Softball History USA

1980 Women’s College World Series (AIAW)

1980 held at Reaves Park in Norman, Oklahoma on May 22-25.

Champion – Utah State Aggies (35-16)
Runner Up – Indiana Hoosiers

Norman, Oklahoma hosted the WCWS year and it was first time it was played at a location other than Omaha, Nebraska, where it had been held for its first 11 years. Sixteen fastpitch softball teams emerged from regional tournaments to meet in the AIAW national collegiate softball championship. The tournament was also split into three divisions (I, II, and III) with each conducting their own championship.

The Utah State Aggies, behind the pitching of Mary Lou Ramm, won its first national championship, emerging from the losers’ bracket to defeat Indiana with 1–0 and 2–1 wins in the final. Ramm was named the Most Outstanding Player of the tournament. Utah State’s only loss had been to Indiana in the fourth round, forcing the Aggies to defeat top-seeded Texas A&M in order to again face the Hoosiers in the final.

  • MVP – Mary Lou Ramm, Utah State
  • Leading Hitter – N/A
  • HR Champion – N/A

1980 ALL TOURNAMENT TEAM

Mary Lou Ramm, Utah State
Shari Fisher, California
Pam Reinoehl, California
Kim Bowles, Cal-Poly Pomona
Linda Berndt, Western Michigan
Patti Rendine, Western Michigan
Bonni Kinne, Western Michigan
Dot Richardson, Western Illinois
Pat Stoffel, Western Illinois
Linda Spagnolo, Indiana
Donna Michalek, Indiana
Jan Drummond, Oklahoma State
Lori Stoll, Texas A&M

SCORES

  • Texas A&M 1, SW Missouri State 0
  • Indiana 5, South Carolina 2
  • Oklahoma State 5, Western Michigan 4
  • Cal St Poly-Pomona 3, New Mexico 1
  • Cal St-Fullerton 5, Creighton 0
  • Western Illinois 1, Oklahoma 0
  • Oregon 7, Massachusetts 3
  • Utah State 4, California 1
  • SW Missouri State 4, South Carolina 0 (South Carolina eliminated)
  • Western Michigan 1, New Mexico 0 (New Mexico eliminated)
  • Creighton 3, Oklahoma 0 (Oklahoma eliminated)
  • California 2, Massachusetts 0 (Massachusetts eliminated)
  • Indiana 1, Texas A&M 0
  • Oklahoma State 1, Cal St Poly-Pomona 0
  • Western Illinois 2, Cal St-Fullerton 0
  • Utah State 5, Oregon 0
  • Cal St Poly-Pomona 3, Creighton 0 (Creighton eliminated)
  • Texas A&M 1, California 0 (California eliminated)
  • Indiana 8, Oklahoma State 0
  • Oregon 2, SW Missouri State 1 (SW Missouri State eliminated)
  • Western Michigan 3, Cal St-Fullerton 2 (Cal-State Fullerton eliminated)
  • Utah State 2, Western Illinois 0
  • Texas A&M 3, Cal St Poly-Pomona 2 (Cal St Poly-Pomona eliminated)
  • Western Michigan 1, Oregon 0 (Oregon eliminated)
  • Texas A&M 2, Western Illinois 0 (Western Illinois eliminated)
  • Western Michigan 1, Oklahoma State 0 (Oklahoma State eliminated)
  • Indiana 3, Utah State 2
  • Texas A&M 1, Western Michigan 0 (Western Michigan eliminated)
  • Utah State 1, Texas A&M 0 (Texas A&M eliminated)
  • Utah State 1, Indiana 0
  • Utah State 2, Indiana 1 (Indiana eliminated)

FINAL STANDINGS

1. Utah State Aggies (6-1)
2. Indiana Hoosiers (4-2)
3. Texas A&M Aggies (5-2)
4. Western Michigan Broncos (4-2)
5t. Oklahoma State Cowgirls (2-2)
5t. Western Illinois Leathernecks (2-2)
7t. Cal St Poly-Pomona Broncos (2-2)
7t. Oregon Ducks (2-2)
9t. California Bears (1-2)
9t. Creighton Blue Jays (1-2)
9t. SW Missouri State Bears (1-2)
9t. Cal St-Fullerton Titans (1-2)
13t. Oklahoma Sooners (0-2)
13t. South Carolina Gamecocks (0-2)
13t. New Mexico Lobos (0-2)
13t. Massachusetts Minutemen (0-2)

1980 ASA Women’s Major Slow Pitch Nationals

1980 held at York, Pennsylvania.

Champions: Howard’s Rubi-Otts, Graham, North Carolina
Runner Up: York Barbellettes, York, Pennsylvania

After 10 times in National play and coming up short the previous nine times, Howard’s Rubi-Otts final won the big one. The North Carolina team went undefeated and won 7 straight games. It wasn’t easy as they scored 2 runs in the bottom of the 6th inning as Sherri Pickard and Marion Scott both got on base and scored on consecutive singles. They then held on winning a 5-3 decision over The Barbellettes of York. York took an early 2-0 lead, but the Rubi-Otts moved back ahead with three runs in the second inning on back to back singles and a sac fly. Tournament MVP Sherri Pickard scored one of the two runs in that 6th inning and went 2 for 3 to lead the Rubi-Otts offense. Susan Clark and Toni Pullium both were 1 for 2.

