League History (All Years)

Transcription

Thanks, Joe Farias and Al Hilbert for
contributing your time and efforts in
creating this Senior Softball League
History Journal. Many thanks also, to
those others who contributed.
Greg Neal (Web*Editor)
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degraded during print production.
For [email protected]
Property of Bookemon, do NOT
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Charlie Adams- HARD Senior Softball- Most senior player, still competes each year with the same enthusiasum that he has always
exhibited. Charlie is shown herecompeting in the Rock 'n Reno
Challenge Cup in 2011 (80 years old division).
Charlie also enjoys playing in our HARD Senior Softballs 7( 0+, 60+)
and (50+) leagues each year, while still maintaing excellent overall
softball skills, in hitting and fielding his position.(wherever that might
be ).
Other current TopPerformers in our HARD Senior Softball80+ group of
players include: Manny Hernandez - Chuck Cannistraci - Dean
Perkins - Jack Moore - Bob Schmidt- John Huizar- Ron Silva- John
Lindberg - Al Hilbert - Gene Klein- Carlos Holguin - Al Rosellini- Bob
Burkfield - Eloy Solis.- Al Confenti-Gabe Adami -Al Confenti- John
Bailey.
during print production.
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Greg Neal
January 2012
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HISTORY OF SENIOR SOFTBALL
1990-2012
Written by Joe Farias
The HARD Senior Softball League started play in Castro Valley/
Hayward in 1990. It was the result of a number of “beer league”
players asking HARD (Hayward Area RecreationDistrict) to
sponsor an over 50-softball team that would play games during
the week in the daytime. The “beer leagues”, mainly representing bars on Mission Blvd. in the Hayward area, had played
in a somewhat organized league on Sundays. Many of the
original players that firstyear had played in the “beer leagues”
for years. Most were retired and wanted to play during the
weekdays and not at night or on Sundays.
In 1990 teams were located in Pleasant Hill, Livermore,
Alameda, Martinez, Redwood City, Concord, Danville and Castro
Valley. They all agreed to participate in a league. The name
selected was Diablo Senior Softball League. Games were played
on either Tuesday or Thursday with practice on the alternate
day. I (Joe Farias) was the Director of Castro Valley Adult School
and was asked by Rita Shue, (former Superintendent of HARD)
to co-sponsor the team with HARD. I set it up as an adult school
class and as a certified teacher had to be present at practices and
games as I was the teacher of record. Naturally I played and
practiced with the team (class). Our home field was the softball
field at the Community Center on Lake Chabot Road in Castro
Valley. The first practice was held on March 14, 1990 at noon.
Our first game was April 24th in Redwood City. No results are
available from that first year. Players on that team included
George Krug, Jerry Bishop, Mercer Campbell, Jake Dalton, Harold
Atthowe and Manual Moura. We were a competitive team and
agreed after the season that we would continue the following
year.
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In 1991 the league continued with our HARD contact being
Laura File. Jake Dalton became the Softball Commissioner Representative for the Castro Valley Team. A number of players
joined that year including Al Hilbert, Gene Jones, Burt Rigley,
John Lindberg, Roberta Pratt, Harry Francis and Ben Baptiste.
Ben would be the first person to keep stats for the teams, Harry
Francis would be the first designated Softball Commissioner for
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the 65 league and a long time manager (A 30 year plus teacher
in San Lorenzo), John Lindberg would be a manager and a
leading hitter during the 90’s, Bobbie (Roberta) Pratt has been
a long time member of the league and Burt Rigley (a Deacon at
Transfiguration Catholic Church in Castro Valley) was a
calming influence on everyone. No results available. We
played teams in Martinez, Walnut Creek, Pleasanton, Danville
and Livermore.
We played our games at the Community Center in Castro
Valley. Senior Softball was on the move in the Castro
Valley/Hayward area. “We were having fun”
In 1992 the first game was played at the Community Center on
April 2. Games were also played at Heather Farms in Walnut
Creek, Concord, Pleasanton, Pleasant Hill and Alameda. We
continued with one team with approximately 17 players on
that team. The league was very competitive and we had many
close games with all the teams in the league. Rules were
written to make an attempt to create a common ground. Jake
Dalton was again our representative to the league. No results
available for 1992.
In 1993 the league was expanded to two teams. The Blue
Team and the Red Team. The first meeting was held on March
2 at the Castro Valley Community Center. The first practice
was March 4.
The first game was a practice game against Alameda on March
11. Other teams in the league that year were Danville,
Alameda,
Pleasanton, Livermore, Walnut Creek and Pleasant Hill. The
Blue Team (also called Hayward Faults) had players that are
still participating: Chuck Cannistraci, Gene Klein, Joe Farias,
John Lindberg, Roberta Pratt and Larry Ross. Continued
participants on the Red Team includeed. Nancy Butler, Manny
Hernandez, Al Hilbert, and Bev Van Gundy. Other members of
the Blue Team were Ben Baptiste, Mercer Campbell (manager),
Jack Chabek, Jake Dalton, Bob Duerson, Harry Francis, James
Franks, Ozzie Kuhns, Ray Magorno, Pat Malotte, Manual Moura,
and Dave O’Mahoney.
The Red team had John Beckwith (manager), Jim Bisenius, Mike
DeGuzman, Don Driesback, Tony Hernandez, Bill Huston,
George
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Krug, Gordon Pappas, Burton Rigley, Eugene Steve, Robert
Takayama, John Young, and Patrick McDonald. Many of these
players had a great history: Baptiste was our stats keeper;
Campbell managed and had been an elementary principal in
Hayward, Francis would be the First Commissioner, Franks
was a Preacher, Malotte was great to look at, Beckwith started
the year end barbeques and managed and sponsored also,
Bisenius had been baseball coach at Hayward High and
managed in our
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First HARD Seniors, uniformsBen Baptiste, Joe Farias
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league, an award was name after DeGuzman, Tony Hernandez
was Manny’s brother,Larry Ross is a longtime manager and
excellent hitter, Bill Huston managed for a few years, Gordon
Pappas was a retired music teacher, and John Young was a great
pitcher and a neighbor of Bev Van Gundy. Besides the summer
league we continued with a winter league through the month of
November.
All in all it was a great group in 1993 and everyone had fun
playing the game. The league continued to move ahead. . Some
leading hitters that year were Bert Rigley (.725), Eugene Steve
(.625), Ben Batiste (.618), Joe Farias (.622), and John Lindberg
(.633).
In January 1994 I was reassigned to againbe Castro Valley’s
High School Principal and thus could not be involved early on
with the league. But a number of individuals stepped up to keep
the league moving forward. Al Hilbert, Larry Ross, John
Beckwith, Harry Francis, Chuck Cannistraci, Mercer Campbell,
John Lindberg, and Eugene Steve all insured the league would
continue to grow and be competitive.
Three teams Red, White and Blue were drafted. The fields at
Centennial (off of Winton and Amador) were utilized by the
league for the first time. The rosters showed 38 players for the
three teams. Again the teams played against Pleasanton, Livermore, Alameda, Walnut Creek, Danville, Martinez, and Pleasant
Hill. The records for the three teams was 9 wins and 15 losses
for the C.V. Red, 17 wins and 6 losses for C. V. White, and 12 wins
and 12 losses for C.V. Blue. Batting averages during these years
were not very high as one had to get a real hit. Those keeping
stats insured that a hit was a hit. In the new era a hit seems to be
getting on base. Among the three teams Gary Silveria was the
leading hitter at .766. Gary was a long time mainstay in the
league. Even after a hip replacement Gary continued to play
until 2010. The leading hitters that year were Darrell Dolin (His
first year in the league) who had 9 homeruns and batted .606,
Pat McDonald (.604), Bryon West with 6 homeruns in 13 at bats,
John Young (.600), and John Lindberg (.622). Gene Klein was a
member of the Blue team and is stillplaying today. A major rule
change in ’94 was the 5 run perinning except for the last inning.
Prior to that a 10-5 mercy rule had been in place.
In 1995 the 50’s league expanded to four teams. The Castro
Valley Reds, the Senior Swingers, the East Bay Stars and the
Hayward Rowdys. The Reds were 8 and 17, the Senior Swingers
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1993 HARD - Team (Blue)
Front Row - Manuel Moura, Ray Magorno, Bobbie Pratt,
Pat Malotte, Larry Ross
2nd Row - John Lindberg, Jack Chabek, Gene Klein, Jak
e
Dalton, Dave O'Mahoney, Ben Baptiste, Mercer Campbell, Joe
Farias,
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were 5 and 19, the East Bay Stars were 10 and 17, and the
Rowdys were 8 and 17. The competition across the hill was
tough. Danville had some big guys who could hit a ton. Lots of
new players were in the league. Marsh Lebowitz (became a
manager), Deron Crook was a mainstay for years, Leroy
Gallardo who could hit everything pitched to him, Joaquin
Precidio who would manage for many years, Joe Perry who
would also become a manager, Lawrence Thompson who is still
playing and also managed, Vern Beggs who would be a
Commissioner plus managed 65 plus teams and is still playing,
Walt Muniz who played for many years in the league, Carl
McDade (had the sweetest swing of anyone who has ever
played in our league), and many other new faces. The league
was off and rolling. Fields were used at the Community Center
and Centennial Park. In those days and until we moved to
Oliver the team members had to drag and line the fields. The
homerun leaders for this year were Bryon West and Al
Tirnetta. Bryon also was the homerun leader in 1994 but did
not participate in the league after 1995. He batted .773 with 5
home runs. Al Tirnetta had also been an Alameda County 100
yard Dash Champion at Livermore High School. High batting
averages in 1995 were Cary Walker (.657), Larry Ross (.600),
and Bryon West (.773).
