Born in July of 1925, Dominick Paparatto attended Morse Grammar School and Crane Tech High School where he excelled in baseball and track. From 1943 to 1945 Dominick served his country during World War II as an aerial gunner in the 15th Air Force stationed in Italy. He began his softball career in 1943 with …
Burt began umpiring in the 1960s and officiated more divisions and more parks than any other umpire. He was known around softball during the 60s as atop umpire in the mens divisions, recreational divisions, and in women’s leagues and women’s tournaments. Burt always officiated the “big game” at Kelly Park during the ‘70s and ‘80s. …
The world of 16” softball received a great player and talented organizer in 1938 when Dick Cooper started playing 16” at Hayt Playground, Clark and Granville in Chicago. Dick started with Hawks at Hayt and then played with the Aces at Ace Laundry Company Field. Service in World War II from 1943- 46 put a …
Nick Camillo began his softball career in 1937 at the age of twelve. His teammates elected him player/manager of the Imps, a team organized from St Thomas and Spencer Schools. Camillo continued in this capacity until his retirement from 16” softball in 1970, a career that spanned 33 years. Throughout this span Camillo played for …
Born in 1933, Tony Reibel’s active playing career began in 1952 with Tom Green’s Baseball Inn and Kool Vent Awning at Kells Field (Chicago & Kedzie) in 1955-56 and with the Kenneth Allen team. He batted right-handed and threw right-handed. He was one of the top short centers in the game during the 60s and …
A star basketball player from DePaul University in the early 60s who was drafted by the NBA Baltimore Bullets. He was a top local softball player with the Whips in the 60s. Jim distinguished himself as one of the finest umpires on the south side during the decades of the 1970s and 1980s. He was …
He has spent over 32 years as a top pitcher, manager and organizer in the game. His first team organized was the Rocky Stars (1946-60). The Rocky Stars dominated the Second Federal League which Holan founded by winning 10 of 12 titles during the 40s and 50s. They were also one of the best in …
The Leo and Loyola U. basketball standout was a Southside umpire who excelled during the 1970s and early 1980s. Over 30 year career and very noteworthy prep basketball official as well. Chico was known for his flashy style on the bases and his ability to always be well positioned for the call. He was selected …
Lane Niemann started the Rizza Rockers in 1986. He managed and played for them until 1999. They played in leagues from North Riverside to Mt. Prospect and won league championships in North Riverside, Clyde Park, and LaGrange and tournament titles in the Suburban Life, Forest Park, Clyde Park, and Hawthorne Park tournaments. They won the …
