4-2)
4. Sunbirds, Phoenix, AZ (4-2)
5t. Cig Twisters, Decatur, IL (4-2)
5t. California Players, Bellflower, CA (3-2)
7t. Memphis Saints, Memphis, TN (2-2)
7t. Montclair Majestics, Montclair, NJ (3-2)
9t. Raybestos Brakettes, Stratford, CT (2-2)
9t. Phoenix Storm, Phoenix, AZ (3-2)
9t. California Hurricanes, Riverside, CA (1-2)
9t. Michigan Cruise, Ann Arbor, MI (1-2)
13t. Decatur Breeze, Decatur, IL (1-2)
13t. Topton Vip’s, Topton, PA (2-2)
13t. Vipers, Phoenix, AZ (0-2)
13t. St. Louis Surge, St. Louis, MO (1-2)
17t. Celina Suns, Celina, OH (0-2)
17t. Allentown Pates, Allentown, PA (1-2)
17t. Twin City Jammers, Minneapolis, MN (0-2)
17t. Metro Express, Phoenix, AZ (0-2)
17t. Lady Hearts, Bloomington, IL (0-2)
17t. Naturals Sunrays, Phoenix, AZ (0-2)
17t. Natural Blue, Phoenix, AZ (0-2)


L-R, top row – Manager John Stratton, Sarah Putnam, Jessica Yanosy, Elaine Amundsen, Dana Bennett, Christa Dalakis, Allyson Johnson, Kristine MacLean. Bottom row – Ellen “Frankie” Spruce, Donna McLean, Jenn Huyett, Danielle Henderson, Pat Dufficy, Debra Larson, Jen Goodwin, Player/Coach Patti Fernandes.

1997 ISA Men’s A Slow Pitch World Series

1997 held at Anniston, Alabama.


Champion – Adams/Worth, Jackson, Mississippi
Runner Up – Alford’s/Worth, Stone Mountain, Georgia


  • MVP – Craig Upton, Adams (23-28, .821, 7 HR, 26 RBI)
  • HR Leader – Steve Gilbert, Smokes – 14
  • HR Leader – Sylvin Little, Alford’s – 14
  • HR Leader – Charly Brown, Precision – 14
  • Batting Leader – Daniel Cloud, Bluff City (20-22) – .909
  • Defensive MVP – None named

ISA A WORLD TEAM

  • Lennon Leggett, Adams (.750)
  • Richie McAlister, Adams (.785, 12 HR, 25 RBI)
  • Todd Delk, Adams (.718)
  • Scott Holman, Adams (.718, 11 HR)
  • Bobby Fowler, Adams (.750)
  • Jeff Thompson, Alford’s (.757)
  • Marty Parr, Alford’s
  • Ron Holder, Alford’s (.769)
  • Danny Holder, Alford’s
  • Steve Gilbert, Smokes (14 HR)
  • Bravlio Castillo, Smokes (.794, 13 HR)
  • Trevor Bellamy, Jonesboro (16-20, .800)
  • Travis Baldridge, Jonesboro

OTHERS

Richard Kee, Precision (20-27, .741, 11 HR, 40 RBI)


FINAL RESULTS

1. Adams/Worth, Jackson, MS
2. Alford’s/Worth, Stone Mountain, GA
3. Smokes/Harrison/TPS, Maryland
4. Jonesboro/TPS, Tennessee
5t. Precision, Georgia
5t. Woerner, Georgia
7t. Fast Eddies, Mississippi
7t. S&W, Mississippi
9t. Major League/Easton, TN
9t. Bluff City Wobblers, TN
9t. Terry’s Bombats, NC
9t. Lafayette Fire & Safety, LA

Other teams entered

Resmondo/TPS, Lake Wales, FL
Folk-Jordan, Hendersonville, TN

1997 ISA Men’s AA Slow Pitch World Series

1997 held at Ormond Beach, Florida.


Champion – Sierra/TPS, Reno, Nevada
Runner Up – AJ’s/Worth, Richmond, Virginia


  • MVP – Dale Walters, Sierra/TPS (18-22, .818, 10 HR, 20 RBI)
  • HR Leader – Doug Brown, AJ’s/Worth (29-34, .853) – 14
  • Batting Leader – Mike Wismer, AJ’s/Worth (32-37, 11 HR) – .865
  • Defensive MVP – Mike Wismer, AJ’s/Worth

1997 ISA AA ALL WORLD TEAM

  • Dale Walters, Sierra/TPS (18-22, .818, 10 HR, 20 RBI)
  • Mark Creson, Sierra/TPS (16-21, .762, 6 HR)
  • David Burke, Sierra/TPS (15-20, .750, 7 HR)
  • Derrick Williams, Sierra/TPS (15-21, .714)
  • Jeff Bullock, Sierra/TPS (14-18, .778)
  • Mike Wismer, AJ’s/Worth (32-37, .865, 11 HR)
  • Ernie Toth, AJ’s/Worth (26-37, .703, 11 HR)
  • Jeff Smith, AJ’s/Worth (16-21, .762)
  • Mike Much, AJ’s/Worth (23-35, .657)
  • Doug Brown, AJ’s/Worth (29-34, .853, 14 HR)
  • Kris O’Hara, ChecKing/Brien Oil/Midas/TPS (13-17, .765)
  • Chris Santucci, ChecKing/Brien Oil/Midas/TPS (11-15, .733)
  • Mike Stanley, Long Haul/TPS 913-20, .650)
  • Keith Brockman, Long Haul/TPS (12 HR)

FINAL STANDINGS

1. Sierra/TPS, Reno, NV (4-0)
2. AJ’s/Worth, Richmond, VA (5-2)
3. ChecKing/Brien Oil/Midas/TPS, Somers, CT (2-2)
4. Long Haul/TPS, Albertville, MN (2-2)
5t. Sports World/Worth, Lebanon, TN (3-2)
5t. Hague/Ohio Transport/Wessel, Columbus, OH (2-2)
7t. Hudson/TPS, Samson, AL (2-2)
7t. Elite/Rycon, Ocala, FL (2-2)
9t. Plumbers & Pipefitters Local #388, Lansing, MI (0-2)
9t. Romano Pontiac, Daytona Beach, FL (0-2)
9t. Suncoast/Dudley, Sarasota, FL (0-2)
9t. Woerner Sports Turf, Elberta, AL (0-2)

1997 ISA Men’s Super Slow Pitch World Series

1997 held at Gastonia, North Carolina.