In 1996 the league (50’s and over) continued with four teams.
Managers were Jim Bisenius, Larry Ross, Marsh Lebowitz and
Chuck Cannistraci. Assistants were Al Hilbert, Pat McDonald,
Mercer Campbell and Wayne Cavenaugh. There were 10 teams
in the league. The Rowdys finished second with a 13-8 record.
The Danville Oaks were loaded and went 19-1. For the
Hayward teams the highest batting average was Arnie
Castelhano (who still plays with the Gamblers tournament
team) with a .719 average. Carl McDade had the most hits, Cary
Walker was the homerun leader, and as a team the Rowdys led
in all categories. John Ironside had five homeruns and is now
one of our Commissioners. New players included Jerry
Hogerheide (former baseball coach at Sunset High School),
Hank Thomasson, who was a baseball legend in Oakland,
Bernie Chalip, who was an excellent singer, Joanne DiMaggio
who was related to the DiMaggio’s and the Manley brothers
(Harold and Larry). Note:
Following excerpt supplied by Jack Moore regarding Hank
Thomasson: (From Oakland Tribune 1999). “Senior Softball
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players await the return of popular hard hitting First Baseman
Hank Thomasson. Hank had to take a little time off this past
year to fight a bout with cancer. The doctors say the cancer is
all gone and Hank can get back on the field again. Everyone in
the league missed Hank, the man with a ready handshake big
smile and the
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Yellow Rose - 1997
Front Row - Bill Giamonna, Eugene Steve, Deron Crook, Mike
Reed, Bob Takayama, Gordon Pappas, Mike DeGuzman
.
Back Row - Paul Monroe, Jerry Hogerhide, Joe Farias, Jim
Bisenius, Tom Quillen, Don Fernandes, Bill Huston, John
Beckwith.
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Yellow Rose - 1998
Kneeling- Mike DeGuzman, Bill Giamonna, Don
Fernandes, Gordon Pappas
Standing - Frank Mattos, unknown, Bill Huston, Joe Farias,
Deron Crook, Mike Carroll, Jerry Hogerhide, Art Hightower
Property of Bookemon, do NOT distribute
great bear hug. Hank loves to tell you a story once and a while
also.”
In 1997 I was back to full time softball (retired in 1996). It was
becoming apparent that we were doing a lot of traveling to play
softball. By this time we had four teams located in the
Hayward/Castro Valley Area and discussion began about
forming our own league. But this year the teams made a
decision to split into two separate entities. One was called the
A/B league and the other the C/D league. The Hayward area
took many of the allegedly best players from the area to form
the Senior Swingers. They played against the two-loaded
Danville teams, the San Leandro team coached by long time
baseball guru Lou Profumo, and the Alameda Islanders. The
C/D league had four HARD teams-Yellow Rose sponsored and
managed by John Beckwith, the East Bay All Stars managed by
Chuck Cannistrasi, the Rowdys managed by Larry Ross and the
Bras and Mattos team managed by Joaquin Precidio. Other
teams in that division were from Livermore, Danville, and
Pleasanton. The Yellow Rose Team had a 20-3 season and were
the champions of the C/D league. The top hitters in the C/D
league (Hayward teams) that year were Lawrence Thompson
and Joe Farias with .694 averages. Al Ferrari led the Hayward
teams in home runs with 7 followed by Farias and Bisenius
with 5. New players that remained for many years/some still
playing included Donnie Mello, Bob Burkfield, Bill Giammona,
Fred Perkins, Ron Silva,
Frank Mattos, Art Hightower, Mike Carroll, Al Rosselini, Tom
Quillen, and Mike Reed. HARD continued to support us by
keeping the fees low for Senior Softball. Note: The Senior
Swingers, who played in the A/B league had Al Confenti, John
Ironside, Carl McDade, Manny Hernandez, John Lindberg, Dean
Perkins and Al Tirnetta on the team. They finished 6-17 for the
year.
In 1998 the split into two leagues continued. The Hayward
team in the A/B division was the Senior Swingers managed by
Marsh Leibowitz. The C/D league continued with four Hayward
teams. The Rowdys (Larry Ross), East Bay Stars (also called
K/P managed by Chuck Cannistraci), Yellow Rose now being
managed by Al Hilbert, and the Bras and Mattos team managed
by Joaquin Precidio. The C/D league added the San Leandro
team, which dominated the league with a 25 -1 record. Bras
and Mattos had the best record from the Hayward area with a
19-8 finish followed by the Rowdys with an 18-9 record. Gary
Dalen
of the Rowdys batted .720 to lead the Rowdys. Gary was one of
degradedthe smoothest hitters the league had over the years. Tom Quillen
65 and Over 1998
BSR- Cadillacs
Front Row - John Young, Chuck Cannistraci,John Huizar,Mike De
Guzman,Al Hilbert
Standing - Bernie Chalip, Bill Huston,Carl Mc Dade,Art Herrera,
Art Hightower
1999 Yellow Rose
Front Row - Bob Kallestad, Harold Manley, Mike DeGuzman, Bill Giamonna, Gene Steve
Back Row - Dave Jefferson, Mike Carroll, Jackson Spindle, Terry Huey, Jerry Hogerhide, Joe
Farias, Al Hilbert
Yellow Rose - 2000
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Front Row - are
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Back Row - Jack Moore, Willie McGee, DeRon Crook, Joe Farias, Steve Panke, Louis Alonzo, Art
Hightower, Gabe AdamiFor [email protected] Property of
Bookemon, do NOT distribute
led the Hayward teams in batting (.787). He also led the
Hayward teams in home runs (10) followed closely by Farias
(9). Notable players who made their mark in the league
included Paul Monroe on the Rose who would become a Major
General in the California National Guard in 1999, Darrell Dolin
who was a top player for many years in the league, Orson Curtis
who could hit the ball a country mile, Ray Cervantes who was
adept at helping players with fielding and hitting, Cary Walker
who batted .735, Dennis Sullivan who was a great home run
hitter and Bob Schmidt who continued to be a major hitting
threat every time he came to the plate. Some players in ’98
who didn’t have great averages but loved the game and are still
playing include Donnie (Little Billy) Mello, Dean Perkins (who
is a legend in the softball circles and in the Softball Hall of
Fame), Al Confenti who is still a top tournament pitcher for the
Gamblers and Frank Mattos. The Commissioners for the year
were Harry Francis for the C/D league and Marsh Leibowitz for
the A/B league.
(Note): No information on the Senior Swingers for this year.
In 1999 things changed greatly as we formed our own league in
the Hayward/Castro Valley area. We had six teams: Yellow
Rose, Bras/Mattos, K/P, Carrows, Hard 1 (Cold Storage) and
the
Rowdys. Managers were Hilbert, Precido, Cannistrasi, Davis,
Perry and Ross. Larry Davis had joined the league in 1998 and
quickly moved into a leadership position. Other notable
players not previously mentioned were Bob Waberski (Retired
Fire Chief from Castro Valley), Gary Dalen who was a
outstanding player, Jack Moore who has become a mainstay in
the league, and Don Pelland who was a Commissioner this past
year, John Brosnan who had been head football coach at Castro
Valley for 30 years, Al Proietti who now runs the Villiage
Barber Shop in Castro Valley and Ron Silva who is still playing
after extensive surgery on his shoulder. K/P had the best
record for the year going 18-5. Bras and Mattos were 17-5,
Rowdys were 13-10, Cold Storage was 9-13, Carrows were 7-17
and the Yellow Rose was 5-19. Leading hitters that year were
Carl McDade (.700), Darrell Dolin
(.663), Gary Dalen (.816), Arnie Castelhano (.726), Bob Schmidt
(.722), Farias (.705), Orson Curtis (.747), Larry Manley (.739);
Arnie Castelhano and LeRoy Gallardo led the league in home
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runs with 6. Arnie had 71 RBI’s followed by Orson Curtis with
61 and Bob McDougall with 59.
