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"THANK YOU FISHTOWN"
REUNION GAME JUNE 25, 2004
49 GREAT SOFTBALL YEARS NOW IT WAS TIME FOR US TO SAY THANK YOU TO THE PLAYERS & FISHTOWN......
Players From The Past Returned To Play In
"Just One More Game" And Remember where it all started.....
THE STORY
By Jack Moore
We hope that when ever our league plays its last game, the night of June 25, 2004 will always be remembered for the night that Fishtown Softball thanked its players and its fans for all of the wonderful seasons since 1956.
The best of the best players will return to Hetzells for "Just one more game" There has never been a re-union in this league of any kind, this will be the first and maybe the last? -- almost 100% of the players asked said "YES" right away to be a part of this one-time game.
YOU ARE INVITED
We hope that fans from yesterday and today that have enjoyed watching the games over our 49 seasons will join us at Hetzells on this night of Celebration. The players will be asked to be at the field one and a half hours before the game so they can meet each other again. Fans will be allowed to come into the infield to say hello and take photos with one of their favorite players of years gone bye.
WHAT HAPPENED TO MODIFIED SOFTBALL?
What brought this game on? Well, first of all as everyone knows modified softball is a thing of the past here in Philadelphia. Maybe they are still playing it in others towns, but it is almost gone here in the City. Just a few weeks ago we got a e-mail from a guy named Dan Wood. He told us that he has played fast pitch and modified softball for the past 21 years and played in two leagues last season (2003) in South Philly and South Jersey; both have notified the teams and their players that there will not be any leagues in 2004 because of the lack of teams.
THE NIGHT LEAGUE STARTED
It all started back in 1956. Back then, there were Saturday leagues here in Fishtown and with so many teams interested in playing modified softball, Bob Casey who was working out of Newt's (now the Shissler Rec. at Blair & Berks Street) saw the need for a night league. The league was started and teams came from all over Fishtown and outside of Fishtown to get into the league. As the years went by this was the league to win. This was the big one. To win the league was the epitome of Fishtown sports. It still stands as one of the top goals to reach today. It is just unbelievable that still as of today, no new team has ever won the league championship in their first season. Over the years some of the best players to ever play this game came to Fishtown to be a part of this great league. Just two years ago one of the all time great teams to ever play modified softball, Regan's Bar, came into the league. Although they came within one out of winning the championship they could not do it. Even today with just six teams left, the pride of being a part of the league still remains a lot to these teams. Let us all remember when the Saturday league ended, it was very sad because there were no more days out for many guys that played on Saturdays; then went back to the bar for a few cold ones. When the last game is played in this league, It is done for ever, it is not coming back. Maybe this year or next year will be our turn, no more night softball to watch.
But we are dedicated to keep this league going until we have exhausted every way possible of getting players and teams to continue playing.
THE REUNION GAME COMMITTEE MEETINGS
The first meeting with the committee was on Monday January 5, 2004... A note to the Philadelphia Daily News seeking players from the 1970 to the 1990's to invite them to the game was sent. Also the cost of the game was voted to be $25.00 a person. The players are asked to send their money in by April 30, 2004. That is all you have to do!. Someone on the committee will be calling the players That we do have phone numbers for and giving them all of the info about the game date. The next meeting was on March 1, 2004. The committee would met with the honorary captains to Draft the teams and try to wrap up things to make this game one outstanding night. The last meeting to get the nights program and final details ironed out will be on May 3, 2004
THEN THE WORK BEGAN
We set around a table on Monday night May 3, 2004 at Anthony's Cafe for the last and final re-union meeting as a committee. This meeting was to go over every loose end and tie them up, not to forget anything to be done for Friday night June 25, 2004.
This all started before Christmas last year (2003) when I called friends that I have known for many years to ask them for their help putting together an idea I had. This was to do something that has never been done here in Fishtown and it would bring back players from the past from as far back as the 1970's. But how would we find them?
The first meeting with the committee was held right after the holidays on Monday January 5, 2004. this was the night it would all begin and boy there is so much to do If your going to do something right. Now that the meetings have ended the real work is about to start.
It is easy to sit at a table and write things down on paper. But from this point on the work begins. Like ordering The Tee shirts, planing the party after the game, getting Hetzells screened off some parts so that the players have a little room to move around and swing bats safely. And many little things like balls, bats, even a catcher mask, D.J. table and a ton of other things like to start with ask the City to bring five or six bleaches so that people have a seat to watch the game And by the way the fans will have to use the gates on this night because the polls will be screened off at first and third base. The reason is that with about 30 players and coaches on each side there is going to be very little room to move around. Come out early and get yourself great spot. Remember everything gets started at 5:30pm the game will be nine innings and we hope to get it started somewhere around 7pm.
If everything goes right from here June 25, 2004 will really be a great night to always remember.
You come out and enjoy this one time re-union game. We hope it will bring back all of your memories of the past 49 seasons as we say "THANK YOU FISHTOWN".......
THE DRAFT BY HONORARY CAPTAINS MARCH 1, 2004 WAS HELD
On March 1, 2004 The honorary captains for this game that will be Tommy Ewald a great player from the 70's and 80's and played on a number of championship teams. Tommy will be the honorary captain for the blue team. He is lucky to even be alive as back on November 16, 2002 he had a complate liver transplant operation that took more then 17 hours ~ Jimmy Strunk and outstanding pitcher back in the same era as Ewald he also is a member of the leagues Hall of Fame. He will be the honorary captain of the red team. Jim also had a by-pass operation to put a de-fibulater into his heart March of 2003. These two men will pick the players by a Draft for the red and blue teams of stars. The Rosters are posted just below.
REMEMBERING THE COMMISSIONERS
Robert Casey ~ David Neary ~ Tommy Thomson
David Rotan Sr. ~ Jack Moore ~ Bill Wilcox
We have got to thank each one of these men that gave everything they had in building one of the most respected softball leagues in Philadelphia. The work involved to run a league is enormous no one can realize the time and work it takes, along with the tremendous responsibly you have to every team and every player.
It is really a thankless job the man has to be very dedicated to his league.
THANK YOU
to each one of you for the tremendous job you gave with your heart to this league.......
After The Game Gala Was Hoisted By
SHANNON'S RESTAURANT & BAR
FRANKFORD AVE. AT LEHIGH
PHILADELPHIA PA. 19125
THE MENU
Spicy Chicken Wings
Hot Roast Beef
Italian Sweet Sausage with Onions & Peppers
Garlic Roast Potatos
String Beans & Corn
Fresh Green Salad
Rolls & Butter
A Thank You Fishtown Cake
DRINKS
Pitcher Beer & Soda
From what ever time the games ends 3 Hours
D.J. DAVE ROTAN JR.
Will donate his time and equipment to the night. After the opening ceremony he along with Greg Fox that will assist David with stats names and memories of the past. Sol Herskovic will be the score keerer for the game. David will supply the music and entertain the fans. In the name of his Dad that gave the league almost 35 years of his life as the commissioner. .
PHILADELPHIA NEWS AGENCIES INVITED
T.V. Stations sports ~ Philadelphia News Papers along with the Star. Will be invited to cover the event. City guest will also be invited to attend
"A SPONSOR FOR TEE SHIRTS HAS BEEN FOUND"
Former Anthony's outfielder Bobby Hepworth has asked to sponsor the game t shirts. Bob that will play in the re-union game just wanted to do this to remember his years in the league. He was a big part of the six championships that Anthony's Cafe played in. He played his last game at Hetzell's for Anthony's in 1995.