Champion – Sunbelt/Dan Smith/Easton, Centerville, Georgia
Runner Up – Shen Valley/Taylor Brothers/TPS, Bridgewater, Virginia


Shen Valley defeated Sierra/TPS 15-14, Long Haul 17-6 and finally Sunbelt 25-24 in the winners bracket Final. Sunbelt came back to double dip Shen Valley 23-17 and then 22-17.


  • MVP – Todd Joerling, Sunbelt/Dan Smith/Easton – (20-29, .690, 8 HR, 20 RBI)
  • Defensive MVP – John McCraw, Sunbelt/Dan Smith/Easton
  • HR Leader – Todd Joerling, Sunbelt/Dan Smith/Easton – 8
  • Batting Leader – Brett Helmer, So Jern/Specialty Tank/TPS – (13-18) – .722

ISA SUPER ALL WORLD TEAM

  • Todd Joerling, Sunbelt/Dan Smith/Easton (20-29, .690, 8 HR, 20 RBI)
  • Dan Schuck, Sunbelt/Dan Smith/Easton (16-30, .533, 7 HR, 14 RBI)
  • Shane Dubose, Sunbelt/Dan Smith/Easton (19-27, .704, 6 RBI)
  • Jeff Hall, Sunbelt/Dan Smith/Easton (18-29, .621, 1 HR, 11 RBI)
  • Greg Harding, Sunbelt/Dan Smith/Easton (14-27, .519, 3 HR, 12 RBI)
  • Mark Brenner, Sunbelt/Dan Smith/Easton (15-25, .600, 8 RBI)
  • John McCraw, Sunbelt/Dan Smith/Easton (14-29, .483, 2 HR, 11 RBI)
  • Rusty Bumgardner, Shen Valley/Taylor Brothers/TPS (15-22, .682, 6 HR, 16 RBI)
  • Todd Martin, Shen Valley/Taylor Brothers/TPS (12-22, .545, 1 HR, 7 RBI)
  • Phil Jobe, Shen Valley/Taylor Brothers/TPS (13-19, .684, 2 HR, 6 RBI)
  • Brett Helmer, So Jern/Specialty Tank/TPS (13-18, .722, 3 HR, 6 RBI)
  • Jeff Wallace, So Jern/Specialty Tank/TPS (12-18, ..667, 6 HR, 11 RBI)
  • Mike Macenko, Steele’s/Reda (9-13, .692, 5 HR, 9 RBI)

OTHERS

Jason Kendrick, Shen Valley (12-18, .667, 1 HR, 4 RBI)
Albert Davis, Shev Valley (12-21, .571, 4 HR, 11 RBI)
Bobby Gilbert, Sunbelt/Dan Smith (14-25, 560, 3 HR, 12 RBI)
JC Phelps, Shen Valley (12-22, .545, 5 HR, 16 RBI)
Scott Elliott, Sunbelt/Dan Smith (14-28, .500, 3 HR, 10 RBI)


FINAL STANDINGS

1. Sunbelt/Dan Smith/Easton, Centerville, GA (5-1)
2. Shen Valley/Taylor Brothers/TPS, Bridgewater VA (3-2)
3. So Jern/Specialty Tank/TPS, Cedarbrook, NJ (3-2)
4. Steele’s/Reda, Brook Park, OH (2-2)
5t. Lighthouse/Worth, Stone Mountain, GA (1-2)
5t. Long Haul/TPS, Albertville, MN (1-2)
7t. Ritch’s-Superior/Tri-Gems/TPS, Windsor Locks, CT (0-2)
7t. Sierra/TPS, Reno, NV (0-2)

1997 ASA Men’s Super Slow Pitch Nationals

1997 held at Sanford, Florida on August 15-17.


Champion – Ritch’s-Superior/Tri-Gems/Beloli/TPS, Windsor Locks, Connecticut (67-19)
Runner Up – Shen Valley/Taylor Brothers/TPS Bridgewater, Virginia (77-23)


The Windsor Locks-based Ritch’s-Superior/Tri-Gems/Beloli/TPS defended their Amateur Softball Association Super Nationals title by defeating Shen Valley of Bridgewater, Va., 30-29 in Sanford, Fla. Dewayne Nevitt’s two-run homer in the seventh was the difference. He had 20 homers and 37 RBI in eight games and was named MVP.