In 2000 we again had six teams. We added 2 teams (Broncos
and Francis Refinishing) to go along with the Rowdys, Bras and
Mattos, K/P, and the Yellow Rose. The Rowdys had an amazing
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Francis Refinnishing - 2001
Front Row - Bob Gianni, Harry Francis, Bobbie Pratt, Ray
Cervantes, Tony Hernandez
Middle Row - John Young, Bev Van Gundy
Back Row - Jim Offerman, John Ironsides, Ben Baptiste, Fred
Perkins, John Lindberg, Bob Leigh,Al Ti r netta
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season going 21-2. Gary Dalen batted .828 (Gary was one of the
best hitters ever in the league) and manager Larry Ross batted
726. Fred Perkins batted .697 to finish second to Ross. (Dalen
only had 41 at bats). Carl McDade batted .696, Ken Bohi at .681,
Art Hightower .658, Jack Moore .655 and Joe Farias .649. Ron
Weber of the Francis team led the league in home runs with 4.
The RBI leader was the “Ageless One” Bob Schmidt with 62.
Players that joined us were Bill Bolar (State wrestling champion
in Castro Valley), Bob Askey who is still with us, Bob Kallestad
and Frank Lateri, Pat Medieros, Ray Nobriga, Steve Solis and
Ramone Dominquez. Leon Moore, later to become
Commissioner, was a member of the K/P team that year. This
would be the last year for Ben Baptise keeping stats as he
elected not to play in 2001. Ben spent long hours keeping stats
for the league. Leon Moore would take over as statistician in
2001 and continue until 2008 when Herb and Pam Hadley plus
Don Pelland would take on that responsibility. Greg Neal has
worked with Herb by posting stats. The entire league
appreciates the efforts of all those involved for a job well done.
Over 65 league. Concurrently with the 50 and over league a 65
and over league had been established. Teams were from
Alameda, Castro Valley (2 teams), Pleasanton, Danville and
Livermore. Al Hilbert was the Commissioner of this league but
no results are available. Games were usually played on
Wednesdays. Al Hilbert took on the responsibility of updating
the rules each year, figuring out the league schedules and
keeping everyone abreast of what needed to be accomplished.
Al is one of the real “fathers"of senior softball. He has been an
inspiration to all of us.
In 2001 the league continued with six teams. Players not
previously mentioned that would be very involved for years
included Gabe Adami (has managed for many years), Don Allen
(a member of the Gamblers tournament team), Ken Bohi who
was a long time manager, Bob Gianni who made an impact with
his play immediately, Howard Harrington who still is manager
of the tournament team Gamblers, and the Solis brothers Steve
and John. John (Tony) has been a mainstay of the league for
years and one of the top hitters every year. Karen Sparks
(Sparky) was a great addition to the league. She passed away a
few years ago but is remembered by all those that played with
her. The Rowdys again won the league with a 19-5 record
followed by Francis Refinishing, Broncos, Yellow Rose, Team
Toys and Bras and Mattos. Darrell Dolin dominated the league
in stats. He was
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Rowdys - 2002
Front Row - Tony Hernandez, Willie McGee, Jim Nelson, Vern
Beggs, Ed Jimerson, Bob Gianni
Back Row - Bob Schmidt, Ron Rebuck, Bill Huston, DeRon
Crook, Bob Burke, John Ironsides, , Larry Ross, Fred Butler
doubles, third in triples, second in home runs. His competition
was Tony Solis who led in home runs and triple. The two of
them were the class hitters of the league. 2001 is when I (Joe
Farias) took over as Commissioner. We appreciated all the work
that Harry Francis had done in the early years. Harry is still
active in the community serving on the Castro Valley Sanitary
Board. In August of that year as we had a few concerns so I
wrote a letter to the managers. I have included it here as I think
it still is something for us to think about.
August 5, 2001
With the 2001 season two-thirds complete several concerns
have been expressed by some of the ballplayers in the league. I
am going to address these concerns and would ask that you meet
with your teams and insure they have a complete understanding
of why we must try to insure that decorum between all those
involved in senior softball takes place.
1. Use of appropriate language: Players from at least two
teams have expressed concerns over the use of inappropriate language (cussing) during the games.Some of
them have stated they don’t want tobring their children/
grandchildren to the games because of the language. We
are a diverse group of 90 men and women respecting
each other and each other’s feelingsregarding the use of
language is important.
2. The role of manager/a. manager: Please indicate to allof
your players that when they have a complaint aboutthe
other team they should tell their own manager/a.
manager and not approach the opposing manager about
their concerns. Resolving issues should take place
between managers. This is also true when a team
questions an umpire’s decision. The manager/a. Managers is the one who approaches the umpire and not
individual players. Also remind the players on your
team that when differences of opinion take place within
the team the manager should be approached to resolve
those differences.
3. Sportsmanship/womanship: Concerns have also been
expressed that some teams have not displayed good
sportsman/woman/ship in some games. I personally
have not seen this but sometimes in a game it can
probably take place. Remind your players that this is a
game where we have fun and when the game is over we
move on to the next game. We must respect everyone
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Yellow Rose - 2002
Front Row - Dick Dianda, Al Hilbert, Marv Peixoto, Jack Moore,
Bill Giammona, Gary Giacomini,
Back Row - Pat Medeiros, Louis Alonzo, Gene Klein, Nancy
Butler, Joe Farias, Sherman Boutte
involved in senior softball to have a good time, get some
exercise and enjoy the spirit of competition.
4. Chain of Command: For all of you military types remind
your players to follow the chain when they have a complaint. If they have a concern they should express it to
their manager; if they do not feel satisfaction they can
call me; if they are still not satisfied they can contact
Patsy Rankin, Supervisor of Senior HARD programs. She
is the one that will eventually resolve any concerns.
I would ask that you cover the four paragraphs above
with your teams this week. If you have any questions
please call me at 581-2897. I think the season has gone
well thus far and look forward to a great round of playoffs
in September. Let yourteam’s members know that we
will have an end of the season barbeque on September
27. Joe Farias
2002 The Bras and Mattos team won the league with a
20-5 record followed by the Rowdys, Francis Refinishing,
Yellow Rose, Broncos and Team Toys. Ken Bohi was the
leader of the Bras and Mattos team along with Howard
Harrington and Al Confenti. Again Darrell Dolin was the
leader in most hitting categories-doubles, triples, home
runs, total hits, runs, RBI’s and third in batting average.
John Lindberg (still with us) led the league in hitting with
a .745 average. Sherman Boutte was a major force in the
league as he was second in home runs and high in all the
other categories. John Crosby was second in hitting (.
725)-John was an assistant manager for Chuck
Cannistraci. Tony Solis was again in the top four in all
categories except triples. Draft procedures became very
formal in 2002 year but seem to work as no team completely dominated.
Red
2003 The 2003 season saw two teams tie for the league
title. Team Toys managed by Tony Solis and Yellow Rose
managed by Al Hilbert finished with 15-10 records. The
last stats sheet expressed appreciation to Vern Stephens
(he had been a mainstay for years) who was retiring as he
was turning 70. Lots of new faces in the batting rankings.
Larry Ross led the league in hitting (.727) followed by
Jerry Hogerheide .675.Bob Burke was the leader in RBI’s
(Bob has been one of the great supporters of the league
both financially and always encouraging everyone), Gary
Giagomini had the most runs and most hits (Gary is also a
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doubles, Jim Garrison led in triples, and Tony Solis was
the home run leader with 10. Other notable batting
averages were Bob Fenton (Canyon Highgrad)(.674), Joe
Farias (671), and Gabe Adami (.663). In 2003 an incident
took place that led to banning for one year a player who
physically attacked another player. This is the only time
an occurrence has taken place with physical contact in the
20 plus years of the league.
65 Plus league 2003. Al Hilbert had data on the season.
Six teams (Danville, Hard 2, Hard 1, Alameda, San Ramon,
and Pleasanton) Al Hilbert was the coordinator for the
league. The Danville Team dominated the league. By the
midpoint of the season they were undefeated. Most of the
players from Hayward also played in the 50’s league.
Exceptions were Vic Maes, Elwood Smith, Bob Leigh, Bob
Moss, and Orville Johnson.
2004 The 2004 season saw a continued increase in ball
players. Senior Softball was moving on. Leon Moore
continued to do an outstanding job with the stats. It kept
everyone informed. The Rowdys again had a great year
going 19-5 for the year. Yellow Rose finished second
followed by Francis Refinishing. Exciting new players this
year included Jake Jacoby who was a Commissioner this
past year. Jake has been a great addition to the league.
Batting champion for the year wasBob Fenton (.709) who
was a student for the writerof this information in 1964.
RBI leader was TonySolis; Bob Gianni (smoothest
shortstop in the league) scored the most runs,Gary King
led the league in total hits. Gary was a real force in this
first year of play for him. Gary also led the league in ho
me
runs. We had 96 registered players in 2004. Two players
that are still playing today after lots of injuries are Ron
Silva and Gene Klein. They loveto be outdoors and add
flair anytime they have been on the field over the years.
They represent whatrecreational softball is all about.
Red Margins are
The over 65 league had two teams from the Hayward area
in 2004. Al Hilbert was the Coordinator again and I was
his assistant. Al was the manager ofthe HARD 1 team and
Vern Beggs was the manager of the HARD 2 team.