Thank You Bobby for your generous donation.
FISHTOWN ARTIST DESIGNS THE TEE SHIRTS
Well known Fishtown artist Jeff Kilpatrick has done the art work for the front of the game tee shirts. We feel very fortunate to have a guy like Jeff to do this special kind of art for this special game.
ALSO LET US ALWAYS REMEMBER THOSE THAT HAVE PASSED FOR THEIR PART WITH THIS LEAGUE OVER THE YEARS
David Rotan Sr.
Tom "Porky" Gallagher
Jimo Fox
David Neary
Richy Farley
Danny Shissler Sr.
Bill Gassman Sr.
Chris Smith
"Moe" Andrews
Dennis Seaman
If there are any names missing we would deeply appreciate your getting them to us. Please use our e mail above and we will take care of it right away. Thank You
HETZELL LEAGUE FAVORITE MEMORIES
LAST CHANCE TO SEND US YOUR FAVORITE MEMORIES OR YOUR THANKS:
2003 was the 48th, season of softball played in Fishtown. Over its first 48 seasons we estimate that more then 12,000 games have been played just at Hetzells and more then 20,000 players have played in the league that changed it's name to honor long time Commissioner David Rotan Sr. When he passed. We know there have been so many memories like the best game you have ever seen or played in, How about a play that saved a championship game? The best hitting or fielding player or team of all time in league history? Yes there have been many. If you would like to pass along your favorite memorie of a game or a team you played on. Or as a fan a game you seen that you'll never forget or even a person you think you would like to thank.
DROP US A E-MAIL
E-MAIL
You don't have to remember the date just do the best you can.
There were so many exciting and memorable things that has happeded over all of these first 48 years. It would be a lot of fun for each of us to share our memories of this wonderful league.
READ REPLIES BELOW
THE MEMORIES
"I WILL NEVER FORGET"
Players From The Past Returned To Play In
"Just One More Game" And Remember where it all started.....
THE STORY
By Jack Moore
We hope that when ever our league plays its last game, the night of June 25, 2004 will always be remembered for the night that Fishtown Softball thanked its players and its fans for all of the wonderful seasons since 1956.
The best of the best players will return to Hetzells for "Just one more game" There has never been a re-union in this league of any kind, this will be the first and maybe the last? -- almost 100% of the players asked said "YES" right away to be a part of this one-time game.
YOU ARE INVITED
We hope that fans from yesterday and today that have enjoyed watching the games over our 49 seasons will join us at Hetzells on this night of Celebration. The players will be asked to be at the field one and a half hours before the game so they can meet each other again. Fans will be allowed to come into the infield to say hello and take photos with one of their favorite players of years gone bye.
WHAT HAPPENED TO MODIFIED SOFTBALL?
What brought this game on? Well, first of all as everyone knows modified softball is a thing of the past here in Philadelphia. Maybe they are still playing it in others towns, but it is almost gone here in the City. Just a few weeks ago we got a e-mail from a guy named Dan Wood. He told us that he has played fast pitch and modified softball for the past 21 years and played in two leagues last season (2003) in South Philly and South Jersey; both have notified the teams and their players that there will not be any leagues in 2004 because of the lack of teams.
THE NIGHT LEAGUE STARTED
It all started back in 1956. Back then, there were Saturday leagues here in Fishtown and with so many teams interested in playing modified softball, Bob Casey who was working out of Newt's (now the Shissler Rec. at Blair & Berks Street) saw the need for a night league. The league was started and teams came from all over Fishtown and outside of Fishtown to get into the league. As the years went by this was the league to win. This was the big one. To win the league was the epitome of Fishtown sports. It still stands as one of the top goals to reach today. It is just unbelievable that still as of today, no new team has ever won the league championship in their first season. Over the years some of the best players to ever play this game came to Fishtown to be a part of this great league. Just two years ago one of the all time great teams to ever play modified softball, Regan's Bar, came into the league. Although they came within one out of winning the championship they could not do it. Even today with just six teams left, the pride of being a part of the league still remains a lot to these teams. Let us all remember when the Saturday league ended, it was very sad because there were no more days out for many guys that played on Saturdays; then went back to the bar for a few cold ones. When the last game is played in this league, It is done for ever, it is not coming back. Maybe this year or next year will be our turn, no more night softball to watch.
But we are dedicated to keep this league going until we have exhausted every way possible of getting players and teams to continue playing.
THE REUNION GAME COMMITTEE MEETINGS
The first meeting with the committee was on Monday January 5, 2004... A note to the Philadelphia Daily News seeking players from the 1970 to the 1990's to invite them to the game was sent. Also the cost of the game was voted to be $25.00 a person. The players are asked to send their money in by April 30, 2004. That is all you have to do!. Someone on the committee will be calling the players That we do have phone numbers for and giving them all of the info about the game date. The next meeting was on March 1, 2004. The committee would met with the honorary captains to Draft the teams and try to wrap up things to make this game one outstanding night. The last meeting to get the nights program and final details ironed out will be on May 3, 2004
THEN THE WORK BEGAN
We set around a table on Monday night May 3, 2004 at Anthony's Cafe for the last and final re-union meeting as a committee. This meeting was to go over every loose end and tie them up, not to forget anything to be done for Friday night June 25, 2004.
This all started before Christmas last year (2003) when I called friends that I have known for many years to ask them for their help putting together an idea I had. This was to do something that has never been done here in Fishtown and it would bring back players from the past from as far back as the 1970's. But how would we find them?
The first meeting with the committee was held right after the holidays on Monday January 5, 2004. this was the night it would all begin and boy there is so much to do If your going to do something right. Now that the meetings have ended the real work is about to start.
It is easy to sit at a table and write things down on paper. But from this point on the work begins. Like ordering The Tee shirts, planing the party after the game, getting Hetzells screened off some parts so that the players have a little room to move around and swing bats safely. And many little things like balls, bats, even a catcher mask, D.J. table and a ton of other things like to start with ask the City to bring five or six bleaches so that people have a seat to watch the game And by the way the fans will have to use the gates on this night because the polls will be screened off at first and third base. The reason is that with about 30 players and coaches on each side there is going to be very little room to move around. Come out early and get yourself great spot. Remember everything gets started at 5:30pm the game will be nine innings and we hope to get it started somewhere around 7pm.
If everything goes right from here June 25, 2004 will really be a great night to always remember.
You come out and enjoy this one time re-union game. We hope it will bring back all of your memories of the past 49 seasons as we say "THANK YOU FISHTOWN".......
THE DRAFT BY HONORARY CAPTAINS MARCH 1, 2004 WAS HELD
On March 1, 2004 The honorary captains for this game that will be Tommy Ewald a great player from the 70's and 80's and played on a number of championship teams. Tommy will be the honorary captain for the blue team. He is lucky to even be alive as back on November 16, 2002 he had a complate liver transplant operation that took more then 17 hours ~ Jimmy Strunk and outstanding pitcher back in the same era as Ewald he also is a member of the leagues Hall of Fame. He will be the honorary captain of the red team. Jim also had a by-pass operation to put a de-fibulater into his heart March of 2003. These two men will pick the players by a Draft for the red and blue teams of stars. The Rosters are posted just below.
REMEMBERING THE COMMISSIONERS
Robert Casey ~ David Neary ~ Tommy Thomson
David Rotan Sr. ~ Jack Moore ~ Bill Wilcox
We have got to thank each one of these men that gave everything they had in building one of the most respected softball leagues in Philadelphia. The work involved to run a league is enormous no one can realize the time and work it takes, along with the tremendous responsibly you have to every team and every player.