  • MVP – Sherri Packard, Rubi-Otts (17-25, .680)
  • Batting Leader – Inga Lees, McLaughlin Oil (13-16) – .813
  • Home Run Leader – Rita Lewis, Bob Hoffman’s Dots – 3

FIRST TEAM ALL AMERICANS

P – Robin Murray, Hoffman Dots
P – Jamie Friedman, Action Pool Pacers
C – Pat Pickard, Rubi-Otts
1B – Bambi Toscano, Hoffman Dots
2B – Sherri Pickard, Rubi-Otts
3B – Rita Lewis, Bob Hoffman Dots
SS – Sue Bupp, Barbellettes
OF – Cindy Gross, Barbellettes
OF – Connie Blouse, Barbellettes
OF – Inga Lees, McLaughlin Oil
UT – Theresa Holt, Rubi-Otts
UT – Joannn Sharpe, Hoffman Dots

SECOND TEAM ALL AMERICANS

P – Bonnie Blouse, Barbellettes
P – Bev Beck, Sorrentos
C – Melinda Germain, Action Pool Pacers
1B – Laura Roundtree, Action Pool Pacers
2B – Linda Shermeyer, Barbellettes
SS – Debbie McLane, Action Pool Pacers
OF – Martha Kidd, Sorrentos
OF – Bunny Riley, Action Pool Pacers
UT – Marty Gordon, Rubi-Otts
UT – Toni Pulliam, Rubi-Otts
UT – Ann Keith, Rubi-Otts
UT – Marsha Repogle-Ehler, Sorrentos

FINAL STANDINGS

1. Howard’s Rubi-Otts, Graham, NC (7-0)
2. York Barbellettes, York, PA (9-2)
3. Action Pool Pacers, Jacksonville, FL (5-2)
4. Bob Hoffman Dots, North Miami, FL (7-2)
5t. Getz, Atlanta, GA (3-2)
5t. M&M Debs, Pittsburgh, PA (3-2)
7t. Sorrento’s Pizza, Cincinnati, OH (3-2)
7t. McLaughlin Oil, Columbus, OH (3-2)
9t. Universal Plastics, Baxter, TN (4-2)
9t. Tampa Gremlins, Tamps, FL (3-2)
9t. Redwood City Merchants, Redwood City, CA (3-2)
9t. Hutley’s Chasers, Huntington, NY (2-2)
13t. GB Wilcher, Franklin, IN (2-2)
13t. Richmond Stompers, Richmond, VA (2-2)
13t. Super Painters, Bloomington, MN (3-2)
13t. Spooks, Anoka, MN (2-2)
17t. Dapco Dexter, Ann Arbor MI (2-2)
17t. Jay’s Stereo, Westlake, MI (2-2)
17t. Indian Head Pub Mice, Huntington, NY (2-2)
17t. Fran Contracting Coal, Phillipsburg, PA (2-2)
17t. Arkies, Little Rock, AR (1-2)
17t. Redwood Saloon, New Bedford, MA (1-2)
17t. Goodenough Plumbettes, Monroe, MI (1-2)
17t. Renton Athletics, Seattle, WA (1-2)
25t. Wooster Motorwaves, Shelby, OH (1-2)
25t. Maplewood Bowl, St. Paul, MN (1-2)
25t. Ocean Staters, RI (1-2)
25t. Ozark Athletics, Joplin, MO (1-2)
25t. Bell Pickup, Grand Rapids, MI (1-2)
25t. Coors of the Ozarks, Springfield, MO (1-2)
25t. Playmates, Los Angeles, CA (0-2)
25t. Corrao Construction, Las Vegas, NV (0-2)
33t. Sherwood Construction, Wichita, KS (0-2)
33t. Bryan Sluggers, Bryan, TX (0-2)
33t. Moorewood City Cobras, Moorehead, CT (0-2)
33t. Namplates, Tulsa, OK (0-2)
33t. Austin Hawks, Austin, TX (0-2)
33t. A&E Sales, Corpus Christi, TX (0-2)
33t. Portland Redwings, Portlant, OR (0-2)
33t. Damn Yankees, Denver, CO (0-2)

1979 ISC Men’s Fast Pitch World Tournament

1979 held at Bakersfield, California on August 17-26.

Champion – Bolters, Saginaw, Michigan
Runner Up – Nitehawks, Bakersfield, California

  • Cleo Goyette Memorial MVP Award – Kevin Herlihy, Bolters
  • Leroy Zimmerman Memorial Pitching Award – Kevin Herlihy, Bolters
  • Leading Hitter – Mike Weaver, Tarrant Glass – .800
  • Most RBI – Jerry Garcia, Blue Lady Lounge – 7

1979 ISC FIRST TEAM ALL WORLD

P – Kevin Herlihy, Bolters (6-1, 0.00 ERA, 96 K, 4 BB)
P – Paul Magan, Ed Smith Welding (3-2, 0.38 ERA, 54 K, 7 BB)
P – Bob Todd, Nitehawks (3-0, 0.23 ERA, 25 K, 7 BB)
C – Steve Turigliatto, Nitehawks .216
C – Marvin Harris, McCoy Homes .308
IF – Mike Weaver, Tarrant Glass .800
IF – Jack Saltich, Phoenix .545
IF – Tim Mazza, Ed Smith Welding .368
IF – Steve Miner, Nitehawks .333
IF – David Bedford, Bolters .400
OF – Bobby Johnson, Ed Smith Welding .474
OF – Hice Stiles, Nitehawks .314
OF – Frank Van Patten, Nitehawks .368
OF – Stosh Padilla, Roadrunners .455

1979 ISC SECOND TEAM ALL WORLD

P – Darwin Tolzin, Nitehawks (3-0, 0.52 ERA, 12 K, 5 BB)
P – Chuck D’arcy, Guanella’s (2-1, 0.39 ERA, 21 K, 2 BB)
C – Jim Marsh, Guanella’s .263
IF – Robert Powers, Westbrook Sales .333
IF – Dallas Roundtree, Guanella’s .333
IF – Nick Vanlue, Nitehawks .229
IF – John Nessmith, Ed Smith Welding .217
OF – Ray Allena, Guanella’s .375
OF – Mike McClure, Tarrant Glass .417
OF – Larry Bodashefsky, Motor Carriers .375
;

FINAL STANDINGS (Tulsa Firebirds are mission)