Notable players were Ramon Dominguez, Sharon Peck,
Ron Rebuck and Eloy Solis on HARD 1; HARD 2 had
Elwood Smith, Dane Hansen(Dane has been an integral
boundaries
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Yellow Rose 2003
Front Row
Tony Hernandez,Tony Rhoades,Mike Padilla, Joe Farias,Al Hilbert
Back Row - Bob Waberski,Bert Rigley,John Brosnan,Ramon Dominques,Gary
Giacomini,Marv Peixoto,Bob Burke,Carl Mc Dade,Bert Surfield.
Red Margins
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Olsen, Irene
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during
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practices held on Tuesdays and Thursdays at the
Community Center in Castro Valley), Nancy Butler and
Ken Bohi. The Alameda team had a guy named Charlie
Adams (an icon in the league). The Alameda team also
had Jim Garrison and Bev Van Gundy–all would play in
Hayward league when we decided to have our own
league. Harvey Kooy played on the Pleasanton team.
Harvey would also join our league later. Don Fernandes
was on the Danville team but he had also played in our
league. Don currently sponsors the Direct Sales
tournament teams. Larry Divito, Gabe Adami and Fred
Butler all played for San Ramon and would also join our
league. Danville was the dominant team-going 6-0 in the
first half of play. They ended up 12-0. Both HARD teams
finished 6-6.
The league this year was also co-sponsored by the Castro
Valley Adult School. They provided funds for our picnic
and for two years paid our fees when we had umpires
from the Hayward ASA organization.
2005 In 2005 Team Toys took the regular season championship with a 15-7 record barely beating out Bras and
Mattos. Toys were led by the Solis brothers (Steve and
Tony), Bert Surfield, and Bob Fenton. Bill Giamonna and
Tom Quillen led Bras and Mattos. The batting leader for
the year was the ageless wonder Charlie Adams (.721)
with Jim Garrison second (.696). Steve Solis led the
league in RBI’s. Gary King was again the home run leader
while Lanny Witt (who would have a great impact on the
league) led in slugging percentage. The player with the
most walks during the season wasJay Goodman. It is
always an honor to have the most walks. Marv Peixoto
joined the league. Marv is now a City Councilman in
Hayward. He would like to be playing but Council
business takes all his time.
The over 65 league continued to play with two teams
from the HARD area. Danville continued to dominate
going 19-0. HARD 1 was 10-9 and HARD 2 was 4-15.
Because of the dominance of Danville discussions were
started to create a local league for the Castro Valley/
Hayward area. Players in the over 65 league for the first
time were John Evans (later an assistant managerin the
50’s league), Bill Baker, and CarlosHolquin. After the
season was over Al Hilbert, our Commissioner wrote a
letter to all the managers asking whether Danville should
be in a different league. They just had too many horses.
In 2005 our 50 and over league games moved to the new
Oliver Complex on Hesperian. What a great facility.
HARD provided a grounds person to line the fields every
Thursday. It was a great year for the league to have such
nice facilities. Thank you to Mr. Oliver who donated the
land and funds. The salt business was very profitable.
The Over 65 games continued to be played in
Castro Valley. Over 50 playoff results for 2005 (provided
by Gabe Adami) were 1st place Toys; 2nd place Bras and
Mattos; 3rd place Rowdys; 4th place Francis; 5th place
Yellow Rose and the Knights finished 6th. In round #2
Toys just beat the Rowdys 14-13.
2006 Leon Moore was now the Commissioner having
taken over from Vern Beggs who was outstanding as a
commissioner. Team Toys again won the regular season
championship with a 14-8 record. Highest batting
average was Tom Quillen (.750) who also led the league
in RBI’s. Eddie Muniz was the home run leader and
slugging percentage champion (Eddie has been a major
power player for years in the league). Bob Burke had the
most hits and was 5th in the league for batting averages.
Some players who made great contributions included
Steve Dietrich, Craig Germer, Bob McDougall, Marva
Young, Dave Harding, Joe Serochi and Ron Benavides
(long time coach at Mt. Eden). We had one player ejected
from a game this year for talking back in a derogatory
manner to our umpires. In 2006 we had paid umpires
arranged through Castro Valley Adult School. The league
has been fortunate, as we have not had many disciplinary
problems over the years. Can't most people “just get
along” to quote Leon Moore.Playoff results for 50 and
over in 2006 found the Broncos in 1st; Bras and Mattos
second; Toys third; Rowdys 4th; Rose 5th and the Knights
6th. The most exciting playoff game was the Yellow Rose
over the Knights 18-17.
This was the last year for the over 65 league. Danville
again dominated with a 13-2 record. The HARD teams
were 2-14 and 6-10. It was difficult to compete with the
teams over the hill. Al Hilbert, assisted by Joe Farias was
the manager of the Yellow Rose; Vern Beggs assisted by
Larry Ross managed the HARD 2 team. Mike Perkins
entered the over 65 league this year and would later become a manager in the league. Another long time player
Don Keller played with the Yellow Rose and would
become a manager for many years. In 2011 Don managed
a team in both the 60’s and 50’s league. Players in the 65
league in 2006 who contributed were Doug Phillips, Fred
Butler, Cliff Olson, John Evans, Bob Leigh, and Jake
Jacoby.
2007 The major decision in 2007 was to create an over
60 league of four teams. This would mean we would not
have to travel to others areas of the Bay Area. Also we
would not get the daylights beaten out of us by Danville.
Thus a four-team league was created. Managers were Al
Hilbert (Yellow Rose), Red and Black (Joe Farias), Vern
Beggs (Rockies), and Chuck Cannistracci (Cadillacs). Rod
Warren would have his debut this year. Rod is still
managing in the 60’s league. The playoffchampions that
year were Hilbert’s Yellow Rose led by Bob Gianni and
Dave Hoge.
In the 50’s league in 2007the Rowdys once again won the
league championship with a 19-6 record over the Knights
who were 18-7. Team Toys was third followed by Yellow
Rose in fourth. The Rocking K Broncos and Bras and
Mattos finished 5th and 6th. Chris Tyler managed the
Knights. Chris was a real addition to our league and
played until his health finally gave out. The Rowdys also
won the playoffs with a 19-9 victory over the Knights.
The Toys defeated the Rose for third place 20-19. Bras
took fifth defeating the Broncos 25-19. Leading the
Rowdys in 2007 were Craig Germer (.760) and Eddie
Muniz (.684). The home run leader for the year was
Greg Eby who ran like a deer. Mike Fragosa led the
league in hitting .761 followed by Craig Germer .760.
Garonn England led in RBI’s followed by Fragosa. The
leader in home runs was Germer.
Red Margins are boundaries
2008 The addition of Herb Hadley and his wife Pam was
a great addition for the league. Pam and Herb handled
the stats for the league this year. Herb would become a
manager in the 60’s league in 2011. He is well known for
bringing salami and coffee to games. The season was
highlighted with the Rowdys going 21-3 though one game
was still under protest and never resolved (my editorial
comment). The Rowdys (managed by Larry Ross) were
led by Russ Chandley (.733), who has managed in the
beyond
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league the last two years, and Garonn England (.716) who
degraded
2010 T-Shoppe claimed the regular season championshipwith a 16-7 record. Second
were the Vintage Crusherswith a 13-10 recordfollowed by the Rowdys. John Garcia,
Gary Giacomini, Bob Schmidt,Marva Young, and Ed Munizled T-Shoppe. Ed Muniz led
the league in batting with a .819 average. (Ed was an outstanding athlete in the 60’sat
Hayward High and a career Police Officer in Hayward),Tony Solis (. 762) and Jim
Dominguez (.762) tied forsecond. Marva was fourthwith a .753 average. ChrisBailey led
in home runs and in RBI’s. The playoffs were won by T-Shoppe who beat the Knights in
the final game. Third place went to the Sharks who we
re victorious over Vintage. The
Rowdys defeated the Broncos for fifth place.
In the 60’s leaguethe Mudcats Red and the Tigersfinished with records of 15-6. The
Red’s were led by Harold Manley, Dan DeClerc, Rich Treat and Lanny Witt. Gil Jess, John
Ironside, John Bailey andGary Symons ledthe Tigers. Manual Rodriquez led the league
in hitting (. 843) with Gary Lee second (.764). Ed Denoncourt batted.881 though he
only had 43 at bats. Gary King was thehome run leaderwith 6 homers. CarlSteigerwald
was the leader in RBI’s with 49.
2011 Brought new faces into the leadership roles in the league. Mike Carroll, Jake
Jacoby and Don Pelland moved to the forefront to administer the league. The
league also was welcomed to the Technology Age by design of a league dedicated
Website (www.hardseniorsoftball.com)designed and maintained by one of the
leagues players Greg Neal with the photo-albums maintained by web-editor &
team-mate Betty Soo Hoo.
