An intense player who had a “so what” attitude when he did something outstanding on the softball diamond, Leroy Hess wore the Aurora, IL Sealmasters uniform from 1946-1963. He managed the team from 1950-1953 and 1955-1961. As a player/manager in 1959, Hess led the Sealmasters to their first national title and a record of 74-10. Two years later, he led the Sealmasters to another title and a 74-9 won-loss record. An outstanding defensive catcher, Hess was named an ASA All-American four times: 1956 (second team), 1957, 1959 and 1961. He batted .120 in the 1956 national tourney, .211 in 1957, .222 in 1959 and .416 in the 1961 national tourney. In 1957, he also managed the Major Fast Pitch All-Stars to three wins in a four-game series with the national champion Clearwater, FL Bombers. Although he wasn’t a high average hitter, Hess was considered a tough out and struck out 10 times or more only once during the nine years he played for Aurora. Hess worked for Sealmaster 37 years. He passed away May 31, 1984 at age 62.