It is really a thankless job the man has to be very dedicated to his league.
THANK YOU
to each one of you for the tremendous job you gave with your heart to this league.......
After The Game Gala Was Hoisted By
SHANNON'S RESTAURANT & BAR
FRANKFORD AVE. AT LEHIGH
PHILADELPHIA PA. 19125
THE MENU
Spicy Chicken Wings
Hot Roast Beef
Italian Sweet Sausage with Onions & Peppers
Garlic Roast Potatos
String Beans & Corn
Fresh Green Salad
Rolls & Butter
A Thank You Fishtown Cake
DRINKS
Pitcher Beer & Soda
From what ever time the games ends 3 Hours
D.J. DAVE ROTAN JR.
Will donate his time and equipment to the night. After the opening ceremony he along with Greg Fox that will assist David with stats names and memories of the past. Sol Herskovic will be the score keerer for the game. David will supply the music and entertain the fans. In the name of his Dad that gave the league almost 35 years of his life as the commissioner. .
PHILADELPHIA NEWS AGENCIES INVITED
T.V. Stations sports ~ Philadelphia News Papers along with the Star. Will be invited to cover the event. City guest will also be invited to attend
"A SPONSOR FOR TEE SHIRTS HAS BEEN FOUND"
Former Anthony's outfielder Bobby Hepworth has asked to sponsor the game t shirts. Bob that will play in the re-union game just wanted to do this to remember his years in the league. He was a big part of the six championships that Anthony's Cafe played in. He played his last game at Hetzell's for Anthony's in 1995.
Thank You Bobby for your generous donation.
FISHTOWN ARTIST DESIGNS THE TEE SHIRTS
Well known Fishtown artist Jeff Kilpatrick has done the art work for the front of the game tee shirts. We feel very fortunate to have a guy like Jeff to do this special kind of art for this special game.
ALSO LET US ALWAYS REMEMBER THOSE THAT HAVE PASSED FOR THEIR PART WITH THIS LEAGUE OVER THE YEARS
David Rotan Sr.
Tom "Porky" Gallagher
Jimo Fox
David Neary
Richy Farley
Danny Shissler Sr.
Bill Gassman Sr.
Chris Smith
"Moe" Andrews
Dennis Seaman
If there are any names missing we would deeply appreciate your getting them to us. Please use our e mail above and we will take care of it right away. Thank You
HETZELL LEAGUE FAVORITE MEMORIES
LAST CHANCE TO SEND US YOUR FAVORITE MEMORIES OR YOUR THANKS:
2003 was the 48th, season of softball played in Fishtown. Over its first 48 seasons we estimate that more then 12,000 games have been played just at Hetzells and more then 20,000 players have played in the league that changed it's name to honor long time Commissioner David Rotan Sr. When he passed. We know there have been so many memories like the best game you have ever seen or played in, How about a play that saved a championship game? The best hitting or fielding player or team of all time in league history? Yes there have been many. If you would like to pass along your favorite memorie of a game or a team you played on. Or as a fan a game you seen that you'll never forget or even a person you think you would like to thank.
DROP US A E-MAIL
You don't have to remember the date just do the best you can.
There were so many exciting and memorable things that has happeded over all of these first 48 years. It would be a lot of fun for each of us to share our memories of this wonderful league.
READ REPLIES BELOW
THE MEMORIES
"I WILL NEVER FORGET"
By Werner Brand:
Good Topic, Jack.
I have a classic moment I am sure you will appreciate and will probably be surprised I remember it. As with everything I do, I like to be a historian, so to speak.
It was my first year in the league, 1993. As you know, I was very honored to be playing on the All-Star team in my first year. During one of the All-Star games of that year played at Hetzell's, I remember Donald Dougherty hitting 2 home runs in his last All-Star appearance.
Being new to the league, I did not know who Donald was at the time, but I remember everyone cheering him on on both teams as he touched home plate after the second home run. It was that kind of respect among rivals that sold me on this being the kind of league I wanted to be a part of. For all there to have that kind of respect for a player showed me the competitiveness in the league and the true acknowledgement of a great ballplayer.
Other great moments I remember since 1993 would be a barehanded diving catch by Tom Dixon, then of Anthony's, to rob a game winning single from, I believe it was a Day's Pub player in a playoff game. As a matter of fact, I believe this play was in the championship one year... could have been 1994 or 95. As far as on a personal level, The 2000 Crazy Leprechaun team is one I will never forget.
We lost our first game to Anthony's 2 by the score of 2-1. From there on out, we won 21 straight games before losing in the playoffs to, once again Anthony's 2. Obviously, we could not be considered one of the great teams of all time because we did not win the championship but it was quite a ride winning 21 in a row.......
By Joe Wyatt
It was a "big game Jackie" (Saturday league) Championship we beat Palmer 2-1 (Fifthteenth Round). Jack they were all jacked up "after all" a shoe in for Palmer at that time (dominant team). Bobby M'c Doc loaded with talent.
It was Doc (there one run) hit a triple (sacrifice fly) and he scored. That was it "Herky was pissed" batter after batter (gone with the swing) "Dave Rotand" was home plate ump (he said to me six inning) with that special smile he had Jackie (Joey I think you got there number).:) And Jackie "I truly beleive" Dave was happy the big mouths "walked off the field with there heads in there ass's.:)
All in all "it was a great game" and Jack must say "every Friday night I went out" (got my load on) not that Friday "and it paid off" I was on and focused that game (and they knew it) from the first pitch on " ask Doc (he will say it like it is) I do admire Doc for that "and of course his bat" can't leave that out.
Also ask "Billy Gasman" like I said before "that smirk we had" went on inning after inning.:) The "biggest smile or smirk" whatever you want to call it was (our coach) Jimmy Diamond "wow" he deserved it (after all) he put it all together. Your Friend. Joe.
By Donald Dougherty
Ahhhhhh Jack, so many to remember. I remember when I first started in the leauge, back in the early 60's. I was workin at Spangles with you when we got a team together and played a game over at Hetzells. That was the start of it all.
We developed a very good team. As time went by others wanted to join us; we were open to all at the time.
We started out as the Palmer Club, played there for a few years then we moved over to Kelly's Happy Tap; thats when all the pieces of the puzzle were put together. We had a team the could hardly be beat, Jimo Fox, Sonny Mole, Charlie Tobin, Wayne Demo, myself, Bill Samuels, Walt Hicks, Danny Nizer and so many more I can't really think of who they were. We jelled like a modern machine; everyone knew what they had to do to make us better and better we did get. Everyone in the leauge tried to outmuscle us, but to no avail. Of course, we did lose here and there. It was a hard win for the other team because we would never quit.
Kelly's was the talk of the town back then. Teams from others leagues were calling us the big yellow machine because at that time the Reds were called the Big Red Machine and they were comparing us to them. We had power, running, pitching, the whole nine yards. As far back as I can remember Jack, we won the league 10 times over our reign.
As time went by some players retired and others wanted to play for us. We were pleased that they would. After so many years of good times, the team finally moved on. Players went there own ways. Some stayed and others left.
I remember playing for the Third Base Bar B team. That was an experience I will never forget. Seems that no one liked us, but did we care? I don't think so. We didn't win many games but fought hard always. We didn't have the talent like we had with Kelly's, but we made do.