With increased numbers both leagues (60’s and 50 ’s) added a team. Due to injuries,
vacations and other problems some teams were unable to field 11 players for each
game. The league is going to have long discussions this year to consider returning
to 6 teams in each league. The Rowdys again won the league under the managerial
forte of Leon Moore. Larry Ross stepped down as manager for the first time in
many years. The Rowdys won the regular season and also were victorious over the
Vintage Crushers (a Solis led team) in the playoffs that year. In the regular season
the Sharks were third, Kids fourth , Knights fifth Mudcats Red sixth , T-Shoppe
seventh and the Broncos in 8th place . Leading hitters in 2011 were Chris
Hernandez (son of Tony Hernandez who played in the league from the early 90’s),
batting .833 and 9 homeruns) Teddy LaChapelle (.803), Ed Muniz (.797), Rich
Podesta (.793), (Rich is also an outstanding tournament pitcher), Chris Bailey (he is
moving to Oregon) was again a go to player (2nd in homeruns, second in slugging
percentage, batted .738, fast as a tiger, and a nice guy. He will be missed. Other
new players in the last couple of years who have added to the league include Dan
DeClerc, Mace McDonald, Dave DeCarli, Don Ott (fast as a super deer), Manuel
Rodriques, Teddy LaChapelle, Stan Chavarria, Carl Liljedahl, and Gary Damelee.
In the 60 ’s league the Tigers were the Champions of the regular season under the
leadership of Mike Perkins but the Red/Black team headed by Mike Carroll won the
playoffs. Denoncourt, Jacoby, Phillips, Carroll, and Tom Gibbany led the Red/Black
team. Leading the way for the Tigers were Ross, Jovel, Perkins and Keltner.
Back Row- Jay Sankey,Luther Smith, Tim Larson, Steve Etchiesson, Gary Cosby
Larry DeVito,Pat Mederios, Manny Franco,
Front Row L-R Chip McCarter, Ed Finkes, Selwyn Quan, Carla Franc
Lanny Witt, Carl Steigerwald
Back Row L-R Jim Dietrich, Glen Santos, Rich Podesta, Laverne Miller Steve
Dietrich,Tony Bartholomew, Jake Jacoby,Bob Askey,Gabe Adami Tony Solis, Front
Row L-R Willie Mc Gee, Ed Muniz, Steve Solis.
Back Row L-R Pat Medeiros, Charlie Wanzyk, Steve Jacobson, Rod Warren,
Gary Lee, Dean Perkins, Steve Shapiro, Larry Johnson,
Rich Warren, Don Sheratt
Front Row L-R Jim Stapleton, Jay Hendee, Junior Corsare, Fred Perkins
2013 Season
> The 2013 Senior Softball season was highlighted by the introduction of an over 70’ s league. This was the
brainchild of Commissioner Mike Carroll. Women 45 and over were also able to play in the 70’ s league. Four teams
were created by “ the ancient one” Jack Moore using his Billy Beane analysis. The teams were Rovers (Mgr Herb
Hadley),
Rockies (Mgr Larry Divito), Yellow Rose (Mgr Chuck Cannistraci) and the Spartans (Mgr Joe Farias). The Yellow
Rose won the league championship with a 14-7 record followed by the Spartans at 12-9. But in the playoffs the
Spartans caught the Rose napping and won decisively. The Rockies finished third in league action and the playoffs
with the Rovers winding up in fourth. Leading hitters were Ray Garcia (.909) in 22 at bats, Larry Ross (.865) in 52 at
bats, Joe Farias (.779) in 77 at bats and Jay Hendee (.778) in 72 at bats. Farias led in doubles (15) RBI’ s (53) and
was second in triples ,runs scored and hits. LeVerne Miller led in home runs(5). Other top hitters were Don Pelland (.
758), Carol Sutherland (.753), John Lindberg (.743), Danny Klier (.735), Rich Warren (.717) and 86 year old Charlie
Adams at (. 716). Harold Manley led in hits (62), Fred Perkins in runs (45) and Jay Hendee in triples (8). Thanks to
the Assistant Managers -Walt McQueston (Rockies), Gary Symons (Rovers)-though Gary had to retire early in the
season due to injuries, Doug Phillips (Spartans) and Dane Hansen (Yellow Rose). Assistant Managers at all levels in
the league do lots of the “ grunt” work.
The best thing about the 70’ s league is that it allows individuals who would have difficulty in the younger leagues the
opportunity to play in a competitive situation. Kudos to Mike.
In the 60’ s league Keystone managed by Eddie Muniz dominated league play (16-5) and swept the playoffs
defeating
Mudcat Red in the final game (17-12). In league play the Rowdys (Dane Hansen) finished second (13-8) , Mudcat
Red (Lanny Witt) finished third (13-8), Tigers (Ray Wilkins) finished fourth (12-9), Red/Black finished fifth (11-10
)managed by Tom Gibbany, Mudcat Black finished sixth (10-11) managed by Gary Lee, finishing seventh was the
Yellow Rose managed by Mike Carroll (7-14) and in the cellar was the Broncos managed by Don Keller (5-16). In the
playoffs the order of finish was Keystone, Mudcat Red, Rowdys, Tigers, Mudcat Black, Red/Black, Broncos and
Yellow Rose. Eddie Muniz continued to be a top hitter in the league (.869) and had 68 RBI’ s. The home run leader,
new to the league, was Dan Moore with 11 home runs and 81 RBI’ s. He batted .762. Bill Harris, also a new player,
batted .806. Other leading hitters were Rick MacNamera (.822), Jim Stapleton (.847). Les Kimberley (.800), Rod
Warren (.759), and Carl Liljedahl (.744). Carol Steigerwald had 5 home runs, 60 RBI’ s and batted .744. Jay Sankey
had 63 RBI’ s, 6 home runs and batted .736. Bob Montalvo had five home runs for the Yellow Rose and Gary King
finished with 4. Getting the most walks were Gary Peck, Jim Stapleton and Gary Giacomni with 9 . Slewyn Quan had
57 runs scored and the leaders with sacrifices were King, McNamera and Tom Wagenseller all with 5.
> Assistant Managers were Game Adami for Keystone, Carl Liljedahl for the Rowdys, Joe Farias with the Red/Black,
Dan Borden for the Broncos, Manny Rodriquez with the Mudcat Black, Carl Steigerwald with Mudcat Red, Jay
Hendee with the Yellow Rose and Bo Johansen with the Tigers.
The 50’ s league had six teams this year as many of the older players opted to play in just the 60’ s and 70’ s
league. The Crushers (managed by Tony Solis) won the league title and the playoffs. They tied with the Sharks
(John Hughes) in the regular season. Both teams finished 13-7. In a playoff the Crushers won and earned the #1
seed. In third place was the Kids (Lanny Witt), fourth the Cardinals (John Ironside), fifths the Buffs (managed by
Gabe Adami) and in sixth the Knights (Dave Hoge and John Preston). In the playoffs the Knights surprised everyone
and made the finals. They were led by late addition Luther Smith but couldn’ t quite upset the Crushers. Buffs
finished third, Sharks fourth, Cardinals fifth and the Kids sixth in the playoffs. The home run leader from the Sharks
was Don Ott with 14. Don batted .818 and led the league in RBI’ s with 68. The batting average leader was Rich
Podesta (.831) followed by Mike Amaral at (.829). Tim Larsen had the most hits (72) and most runs (68). Tim batted
(.783). Carla Francis led the league in walks (11) with Steve Castillo the leader in sacrifice flies (9). Chris Hernandez
led the league in slugging percentage (1.688) and was second in home runs (9). The 50’ s had a number of new
players who had an immediate impact in the league. One of the new players was Brian Brieglieb (batting
average.813, 65 hits, 48 runs , 2 home runs and 11 doubles). Assistant Managers were Dennis Solis for the
Crushers, Steve Alvarez the Sharks, Eddie Muniz the Buffs, Carl Steigerwald the Kids, and John Garcia the
Cardinals.
Special thanks to our three Commissioners-Mike Carroll, John Ironside and Greg Neal. Planning and directing 18
teams in three leagues takes an enormous amount of time. They must be Judge and Jury on many decisions that
take place during the season. Also to Herb Hadley and his wife who spend lots of time on keeping stats for the
league. Herb is the salami king as he brings coffee and salami for everyone to share. This year second year player
Larry Johnson assisted with the stats. He kept account of the 60’ s league. Great to have new players step forward
and help out.
Jack Moore (Cardinals) and Gabe Hernandez (Crushers). Gabe is at all the games to watch his father Manny Hernandez
play ball. At 84 Manny is an icon in the league.
Gene Jones Awards 2013
The league continued the Gene Jones awards in 2013 adding the 70’ s league.
>In the fifties the awards went to Stan Chavaria (Buffs), Don Ott (Sharks) , Vince Cantwell (Kids), Carla Francis (Knights),
Jack Moore (Cardinals) and Gabe Hernandez (Crushers). Gabe is at all the games to watch his father Manny Hernandez
play ball. At 84 Manny is an icon in the league.
In the sixties awards went to Carol Sutherland (Keystone), Gary Lee (Mudcat Black), Joe Farias (Red/Black), Tony Solis
(Broncos), Mike Amaral (Yellow Rose), Don Mello (Tigers), Carl Steigerwald (Mudcat Red) and Bill Harris (Rowdys).
Winners at the 70’ s level were Doug Phillips(Spartans), LeVerne Miller (Yellow Rose), John Lindberg (Rockies) and Bette
Soo Hoo (Rovers).Bette Soo Hoo also added outstanding pictures to the HARD website throughout the year.