1. Bolters, Saginaw, MI
2. Nitehawks, Long Beach, CA
3. Ed Smith Welding, Bakersfield, CA
4. Guanella’s, Santa Rosa, CA
5t. King Richard’s Fitness Center, Cedar Rapids, IA
5t. Westbrook Sales, Houston, TX
7t. McCoy Homes, Oklahoma City, OK
7t. Schaefer-Smith Inc., Phoenix, AZ
9t. Motor Carriers, Oshawa, ON
9t. Tarrant Glass, Fort Worth, TX
9t. Grayson’s Raiders, Idaho Falls, ID
9t. Lakewood Ice Barrons, Lakewood, CA
13t. Valley Mechanical Contracting, Midland, MI
13t. Cowboys, Las Vegas, NV
13t. Broker Restaurants, Denver, CO
13t. Turquoise Kings, Kingman, AZ
17t. Roadrunners, Albuquerque, NM
17t. Merchants, Duncan, OK
17t. Blue Lady Lounge, Pueblo, CO
17t. Mettlers Bar, Mankato, MN
17t. Tommy’s Angels, Oshkosh, WI
17t. All-American Bar, St. Paul, MN
17t. La Fiesta Bar, Johnstown, PA
17t. Jack Schneider Firebirds, Tulsa, OK
25t. Ray’s, Newmarket, ON
25t. L&L Softball Team, Atwater, CA
25t. Dunn Oil, Salt Lake City, UT
25t. Raiders, Rock Island, IL
25t. All-Car, Appleton, WI
25t. Dana-Busco, Fort Wayne, IN
25t. Merchants, Camrose, AB
25t. Great Plains Gas, Cedar Rapids, IA
33t. Witschey’s, New Martinsville, WV
33t. Paddock Lounge, Denver, CO
33t. Swift & Shaw, Ogden, UT
33t. Craton’s Sporting Goods, Moline, IL
33t. Woodstock Softball Club, Woodstock, IL

1979 ASA Men’s Open Slow Pitch Nationals

1979 held at York, Pennsylvania.

Champion – Nelco Manufacturing, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (92-18)
Runner Up – Campbell’s Carpets, Concord, California (103-16)

Nelco Manufacturing had a slim chance of winning this event. Most thought it was gonna be another Howard’s-Campbell final.  But these two teams met in a first round matchup. ASA’s residency rule limited Nelson’s Painting to just local guys from Oklahoma, so only 6 of the players on the USSSA/NSPC Nelson’s team were eligible to play.

Campbell’s defeated Howard’s 17-16 in that first round matchup. The North Carolina squad then reeled off 8 straight wins in the loser’s bracket before meeting Campbell’s in the loser’s bracket final. The Howard’s boys suffered the same fate, only this time, it wasn’t as close in the 27-8 decision Nelco want undefeated (7-0) as they defeated Campbell’s in the Championship game 14-13 on the strength of Bruce Meade’s double that drove in the tying and winning runs in the game.

Meade was 5-5 in that game and finished the tournament 25-35 with a .714 batting average, including 7 HR and 18 RBI.  Nelco’s “Mighty” Joe Young was the tournament MVP as he batted only .559 (19-34), but had 10 HR and 30 RBI.  He also hit a grand slam in Nelco’s 18-15 winner’s bracket final victory over Campbell’s. The Nelso’s Painting team went on to win the NSPC and USSSA Championships to win the first Triple Crown of Slow Pitch Softball for Sponsor RT Nelson.

Note: Craig Elliott of Ken Sanders Ford hit 3 HR in one inning and 9 consecutive HR during the tournament — a record that has yet to be broken.

  • MVP – “Mighty” Joe Young, Nelco Manufacturing
  • HR Leader – David Beaird, Ken Sanders Ford – 14
  • Batting Leader – David Beaird, Ken Sanders Ford – .810

FIRST TEAM ALL-AMERICANS

P – Craig Elliott, Ken Sanders Ford (13-18, .722, 10 HR, 21 RBI, 8 BB)
P – Earl Chambers, Nelco Manufacturing (18-32, .563, 10 RBI)
C – Dean Brunken, Nelco Manufacturing (22-31, .710, 5 HR, 14 RBI)
C – Bob Brindamour, Shimers (.750, 5 HR, 23 RBI)
1B – Ed Berg, Nelco Manufacturing (19-30, .633, 7 HR, 21 RBI)
2B – Denny Hogan, Howard’s Furniture (21-35, .600, 8 HR, 17 RBI)
3B – Ed Roth, Howard’s Furniture (23-39, .590, 10 HR, 30 RBI)
SS – Russell Bradley, Campbell’s Carpets (22-31, .710, 1 HR, 14 RBI)
OF – David Beaird, Ken Sanders Ford (17-21, .810, 14 HR, 31 RBI)
OF – Tom Beall, Howard’s Furniture (23-29, .793, 7 HR, 25 RBI)
OF – Joe Young, Nelco Manufacturing (19-34, .559, 10 HR, 30 RBI)
OF – Bruce Meade, Nelco Manufacturing (25-35, .714, 7 HR, 18 RBI)
UTIL – Dale Chenault, Dave Carroll Sports (13-18, .722, 4 HR, 15 RBI)
UTIL – Mike Cellura, Campbell’s Carpets (15-27, .556, 12 HR, 15 RBI)

SECOND TEAM ALL-AMERICANS

P – Steve Kurman, County Sports (14-23, .609)
P – Greg Fuhrman, Campell’s Carpets (.457, 7 HR)
C – Ray Fleetwood, Howard’s Furniture (19-37, .513, 9 HR)
C – Lynn Navarre, Hans Hansen (11-16, .688)
1B – Harold Kelly, Dave Carroll Sports (.657)
2B – Jerry King, Campbell’s Carpets
3B – John Braxton, Dave Carroll Sports (14-22, .636)
SS – Paul Wright, Ken Sanders Ford (12-17, .708)
OF – Denny Jones, Campbell’s Carpets (.543, 8 HR)
OF – Gary Perkins, Hans Hansen (.650)
OF – Charles Pierce, Campbell’s Carpets (20-30, .667)
OF – Joel Todd, Nelco Manufacturing (6 HR)
UTIL – Terry Perryman, Nelco Manufacturing
UTIL – Steve Williams, American Realty (14-21, .667)