Playing in the Hetzell leauge was one of the greatest times in my life besides playing for you and Fishtown whom I owe all my thanks to. Winning or losing really didn't bother me that much even though it would have been nice to win every game. But that was impossible because of the talent of other teams in the leauge.
The Five and One Club was our toughest competior. They had the talent along with us, but in the end we prvailed.
I enjoyed playing with guys from all over the city. This was the place to play, teams yelling and crying to play in the Hetzell's League. The leauge was open to all of those who could make it. Some tried but others died.
As time went by I started to feel as if I was the grandfather of the leauge. Here I am playing with the sons of players I played with and boy that felt funny. But I enjoyed it. Hittin home runs really didnt matter to me as much as it was to others who came over to see the games. They were always asking the question, how many you gonna hit tonight. My reply was I never try to hit home runs for I take them as they come and boy did they come. Ha Ha. It was like hit one for me, and how far you gonna hit it.
If we won after I hit one it was a good feeling. But if we lost it didnt mean anything to me cuz we lost. I never took a game home with me and I told others just play and have fun and don't worry so much about winning or losing. In the end you will feel much better for the game.
Jack, I played over 3 decades in the Hetzell League and to tell you the truth every year was a mermory for me. I really just can't pinpoint all the things that happened to me and others thru the years because there were so many.
I wish I could have filmed the entire time I played to show others of what the leauge was all about, freindship and joy. If you need anything else please let me know,
Double D.
By DAVID J ROTAN JR.
I REMEMBER LIKE IT WAS YESTERDAY. I WAS PLAYING FOR THE STARBARD SIDE ONE YEAR, AND AT THE TIME I PLAYED FIRST BASE.
WELL ONE GAME OUR PICTHER DIDN'T SHOW AND MY TEAM ASKED WHO CAN PITCH? AFTER A MINUTE THEY ALL LOOKED A ME AND SAID YOU CAN . SO I DID.
WHEN I GOT TO THE PITCHERS MOUND I LOOKED BEHIND THE CATCHER TO SEE A UMPIRE WITH A TURTLE LIKE MASK AND A SMILE ON HIS FACE. THIS UMPIRE WAS MY DAD, DAVE ROTAN.
TO THIS DAY I NEVER FORGET THE RAZZING I TOOK WHEN WE GOT HOME. TO SAY THE LEAST MY DAD LOVED THIS LEAUGE AND SO DO I.
AGAIN THANK YOU FOR NAMING IT AFTER HIM........
By Joey Zysk, Anthony's Cafe
I'm not sure how many will remember this but i believe it was 1987,,,,game 2 of the championship,,,,we were already up 1 game to none in a best of 3 against Murph's Bar ( Bobby Mcghee,,,Tommy slevenski,,,Eddie Emberger ect.),,,,it was bottom of the 7th,,,game tied 3-3,,,,needing just 1 more win for our 1st championship,,,,we had men on 1st and 2nd,,nobody out,,,,Mike Prem hit a line drive that everyone thought was going over the silver monster in leftfield,,,well while some of us were already on the field celebrating,,,the ball hit the top of the fence,,,fell straight down to Jimmy Slevenski whose relay went over the shortstop's head but right to his brother Tommy who nailed our lead runner at the plate,,,,after int. walking the next batter Murph's turned a doubleplay to get out of the jam,,,,top of the 8th Tommy Slev. hits a 2-run HR to win the game,,,,,,of course the following nite we lost game 3,,, 2-1 ...........and though we had to wait 2 more years to win our 1st Championship that series is still my best memory of softball at Hetzel' s,,,,ask any player or fan that remembers it,,,,no better softball was ever played !!!
My memories of the Hetzell Leagus is the first team I played on it was named Grays Garage. The first game we played was I think the old Kelly's Happy Tap, they were the best in the league. I am sure there are other guys with fond memories that will be at the reunion game, I hope to attend the game and the following party. Please feel free to pas on my e-mail to anyone one of the old timers that would like to contact me.
Thank You John Lawrence
My e-mail
jfpl1366@hotmail.com
TO OUR LEAGUE SPONSORS
THIS ONE IS FOR YOU
We have had many sponsors over our 49 seasons. We know that this league would never have survived without all of you! Thank You for your great support in making this league possible.
We would also like to thank Joey Zysk, Pat Hart Sr. & Greg Fox for all of their work in putting together this list. If someone has been over looked please let us know by sending the name of the sponsor to us.
ROTAN SOFTBALL E-MAIL
Our 50th Anniversary
1956 ~ 2005
Will We Reach It?
THANKS FOR PITCHING IN
To the "Fishtown Softball Committee" THANK YOU for your help in putting together this night. Don Dougherty, Davey Lane, Jimmy Quinn, Bill Wilcox, David Rotan Jr............Jack Moore
It Was Spring
And It Was April 1956
And Everyone Was Thinking SOFTBALL
"THANK YOU FISHTOWN"
RE-UNION GAME ROSTERS FOR JUNE 25, 2004
BAT AROUND
Players continue to bat the entire game.
SEE BELOW THE PROPOSED BATTING ORDER FOR BOTH TEAMS
BLUE ~TEAM
Coach Jimmy Diamond HARDWAY - 1994
Captain ~ Jimmy Strunk - Anthony's Cafe - 1987
RE-UNION GAME ~~ RED TEAM ROSTER
Coach ~ David Dougherty (will also play) - 1998 - ANTHONY'S CAFE
Captain ~ Tommy Ewald ~ 1996 - FISHTOWN
Good Topic, Jack.
I have a classic moment I am sure you will appreciate and will probably be surprised I remember it. As with everything I do, I like to be a historian, so to speak.
It was my first year in the league, 1993. As you know, I was very honored to be playing on the All-Star team in my first year. During one of the All-Star games of that year played at Hetzell's, I remember Donald Dougherty hitting 2 home runs in his last All-Star appearance.
Being new to the league, I did not know who Donald was at the time, but I remember everyone cheering him on on both teams as he touched home plate after the second home run. It was that kind of respect among rivals that sold me on this being the kind of league I wanted to be a part of. For all there to have that kind of respect for a player showed me the competitiveness in the league and the true acknowledgement of a great ballplayer.
Other great moments I remember since 1993 would be a barehanded diving catch by Tom Dixon, then of Anthony's, to rob a game winning single from, I believe it was a Day's Pub player in a playoff game. As a matter of fact, I believe this play was in the championship one year... could have been 1994 or 95. As far as on a personal level, The 2000 Crazy Leprechaun team is one I will never forget.
We lost our first game to Anthony's 2 by the score of 2-1. From there on out, we won 21 straight games before losing in the playoffs to, once again Anthony's 2. Obviously, we could not be considered one of the great teams of all time because we did not win the championship but it was quite a ride winning 21 in a row.......
By Joe Wyatt
It was a "big game Jackie" (Saturday league) Championship we beat Palmer 2-1 (Fifthteenth Round). Jack they were all jacked up "after all" a shoe in for Palmer at that time (dominant team). Bobby M'c Doc loaded with talent.
It was Doc (there one run) hit a triple (sacrifice fly) and he scored. That was it "Herky was pissed" batter after batter (gone with the swing) "Dave Rotand" was home plate ump (he said to me six inning) with that special smile he had Jackie (Joey I think you got there number).:) And Jackie "I truly beleive" Dave was happy the big mouths "walked off the field with there heads in there ass's.:)
All in all "it was a great game" and Jack must say "every Friday night I went out" (got my load on) not that Friday "and it paid off" I was on and focused that game (and they knew it) from the first pitch on " ask Doc (he will say it like it is) I do admire Doc for that "and of course his bat" can't leave that out.
