Gary started his softball career playing for his father’s team in 1957. He moved to the north side of Chicago in the mid-1960s and played on several teams, mostly in Grant Park, playing outfield. Gary moved to the northern suburbs in 1973 and played outfield, first base and a little pitching 4 nights a week, different leagues, and weekend tournaments. The major transformation was when he formed his own team in 1979 named Dragons which played in the Highland Park A league. Over the next several years Dragons won titles in Deerfield, Skokie, Niles, Glenview, Oriole, Franklin Park, and 30 years later in River Trails. They also played in many tournaments winning the Terry Moran event in 2003. The best estimate of the team’s overall record is 470 – 345. One day a player called the house asking for Gary. Upon being told he was out playing ball, the caller asked when he would return. Gary’s wife, Rheva, quickly answered “September”. His love and dedication to the Dragons and the game for over 30 years is unmatched.