OTHERS

Mike Macenko, Hillcrest (9-11, .818)
John Geckle, Steele’s (12-15, .800, 2 HR, 8 RBI, 9 Runs)
Don Arndt, Howard’s (11-14, .786, 4 HR)
Curtis Williams, Ken Sanders Ford (13-19, .684, 6 HR, 12 RBI, 12 Runs)
Ken Slenker, York Barbell (13-19, .684, 7 HRs, 20 RBI, 11 Runs)
John Davide, York Barbell (15-23, .652, 1 HR, 6 RBI, 15 Runs)
Braxton Speller, Softbal City (16-25, .640, 6 HR, 12 RBI, 11 Runs)
Denny Ellis, Shimers (17-27, .630)
Craig Seaman, Softball City (16-26, .615, 4 HR)
Mike Jacobs, Howard’s (28-46, .609, 2 HR, 9 RBI, 26 Runs)
Chan Baker, County Sports (14-23, .609, 6 HR, 15 RBI, 7 Runs)
Lou Russo, York Barbell (14-24, .583, 2 RBI, 7 Runs)
Dick Bartel, Campbell’s (18-32, .563, 6 HR, 11 RBI, 14 Runs)
Marty Rolnick, County Sports (11-20, .550, 2 HR, 6 RBI, 13 Runs)
Pete O’Leary, County Sports (14-23, .542, 4 HR, 11 RBI, 8 Runs)
Rick Pinto, Softball City (10-20, .500, 3 RBI, 8 Runs)
Don Clatterbaugh, Dave Carroll’s (11-22, .500, 7 HR, 14 RBI, 13 Runs)
Stan Harvey, Howard’s (19-38, .500, 11 HR, 25 RBI, 15 Runs)
Buddy Slater, CC Brick (7-15, .467, 3 RBI, 6 Runs)
Richard Wilborn, CC Brick (11-25, .440, 1 HR, 7 RBI, 8 Runs)
Rick Scherr, Howard’s (17-39, .436, 7 HR, 14 RBI, 18 Runs)
Al White, American Realty (9-21, .429, 5 HR, 15 RBI, 8 Runs)
James Boyett, Dave Carroll (9-22, .409, 7 HR, 12 RBI, 12 Runs)

FINAL STANDINGS

1. Nelco Manufacturing, Oklahoma City, OK (7-0)
2. Campbell Carpets, Concord, CA (5-2)
3. Howard’s-Western Steer, Denver, NC (8-2)
4. Shimer’s, Minneapolis, MN (6-2)
5t. Hans Hansen, Toledo, OH (3-2)
5t. Dave Carroll Sports, Sherrills Ford, NC (3-2)
7t. Softball City, Detroit, MI (4-2)
7t. Ken Sanders Ford, Phoenix City, AL (3-2)
9t. American Realty, Concord, CA (4-2)
9t. County Sports, Levittown, NY (4-2)
9t. Dr. Bernards, Portland, OR (3-2)
9t. York Barbell, York, PA (3-2)
13t. Robert’s Display Data, Baltimore, MD (2-2)
13t. C&C Brick & Lumber, San Antonio, TX (3-2)
13t. John Thell Builders, Providence, RI (2-2)
13t. Mustangs, Wauseon, OH (2-2)
17t. Midstate Oil, Springfield, OH (1-2)
17t. Bunch Brothers, Arab, AL (2-2)
17t. O’Bannon Bank, Springfield, OH (1-2)
17t. Indiana Coal, Evansville, IN (1-2)
17t. Frierson Building Supplies, Jackson, MS (2-2)
17t. Steele’s, Lima, OH (1-2)
17t. Bob’s American, Ephrata, PA (2-2)
17t. Chuck’s Off-Sale, Wahpeton, ND (1-2)
25t. Ensign Homes, Salt Lake City, UT (1-2)
25t. GB Wilcher, Seymour, IN (1-2)
25t. Dan Belew Insurance, Turlock, CA (1-2)
25t. Ross Insurance, Houston, TX (1-2)
25t. Hillcrest Tavern, Cleveland, OH (0-2)
25t. North Central BJ’s, Waterloo, IA (0-2)
25t. Kentucky Sporting Goods, Lexington, KY (0-2)
25t. Maggini Outlaws, Riverside, CA (0-2)
33t. Olympic Sports Center, Seattle, WA (0-2)
33t. Gallina’s Auto Center, Monroe, MI (0-2)
33t. Gartenhaus Cafe, Plainville, CT (0-2)
33t. Trenton Caps, Trenton, NJ (0-2)
33t. BYM Club, Pittsburgh, PA (0-2)
33t. Diablos, Albuquerque, NM (0-2)
33t. Hamilton Bryan, Wichita Falls, TX (0-2)
33t. Red Jenkins Amoco, Richmond, VA (0-2)

1979 USSSA Women’s Major Slow Pitch World Series

1979 held at Southgate, Michigan.

Champion – Little Caesar’s, Detroit, Michigan
Runner Up – Fox Valley Lassies, St. Charles, Illinois

Little Caesars went undefeated and beat Fox Valley 8-0 in the championship game. The tournament was plagued by rain and rising flood waters.

  • MVP – Izzy Forester, Little Caesar’s
  • Batting Leader – N/A
  • HR Leader – N/A

1979 ALL WORLD TEAM

P – Marcia Lackowski, Little Caesar’s
P – Sally Worden, East Tennessee Mills
C – Vel Seldon, Fox Valley Lassies
1B – Jackie Huggins, Taylor Sports Stingers
1B – Helen Biddle, Fox Valley Lassies
2B – Amy Gierak, Taylor Sports Stingers
2B – Mo Morrisrow, Little Ceasar’s
3B – Patty Rendine, Little Ceasar’s
SS – Pan Rendine, Little Ceasar’s
SS – Charlotte Dent, East Tennessee Mills
OF – Marcia Stark, Kentucky Fried Chicken
OF – Nancy Izzy Forrester, Little Caesar’s
OF – Irene Dill, Springfield Robinettes
OF – Dottie Davis, Little Caesar’s
OF – Jackie Cresco, Fox Valley Lassies
OF – Susan Slade, East Tennessee Mills
Manager – Mike Rendine, Little Caesar’s

FINAL STANDINGS (Incomplete – 86 teams)

1. Little Ceasar’s, Detroit, MI
2. Pace Electronics, Rochester, NY

All Sports Uniforms – Detroit, MI, Columbus Roadrunners – Columbus, OH, Proitti’s – Rochester, NY also participated.

1979 ASA Men’s A Slow Pitch Nationals

1979 held at Burlington, North Carolina.