> In 2013 a number of women new to the league participated. Diane Harris, Yvonne Maxell, Liz Plunckett, Janice Zylaica
and Dorthy Thompson all enjoyed playing their first season in the league. They all contributed to making the league a great
place to spend the day.
Picnic
Again the end of the year picnic was a huge success thanks to the work of Mike Carroll and Mike Fragosa. Carroll’ s organization
and Fragosa’ s cooking made the picnic a roaring end to a great season.
In addition Russ Chandley continued to have BBQ’ s on Tuesday/Thursday that were attended by 25-40 players, wives and
friends. He was helped by Mike Fragosa, Chip McCarter and other volunteer cooks.
Winter League:
Once again a winter league was organized with five teams. The play started the first week in October and ran until
Thanksgiving. Teams were managed by Lanny Witt, Ed Muniz, Ray Watlkins,
2014 Season
The 2014 Senior Softball season was again a very successful operation because of the leadership of
John Ironside, Mike Carroll and Greg Neal. Even with rainouts everything fell in to place ending with
a fabulous picnic in late September.
The 50’s league had 6 teams with the Wolfpack (Manager Steve Alvarez, Assistant Steve Suchon) and
the Crushers (Manager Tony Solis, Assistant Dennis Solis) the dominant teams in both league play
and the playoffs. The Wolfpack won the regular season title but then were defeated in the
Championship playoff game by the Crushers. Rounding out the league standings for the 50’s league
were the Cardinals (Manager John Ironside, Assistant John Garcia), Buffs (Manager Gabe Adami.
Assistant Ed Muniz), Knights (Manager Dave Hoge, Assistant Ray Watkins and the Kids (Manager
Lanny Witt, Assistant Carl Steigerwald). In the playoffs it was the Crushers, Wolfpack, Cardinals,
Knights, Buffs and Kids.
The 50’s league had a number of excellent hitters this year. Though he just batted 28 times Luther
Smith had 23 hits for a .821 average. Mike Souza, with 67 AB’s, batted .791 plus was 3rd in home runs
and fifth in slugging percentage. Don Ott batted .783 , was 3rd in hits, 1st in runs, 1st in total bases, 5th
in RBI’s, 1st in doubles, 1st in home runs (9), and 2nd in slugging percentage. Don is also an exceptional
shortstop. Rounding out the top 10 batting average leaders were Brian Brieglieb, Dave Hoge, Mike
Fragosa, Jay Sankey, Mike Norell, Max Benevidez, Steve Suchon, and Mario Rodriquez. Leading the
league in sac flies were Steve Alvarez, Gary Damele, and Steve Mastrenardo. The RBI leaders were
Mario Rodriguez (59), Steve Brown (55) and Mike Fragosa (51). Leading the league in triples was
Steve Brown followed by Raul Delgado. The individual with the most patience was Max Benevidez
who walked 11 times.
The 60’s league had 8 teams this year with the Tigers (Manager Ray Watkins, Assistant Dan Moore)
finishing in a tie during the league competition with Keystone (Manager Eddie Muniz, Manager Rick
McNamera) but because of head to head victories during the season the Tigers were declared the
league champion. The Mudcat Red (Manager Lanny Witt, Assistant Carl Steigerwald) finished third
in league play followed by the Yellow Rose(Manager Carl Liljedahl, Assistant Manny Franco), then the
Broncos (Manager Don Keller, Assistant Dan Borden), Red and Black (Manager Tom Gibbany,
Assistant Joe Farias) finished 7th and in 8th place were the Rowdys (Manager John Crane, Assistant
Bob Wells).
In the playoffs it was the Tigers winning against Keystone 22-13. Third place in the playoffs was the
Yellow Rose, followed by Mudcat Red, Rowdy’s, Red and Black, Broncos and Mudcat Black.
The 60’s continued to have many outstanding players. Jim Stapleton led the league in batting (.890)
followed by Dave Reta (.855), Steve Mastronarde (.846), Gary Dample (.822) and Bill Harris (.820).
Rounding out the top ten were Steve Etchieson, Dan Moore, Max Benavidez, Steve Brown and Jay
Sankey. Dan Moore led the league in home runs (12), doubles, RBI’s, and runs scored. Jim Stapleton
had the most walks (11) and was the leader in on base percentage. RBI’s leaders after Moore were
Rick McNamara, Dave Reta, Mike Norell and Steve Etchieson. Home run leaders after Moore were
Mike Norell, Steve Brown, Dave Reta, Jim Stapleton and Barry Walter.
The 70’s League wrapped up a second season with four teams battling throughout the season.
Finishing in first place during the regular season was Yellow Rose (Manager Chuck Cannistraci,
Assistant Dane Hansen), Spartan-Sharks (Manager Joe Farias, Assistant Manager Doug Phillips),
Rovers (Manager Herb Hadley, Assistant Don Keller), and the Rockies (Manager Larry Divito,
Assistant Walt McQueston). But in the playoffs the Rovers came out on top defeating the Rockies 137. Third place in the playoffs went to the Spartans-Sharks who defeated the Yellow Rose 14-4.
Players new to the 70’s excelled in batting with Junior Cosares leading the way (.794), Rich Jovel (.
774), Dave York (.772) and Ray Garcia (770. Rounding out the top 10 were Ed Finkes, Joe Farias,
John Chacon, Darrell Dolin, Dorthy Thompson and Charlie Adams- (the 87 year old wonder).
The leading home run hitter was Junior Cosares (7) followed by Charlie Adams (4). Leading the
league in RBI’s was Farias followed by Cosares and Adams. Leading the league in hits, sacrifices and
doubles was Farias. Charlie Adams had the most doubles and was second in base on balls. Herb
Hadley collected the most walks (10). The 70’s had 10 women who were excellent players
throughout the season.
A number of individuals helped to make the season a success. Special thanks to Paul Vartarian for
handling the scheduling, Larry Johnson for doing the 60’s stats, Don Keller for the 70’s stats, and to
Herb and Pam Hadley for keeping us updated with the 50’s stats. Bruce Godard for establishing the
playoff scoring website, Betty Soo Hoo for her website photo editing and Greg Neal for being the
Editor of the HARD website. Again special thanks to Mike Carroll who works throughout the year
meeting with HARD to get fields, keeping the sign up lists and providing leadership. To John Ironside
for being able to make decisions and reminding us that this is a recreational league to have fun.
Gene Jones Awards 2014
This year’s Gene Jones awards went to:
50’s-Ron Kimmel, Nick Halastsis, Loren Kensinger Don Ott, Steve Hutson and Willie McGee.
60’s-Mark Shimamoto, Liz Plunckett, Mike Carroll, Larry Johnson, Dane Hanson, John Hughes, Bruce
Goddard and Steve Brown.
70’s-Abbe Kalos, Elly Divino, Betty Soo Hoo, and Al
Rossellini.
Miscellaneous:
Again an extended winter league was started though many of the games were rained out. But this
gives players an opportunity to continue playing throughout most of the year
The picnic in September was a great success. Russ Chandley (puts on great barbeques) helped the
Commissioners with the event. Doug Phillips, Tom Gibbany and Bill Barberia assisted Russ in this
successful venture.
Special thoughts toward long time player Eddie Muniz. Eddie is going through a tough time with his
health and we hope the best for him. Eddie has been a mainstay of this league for the last 15 plus
years. Also special thoughts for Dean Perkins. Dean has been Mr. Softball in this area for 40 years.
Running tournaments, playing and giving helpful hints to younger players.
See Betty Soo Hoo’s Photo Album (Here)
for 2014 Season Pictures
WHAT IS IN THE FUTURE?
As always questions are asked after each season. Umpires (shall we try to hire ASA umpires again?),
runners from home, how many should be on a team to insure a team can play all the games during the
season, should we start an over 70 league, how do you assign new players during the season, should we
have bye weeks for tournament players, should we keep batting averages, draft procedures, what days of
the week we should play, etc. etc.
WOMEN IN THE LEAGUE: Throughout the years women have been an integral part of the league. The first
woman to become part of the league was Bobbie (Roberta) Pratt. Bobbie has been with the league since
1991. She has inspired all of us with her willingness to work hard and improve each year. This past year
she had a hip replacement so did not play. She will be back. The second woman to play and is still with us
is Bev Van Gundy. Bev has been an excellent player and in addition plays on tournament teams. Pat
Mallote (1993) was the third woman to play in the league. She played for three years before moving. Jo
Ann Dimaggio played for a short time followed by Millie Peck, Beryl Jones, Molly Everhart in 1999, Irene
Oberra (2003), Sharon Peck (2004), Carla Francis (2006), Karen Sparks (1999), Marva Young (2006)
(Marva is a long time coach of high school softball in San Ramon), Mary Warren and Carole Sutherland
(2010) and most recently Betty Soo Hoo (2011). Irene Oberra is a National Masters Champion in Track
and Field each year plus an avid tennis player.
