In the highly competitive and closely knit world of championship 16” softball, players destined for greatness are quickly noticed. This was the case with Bob Warnock when he began playing with the Crusaders. His talent was noticed, and he was soon playing with Ed Zolna’s Bobcats. It was a perfect match, and Warnock played with […]
Robert “Sticks” Warnock Read More »
After graduating from St. Ignatius High School in 1947 where he was named an All-Catholic all-star in football, Jerry went on to Loras College to do more of the same. In fact, as a freshman, he caught the first pass ever thrown to him for a touchdown. That year he helped lead Loras to a
Gerald “Jerry” Witry Read More »
Ed Whitman’s softball career began in 1946 when he was an eighth grader at Blaine School in Chicago. When he entered Lake View High School (where he played baseball, basketball, and football), he began playing in money games with Allen Edmond Shoes. The older guys who could drive cars would pick him up and would
“It was a great time for a great sport.” Before there were batting averages, homerun stats, on base percentages, and national championships, there were money games. Some were big and some were small. League play was only a game during the week with a factory or an office team because the top players wanted to
George “Wags” Wagner Read More »
Charles Wilson was born on December 24, 1918 in Chicago. He attended Francis Willard Elementary School, Lane Technical High School (graduating in 1938) and Herzl Junior College. As a four-sport athlete (football, basketball, baseball and softball), he played with a variety of legendary teams in all these sports. He played football for the Pepsi Cola
Charles “Pee Wee” Wilson Read More »
Considered by many to be the second best pitcher next to the legendary Lewa Yacilla, Bob Werderitch entered the Windy City league at 17, the youngest player at that time to play major league softball. Batting clean-up for the Immel and Karis team, he led them to a second place finish his first year. He
A top umpire of the 30s and 40s, Harry called balls and strikes at Windy City Stadiums and Soldier Field. Pioneer softball players remember Harry for his ability on and off the field. His ability to umpire was heightened by his great deal of playing experience. I addition to his umpiring duties, Harry also gathered
Old Timers remember Nugie Watkins as one of the best defensive shortstops in the game during the 30s and 40s. He played for Ham’s Didits, the Gas House Gang, and the Brown Bombers. At nineteen Jim “Nugie” Watkins did not realize the place he would make in 16″ softball history when he began his playing
Jim “Nugie” Watkins Read More »