Champion – Clark & Sons, Providence, Rhode Island
Runner Up – Jack Matthews Realty, Las Vegas, Nevada

  • MVP – Charles Manz, Clark & Sons (14-24, .583, 9 RBI, 6 Runs)
  • Batting Champion – Gary Jones, Cody’s Justus (16-24, .667, 3 HR, 9 RBI, 11 Runs)
  • HR Champion – Tim Rhinehart, Carolina A’s – 7

The Rhode Island squad won the Class A championship without hitting a single home run. They lost the first final to Jack Matthews Realty 4-3 but won the deciding game 12-4 behind their pitcher and Tournament MVP, Charles Manz, who had 2 hits and 3 RBI in the title game.

FIRST TEAM ALL-AMERICANS

P – Charles Manz, Clark & Sons
P – Steve Johnson, Atwater Ford
C – Doug Armstrong, Cody’s Justus
C – Jerry Peters, Candlish Realty
1B – Gary Jones, Cody’s Justus
2B – Wayne Pyrtie, Atwater Ford
3B – Mike Rose, Clark & Sons
SS – Tommy Cole, Atwater Ford
OF – Fred Long, Atwater Ford
OF – Mark Soloman, Clark & Sons
OF – John Huntington, Jack Matthews
OF – Robert Balkcom, Clark & Sons
UT – Pat Bolster, Jack Matthews
UT – Ken Taylor, Jack Matthews

SECOND TEAM ALL-AMERICANS

P – Dan Barber, Hans Taylor
P – Mike Lowe, Jack Matthews
C – Steve Buckley, Clark & Sons
1B – Wayne King, Atwater Ford
2B – Dave Nuttall, Crosby Homes
3B – Gary Robertson, M&K Realty
SS – Tony DiCariano, Brothers A.C.
OF – Ricky Joyce, Atwater Ford
OF – Ed Kelly, Barbecue Kitchen
OF – John Johnson, Clark & Sons
OF – Floyd Wicker, Atwater Ford
UT – Barry Blomstedt, Clark & Sons
UT – Ron DiFrances, Brother A.C.
UT – Phil Seifert, Mid West Merchants

FINAL STANDINGS

1. Clark & Sons, Providence, RI (6-1)
2. Jack Matthews Realty, Las Vegas, NV (6-2)
3. Atwater Ford, Burlington, NC (8-2)
4.  Cody’s Justus, Tacoma, WA (5-2)
5t. Candlish Realty, Logansport, IN (3-2)
5t. Brothers A.C., Yonkers, NY (3-2)
7t. Hans-Taylor Plumbing, Bargaintown, NJ (4-2)
7t. Crosby Homes, Bristol, MD (4-2)
9t. M.K. Realty, Merced, CA (4-2)
9t. Barbecue Kitchen, Atlanta, GA (2-2)
9t. Champlin Oilers, Enid, OK (2-2)
9t. Carolina A’s, Kings Mountain, NC (2-2)
13t. Midwest Merchants, Kansas City, MO (3-2)
13t. Erieside Electric, Cleveland, OH (3-2)
13t. San Mateo County Merchants, San Francisco, CA (3-2)
13t. Sportsman Sporting Goods, Charleston, WV (3-2)
17t. Maryland Pool & Patio, Bowie, MD (2-2)
17t. Hancock Sports Center, Jonesboro, AR (1-2)
17t. Armed Forces, Washington., DC (2-2)
17t. Starcom, Cleveland, OH (2-2)
17t. Green’s Jewelers, Corpus Christi, TX (1-2)
17t. Bob Hoffman Products, York, PA (2-2)
17t. Ridgemen, Paradise, CA (1-2)
17t. Sackett Brick, Kalamazoo, MI (1-2)
25t. Paco’s, Portland, OR (1-2)
25t. Super Shoe, Corpus Christi, TX (1-2)
25t. Cuevas Restaurant, Edinburg, TX (1-2)
25t. Jimmy’s Bar N.E., Minneapolis., MI (1-2)
25t. Houligans, Eau Claire, WI (1-2)
25t. Menasha, Lakeville, MN (0-2)
25t. East Construction, Bellevue, NE (1-2)
25t. Addie’s, Rockville, MD (0-2)
33t. Burger King, Logan, UT (0-2)
33t. Quinn’s Corners, Rice Lake, WI (0-2)
33t. Petrel’s, Birmingham, AL (0-2)
33t. Jack’s Convenient Store, Louisville, KY (0-2)
33t. Joy-Ful Convenient Store, Jacksonville, FL (0-2)
33t. O.J. Shoemaker, South Bend, IN (0-2)
33t. Carson-Pirie-Scott, Columbus, OH (0-2)
33t. Elmer’s Place, New Britain, CT (0-2)

1979 ASA Women’s Major Fast Pitch Nationals

1979 held at Springfield, Missouri.

Champion – Sun City Saints, Sun City, Arizona
Runner Up – Glendale Blazers, Glendale, California

Led by the pitching of Michelle Thomas and the hitting of Marilyn Rau, the Sun City Saints went through the tournament unbeaten. Thomas pitched a 2-hit shutout in the championship game, striking out 8 batters. This was a very balanced tournament as 12 games in all were decided by a 1-0 score. The big story was the 19th place finish of the Raybestos Brakettes, who were seeking their 9th consecutive National Championship. After winning their first game, they were beaten 1-0 by Sun City and then eliminated 2-1 by Law Equipment of Greeley, Co.

Paula Noel, Sun City (1-0, 14 IP, with a shutout) pitched the only game Michele Thomas didn’t pitch for the Saints.