Also ask "Billy Gasman" like I said before "that smirk we had" went on inning after inning.:) The "biggest smile or smirk" whatever you want to call it was (our coach) Jimmy Diamond "wow" he deserved it (after all) he put it all together. Your Friend. Joe.
By Donald Dougherty
Ahhhhhh Jack, so many to remember. I remember when I first started in the leauge, back in the early 60's. I was workin at Spangles with you when we got a team together and played a game over at Hetzells. That was the start of it all.
We developed a very good team. As time went by others wanted to join us; we were open to all at the time.
We started out as the Palmer Club, played there for a few years then we moved over to Kelly's Happy Tap; thats when all the pieces of the puzzle were put together. We had a team the could hardly be beat, Jimo Fox, Sonny Mole, Charlie Tobin, Wayne Demo, myself, Bill Samuels, Walt Hicks, Danny Nizer and so many more I can't really think of who they were. We jelled like a modern machine; everyone knew what they had to do to make us better and better we did get. Everyone in the leauge tried to outmuscle us, but to no avail. Of course, we did lose here and there. It was a hard win for the other team because we would never quit.
Kelly's was the talk of the town back then. Teams from others leagues were calling us the big yellow machine because at that time the Reds were called the Big Red Machine and they were comparing us to them. We had power, running, pitching, the whole nine yards. As far back as I can remember Jack, we won the league 10 times over our reign.
As time went by some players retired and others wanted to play for us. We were pleased that they would. After so many years of good times, the team finally moved on. Players went there own ways. Some stayed and others left.
I remember playing for the Third Base Bar B team. That was an experience I will never forget. Seems that no one liked us, but did we care? I don't think so. We didn't win many games but fought hard always. We didn't have the talent like we had with Kelly's, but we made do.
Playing in the Hetzell leauge was one of the greatest times in my life besides playing for you and Fishtown whom I owe all my thanks to. Winning or losing really didn't bother me that much even though it would have been nice to win every game. But that was impossible because of the talent of other teams in the leauge.
The Five and One Club was our toughest competior. They had the talent along with us, but in the end we prvailed.
I enjoyed playing with guys from all over the city. This was the place to play, teams yelling and crying to play in the Hetzell's League. The leauge was open to all of those who could make it. Some tried but others died.
As time went by I started to feel as if I was the grandfather of the leauge. Here I am playing with the sons of players I played with and boy that felt funny. But I enjoyed it. Hittin home runs really didnt matter to me as much as it was to others who came over to see the games. They were always asking the question, how many you gonna hit tonight. My reply was I never try to hit home runs for I take them as they come and boy did they come. Ha Ha. It was like hit one for me, and how far you gonna hit it.
If we won after I hit one it was a good feeling. But if we lost it didnt mean anything to me cuz we lost. I never took a game home with me and I told others just play and have fun and don't worry so much about winning or losing. In the end you will feel much better for the game.
Jack, I played over 3 decades in the Hetzell League and to tell you the truth every year was a mermory for me. I really just can't pinpoint all the things that happened to me and others thru the years because there were so many.
I wish I could have filmed the entire time I played to show others of what the leauge was all about, freindship and joy. If you need anything else please let me know,
Double D.
By DAVID J ROTAN JR.
I REMEMBER LIKE IT WAS YESTERDAY. I WAS PLAYING FOR THE STARBARD SIDE ONE YEAR, AND AT THE TIME I PLAYED FIRST BASE.
WELL ONE GAME OUR PICTHER DIDN'T SHOW AND MY TEAM ASKED WHO CAN PITCH? AFTER A MINUTE THEY ALL LOOKED A ME AND SAID YOU CAN . SO I DID.
WHEN I GOT TO THE PITCHERS MOUND I LOOKED BEHIND THE CATCHER TO SEE A UMPIRE WITH A TURTLE LIKE MASK AND A SMILE ON HIS FACE. THIS UMPIRE WAS MY DAD, DAVE ROTAN.
TO THIS DAY I NEVER FORGET THE RAZZING I TOOK WHEN WE GOT HOME. TO SAY THE LEAST MY DAD LOVED THIS LEAUGE AND SO DO I.
AGAIN THANK YOU FOR NAMING IT AFTER HIM........
By Joey Zysk, Anthony's Cafe
I'm not sure how many will remember this but i believe it was 1987,,,,game 2 of the championship,,,,we were already up 1 game to none in a best of 3 against Murph's Bar ( Bobby Mcghee,,,Tommy slevenski,,,Eddie Emberger ect.),,,,it was bottom of the 7th,,,game tied 3-3,,,,needing just 1 more win for our 1st championship,,,,we had men on 1st and 2nd,,nobody out,,,,Mike Prem hit a line drive that everyone thought was going over the silver monster in leftfield,,,well while some of us were already on the field celebrating,,,the ball hit the top of the fence,,,fell straight down to Jimmy Slevenski whose relay went over the shortstop's head but right to his brother Tommy who nailed our lead runner at the plate,,,,after int. walking the next batter Murph's turned a doubleplay to get out of the jam,,,,top of the 8th Tommy Slev. hits a 2-run HR to win the game,,,,,,of course the following nite we lost game 3,,, 2-1 ...........and though we had to wait 2 more years to win our 1st Championship that series is still my best memory of softball at Hetzel' s,,,,ask any player or fan that remembers it,,,,no better softball was ever played !!!
My memories of the Hetzell Leagus is the first team I played on it was named Grays Garage. The first game we played was I think the old Kelly's Happy Tap, they were the best in the league. I am sure there are other guys with fond memories that will be at the reunion game, I hope to attend the game and the following party. Please feel free to pas on my e-mail to anyone one of the old timers that would like to contact me.
Thank You John Lawrence
My e-mail
jfpl1366@hotmail.com
TO OUR LEAGUE SPONSORS
THIS ONE IS FOR YOU
We have had many sponsors over our 49 seasons. We know that this league would never have survived without all of you! Thank You for your great support in making this league possible.
We would also like to thank Joey Zysk, Pat Hart Sr. & Greg Fox for all of their work in putting together this list. If someone has been over looked please let us know by sending the name of the sponsor to us.
Our 50th Anniversary
1956 ~ 2005
Will We Reach It?
THANKS FOR PITCHING IN
To the "Fishtown Softball Committee" THANK YOU for your help in putting together this night. Don Dougherty, Davey Lane, Jimmy Quinn, Bill Wilcox, David Rotan Jr............Jack Moore
It Was Spring
And It Was April 1956
And Everyone Was Thinking SOFTBALL
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"THANK YOU FISHTOWN"
RE-UNION GAME ROSTERS FOR JUNE 25, 2004
BAT AROUND
Players continue to bat the entire game.