  • MVP – Dewayne Nevitt, Ritch’s-Superior/Tri-Gems/Beloli/TPS
  • HR Leader – Dewayne Nevitt, Ritch’s-Superior/Tri-Gems/Beloli/TPS – 20
  • Batting Leader – Mike Rodriguez, Sierra/TPS – .826

FIRST TEAM ALL-AMERICANS

P – Brad Stiles, Lighthouse/Worth (16-20, .800, 9 HR, 17 RBI)
C – Dewayne Nevitt, Ritch’s-Superior/Tri-Gems/Beloli/TPS (24-38, .632, 20 HR, 37 RBI)
1B – Dirk Androff, Ritch’s-Superior/Tri-Gems/Beloli/TPS (24-36, .667, 11 HR, 21 RBI)
2B – Rusty Bumgardner, Shen Valley/Taylor Brothers/TPS (19-25, .760, 5 HR, 13 RBI)
3B – Albert Davis, Shen Valley/TPS (16-26, .615, 6 HR, 12 RBI)
SS – Greg Cannedy, Ritch’s-Superior/Tri-Gems/Beloli/TPS (18-28, .643, 1 HR, 7 RBI)
OF – Doug Kissane, Ritch’s-Superior/Tri-Gems/Beloli/TPS (25-35, .714, 18 HR, 26 RBI)
OF – Hank Garris, Ritch’s-Superior/Tri-Gems/Beloli/TPS (24-33, .727, 13 HR, 22 RBI)
OF – Larry Fredieu, Ritch’s-Superior/Tri-Gems/Beloli/TPS (20-33, .606, 14 HR, 32 RBI)
OF – Todd Martin, Shen Valley/Taylor Brothers/TPS (12-27, .444, 6 HR, 13 RBI)
EP – JC Phelps, Shen Valley/Taylor Brothers/TPS (18-26, .692, 6 HR, 15 RBI)
UT – Jason Kendrick, Shen Valley/Taylor Brothers/TPS (16-25, .640, 2 HR, 13 RBI)
UT – Mike Shenk, Ritch’s-Superior/Tri-Gems/Beloli/TPS (23-32, .719, 7 HR, 18 RBI)
UT – Dennis Mendoza, Lighthouse/Worth (19-25, .760, 2 HR, 5 RBI)
UT – Mark Creson, Sierra/TPS (12-19, .632, 9 HR, 16 RBI)
UT – John Keigley, Sierra/TPS (14-20, .700, 2 HR, 5 RBI)
UT – Mike Rodriguez, Sierra/TPS (19-23, .826, 10 RBI, 13 Runs)


OTHERS

Jeff Wallace, SoJern/Specialty Tank (12-14, .857)
Todd Joerling, Sunbelt Dan Smith (18-22, .818, 7 HR, 21 RBI)
Jeff Hall, Sunbelt Dan Smith (14-19, .737, 7 HR, 16 RBI)
Shane Dubose, Sunbelt Dan Smith (15-21, .714, 7 HR, 16 RBI)
Brett Helmer, SoJern/Specialty Tank (10-14, .714)
Ricky Huggins, Lighthouse/Worth (16-24, .667, 4 HR, 10 RBI)
Wendell Rickard, Lighthouse/Worth (17-26, .654, 16 HR, 30 RBI)
Greg Harding, Sunbelt Dan Smith (16-23, .652, 8 HR, 21 RBI)
Robbie Ergle, Lighthouse/Worth (15-24, 625, 7 HR, 14 RBI)
Dale Walters, Sierra/TPS (13-21, .619, 3 HR, 18 RBI)
Darrell Beeler, Ritch’s-Superior/Tri-Gems/Beloli/TPS (21-34, .618, 12 HR, 17 RBI)
Tot Powers, Shen Valley/Taylor Brothers/TPS (16-26, .615, 6 HR, 13 RBI)
Randall Boone, Shen Valley/Taylor Brothers/TPS (14-24, .583, 8 HR, 17 RBI)
Phil Jobe, Shen Valley/Taylor Brothers/TPS (14-24, .583, 1 HR, 9 RBI)
Ron Parnell, Ritch’s-Superior/Tri-Gems/Beloli/TPS (18-31, .581, 8 HR, 14 RBI)
Britt Hightower, Ritch’s-Superior/Tri-Gems/Beloli/TPS (22-38, .579, 7 HR, 19 RBI)
Steve Craven, Lighthouse/Worth (13-24, .565, 7 HR, 14 RBI)
Dewayne Frizzell, Shen Valley/Taylor Brothers/TPS (13-24, .542, 6 HR, 14 RBI)
Jimmy Powers, Shen Valley/Taylor Brothers/TPS (15-29, .517, 7 HR, 16 RBI)
Carl Rose, Lighthouse/Worth (12-24, 500, 3 HR, 3 RBI)


FINAL STANDINGS

1. Ritch’s-Superior/Tri-Gems/Beloli/TPS, Windsor Locks, CT (7-1)
2. Shen Valley/Taylor Brothers/TPS, Bridgewater, VA (4-2)
3. Sierra/TPS, Reno, NV (3-2)
4. Lighthouse/Worth, Stone Mountain, GA (3-2)
5t. Sunbelt/Dan Smith/Easton, Centerville, GA (3-2)
5t. Major League/Easton, Chattanooga, TN (3-2)
7t. Robert’s/Easton, Orlando, FL (2-2)
7t. Hague/Ohio Transport/Wessel/TPS, Columbus, OH (2-2)
9t. Steele’s/Reda, Brook Park, OH (1-2)
9t. SoJern/Specialty Tank/TPS, Cedar Brook, NJ (1-2)
9t. R&D/Grover, Lima, OH (1-2)
9t. D’s Alliance/JWM/Easton, Valley Center, CA (1-2)
13t. Long Haul/TPS, Albertville, MN (0-2)
13t. Herb’s/TPS, San Diego, CA (0-2)
13t. NASTY Boys/TPS, St. Louis, MO (0-2)
13t. Martin/Mizuno/Bike/Demarini, Seymour, IN (0-2)

1997 ASA Men’s B Slow Pitch Nationals

1997 held at Smith Softball Complex in Hastings, Nebraska on September 25-28.