  • MVP – Marilyn Rau, Sun City Saints
  • HR Leader – Linda Smith, West Allis Bankettes – 1
  • Batting Leader – Cindy Anderson, West Allis Bankettes – .500
  • Bertha Tickey Award (Pitching MVP) – Michelle Thomas, Sun City Saints
  • Erv Lind Award (Defensive MVP) – Dot Richardson, Orlando Rebels

FIRST TEAM ALL-AMERICANS

P – Carol Townsend, West Allis Bankettes (5-2)
P – Michelle Thomas, Sun City Saints (4-0, 22 IP, save, including a perfect game and a 2-0 2-hit shutout in championship)
P – Paulette Genz, Shimers
C – Marilyn Rau, Sun City Saints (7-14, .500, 3 3B)
C – Lana Svec, Don Coburn Inc.
1B – Barbara Hyde, Aspen Hill Nautilus
2B – Susan Bachman, Orlando Rebels
3B – Missy Mapes, Orlando Rebels
SS – Dot Richardson, Orlando Rebels
OF – Gail Davenport, Sun City Saints
OF – Patty Pyle, Orlando Rebels
OF – Charlotte Thomas, Glendale Blazers
OF – Leslie Bade, West Allis Bankettes
DH – Cindy Anderson, West Allis Bankettes (8-16, .500, 3 RBI, 3 Runs)
UTIL – Mary Yori, Langhurst Motors

SECOND TEAM ALL-AMERICANS

P – Laura Paulus, Langhurst Motors
P – Kathy VanWyk, Orlando Rebels (4-2)
P – Helen Contressceri, Glendale Blazers – led the Glendale Blazers pitching staff that went 5-2.
C – Marcia Newsome, Orlando Rebels
C – Linda Smith, West Allis Bankettes (6-21, .286, 1 HR, 5 RBI, 4 Runs)
1B – Kathie Maurice, Glendale Blazers
2B – Gail Hamilton, Glendale Blazers
3B – Jane Ludwig, Don Coburn Inc.
SS – Suzie Gaw, Sun City Saints
OF – Sue Redding, Orlando Rebels
OF – Nedra Jerry, Glendale Blazers
OF – Carol Kozlik, Langhurst Motors
OF – Gretchen Larson, Shimers
UTIL – Lisa Nicholson, Frost’s Sporting Goods

FINAL STANDINGS

1. Sun City Saints, Sun City, AZ (5-0) (Rocky Mountain Cactus)
2. Glendale Blazers, Glendale, CA (5-2) (Pacific Coast At-Large)
3. Bankettes, West Allis, WI (5-2) (Great Lakes)
4. Orlando Rebels, Orlando, FL (4-2) (Southern)
5t. Langhurst Motors, Marion, IA (3-2) (Mid-America)
5t. Shimers, Bloomington, MN (3-2) (Northern)
7t. Frost’s Sporting Goods, Springfield, MO (3-2) (Host)
7t. Don Coburn, Inc., Ashland, OH (3-2) (East Central)
9t. Lansing Laurels, Lansing, MI (1-2) (Great Lakes At-Large)
9t. Budweiser Belles, Parsippany, NJ (2-2) (Mid-Atlantic)
9t. Quincy, Quincy, MA (1-2) (New England)
13t. Pelabole, Memphis, TN (0-2) (Southwestern)
13t. Orlando Suns, Orlando, FL (0-2) (Southern At-Large)
13t. Law Equipment, Greeley, CO (1-2) (Rocky Mountain Alpine)
13t. Houston Comets, Houston, TX (1-2) (Texas)
13t. Aspen Hill Nautilus, Adelphi, MD (2-2) (Central Atlantic)
17t. M&R Packers, Lodi-Sacramento, CA (1-2) (Pacific Coast)
17t. Bob Nelson Heating & Air, Omaha, NE (1-2) (Mid-America At-Large)
17t. Brakettes, Stratford, CT (1-2) (Defending Champ)
17t. Charter Finance, Cape Girardeau, MS (0-2) (South Atlantic)
17t. Macomb Magic, Macomb, IL (0-2) (Midwest)
17t. Dave Lee Sports, Portland, OR (0-2) (Northwestern)

1979 USSSA Men’s Major Slow Pitch World Series

1979 held at Kinston, North Carolina.

Champion – Nelson’s Painting, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Runner Up – Howard’s Furniture, Denver, North Carolina

Nelson’s went undefeated, winning all four of their games in route to defeating defending champ, Howard’s  Furniture 20-11 in the championship game. Nelson out scored their opponent 84-40 in the four games. Howard’s beat Dave Carroll Sports of North Carolina 12-6 and then upended Campbell Carpets of California 22-10 to get through the losers bracket to meet Nelson’s in the championship.

Tom Beall hit 2 HRs, while Stan Harvey, Don Arndt, Rick Scherr and Ray Fleetwood also hit HRs to led the way against DCS. Against Campbell’s, Howards collected 25 hits; Denny Hogan (4), Ed Roth, Stan Harvey, Don Arndt, Rick Scherr, Ray Fleetwood and HT Waller all had 3 hits apiece.

The championship game was another story as Chic Downing of Nelson’s had a monster game going 4-5, 3ith 3 HRs and 8 RBIs. Bruce Meade also had 4 hits for Nelson’s, including a home run. Meade was 12-18 (.667) with 5 HRs and 12 RBIs. Bill Ferguson had 6 HRs and Herman Rathman had 5 HRs for Nelson’s.

Terry Perryman (10-12, .833) led Nelson’s in batting. Stan Harvey and Don Arndt combined for 11 HRs and 30 RBIs for Howard’s.

In winning the USSSA World series, the Oklahoma City crew had the distinction of winning the first Triple Crown of Softball. They captured the NSPC title and won the ASA title as Nelco, Inc.

  • MVP – Chic Downing, Nelson’s Painting (13-19, .684, 8 HRs, 16 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • HR Leader – Chic Downing, Nelson’s – 8
  • HR Leader – Harold Kelley, DCS (13-14, 14 RBIs, 10 Runs) – 8
  • Batting Leader – Harold Kelley, Dave Carroll (13-14, 8 HRs,14 RBIs) – .928