GENE JONES AWARD-The Gene Jones award was started in 1993 in honor of Gene Jones who lived in
Castro Valley and was one of the original senior softball players. Gene lived on Seaview in Castro Valley
and loved to play softball. He was not an MVP but loved the game, was an encouragement to everyone and
set the tone for the senior softball league. Even after he was sick he would come to the ball field and take
an active part as a participant. To honor him the league voted that each team would select one person on
their team to honor Gene Jones. Not necessarily the best player but one who worked hard, loved the game
and represented the values and work ethic that Gene displayed during his time on the softball field. In
1993 the honorees were Bob Duerson and Gordon Pappas. In 1994 Manny Hernandez, John Lindberg, and
John Beckwith. In 1995
Mike DeGuzman, Bob Duerson, Jerry Neeley, and Bert Rigley. In 1996 Bob Duerson, John Beckwith, Tony
Hernandez, Carl McDade and George Krug. (No record of 1997 or 1998). In 1999 Ron Botello, Deron
Crook,
Tony Hernandez, Mercer Campbell, Dave Jefferson, Millie Peck, Joe Perry, Jackson Spindle, Hank
Thomasson,
Danny Taveres, and John Young. In 2000 Tony Hernandez, Ed Jiminson, Willie McGee, Jerry Hogerheide,
Bernie Chalip and Karen Sparks. In 2001 Ramon Dominquez, John Lindberg, Don McBride, Mercer
Campbell,
Bob Schmidt, and Howard Harrington. In 2002 John Lindberg, Jack Moore, Vern Beggs, Frank Mattos,
Eugene Steve, Vern Beggs and Bobbie Pratt. In 2003 Bobbie Pratt, Al Hilbert, Ron Silva, Gary Silveria, Bob
Burkfield, and Vern Stephens. In 2004 Jim Garrison, Bill Giamonna, Nick Harper, Bob Schmidt, Ron Silva,
and Ken Teague. In 2005 Charlie Adams, Mike Carroll, Tom Quillen, Ron Silva, and Bert Surfield. In 2006
Gene Klein,
John Brosnan, Walt McQueston, Tom Quillen, Ramon Dominquez, and Bob Schmidt. In 2007 Mike Carroll,
Walt McQueston, Leon Moore, Jack Moore, Bobbie Pratt and Bert Surfield. In 2008 Mike Perkins, Chris
Tyler,
Al Hilbert, Jim Coggburn, Dane Hansen, and Carla Francis. In 2009 Kwok Chan, Gary Giacomini, Dane
Hansen,
Al Rossellini, Lawrence Thompson, and Chris Tyler. In 2010 Mike Amaral, Nick Harper, Laverne Miller,
Don
Keller, Dane Hansen and Mike Carroll. In 2011 Dane Hansen (50’s and 60’s), Doug Kurtz, Dave Hoge,
Manny Hernandez, Roger Gonsalves, Ed Finkes, Willie McKee, Ron Silva, Betty Soo Hoo, Richard Warren,
John Lindberg, and Gary Giacomini. 2012 Gene Jones winners, included (60’s) Jim Stapleton, Gary Symons,
Elly Divino,
Larry DeVito,Frank Mattos, Gabe Adami, Ron Silva, Dane Hansen and Betty Soo Hoo. (50’s)winners Don
Ott, Larry DiVito ,Frank Mattos, Bob Burkfield, Dick Bellefeuille, Pedro Corsino, Gary Giacominni,and Paul
Vartanian.
A Gene Jones Plaque is in the trophy case at the Senior Center on Redwood Road.
Property of Bookemon, do NOT distributeduring print production.
MIKE DEGUZMAN AWARD-The Mike DeGuzman award was first given in 2002
after Mike had passed away. Al Hilbert, then the manager of the Yellow Rose,
created this award in honor of Mike. Mike was a Yellow Rose player for many
years and always gave his best. The award was given from 2002 through 2010
to a member of the Yellow Rose. In 2002 Joe Farias; in 2003 Carl McDade; in
2004 Dane Hansen; in 2005 Don Mello; in 2006 Mike Perkins; in 2007 Bert
Surfield; in 2008 Manny Hernandez; in 2009 Walt McQueston; and in 2010 Al
Hilbert. A plaque is in the trophy case at the Senior Center on Redwood Road.
CHRIS TYLER AWARD: The Chris Tyler award (given by the Knights) is given
each year to a member of the Knights who epitomizes the dependability,
sportsmanship, and personality to further the goals of the Senior Softball League.
Recipients have been John Huzar in 2009; Efren Sapiandante in 2010 and Carla
Francis in 2011.Bob Burkfield received the award for 2012 Bob has been a part
of senior softball for many years.
WOMEN IN THE LEAGUE: Throughout the years women have been an integral
part of the league. The first woman to become part of the league was Bobbie
(Roberta) Pratt. Bobbie has been with the league since 1991. She has inspired all
of us with her willingness to work hard and improve each year. This past year
she had a hip replacement so did not play. She will be back. The second woman
to play and is still with us is Bev Van Gundy. Bev has been an excellent player and
in addition plays on tournament teams. Pat Mallote (1993) was the third woman
to play in the league. She played for three years before moving. Jo Ann Dimaggio
played for a short time followed by Millie Peck, Beryl Jones, Molly Everhart in
1999, Irene Oberra (2003), Sharon Peck (2004), Carla Francis (2006), Karen
Sparks (1999), Marva Young (2006) (Marva is a long time coach on high school
softball in San Ramon), Mary Warren and Carole Sutherland (2010) and most
recently Betty Soo Hoo (2011). Irene Berra is a National Masters Champion in
Track and Field each year plus an avid tennis player.
ADDENDUMS: Players from the league who have gone on to softball heaven:
George Krug, Bob Takayama, David Ulaberry, Gene Jones, Bob Duerson, Mercer
Campbell, Bruce Allred, Jerry Neeley, Jack Chabek, Mollie Everhart, Bill Giamonna,
Mike DeGuzman, Carl McDade, Hank Thomasson, Ramon Dominguez, Chris Tyler,
Dick Treat, David O’Mahony, Hal Attahowe, Lee Kruse, George Krug, Tony
Hernandez, Cary Walker, Jim Nelson, and Frank Williams, Michael Whitener, Karen
Sparks, Walt Muniz, John Beckwithand Harry Francis.
COMMISSIONERS OF THE SENIOR SOFTBALL LEAGUE:
The Senior softball league has been very fortunate in having an excellent group
of individuals serve as Commissioners over the years. Jake Dalton was our first
representative to the Diablo Softball League. His title was not Commissioner
but that was the role he played for the teams from Castro Valley. Jake played
for many years and he set the standards that are still in place today. Following
Jake was Harry Francis. Harry is a long time businessman in Castro Valley
(owns Francis Refinishing) who sponsored a team in the league until his
retirement from softball. Harry still serves as a Director on the Castro Valley
Sanitary Board. Harry guided us through the early phases of the league and was
also a top player in the league. Joe Farias (Me) followed Harry as
Commissioner. I had lots of help from old timers Al Hilbert, Larry Ross and
Chuck Canistracci . Vern Beggs followed me as Commissioner and was
instrumental in getting “leagues of our own”. Leon Moore who had been doing
the stats and write-ups for years followed Vern. Leon worked on getting the
league to have six teams and was in charge when we went to our own over 60
league. No more long distance traveling. This past year Leon stepped down and
was replaced by the “trocha”. Assuming leadership responsibilities were Jack
Jacoby, Don Pelland and Mike Carroll. They divided the responsibilities and
made everything run efficiently. This year (2012) long time player John
Ironside,and a returning Mike Carroll will be joined by relative newcomer Greg
Neal, to fill the leagues leadership roles.
SPONSORS: Over the years we have had many sponsors for teams in the league.
One of the first was Francis Refinishing- a business in Castro Valley owned by
Harry Francis who was the first formal Commissioner of the league; Don
McBride owned a Toy Company and sponsored Team Toys and also played;
Carrows sponsored a team that was managed by Larry Davis; The Rowdys have
had sponsorship from A Street Café, Best Burgers and the Village Barber Shop.
Leon Moore bought hats and sponsored the Rowdys for many years. John
Beckwith sponsored the Yellow Rose for many years. John, who also played and
managed in the league, continued to umpire after he had two brain operations
for cancer. Support in the 90’s also came from Casa Sandoval-a retirement
complex in downtown Hayward. The Sharks were sponsored by Bob Burke from
their inception; The Kids, first played in 2011, are sponsored by Lanny Witt; TShoppe has been sponsored by John Garcia of Transportation Shoppe; the
Knights were sponsored for many years by Chris Tyler; in the 90’s US Cold
Storage was sponsored by Joe Perry; Bras and
Mattos had early support from Bras Monument Co.
located on Mission Blvd; Keystone has been sponsored by
Steve Dietrich; Matteucci Tigers are sponsored by
Alexandra Matteucci-Perkins; Red and Black was
originally sponsored by Joe Farias and MG Paul
Monroe; Don Keller has been the benefactor for the
Broncos and the Rockies ; Kaiser Hospital donated
funds in the 90’s to sponsor a team managed by Chuck
Cannistracci. This year (2012) the T-Shoppe team
became a new team named the Buffs and were
sponsered by Stan Chavarria.