SEE BELOW THE PROPOSED BATTING ORDER FOR BOTH TEAMS
BLUE ~TEAM
Coach Jimmy Diamond HARDWAY - 1994
Captain ~ Jimmy Strunk - Anthony's Cafe - 1987
Infielder's
4 - Don Dougherty - 1996 - J.& T. ROOFING ~ HALL OF FAME
6 - Tom Dunbar - 1993 - J.& T. ROOFING
11 - Ed Emberger - 1995 - J.& T. ROOFING
16 - Jim Quinn - 1987 -B & B
0 - Charles Tobin - 1989 - KELLY'S HAPPY TAP
5 - Tom Slevenski - 1998 - ANTHONY'S CAFE ~ HALL OF FAME
9 - Timmy Bryan - 1995 - PICAYUNE
8 - Gene Bryan - 2000 - STARBOARD SIDE
21 - Bob Smith - 1987 - BRADLEYS
Outfielder's
1 - Rich Dougherty - 1998 - DOC'S ~ HALL OF FAME
3 - Jr. Barez - 1987 - BRADLEYS ~ HALL OF FAME
7 - Jimmy Slevenski - 1996 - J.& T. ROOFING
13 - Richy Kiker - 1996 - GREEN TREE
12 - Pete Hiltwhine - 1987 - B & B
15 - Pat Cain Sr. - 1999 - PICAYUNE
14 - Carl Erb - 1996 - J & T ROOFING -
Pitchers
18 - George Madden - 1978 - PALMER CLUB
2 - Bob Mc Gee - 1993 - J.& T. ROOFING ~ HALL OF FAME
17 - Jay Gomberg - 1991 - 89ER'S
19 - Johnny Uke - 1979 - DAMM YANKEES
Catchers
10 - Ed Hepworth - 1996 - FISHTOWN
20 - Scott Plavner - 1991 - 89ER'S
4 - Don Dougherty - 1996 - J.& T. ROOFING ~ HALL OF FAME
6 - Tom Dunbar - 1993 - J.& T. ROOFING
11 - Ed Emberger - 1995 - J.& T. ROOFING
16 - Jim Quinn - 1987 -B & B
0 - Charles Tobin - 1989 - KELLY'S HAPPY TAP
5 - Tom Slevenski - 1998 - ANTHONY'S CAFE ~ HALL OF FAME
9 - Timmy Bryan - 1995 - PICAYUNE
8 - Gene Bryan - 2000 - STARBOARD SIDE
21 - Bob Smith - 1987 - BRADLEYS
Outfielder's
1 - Rich Dougherty - 1998 - DOC'S ~ HALL OF FAME
3 - Jr. Barez - 1987 - BRADLEYS ~ HALL OF FAME
7 - Jimmy Slevenski - 1996 - J.& T. ROOFING
13 - Richy Kiker - 1996 - GREEN TREE
12 - Pete Hiltwhine - 1987 - B & B
15 - Pat Cain Sr. - 1999 - PICAYUNE
14 - Carl Erb - 1996 - J & T ROOFING -
Pitchers
18 - George Madden - 1978 - PALMER CLUB
2 - Bob Mc Gee - 1993 - J.& T. ROOFING ~ HALL OF FAME
17 - Jay Gomberg - 1991 - 89ER'S
19 - Johnny Uke - 1979 - DAMM YANKEES
Catchers
10 - Ed Hepworth - 1996 - FISHTOWN
20 - Scott Plavner - 1991 - 89ER'S
RE-UNION GAME ~~ RED TEAM ROSTERCoach ~ David Dougherty (will also play) - 1998 - ANTHONY'S CAFE
Captain ~ Tommy Ewald ~ 1996 - FISHTOWN
Infielder's 4 - Werner Brand - 2003 - - ANTHONY'S CAFE #2 9 - Bill Gassman Jr. - 1998 - CRAZY LEPS 2 - Pat Hart Sr. - 2002 - ANTHONY'S CAFE 13 - Dave Lane - 1987 - BRADLEYS 15 - Dave Dougherty - 1998 - ANTHONY'S CAFE 10 - Patrick Conway - 1987 - BRADLEYS 11 - Jerrald Lee - 1987 - BRADLEYS 14 - Tom Ewald - 1996 - FISHTOWN 20 - Mike Foley -1998 -HARDWAY 21 - Mike Siemien - - ANTHONY'S CAFE Outfielder's 3 - Mike Prem - 1992 - ANTHONY'S CAFE 5 - Mark Colville - 1994 - J.& T. ROOFING 6 - Bob De Night - 2001 - ANTHONY'S CAFE 9 - Terry Cantor - 1995 - DOC'S 1 - Bob Hepworth - 1995 - ANTHONY'S CAFE 12 - Gerry Winn - 1998 - ANTHONY'S CAFE 18 - Arnold Meier - 1982 - PRELIMINARY Pitchers 19 - John (Reb) Bland - 1990 - ANTHONY'S CAFE 17 - Joey Zysk - 2003 - ANTHONY'S CAFE 16 - Jim Aikens - 2002 - CRABBIES BAR Catchers 8 - Bob Herky - 1995 - BOB'S HAPPY HOUR ~ HALL OF FAME 7 - Bill Wilcox - - ANTHONY'S CAFE#2 -
MY VOTE FOR THE GREATEST TEAM OF ALL TIME This Ballot By ~ Bobby Davis COMMENTS: I can only really speak of the players over the past 12 years that I played with or against. I'll give you that, howvever I'm sure I would be missing many exceptional players from the past. So I'm not asking anyone to agree with me this is just what i've seen. 1. Best Hitter - John Wood - Five tool player, most likey the best all- around player over the past 12 years. 2.Best Pitcher - Tough call between Rich Nottis, Mike Martin and Marc Alicea - Nottis may very well have have the best win percentage of the three, however put a defense behind Martin and he can beat anyone. Marc Alicea Won 3 championships with A2 as almost won a championship with a mediocre but young Picayune team. 3.Best Infielder -Dan Schissler - As much as it hurts me to say it (Since we played the same position) plus made himself versatile since he plays a pretty good shortstop. 4.Best Outfielder - No questions asked John Wood,honestly I don't care what era you would be discussing. Nobody can cover the ground that he does. 5. Best Catcher - John Hoesle from the Leps, I understand everything that Billy Wilcox has done for this league on and off the field, but Hoesle would bat over .500 knock in runs, Not as fast as John Wood but pretty close. Also picked off an unbelievable amount of runners from all bases. 6. Best arm - Depends how you look at it Outfield Dave Spencer had a strong accurate arm, Gil Newton Jr. has a cannon, tough to say since different positions require different types of arms. 7. Fastest Runner - John Wood, No comparisons 8.The Best Player - I know the consensus would say Donald Doughrerty, however I never had the oppurtunity or pleasure that I can recall to see or play against Donald (I've heard he was phenomonal) My era once again John Wood 9. Best Coach would have to be Joe Joe or Markley once again over the past 12 years . 10. Best team - I would like to say our 21-1 Leps team however due to the circumstances I can't....I guess I have to say, even though it hurts me to say it A2. This Ballot By ~ Bill Mac BEST HITTER - DONALD DOUGHERTY BEST PITCHER - JOHN REBEL BEST INFIELDER - DANNY SHISSLER BEST OUTFIELDER - JOHN WOOD BEST CATCHER - BILLY WILCOX BEST ARM - MIKE PREM F. RUNNER - JOHN WOOD BEST PLAYER - DONALD DOUGHERTY COACH - JIMMY DIAMOND BEST TEAM - ANTHONY'S CAFE - 1990'S COMMENTS: ANTHONY;S CAFE HAD A FEW GOOD TEAMS IN THE 90'S - I AM SURE THERE ARE A FEW OTHER PEOPLE THAT ARE WORTH CONSIDERING FOR INFIELD/OUTFIELD - LIKE BILL GASSMAN, TOM DIXON, PAT HART FOR INFIELD THEN YOU HAVE A FEW OTHER FOR OUTFIELD BUT IN MY MIND WOODY AND SHISSLER BOTH DESERVE THESE CHOICES This Ballot By ~ Jack Moore 1. THE BEST HITTER ____Donald Dougherty___________ 2. THE BEST PITCHER_____Bob Mc Gee______________ 3. THE BEST INFIELDER______Danny Shissler Jr._______ 4. THE BEST OUTFIELDER ___Jr. Barez_________________ 5. THE BEST CATCHER_____John Hoesle______________ 6. THE BEST ARM_______John Wood__________________ 7. THE FASTEST RUNNER______Rich Dougherty_________ 8. THE BEST PLAYER_____Donald Dougherty_________ 9. THE BEST COACH_____Jim Diamond___________________ 10. THE BEST TEAM OF ALL TIME___Kelly’s Happy Tap________ COMMENTS: 1. Don Dougherty was flat out hands down the best of the best. He was so good that is still stands above all other players even today. 2.Bob Mc Gee won three no hitters and also pitched two or three one hitters. He pitched just about every team he played with to the championship. 