Hank Zitnik began his 30 year 16” softball career in 1950 with Alpines in Harrison Park, helping them win that league five times. In 1957 he joined Kool Vent Awnings, one of the legendary teams of that or any other era. In 1959, he switched to Sports Bench, playing with them and other teams from1959 ro 1960. Hank also played with the Bobcats briefly in 1959 and 1960, then joined the Sobies in a long string of championships from 1967 to 1977. He also helped them win the 1967 and 1968 ASA National titles, four Andy Frain championships, five Clarendon Park championships, and were two time Illinois Champions. With a 550 batting average in the Major leagues, Hank was known as a clutch hitter who drove in runs with doubles and singles, rather that homers. On defense, he was a third baseman who also played outfield and shortstop. His excellent thrird base skills earned him a spot on the 1971 Major All-American Team. Hank Zitnik retired from softball in1980. In 2001, he and his wife, Arlene lived in Berwyn. They have two daughters and three grandchildren.