USSSA MAJOR SERIES ALL WORLD TEAM

  • Pitcher – Buddy Slater – Nelson’s Painting Service (6-13, .461, 2 RBIs, 8 Runs) – Also 4-0 Pitching
  • Catcher – Chic Downing – Nelson’s Painting Service (13-19, .684, 8 HRs, 16 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • First Base – Harold Kelley – Dave Carroll Sports (13-14, .928, 8 HRs,14 RBIs)
  • Second Base – Denny Hogan – Howard’s/Western Steer (13-22, .571, 1 HR, 6 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Third Base – Bill Ferguson – Nelson’s Painting Service (10-17, .588, 6 HRs, 11 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Shortstop – Russell Bradley – Campbell’s Carpets (12-24, .500, 2 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Outfield – Bruce Meade – Nelson’s Painting Service (12-18, .667, 5 HRs, 12 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Outfield – Clyde Guy – Poindexter Lumber (12-19, .632, 5 HRs, 12 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Outfield – Denny Jones – Campbell’s Carpets (16-24, .667, 6 HRs, 19 RBIs, 12 Runs)
  • Outfield – Richard Wilborn – Nelson’s Painting Service (10-15, .667, 3 HRs, 5 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Outfield – Joe Young – Nelson’s Painting Service (7-16, .438, 4 HRs, 11 RBIs, 7 Runs)
  • Outfield – Stan Harvey – Howard’s/Western Steer (10-18, .556, 6 HRs, 16 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Utility – Don Arndt – Howard’s/Western Steer (10-24, .417, 5 HRs, 14 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Utility – John Braxton – Dave Carroll Sports (9-14, .643, 3 HRs, 5 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Utility – John Stephens – Dave Carroll Sports (9-14, .643, 2 HRs, 5 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Utility – Terry Perryman – Nelson’s Painting Service 10-12, .833, 2 HRs, 2 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • Manager – RT Nelson – Nelson’s Painting Service

OTHERS

  • Braxton Speller, Softball City (5-7, .714, 2 HRs, 3 RBIs, 3 Runs)
  • Mickey Morrison, Dave Carroll (7-11, .636, 2 HRs, 3 RBIs, 7 Runs)
  • James Boyette, Dave Carroll (8-13, .615, 6 HRs, 12 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Gordon Wheeler, Campbells (9-15, .600, 3 HRs, 6 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Ken Carlton, Green Machine (8-14, .571, 3 HRs, 10 RBIs, 6 Runs)
  • HT Waller, Howards (5-9, .556, 1 HR, 1 RBI, 3 Runs)
  • Dennis Myers, Capitol (5-9, 556, 3 HRs, 7 RBIs, 4 Runs)
  • Randy Barlich, Campbells (11-20, .550, 3 HRs, 8 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Jerry King, Campbells (9-17, .529, 6 HRs, 13 RBIs, 10 Runs)
  • Ed Corum, Campbells (10-19, .526, 4 RBIs 6 Runs)
  • Gary Markland, Poindexter (10-19, .526, 1 RBI, 8 Runs)
  • Mark Thompson, Poindexter (10-19, .526, 4 HRS, 4 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Rick Scherr, Howards (11-22, .500, 4 HRs, 10 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Joe Seymour, Poindexter (9-18, .500, 3 HRs, 9 RBIs, 5 Runs)
  • Monty Tucker, Poindexter (9-18, .500, 5 HRs, 10 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Don Clatterbaugh, Dave Carroll (7-14, .500, 1 HR, 3 RBIs, 8 Runs)
  • Rick Linz, Greater Cin. Sports (7-14, .500, 1 RBI, 5 Runs)
  • Ray Fleetwood, Howards (8-17, .471, 2 HRs, 6 RBIs, 7 Runs)
  • Greg Fuhrman, Campbells (9-20, .450, 2 HRs, 10 RBIs, 7 Runs)
  • Herman Rathman, Nelsons (8-18, .444, 5 HRs, 9 RBIs, 7 Runs)
  • Ed Roth, Howards (11-25, .440, 3 HRs, 9 RBIs, 11 Runs)
  • Dick Bartel, Campbells (10-24, .417, 5 HRs, 8 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Tom Beall, Howards (9-24, .375, 2 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Mike Jacobs, Howards (10-27, .370, 1 HR, 5 RBIs, 9 Runs)
  • Rick Pinto, Softball City (2-6, .333, 2 RBIs)
  • Gee Fisher, Howards (1-3, .333,, 1 HR, 1 RBI, 2 Runs)
  • Steve Howard, Howards (6-19, .316, 4 Runs)
  • Elby Bushong, Capitol (3-10, .300, 2 HRs, 5 RBIs, 2 Runs)
  • Mike Cellura, Campbells (6-21, .286, 3 HRs, 8 RBIs, 4 Runs)
  • Gene Jones, Dave Carroll (3-11, .273, 3 HRs, 8 RBIs, 3 Runs)
  • Mike Parrott, Nelsons (0-4, .000)

FINAL STANDINGS

1. Nelson’s Painting Service, Oklahoma City, OK (4-0)
2. Howard’s/Western Steer, Denver, NC (4-2)
3. Campbell’s Carpets, Concord, CA (3-2)
4. Dave Carroll Sports, Sherrills Ford, NC (2-2)
5t. Poindexter Lumber, Clemmons, NC (3-2)
5t. Green Machine, Starke, FL (2-2)
7t. Greater Cincinnati Sports, Cincinnati, OH (2-2)
7t. Ruth’s Realty, Seattle, WA (1-2)
9t. Capitol Insulation, North Hollywood, CA (1-2)
9t. Softball City, Detroit, MI (0-2)
9t. Taylor Beverage, Goldsboro, NC (0-2)
9t. D.M. Construction, Punta Gorda, FL (0-2)

*By winning the 1979 World Series, Nelson’s—-(QUALIFIED for 1980 WORLD SERIES) they folded – 2nd place Howards received the defending champ berth.

1979 ASA Men’s Major Fast Pitch Nationals

1979 held at Midland, Michigan.

Champion – McArdle Pontiac-Cadillac, Midland, Michigan
Runner Up – Bob Hoffman’s Barbell Sunners, Reading, Pennsylvania

McArdle came through the loser’s bracket to defeat Bob Hoffman’s Barbell Sunners two straight times to capture the championship. Owen “The Fog” Walford of McArdle beat Ty Stofflett in a 10 inning 1-0 game in the first final, despite Stofflett’s 19 K. Then McArdle’s Bob Ryan beat York’s Larry Bergh 3-1 in the final championship game). Stofflett finished the tournament with 76 K in 45.2 innings and surrendered only 13 hits and 3 earned runs. Stofflet’s streak of 14 consecutive wins in ASA National Championship play was broken by in this tournament as he went 5-1.