Champion – Jerry’s, Fayetteville, North Carolina
Runner Up – Scoreboard Tavern, Spokane, Washington


FIRST TEAM ALL-AMERICANS

P – Dennis Muth, Shockers Softball
C – Roy Jarman, Jerry’s
1B – John Adams, Jerry’s
2B – John Dutch, Jerry’s
3B – Russell Bukowski, USA Cash
SS – Mike Reeder, Scoreboard Tavern
OF – Bill Jorgenson, Grants Pass Taxi
OF – Rich Raisbeck, Shockers Softball
OF – Derek Figley, USA Cash
OF – Wade Degeest, Scoreboard Tavern
EP – Anthony Hobbs, Jerry’s
UT – Brian Loveless, Iowa Sports
UT – Lloyd New, Jerry’s
UT – Jeff Acton, USA Cash
UT – Mike Olsen, Scoreboard Tavern

SECOND TEAM ALL-AMERICANS

P – Mark Blacketer, Gateway Press
C – John Poortinga, Valley West Pub
1B – Tom Hogan, Iowa Sports
2B – Rick Walsh, Valley West Pub
3B – Frank Murphy, Grants Pass Taxi
SS – Kevin Hamilton, San Antonio Sting/TPS
OF – Stan Harris, Willimantic Brewing
OF – Ken McMullen, San Antonio Sting/TPS
OF – Mike Dixon, San Antonio Sting/TPS
OF – Ken Franklin, Colby Telephone
EP – Mark Dennis, Grants Pass Taxi
UT – Mark Wolver, Valley West Pub
UT – Bobby Behnsch, San Antonio Sting/TPS
UT – Elroy Hagelgans, San Antonio Sting/TPS
UT – David Cutright, Marcello’s Pizza

THIRD TEAM ALL-AMERICANS

P – Todd Brummer, Valley West Pub
C – Terry Choate, Marcello’s Pizza
1B – Mark Lambert, Willimantic Brewing
2B – Jim Crabtree, Willimantic Brewing
3B – Dave Cushman, Willimantic Brewing
OF – Frank Murphy, Colby Telephone
OF – Paul Martineau, Willimantic Brewing
OF – Troy Albright, Marcello’s Pizza
OF – Brad Weyant, Marcello’s Pizza
EP – Tom Sorenson, Willimantic Brewing
UT – J.R. Hartman, Marcello’s Pizza
UT – Michael Drawbaugh, Marcello’s Pizza
UT – Jim Seraphine, Gateway Press
UT – Jimmy Ray, Gateway Press


FINAL STANDINGS

1. Jerry’s, Fayetteville, NC (7-0)
2. Scoreboard Tavern, Spokane, WA (6-2)
3. USA Cash, Metamio, MI (7-2)
4. Shockers Softball, Jamesville, WI (9-2)
5t. Iowa Sports, Gilbertville, IA (5-2)
5t. Grants Pass Taxi, Grants Pass, OR (5-2)
7t. San Antonio Sting/TPS, San Antonio, TX (5-2)
7t. Colby Telephone, Glendale, RI (5-2)
9t. Gateway Press, Louisville, KY (4-2)
9t. Marcello’s Pizza, York, PA (6-2)
9t. Willimantic Brewing, Willimantic, CT (4-2)
9t. Valley West Pub, Urbandale, IA (7-2)
13t. Team Thristy, Kearney, NE (5-2)
13t. Wish/Anderson Auto, Vennon, CT (5-2)
13t. Minnesota Merchants, Eden Prairie, MN (5-2)
13t. TACC, Maldeh, ME (5-2)
17t. Dallas Sports Club, Garland, TX (3-2)
17t. P&D Construction, Naugatuck, CT (3-2)
17t. Fanatics, Victoria, TX (2-2)
17t. Wings Café, Stratford, CT (4-2)
17t. Dalton Chiropractic, Eatontown, NJ (2-2)
17t. Sunquist Consulting, Fargo, ND (2-2)
17t. Container Port Group, Louisville, KY (3-2)
17t. Advantage Softball, Papillion, NE (3-2)
25t. New Hampshire Steel, Manchester, NH (2-2)
25t. Pollack Law, Cranston, RI (3-2)
25t. Ohio Sealants, Cleveland, OH (4-2)
25t. Bailey’s, North Andover, MA (3-2)
25t. Home Town Hardware, Interlochen, MI (2-2)
25t. Lacasa, Tiffin, IA (4-2)
25t. Mullinax Food/Steele’s, Parma, OH (3-2)
25t. Wahl Optical, Council Bluffs, IA (2-2)
33t. Schuler Manufacturing, Massewa, IA (2-2)
33t. Okoboji/Sambetti’s, Ankeny, IA (2-2)
33t. John Steel’S Roofing, New Castle, DE (2-2)
33t. Elite Sports, Woodbridge, VA (3-2)
33t. Whiskey Jct. Lighting, Minneapolis, MN (2-2)
33t. Austin Spurs, Buds, TX (2-2)
33t. Budweiser, North Mankato, MN (2-2)
33t. BFI/Dudley, Houston, TX (1-2)
33t. Gleason’s Softball, Williamstown, NJ (2-2)
33t. Andy’s Electric, Grand Meadow, MN (2-2)
33t. Spinners Icehouse, North Mankato, MN (2-2)
33t. Despardo/Paradise Falls, Missoula, MT (2-2)
33t. Blue Grass/Old Hickory, Louisville, KY (2-2)
33t. Maroadi Transfer, Jeannette, PA (1-2)
33t. Duck City, Coal Valley, IL (1-2)
33t. KVB Loan Sharks, Eudora, KS (1-2)
49t. Desperados, Laredo, TX (1-2)
49t. Players, West Warwick, RI (1-2)
49t. Potomac Valley Brick, Wheaton, MD (1-2)
49t. Peaster TV, Claremore, OK (1-2)
49t. Dunkin Donuts/Rochester, Farmington, NH (1-2)
49t. Clim-A-Tee, Hastings, MN (1-2)
49t. Beacon Softball, Reading, PA (1-2)
49t. Bigelow Enterprises, Bryon, MN (1-2)
49t. Busch Beer, Hastings, NE (1-2)
49t. Pierre’s, Sioux Falls, SD (1-2)
49t. Jacob’s Saloon, Cincinnati, OH (1-2)
49t. Wilbur Construction, LaGrange, ME (2-2)
49t. Kokomo Foot/Chapplins, Kokomo, IN (2-2)
49t. High Expectations, Stow, PA (1-2)
49t. All Around T’s & Trophies, Pierre, SD (1-2)
49t. Sherry’s County Limits, Galesburg, IL (1-2)
65t. Oldham Gators, Lawrence, KS (0-2)
65t. Sonny’s Coors, Casper, WY (0-2)
65t. Miller Screwballs, Forrest Park, IL (1-2)
65t. Capital City Construction, Bismarck, ND (1-2)
65t. Pepsi-Allsport/Easton, Mercer Island, WA (1-2)
65t. Jeff’s Cals, Tipton, MO (1-2)
65t. Rocky Mountain Bus., Monument, CO (0-2)
65t. Monoco Ford/Dudley, New Britain, CT (0-2)
65t. Raynor Doors, Lincoln, NE (0-2)
65t. Archies Stony Point, Kansas City, KS (1-2)
65t. Hogans/Red Dog, Hastings, NE (0-2)
65t. Merrills Auto Detail, La Vista, NE (0-2)
65t. ISI/ESI/Novus, Kearney, NE (0-2)
65t. Bit-O-Blarney, Frankfort, IL (0-2)
65t. Las Vegas Funjet/TPS, Marquan, WI (1-2)
65t. Geisen Funeral Home, Crown Point, IA (1-2)
65t. Sweet Williams, Norfolk, NE (0-2)
65t. Outfield, Mason City, IA (1-2)
65t. Summit Sales, Lexington, KY (0-2)
65t. ENS Convertables, Bloomington, MN (0-2)
65t. Coors Light Ceiling, TX (0-2)
65t. Hooters/Easton, Maplewood, MN (1-2)
65t. Berties/Bank Of Edmonson, Brownsville, KY (1-2)
65t. Shelby Merchants Shelby, NE (0-2)
65t. Taco Johns Hastings, NE (0-2)
65t. Black Sox Guymon, OK (0-2)