3. Over the years there have been so many really good infielders. But Danny is the best I have ever seen. 4.When you talk about picking just one outfielded its just to hard to do with the likes of a Donald Dougherty or a John Wood and so many others that were outstanding out there. But Jr. Barez was all over the field and would make plays you had to be there to see. As there is no way to explain this exceptional player 5. Well there was Bob Herky that picked off some 30 players in his last season I don't remember any catcher doing that. Eddie Hepworth was one of the best for many years. And there is Billy Wilcox he can throw with the best of them and is one of the best leaders on any team that you could ever have. But John Hoesle was the total catcher he had one of the quickest releases and an arm like a cannon. One of the fastest runners i have ever seen for a catcher in this league. And he could also hit. 6. This one was very hard to call Donald Dougherty and Jr, Barez had some of the best arms you could ever ask for in an outfield. But in this case I have to give the edge to John he has always been very accurate from any part of the field with a powerful arm to back him up. 7. Speed you have to remember Bobby Seeds and yes John Wood. Richie Dougherty was like a deer as fast as lightning I really don't think that there has ever been a player in this league as fast as Richie in his prime. I know I have never seen one! 8. Without any doubt at all it was Donald Dougherty he stands alone. He was not only the best that ever played here in Fishtown but something that very few know teams from all over the City would come to Hetzells to watch him play then ask Donald at the end of every season to play with them the next year. But he always stayed and played right here where he grew up. 9. There have been many very good coaches over our many years "Strings", Lippy Groves, David Doughery, Bobby Markley, Joey Zysk, Joe Regan. But this guy was the best Jimmy never played around you better come to play or else. He was very lowed keyed and most of the time a quiet man. But don't up set him with not hustling to a base. Or you would know who was the coaching this team. His record stands alone he has won more championships then any other coach in this leagues history (eight or nine). 10. This was a team that no team could beat no matter how many good players you had or could get for the team for the next season. As Jr. Barze said we only won one time because no one could best them. Over a ten year period this team had it all pitching home run hitters and the rest of the team just a great bunch of guys that could really hit and hit and hit. We have asked so many people about the number of championships that they won. Some say "they won so many it could be as many as ten" We will go with the most realistic number of eight that we know they won. There has never again been a team as good as Kelly's. This Ballot By Bill Timmey 1. THE BEST HITTER ______________Woody__________________ 2. THE BEST PITCHER_____Mikey Martin___________________________ 3. THE BEST INFIELDER______Danny shissler.. no one else _________ 4. THE BEST OUTFIELDER ________John Wood without a doubt no one close _________ 5. THE BEST CATCHER______Wilcox on leadership alone________ 6. THE BEST ARM____________No Vote_________________________ 7. THE FASTEST RUNNER___________John Wood another no doubt________ 8. THE BEST PLAYER____________John Wood ___________ 9. THE BEST COACH________No Vote_______ 10. THE BEST TEAM OF ALL TIME____________Anthonys (jojo's team/A2____ This Ballot By R.D. HITTER - DONALD DOUGHERTY PICTHER - BOB MCGEE INFIELDER - DAN SHISSLER OUTFIELD - JOHN WOOD CATCHER - BILL WILCOX ARM - MIKE PREM F. RUNNER - RICH DOUGHERTY PLAYER - D. DOUGHERTY COACH - JIM DIAMOND TEAM - A-2 (TEAM OF THE 90'S) COMMENTS: There have been alot of goiod pitchers over the years but McGee in his prime was no doubt the best. Another NO DOUBTER is Shissler at 3rd. - I have seen alot of players come and go in this league but never has someone played defense like Danny - no brainer! Again - there are alot of people that you could argue for this position but Woddy gets my vote but to be honest R.Dougherty comes a real close second for his pure out hustle game after game, the guy would run thru a wall to catch a ball. Wilcox really deserves this one - no one better at handling his pitchers and controlling the field. You can make a case for Spencer for Strongest arm but the guy only played in the league for about 3 years, Mike Prem not only had a great arm but every throw was on-line. I would have to say the A-2 team of the 90's had to be the best team ever. Sure they did not have the best bunch of athletes but they knew how to play the game. This Ballot By #20 Best Hitter........ Don Dougherty Best Pitcher....... Bob McGee Best Infield....... Danny Shissler Best Outfield...... John Woody Best Catcher....... Billy Wilcox Best Arm........... Fastest Runner..... Richie Dougherty Best Player........ Don Dougherty Best Coach......... Best Team.......... Anthony's Cafe COMMENTS: I feel as though Don Dougherty is tops in both hitter and player over the years - sure there have been some great hitters but have now a days they need juiced bats - Don hit bombs with wooden bats!!! Nobody better than "Mr. Ben-Gay" himslef - Bob McGee. He kept that company in business himself! The "Human-Vacuum" - Dan Shissler is without no doubt the best infielder to ever play in this league. Has made some unbelievalbe plays over the years. John "Chipper" Woody - covered the ground better than anyone and had a pretty decent arm to go along with the speed. "Mr. Leadership" - was the backbone of the A-2 teams that dominated the past few years as well as the previous teams he has played for like Days Pub. "Mr. Blue-Jeans" Rich Dougherty was even quick wearing dirty jeans to play the outfield - imagine if wore shorts how quick he's be. You can probable come up with alot of teams that were more talented that those Anthony's Cafe teams that Joey Zysk put together but talent does not win Championships - defense and playing as a team does and those teams had them both!! This Ballot By Frank M. 1. Best hitter Donald Doc, there was plenty though, Tom Slev,Werner. 2. Best Pitcher Bobby Mcgee, two others Chris Smith and Mike Martin. 3. Best Infielder Tom Dixon, Schissler close second. 4. Best Outfielder Jr. Baez, there is plenty more Wood,Denight,Prem,Markley 5.Best Catcher Bill Wilcox. 6.Best Arm Jr. Baez and two others Dave Spencer, Wood. 7. Fastest Runner Wood. 8. Best Player Donald Doc, there is plenty here as well, Wood, Markley, Prem, Tom Slev, Halloway, Gilbert,Mcgee 9. Best Coach Diamond 10. Best Team Happy Tap, most championships. This Ballot By Jimmy COMMENTS: HITTER - DONALD DOUGHERTY - I would make a case for Werner but Donald played in the days of wood bats and dead balls not double walls and juiced balls. PITCHER - BOB MCGHEE - if Chris Smith was able to play more years I am sure he would be hands down the best pitcher to play in this league. INFIELDER - DAN SHISSLER - probably the easiest selection of all positions. There were games where teams made sure not to hit it to 3rd - a lock for the Hall of Fame. OUTFIELD - RICH DOUGHERTY - the guy was a scrapper would do whatever it took to make a catch. Woody is a close second. CATCHER - BILL WILCOX - many other worth considering but Billy has played in this league a very long time and has been consistent year after year. F.RUNNER - WOODY - could make a case for R. Dougherty but Woody can outright fly. ARM - MIKE PREM - another position were there are alot of people to consider but my pick goes to Prem. Spencer only played for about 3 years and more than half of his throws ended up on Columbia Ave. BEST PLAYER - WOODY - can run, hit and catch - sure Dougherty could hit but he was no fielder like John Wood. BEST COACH - JIMMY DIAMOND - not too many coaches to pick from. BEST TEAM - ANTHONY'S CAFE - the original Anthony;s teams of the 90's that won 4/5 straight - Zysk, Fox, Dixon, Sanborn , Shissler, Hepworth, Mustaro. Sure these group wasn;t the most talented of teams but they knew what it took to win! ballot by Rich Dougherty best hitter don doc pitcher rebel infielder don doc outfield junior catcher bill wilcox arm junior fastest runner best player