  • Co-MVP – Jeff Peck, McArdle Pontiac/Cadillac
  • Co-MVP – Ted Hicks, CMI (12-19, .632)
  • Batting Leader – Jim Brackin, Wilson Powell – .533
  • Home Run Leader – N/A
  • Most Outstanding Pitcher Award – Ty Stofflet, Bob Hoffman’s Barbell Sunners

FIRST TEAM ALL-AMERICANS

P – Ty Stofflet, Bob Hoffman’s Barbell Sunners (5-1, 46 IP, 76 K, won 5 straight until the final game, 2 one-hit shutouts. Beat McArdle Pontiac-Cadillac earlier in the tournament to win his 14th consecutive ASA National Tournament game.)
P – Owen “The Fog” Walford, McArdle Pontiac-Cadillac (4-1, pitched a 10 inning 1-0 victory to get Midland to the championship)
P – Bob Ryan, McArdle Pontiac-Cadillac (3-0), pitched the 3-1 finale.
C – Jim March, Guanella Brothers (7-21, .333)
C – Nels Cronkright, McArdle Pontiac-Cadillac
1B – George Nokes, Peterbilt
2B – Jack Starling, McArdle Pontiac-Cadillac
3B – Jeff Peck, McArdle Pontiac-Cadillac (10-22, .455, 2 RBI), keyed all three rallies to give Midland the 3-1 championship final victory.
SS – Jim Brackin, Wilson Powell (8-15, 4 RBI)
OF – Ray Allena, Guanella Brothers (11-27, .407)
OF – Larry Potts, Wilson Powell (8-16, .500, 3 RBI)
OF – Bill Stewart, Peterbilt
OF – Scott Keener, Bob Hoffman’s Barbell Sunners
DH – Paul Custred, Wilson Powell
UT – Mike Parnow, Guanella Brothers (9-27, .333, 9 RBI)

SECOND TEAM ALL-AMERICANS

P – Graham Arnold, Peterbilt (3-2)
P – Rick Balswick, Guanella Brothers
P – Roy Burlison, O’Byrne Electric (3-1)
C – Butch Batt, Peterbilt
C – Jim Nichols, O’Byrne Electric
1B – Jeff Seip, Bob Hoffman’s Barbell Sunners
2B – Hank Stocks, Wilson Powell
3B – Dennis Christopherson, Southern Truck Raiders
SS – Terry Brenner, Southern Truck Raiders
OF – Dale Lagow, Home Savings and Loan
OF – Bonus Frost, O’Byrne Electric
OF – Jim Nokes, Peterbilt
OF – Les Crandall, Guanella Brothers
DH – Evans Telegades, McArdle Pontiac-Cadillac
UT – John Anquillare, Raybestos Cardinals

FINAL STANDINGS

1. McArdle Pontiac-Cadillac, Midland, MI (7-1) (Host)
2. Bob Hoffman’s Barbell Sunners, Reading, PA (5-2) (Defending Champ)
3. Guanella Brothers, Santa Rosa, CA (6-2) (Pacific Coast)
4. Lakewood Jets, Lakewood, CA (1-2) (Pacific Coast At-Large)
5t. Southern Truck Raiders, Phoenix, AZ (3-2) (Rocky Mountain-Cactus)
5t. O’Byrne Electric, Springfield, MO (3-2) (Mid-America At-Large)
7t. Home Savings and Loan, Aurora, IL (3-2) (Midwest)
7t. Wilson Powell, Marlow Heights, MD (3-2) (Central Atlantic)
9t. Raybestos Cardinals, Stratford, CT (2-2) (New England)
9t. Peter’s Bombers, Des Moines, IA (1-2) (Mid-America)
9t. Zeniths, Rochester, NY (2-2) (Mid-Atlantic)
9t. Peterbilt, Seattle, WA (1-2) (Northwestern)
13t. Steve’s Exporters, San Antonio, TX (1-2) (Texas)
13t. Alabama Auto Auction, Montgomery, AL (0-2) (Southern)
13t. Charlie’s Trading Post, Atlanta, GA (1-2) (South Atlantic)
13t. Made-Rite Chips, Bay City, MI (1-2) (Great Lakes At-Large)
17t. Franklin Enterprises, Memphis, TN (0-2) (Southwestern)
17t. Ohio Caverns, West Liberty, OH (0-2) (East Central)
17t. Page Brake, Salt Lake City, UT (0-2) (Rocky Mountain-Alpine)
17t. Bandbox, St. James, MN (0-2) (Northern)
17t. Wolverine Supply, Ann Arbor, MI (0-2) (Great Lakes)
17t. York Barbell, Lancaster, PA (1-2) (Central Atlantic At-Large)

1979 USSSA Men’s B Slow Pitch Worlds

1979 held at St. Louis, Missouri

Champion – Looking Glass, Los Angeles, California
Runner Up – Citizen Club, Jeannette, Pennsylvania

  • MVP – Mike Kendall, Looking Glass
  • HR Leader – N/A
  • Batting Leader – N/A

1979 USSSA B ALL WORLD FIRST TEAM

3B – Jim Clete Hoy, Danny’s Drilling (25-36, .694)
OF – Fred Fritz Drumm, Danny’s Drilling  (23-36, .639, 5 HR)

FINAL STANDINGS (Standings Incomplete)

1. Looking Glass, Los Angeles, CA (9-1)
2. Citizen Club, Jeannette, PA
3. Knights of Columbus, Cincinnati, OH
4. Danny’s Drilling/Ball Diamond Lounge, Newark (7-2)

Other teams participating include:

Miller Auto Parts, Redford, MI
Lee Supply, Washington, PA
Boward Insulation, Detroit, MI
Marion County Merchants, Belleview, FL
Lufkin Raiders, Lefkin, TX
Ronnies Auto Body, Worcester, MA
Sports Barn, Havelock, NC
Garrett’s Dandy Homes, Oklahoma, City, OK
Wilbur’s Bar-B-Que, Goldsboro, NC
KW of NorCal, Dublin, CA
First State Bank, Red Budd, IL
Auction Properties, Columbia, TN
Houston Wreckers, Houston, TX
Sports Haven, Dearborn, MI
Display Data, Baltimore, MD
Scottland County Merchants, NC
Skinny Dugans, Las Vegas, NV
Tom Benson Imports, TX
D&S Parks, MO
Lonzo’s, Belleville, IL 4-2
President’s Lounge, WI
Pitney County, FL
Cook’s Floral, WV
Ronnie’s Auto Body, MA
Harmony Homes, WI
Horn’s, WI