1997 USSSA Men’s Major Slow Pitch World Series

1997 held at Daytona Beach, Florida.


Champion – Lighthouse/Worth, Stone Mountain, Georgia
Runner Up – Ritch’s-Superior/Tri-Gems/Beloli/TPS, Windsor Locks, Connecticut


  • MVP – Carl Rose, Lighthouse (22-28, .786, 10 HRs, 26 RBIs)
  • Home Run Leader – Hank Garris, Ritch’s (18-27, .667, 24 RBIs) – 14
  • Batting Leader – Jeff Hall, Sunbelt (20-24, 3 HRs, 13 RBIs) – .833
  • Defensive MVP – Larry Sauceman, Lighthouse/Worth

USSSA WORLD SERIES ALL WORLD TEAM

  • Pitcher – Robbie Ergle – LighthouselWorth
  • Pitcher – Greg Cannedy – Ritch’s Superior/TPS
  • Catcher – Scott Elliott – Sunbelt/Dan Smith/Easton
  • Catcher – Steve Craven – Lighthouse/Worth
  • Extra Hitter – Randy Kortokrax – R&D Grover
  • Extra Hitter – J.C. Phelps – Shen Valley/TPS
  • Extra Hitter – Wendell Rickard – Lighthouse/Worth
  • First Base – Dirk Androff – Ritch’s Superior/TPS
  • Second Base – Carl Rose – Lighthouse/Worth
  • Second Base – Bob Gilbert – Sunbelt/Dan Smith/Easton
  • Short Stop – Larry Sauceman – Lighthouse/Worth
  • Short Stop – Todd Joerling – Sunbeltl/Dan Smith/Easton
  • Short Stop – Ron Pamell – Ritch’s Superior/TPS
  • Third Base – Dennis Mendoza – Lighthouse/Worth
  • Outfield – Hank Garris – Ritch’s Superior/TPS
  • Outfield – Jeff Hall – Sunbelt/Dan Smith/Easton
  • Outfield – Todd Martin – Shen Valley/TPS
  • Outfield – Britt Hightower – Ritch’s Superior/TPS
  • Outfield – Randall Boone – Shen Valley/TPS
  • Outfield – Dewayne Frizzell – Shen Valley/TPS
  • Manager – Cecil Alford – Lighthouse/Worth

FINAL STANDINGS

1. Lighthouse/Worth, Stone Mountain, GA (5-0)
2. Ritch’s Superior/Tri-Gems/Beloli/TPS, Windsor Locks, CT (4-2)
3. Shen Valley/TPS, Bridgewater, VA (4-2)
4. Sunbelt/Dan Smith/Easton, Centerville, GA (3-2)
5t. Sierra/TPS, Reno, NV (3-2)
5t. R&D Grover, Lima, OH (3-2)
7t. Spectrum/Pov’s/Easton, Plymouth, MN (2-2)
7t. Long Haul/TPS, Albertville, MN (2-2)
9t. So Jern/Specialty Tank/TPS, Levittown, PA (1-2)
9t. Hague/Ohio Transport/Wessel/Belcher, Columbus, OH (1-2)
9t. Steele’s, Grafton, OH (1-2)
9t. Gil’s Arizona Heat/Easton, Phoenix, AZ (1-2)
13t. D’s Alliance, Valley Center, CA (0-2)
13t. Adams/Worth, Jackson, MS (0-2)
13t. O&S Cattle/Worth, Crystal, MN (0-2)
13t. Joe Black’s/Land of Chevrolet/TPS, Elgin, IL (0-2)

1997 ASA Men’s Major Fast Pitch Nationals

1997 held at Bomber Stadium in Clearwater, Florida on August 30-September 5.