don doc coach herky best team happy tap 70s/80s comments power to all fields didnt use super bats/balls had some bad teams over the years but never gave up pitched the same if he wus winning or losing played 3rd/short 4 happytap strong arm junior speed great arm not afraid of fences played himself into one of the best you didnt run on him i didnt no comment lets race some good ones but it goes 2 don any era herky what about those happy tap teams guy did something right happy tap 70s/80s Ballot by J.R. Best Hitter - Don Dougherty - you could make a case for Werner Brand though. Best Pitcher - the best that I faced had to be Bob McGhee. I would say Chris Smith cause that kid could hum but unfortunatly he did not play long enough. Anthony;s Cafe would have won 10 straight if he played. Best Infielder - hands down Danny Shissler Jr. Sure some people would think Bill Gassman but Danny is without a doubt the best defensive infielder to ever play in this league. Has won games single handedly with his great glove. Best Outfileder - wow - there are so many good ones to pick from but since you have to pick just 1, my vote goes to Jr. Barez with John Wood a VERY close 2nd. Best Catcher - another close call here, my pick goes to Bill Wilcox. The guy is a team player, leader and a rock behind the plate. Some consideration has to go to Ed Hepworth though. F. Runner - not to many quick people to play in the league. Tough choice but I would have to say John Wood. The toughest player to turn a D/P on. Best Arm - there are a few people to consider here as well but Mike Prem is my choice. Had a gun and was very accurate with his throws. Best Coach - hmmm....here is one that not too many people with think of. Dave Dougherty, coached a few of the Champion Anthony's Cafe teams then took some mediocre teams to PLayoffs and Championships before that. Best Player - let's see, someone that defines leadership, fielding, hitting, sportsmanship? Doesn;t necessarily mean this player has to be a great Home Run hitter, the best player should be someone that is an all-around Great-Player!! So someone that fits all 4 categories: Don Dougherty. You could make a case for John Wood(lack of leadership), Danny Shissler (lack of hitting), Werner (lack of leadership), Tom Slevenski(leadership and I am sure there are a few other worth considering. Ballot by #8 I DID NOT HAVE THE PLEASUER OF SEEING SOME OF THE OLDER GUYS PLAY SO SOME OF MY PICKS ARE FROM WHAT I HAVE HEARD OR SEEN: HITTER - WERNER - heard alot about Don Dougherty but of what I have seen of Werner the guy could flat out hit. PITCHER - INFIELDER - it does not matter that I did not see any of the older guys play - Dan Shissler is THE BEST infielder I have seen by far and had a cannon to go along with his defense! Outfield - easily John Wood - can cover ground better than anyone in the outfield and too had a great arm ARM - PLAYER - Werner - could hit, field could count on him in clutch situations at the plate. RUNNER - Woody hands down. BEST TEAM - could make a case for the 26-1 Crazy Leps but they did not do anything in the PLayoffs lost in the 1st round - would have to say any one of the A2 teams . THE REUNION GAME COMMITTEE WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE UMPIRES 
Umpires doing this game have volunteered their services: Tommy Mc Clain Tommy Conn Jake Moore Bill Sytsma.
"THANKS FOR THE MEMORIES" There was so much nostalgia on the field June 25, 2004 That you could feel it as you walked in. All of the days and memories from long ago were back. The night started out with everyones heart in their throats as just before 6:00pm the rains came. With the sky very dark and the forecast calling for heavy rain all night. It looked for sure that this game would not even start. You could almost hear a pin drop. It just seemed like everyone at the same time was saying a little prayer to them selfs. After about a half of hour it slowed down somewhat so the program got under way. With a light rain still coming down everyone was thanked for their work in making this game and night possible. The players were introduced one at a time and the last time they played at hetzells and what team they played with. Then the microphone was turned over to Pastor Maggie of the Atonement Church. The pastor said a prayer for those at the game and those that have passed. After the prayer It seemed like those up there were looking down on us and asked the "The Man" to give us this one night so we could remember all of these first 49 seasons that made this night possible in the first place. And believe it or not the game was under way. The rain stopped and it did not rain again until around the end of 7th inning and when just a few drops fell. Everyone at the game that came back to the party said that they had a great time and would never forget this night. The score of the game was the Red team 21 ~ the Blue team 11. The game was filled with lots of fun as D.J. Dave Rotan Jr. and his color man Greg Fox kept everyone in good spirits with jokes and commentary between innings of the nine game. Despite the rain many people made their way to Hetzells. Many others that had planed to make the game was turned off by the threat of rain. We are hoping to have a box score here as soon as it is ready. SURPRISE ANNOUNCEMENT 2004 HALL OF FAME INDUCTEES NAMED 
Just before the game started league Commissioner Bill Wilcox announced the names of this years Hall Of Fame inductees as Eddie Emberger one of the premiere second baseman of his time. A slashing hitter with blinding speed. That played on a number of championship teams. He played his last game for J.& T. Roofing and retired in 1995 He will be retired into the Rotan Hall Of Fame before the first game of the 2004 final series - This August and Coach Jimmy Diamond As a coach he won more championships (8) then any other coach in the history of this league. He will become the first coach ever inducted into the Rotan Hall of Fame.BOX SCORE STATS -------1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 --- Final Red 4 1 1 1 0 4 2 3 5 ---- 21 Blue 2 0 0 0 0 3 3 0 3 --- 11 
Team AB H AVG R BB 1B 2B 3B HR Red -- 53 - 32 .604 21 1 26 3 0 3 Blue -- 46 - 23 .500 11 3 17 5 0 0 Totals 99 55 0.556 32 4 43 8 0 3
SOME DREAMS DO COME TRUE ~~ June 27, 2004 From the first night the committee set down on January 5, 2004. You knew this was going to be very special if we could find the players and If the players could still play or wanted to play? It did not take long to fined out if they were interested for every time we found a players phone number as soon as they were told about the night and asked if they wanted to play 99% said YES immediately. I really don't know what was more fun the game or the party? They were both great but the party... well you just had to be there to see with your own eyes to believe it. But I do know this! It was so good being back with the best players that have ever played softball in Fishtown or maybe anywhere? for "Just one more Game" All of the rest is now history. I hope it was all you wished and hoped it would be when you returned to Hetzells on Friday night June 25, 2004 Thank You all for making this night happen with all the love in my heart.............Jack Moore
JUNE 25, 2004 ~ PHOTOS We thank Kimmy Diamond for the great photos and also John Gallagher for his work in putting them on the site.......
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