SPOUSAL/FRIEND SUPPORT: Over the 20 years we
have had many wives, girlfriends, and significant others
who have supported the teams and their heroes. Among
those who have been to game after game include
Eleanor Moore, who attends all the games that Jack
plays-she is an inspiration to all of us. Manny
Hernandez’s wife Vivian attended all the games until her
passing last year. She was a great supporter of Manny
and her brother in law Tony. John Huizar’s wife Alice
also attends all the games and has attended for 15 plus
years; Lin DeGuzman was always at the games when
Mike was playing; Frank Mattos always has a huge
cheering section with his wife and other members of the
family; Dick Bellefeuille’s Dad and his Uncle attended all
of Dick’s game. His Dad passed away this past season
but was attending regularly just before he passed away;
Al Rosellini’s wife attended all of his games until this
year when her health couldn’t allow her to be at the
games; Sally McDade and many members of the McDade
family were always at the games when Carl played; Ruth
Hightower (Art Hightower’s wife) was at all the games
Art played. She was a great supporter of Senior Softball,
as was Carlos Holquins wife Marian.
AFTER HOURS SOCIAL EVENTS: In the early days of
the league when a game was over drinks were always
brought by the home team. Players would stand around
and tell how it might have been if they had made a
particular play. This type of social gathering was a part
of the league. Players enjoyed learning about each other
and sharing stories. About three years ago many of the
players on Thursday would meet in the parking lot at
Oliver after the games and share a drink and tell old war
stories. This then evolved into Hot Dogs being served
and now has become a regular feast for the players that
attend. Credit for this goes to Russ Chandley of the
Knights were and still are behind the Thursday event.
Russ has had many helpers-Vinny Cantwell,
Property of Bookemon, do NOT distributeduring print production.
Carl Steigerwald, Lanny Witt, Chris Bailey, Chip MaCarter, and Doug Phillips
among . Those that attend either bring a dish or provide money to offset the cost
of the food being served. As many as 60 have partaken on a Thursday but most of
the time it is 30-35 players and some wives, girl friends etc. The barbeque/social
hour starts about 11:30 and has been known to continue to 5 or 6 in the evening.
Russ Chandley has created a great opportunity for players and their friends to
socialize and enjoy each other’s company.
END OF YEAR PICNICS: In the mid nineties John Beckwith, sponsor, player,
manager, and later umpire after he had brain surgery, started the annual end of
the year picnic. It was held at the picnic grounds of the community center after
the last games of the year. John always made chili beans at home and insured
everyone tried them. He would do all the shopping (I was his assistant shopper)
at Costco two days before the event. In those early days spouses, girlfriends and
others did the serving, cooking and clean up. Lin DeGuzman, Eleanor Moore, Lois
Pickett, Dorothy Giamonna, Ann Farias, Ruth Hightower and others made the
picnics a success. Awards were given out and short speeches were held. When we
moved to Oliver there was a perfect site for a picnic. The tradition has continued
and is an opportunity for family members to become acquainted with the players
they have heard about all year long. This last year Mike Carroll and his fellow
Commissioners did the bulk of the planning and organization. But many others
chipped in and cooked, cleaned up and insured everyone was fed well. John
Beckwith would be proud that his tradition has been carried on. In 2012 Mike
Carroll organized and Mike Fragosa donated an excellent meat selection for our
end of season picnic. Their assistance with the picnic and the post game
gatherings on Thursdays are very much appreciated.
BATTING AVERAGES OVER THE YEARS: There have been discussions over the
years as to whether or not we should keep statistics. When votes are taken the
majority always want to continue with them. In my opinion what has happened is
that we have inflated averages over the years. I did a comparison of three
seasons. 1993, 1998 and 2011. In 1993 we had 38 participants on two 50’s teams.
One player batted over .700, 8 batted over .600, 9 batted under .300. In 1998 we
had 66 players in the league. 3 batted over .700, 12 over .600, 21 over .500, 17
over .400, 8 over .300, and 5 over .200. In 2011 we had 111
Pinic -2000 - Joe Farias, Harry Francis ( 1 st Commisioner),& John Huizar
Picnic at Community Center- Joe Farias, Al Hilbert
[email protected]
duringForDick
Drandi,Lois Pickett,Ann Farias and Lin DeGuzman
participating in the 50 league. Two batted over .800, 22
batted over .700, 55 batted over .600, 11 batted under .
300. One can say that it is better for one’s self esteem to
inflate averages but some old timers feel a hit should be
a hit. Larry Ross stated this weekend (November 1213) that the new technology of bats makes a difference.
Maybe so but I for one would like us to go back to the
90’s and make sure a hit is a hit.
AGE OF THE LEAGUE: In 2011 we had 15 players over
80, 46 players over 70, 33 players over 65, 30 players
over 60 and 19 players between 50 and 59. Based on
these figures supplied by Greg Neal the age of league is
getting older. That is what Senior Softball is all about.
Seniors playing for life.
INJURIES/ACCIDENTS/REPLACEMENTS: In the 21
years of existence there have been two serious injuries.
1. In 1999 at a practice session at Castro Valley on
November 30th long time player Gene Klein was hit by a
line drive in the head. He had been talking to the second
baseman and the ball was hit and struck him in the head.
Gene spent the next 26 days in the hospital and rehab.
First he was at Eden and then at Kaiser Hayward. He
was then moved to Kaiser Vallejo for rehab. Gene
continues to wear a helmet to protect himself. We were
very fortunate that Gene recovered so well and
continued to play. The second major injury took place
at a game in Castro
Valley in 1997. The Yellow Rose was playing a game and
DeRon Crook was umpiring behind the plate. He was in
the process of cleaning the plate. Mike Reed, who still
plays in Danville, was taking practice swings. He
inadvertently took a practice swing that hit DeRon in the
head. Blood spurted everywhere. Al Hilbert sprinted to
the Fire Station to get help. DeRon spent two nights in
Eden Hospital. He recovered and continued to play until
he died. Not sure of the year but Mike Amaral (who now
plays in our league) was hit in the eye and faced severe
eye problems. At that time he was playing for the
traveling team that played teams in the valley (Danville
etc.) Mike has made a full recovery. We have had two
incidents of heart problems on the field. In 2010 Bob
Burke, long time sponsor & outstanding player, had a
heart attack on the field. We are fortunate that former
firemen (John Ironsides and Chris
Bailey) quickly diagnosed the problem and 911 was immediately called. Bob
was rushed to St. Rose and had an operation in 20 minutes. He recovered to
play in the 2011 season. This past season Willie McKee had breathing
problems and 911was again called. Willie was transported to the hospital and
has fully recovered. He came back and played during the latter part of the
season. We have had an assortment of injuries over the years: torn Achilles
tendons, hip and knee replacements, torn shoulder muscles, broken noses from
balls hitting a player, broken bones from being hit by a ball, broken wrists from
two players crashing in to each other, strained calf muscles, groin pulls, broken
fingers etc. But in the long run in 21years the game has gone on in spite of all
the muscles tears and other injuries.
2012 as in other years had its share of a myriad of injuries to players. One
injury of note was to (yours truly) the author of this written history, whereby
he lost a massive flyball in the leftfield sun,only to have the ball hit him in the
back of the head and landing him with a stint in the emergency room getting
staples put in his noggin and ending his 2012 season for a couple of days. Only
to see him bounce back before seasons end.
ALAMEDA /NEWARK SOFTBALL LEAGUES OUR NEIGHBORS: Over the years
we have enjoyed a close relationship with the Alameda Senior Softball
Organization and the Newark Softball Night League. Many of their players now
participate in our league. From Alameda we have the ‘icon’ Charlie Adams, Bev
Van Gundy, Dick Bellefeuille, Walt McQueston, John Busby, Gil Jess, Gary
Symons, Charles Wancyzk, Jack Moore and others who have since retired. (Jim
Garrison).
The Alameda group plays at Tillman Park and were led in their early years by
Lou McElroy, Sam Wales, Don Young and Jack Stevens. Stevens, Wales and
Young are in their 80’s and still playing at the Alameda complex. We have lots
of players from Newark over the years. Newark early on had a night league
two nights a week that many of the current players were part of over the years
and still play in the night league. Witt, Alvarez, Allen, Confenti, Harrington,
Rossellini, Steigerwald, Drambosio, and many others.
FINISH: Those of you that read this on the website please let me or Greg Neal
know of any errors or omissions. Trying to be accurate over 20 plus years is a
challenge but with help from Al Hilbert, Gene Klein, Jerry Hogerheide, Greg Neal ,
Larry Ross and others we now have a historical record.
Joe Farias December 2012
THe History of HARD Senior Softball
Copyright © 2012 by Greg Neal- Joe Farias
All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or
mechanical means including storage and retrieval systems without permission in writing from Greg
Neal- Joe Farias
Printed in United States of America
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League History (All Years)

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