Champion – Tampa Bay Smokers, Clearwater, Florida (65-11)
Runner Up – Farm Tavern, Madison, Wisconsin


The Farm’s Paul Alger hurled a 1-hit shutout in the first final to beat the undefeated Tampa Bay Smokers 1-0. The losing pitcher, Darren Zack struck out 9 for the Smokers. It was Chris Delarwelle who drove in the game’s only run for the Farm. In the Final Championship game, The Smokers nailed down a 4-0 victory to win the title. Algar was the losing pitcher for the Farm and could not find that magic touch he had in the first game. Boomer Brush and Barry Kahler both had singles before Todd Garcia drove them both home to give the Smokers a 2-0 lead. Later in the game, Brush hit a 2-run homer to seal the deal. Brush had 2 hits (both HR) in his first 4 games of the tournament, but exploded for 3 hits in the finals, another being a HR. Todd Martin pitched a 2-hitter for the Smokers. He walked 2 batters with 2 outs in the 7th, before Darrin Zack came in to get the last out.

Miller Toyota defeated the Clearwater Bullets 24-0 to break the record for runs scored in a National Championship. Brett Alvey and Mitch Munthe each collected 8 RBI to also set a record. Munthe had 7 RBI in one inning. He had two home runs in the first inning, a 3-run shot and then a grand slam. Alvey had two 3-run homers in the game. Miller pitcher, Russ Snow pitched a perfect game, striking out 13 of the 14 batters he faced.

Boomer Brush and Barry Kahler both had singles before Todd Garcia drove them both home to give the Smokers a 2-0 lead. Later in the game, Brush hit a 2-run homer to seal the deal. Brush had 2 hits (both HR) in his first 4 games of the tournament, but exploded for 3 hits in the finals, another being a home run.

Todd Martin pitched a 2-hitter for the Smokers. He walked 2 batters with 2 outs in the 7th, before Darrin Zack came in to get the last out.

Jimmy Doyle of Midland made this his last ASA Appearance after 45 years of playing softball at age 63. His career record is 2004-158 with 212 no hitters.


  • MVP – Richard “Boomer” Brush, Tampa Bay Smokers
  • Batting Leader – Chris Delarwelle, Farm Tavern Chris Delarwelle, Farm Tavern – .400
  • HR Leader – Richard Boomer Brush, Tampa Bay Smokers – 3
  • Herb Dudley Pitching Award – Todd Martin, Tampa Bay Smokers

FIRST TEAM ALL-AMERICANS

P – Todd Martin, Tampa Bay Smokers (4-0, 17 IP, 27 K, shutout)
P – Jody Hennigar, Farm Tavern
P – Chris Bigelow, Meierhoffer Fleeman
C – Todd Garcia, Tampa Bay Smokers
1B – Steve Schott, Tampa Bay Smokers
2B – Lonnie Swan, Farm Tavern
3B – Brian Martie, Farm Tavern
SS – Kerry Shaw, Meierhoffer Fleeman
OF – Boomer Brush, Tampa Bay Smokers (6-18, .333, 3 HR, two of the HR were hit in the 7th inning to give the Smokers a 1-0 victory)
OF – Ed Poirier, Matarazzo Sea Dogs
OF – Brian Neveau, Farm Tavern
OF – Chris Delarwelle, Farm Tavern (8-20)
DH – Michael Jackson, Teutopolis KC
UT – Bob Soricelli, Matarazzo Sea Dogs
UT – Byron DeMoe, Matarazzo Sea Dogs

SECOND TEAM ALL-AMERICANS

P – Scott Evans, Midland Explorers
P – Paul Algar, Farm Tavern
P – Darin Zack, Tampa Bay Smokers (2-1, 19 IP, 29 K, shutout, gave up 6 hits)
C – Tim Wahl, Farm Tavern
1B – Trent Rubley, Farm Tavern
2B – Ehren Earleywine, Decatur Pride
3B – Barry Kahler, Tampa Bay Smokers
SS – Bill McDonald, Matarazzo Sea Dogs
OF – Steve King, Farm Tavern
OF – Ron Jones, Decatur Pride
OF – Terry Boetsma, Midland Explorers
OF – Rich Brewer, Meierhoffer Fleeman
DP – Steve Price, Decatur Pride
UT – Chris Wilson, Matarazzo Sea Dogs
UT – Mike Distasio, Tampa Bay Smokers

THIRD TEAM ALL-AMERICANS

P – Doug Gillis, Decatur Pride
P – Doug Sleep, Midland Explorers
P – Michael White, Farm Tavern
C – Gary Doyle, Midland Explorers
1B – Greg Melchert, Midland Explorers
2B – Jason Hanson, Tampa Bay Smokers
3B – Brett Alvey, Larry Miller Toyota
SS – John Bargfeldt, Decatur Pride
OF – Mitch Munthe, Larry Miller Toyota
OF – Todd Davis, River City Rage
OF – Vinne Burke, Coors DC Risco Sunners
OF – Scott Deuel, Tampa Bay Smokers
DP – Pete Spoerl, Larry Miller Toyota
UT – Doug Levy, Midland Explorers
UT – Boyd Dallman, Farm Tavern


FINAL STANDINGS

1. Tampa Bay Smokers, Clearwater, FL (5-1)
2. Farm Tavern, Madison, WI (5-2)
3. Matarazzo Sea Dogs, Stoneham, MA (5-2)
4. Midland Explorers, Midland, MI (3-2)
5t. Meierhoffer Fleeman, Savannah., MO (2-2)
5t. Decatur Pride, Decatur, IL (2-2)
7t. Coors DC Risco Sunners, Reading, PA (2-2)
7t. Suns, Jacksonville, FL (1-2)
9t. Teutopolis KC, Effingham, IL (1-2)
9t. River City Rage, Peoria, IL (1-2)
9t. Larry Miller Toyota, Salt Lake City, UT (1-2)
9t. Townhouse Huskies, Sioux City, IA (1-2)
13t. Clearwater Bullets, Clearwater, FL (0-2)
13t. Abbott Labs, Ashland, OH (0-2)
13t. Clearwater Bombers, Clearwater, FL (0-2)

1997 ASA Men’s (9) Major Modified Pitch Nationals

1997 held at Burlington, North Carolina on August 29-September 1.


Champion –  D&S Roofing, Deer Park, New York
Runner Up – Texas Liquids/All Energy, Staten Island, New York


  • MVP – N/A
  • Batting Champion – N/A
  • HR Champion – N/A

1997 FIRST TEAM ALL AMERICANS

P – Rob Schiller, D&S Roofing
P – Gary Thomas, Texas Liquids/All Energy
P – Robert Langer, Globe
C – Joe Oppedisano, D&S Roofing
1B – Jim McAdoo, Gremlins
2B – Tom Laresca, D&S Roofing
3B – Robert Coppola, D&S Roofing
SS – Jim Thomason, D&S Roofing
OF – George Donohue, Texas Liquids/All Energy
OF – Kevin McGuirl, Texas Liquids/All Energy
OF – John Pereyo, D&S Roofing
DP – Frank DeGroat, Texas Liquids/All Energy
UTIL – Jorge Sepulveda, Gremlins
UTIL – George Cruz, D&S Roofing
UTIL – Mike Mancini, Texas Liquids/All Energy


1997 SECOND TEAM ALL AMERICANS

P – Greg Sutton, Tarr/Tighe Club
P – Bob Moore, Globe
P – Tom Berube, Gremlins
1B – Jim Long, Globe
2B – Matt Kupic, Gremlins
3B – Jim Crocetta, Gremlins
SS – Mike Brex, Texas Liquids/All Energy
OF – Richard Nizza, D&S Roofing
OF – Paul Eckleberry, Texas Liquids/All Energy
OF – Chris Karlson, Tarr/Tighe Club
UTIL – Scott Raynor, Globe
UTIL – Ernie Onesti, Globe
UTIL – Richie Reynolds, D&S Roofing
UTIL – Tom Forrester, Texas Liquids/All Energy
UTIL – Steve Miller, Gremlins


1997 THIRD TEAM ALL AMERICANS

P – Don Meader, Tarr/Tighe Club
C – Bill Tolli, Zorn Industries
1B – Jim Fitzpatrick, Tarr/Tighe Club
2B – Shawn Sandefer, Team L.A.
3B – Don Morgan, Team L.A.
SS – Rick McCarthy, Team L.A.
OF – Rich Cordani, Tarr/Tighe Club
OF – Jeff Hastings, Snap-On Tools
OF – Sal Martorano, D’Onofrio Softball
OF – Charlie Doherty, Zorn Industries
DP – Todd Budke, Team L.A.
UTIL – Tom Bennett, Tarr/Tighe Club
UTIL – Rob McQueen, Snap-On Tools
UTIL – Jon Carter, Snap-On Tools
UTIL – Nick Bruno, Zorn Industries


FINAL STANDINGS

1. D&S Roofing, Deer Park, NY (6-0)
2. Texas Liquids/All Energy, Staten Island, NY (5-2)
3. Gremlins, Clifton Park, NY (5-2)
4. Globe, Redbank, NJ (4-2)
5t. Snap-On Tools, Bow, NH (5-2)
5t. Tarr/Tighe Club, Wilmington, MA (5-2)
7t. Zorn Industries, Long Island, NY (3-2)
7t. Team L.A., Los Angeles, CA (4-2)
9t. D’Onofrio Softball, Brooklyn, NY (3-2)
9t. Little Ceasars Sharks, Port Huron, MI (2-2)
9t. Brymile, Spokane, WA (2-2)
9t. Warriors, Chapel Hill, NC (2-2)
13t. Secory Flyers, Port Huron, MI (2-2)
13t. Wallen Construction, Morristown, TN (2-2)
13t. L.A. Doughboys, Los Angeles, CA (2-2)
13t. Salisbury Moose #654, Salisbury, MD (2-2)
17t. Ticona, Plymouth, MI (1-2)
17t. Prestigious Pirates, Atlanta, GA (1-2)
17t. Martells, Point Pleasant Beach, NJ (1-2)
17t. Farr Tavern, Scranton, PA (1-2)
17t. Bandits, Chelmsford, MA (1-2)
17t. Hanna Plastics, Dyersburg, TN (1-2)
17t. Washington Tap, Coventry, RI (1-2)
17t. Storm, Atlanta, GA (1-2)
25t. Jag’s “33”, Morristown, TN (0-2)
25t. Roches Garage, Calicoon, NY (0-2)
25t. Art’s Bar Bandits, Lansing, MI (0-2)
25t. Hollywood Sports Complex, Hollywood, MN (0-2)
25t. Lower East Shore Moose #2431, Salisbury, MD (0-2)
25t. Caldwell, Rougemont, NC (0-2)
25t. Speedboys, Durham, NC (0-2)
25t. Hannon’s Bar, Scranton, PA (0-2)

1997 ASA Men’s (9) Modified Pitch Nationals

1997 held at Hialeah, Florida on August 29-September 1.


Champion –  Legends, Fairhaven, Massachusetts
Runner Up – Rolling Rock, Centerville, Maryland


  • MVP – N/A
  • Batting Champion – N/A
  • HR Champion – N/A

1997 FIRST TEAM ALL AMERICANS

P – Will Schobel, Legends
P – Bill Coleman, Rolling Rock
P – Dennis Laird, J & S Construction
C – Jason Farmer, Legends
1B – Rick Leary, Rolling Rock
2B – Vincent Allen, Rolling Rock
3B – Craig Soares, Legends
SS – George Kirby, Legends
OF – David Henry, Rolling Rock
OF – Mark Henry, Rolling Rock
OF – Kevin DeCosta, Legends
OF – Andre MaCow, Clover Leaf
DP – Dennis Mitchell, Rolling Rock
UTIL – Eduardo Ortega, Clover Leaf
UTIL – Norberto Lebron, Kaytes Ford


1997 SECOND TEAM ALL AMERICANS

P – Joe Venuti, Majors
P – Pete Bouton, Kaytes Ford
P – Juan Carrasco, Clover Leaf
C – Dale Grimes, Rolling Rock
1B – Jim Swanson, Legends
2B – Mark Decosta, Legends
3B – Frank Austin, Rolling Rock
SS – Greg Usilton, Rolling Rock
OF – Patrick Jones, Rolling Rock
OF – Jeff Durr, Legends
OF – Radames Lopez, Legends
OF – Claudio De La Cruz, Clover Leaf
DP – Gary Allen, Legends
UTIL – Mark Graham, Legends
UTIL – David Dill, J & S Construction


1997 THIRD TEAM ALL AMERICANS

P – Kevin Dulin, GM Giants
C – Jose Baez, Kaytes Ford
1B – Mike McKay, Majors
2B – Frank Albizu, Clover Leaf
SS – Mark Worm, GM Giants
OF – Thomas Hearty, Majors
OF – Brian Silva, Majors
OF – Gary Starkey, J & S Construction
DP – William Villafane, Kaytes Ford
UTIL – Mark Furciniti, Majors
UTIL – Jeff Greenly, J & S Construction
UTIL – Paulie Sconciafurno, Kaytes Ford
UTIL – Mitchell Butler, GM Giants


FINAL STANDINGS

1. Legends, Fairhaven, MA (8-1)
2. Rolling Rock, Centerville, MD (6-2)
3. Kaytes Ford, Butler, NJ (6-2)
4. Clover Leaf, Hialeah, FL (7-2)
5t. Majors, Salem, MA (5-2)
5t. J&S Construction, Milford, DE (7-2)
7t. GM Giants, Easton, MD (3-2)
7t. Fulton Bar, Lancaster, PA (4-2)
9t. Grinders, Spokane, WA (4-2)
9t. Dillinger/Debeer, Fond du Lac, WI (2-2)
9t. Skynet Worldwide, Miami, FL (3-2)
9t. AGS/Trump Softball, Albany, NY (4-2)
13t. D. H. Hardwick, Keene, NH (3-2)
13t. Rupperts, Riverdale, NJ (3-2)
13t. Jimmy Dean Foods, Union City, TN (3-2)
13t. Gary Chicoine, Weare, NH (2-2)
17t. Legends Green Bay, Green Bay, WI (3-2)
17t. Grand Slam, Bridgeville, DE (1-2)
17t. Framingham Cardinals, Framingham, MA (1-2)
17t. Apogean Marketing, Ft. Lauderdale, FL (2-2)
17t. Stingers, Atlanta, GA (1-2)
17t. Ferraiolo Construction, Belfast, ME (2-2)
17t. ADCO, Staten Island, NY (2-2)
17t. Lindamans Insurance, Atlanta, GA (1-2)
25t. Vegas Sports Café, Copaigue, NY (1-2)
25t. Ocean Glass, Billerica, MA (2-2)
25t. Four Seasons Dukes, Keyport, NJ (1-2)
25t. Cheers, Webster, MA (1-2)
25t. Legends New Jersey, Hamburg, NJ (1-2)
25t. Budweiser, Greensboro, MD (1-2)
25t. Golds Gym, East Boston, MA (2-2)
25t. Havtech, Silver Springs, MD (1-2)
33t. Southern Cal, Tarzana, CA (0-2)
33t. Café Lido, Philadelphia, PA (0-2)
33t. Boichot Concrete, Lansing, MI (0-2)
33t. Franco American Club, Beverly, MA (0-2)
33t. L.P. Tree Service, Staten Island, NY (0-2)
33t. Tampa Bay Dragons, Tampa Bay, FL (0-2)
33t. Pete’s Laundry, Lancaster, PA (0-2)
33t. P.F. Markey, Saginaw, MI (0-2)
33t. Mickey Sports, Lawrence, MA (1-2)
33t. Billy Jacks, Boston, MA (0-2)
33t. Fort Apache Dodgers, Bronx, NY (0-2)
33t. Preston Ford, Bridgeville, DE (0-2)
33t. Colidge Corners Clubhouse, Boston, MA (1-2)
33t. Country Corners Stoppers, Rapid City, MI (1-2)
33t. Ulster Sanitation, Napanoch, NY (0-2)