Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (November 20, 2024) – Earlier this month USA Softball of Metro Detroit proudly welcomed eight outstanding members into its Hall of Fame at a special ceremony held at the Century Club in Sterling Heights, Mich. This prestigious honor recognizes their incredible contributions, achievements, and dedication to the sport of softball in the Metro Detroit area. The inductees joined an elite group of legends who have left a lasting impact on the softball community – exemplifying excellence both on and off the field. It was a memorable evening filled with celebration, recognition, and inspiration for the future of the sport.
Briggs Beautyware – Sponsor
Many legendary softball players of the past showcased their talent on the renowned Briggs-Beautyware men’s fast pitch teams, which dominated tournaments dating back to the 1930s. These teams brought home numerous championships and left an indelible mark on the sport. Among the standout players were Metro Detroit Hall of Famers such as George Caloia (’82), Sam Lombardo (’82), Ed Figelski (’83), Roy Lombardo (’83), Mack Phillips (’84), John Spring (’84), Rocco Palmeri (’86), Ed Tyson (’89), and Jerry Zarick (’90). Their achievements are a testament to the dedication and vision of their sponsor, Briggs Beautyware, whose support helped put Detroit on the fast pitch softball map nationwide. A true legacy worth celebrating!
Joel Casey – Meritorious Service
“Life is what happens when you’re busy making other plans,” and that could not be more fitting for Joel’s journey. After graduating from Eastern Michigan University in 1973 and searching for a teaching position, Joel accepted a temporary role with the City of Detroit’s Recreation Department at the Cannon Recreation Center on the east side. There, he single-handedly managed the adult men’s softball program, handling everything from office administration to field operations. In 1986, Joel took his passion for the sport to Sterling Heights, where he oversaw the women’s softball program and successfully introduced a co-ed league. Through his dedication and vision, Joel made a lasting impact on the growth of softball in cities across Metro Detroit.
Nikki (Nemitz) Cortis – Fast Pitch Player
Nikki (Nemitz) Cortis’s softball journey began at just 9 years old and quickly took off as she played for the Michigan Bulldogs during her early ASA years. At Regina High School, Nikki’s talent shone brightly, earning her the prestigious title of 2006 Michigan High School Gatorade Softball Player of the Year. Her hard work and determination carried her to the international stage in 2009, where she proudly represented the USA National Team and brought home Pan-American gold in Venezuela. At the University of Michigan, Nikki’s career reached even greater heights as she earned three NFCA All-America honors and four First-Team All-Big Ten Conference selections. Nikki’s story is a shining example of how dedication and passion can fuel a lifelong softball journey.
Al Gibson – Slow Pitch Player
Al Gibson is one of the most powerful hitters to ever play the game of slow pitch softball. His journey began in 1971, competing in organized leagues with the Tartars out of Ecorse. Over the years, he showcased his incredible talent with some of the top teams in Metro Detroit, including Bert’s Blackhorse, Uniroyal, Lonnie’s, and even a stint with the professional Detroit Caesars team. Gibson’s success continued as he contributed to championship runs with Nothdurft, C&W, Liberty Construction, National Trails, Motown Stars, and Local 600. Known for his remarkable athleticism and dedication, Al Gibson has left a lasting legacy in the sport of slow pitch softball, inspiring players, and fans alike.
Alec Lesko – Meritorious Service
Alec has devoted over 30 years to the game of softball, excelling in various roles across all levels of play. Since the mid-1990s, he has coached and trained countless players who went on to compete nationally in ASA events and play for prestigious programs in the Big Ten, MAC, Ivy League, GLIAC, and NAIA. Over the years, Alec has coached elite teams such as Finesse, Compuware, Michigan Devils, and Trenton Blast. One of the crowning achievements of his career came in 2021 when he led the Finesse organization to victory, capturing the USA Softball 16U Gold National Championship. Today, Alec continues to make an impact by training the next generation of players through camps and individual coaching, keeping his passion for the sport alive.
Craig Seaman – Slow Pitch Player
Craig’s slow pitch softball journey began after his college years in Port Huron, where he discovered a true passion for the game. His skills took off when a close friend helped him land a tryout with the Softball City team. From there, Craig competed in countless tournaments, earning multiple defensive awards for his outstanding play. He also made his mark with several top Metro Detroit teams, including Miller’s, Coors, and Snyder’s. After turning 35, Craig joined the Nothdurft team, where he became a key contributor to numerous national championships, earned multiple All-Tournament Team honors, captured a tournament MVP title, and maintained an impressive batting average of over .600. Craig was a dominant presence on the softball diamond and a true standout in the sport.
Thomas Donovan – Umpire
Thomas Donovan has been a cornerstone of the softball community, serving as an umpire for over 44 years since his career began in 1979. A true leader both on and off the field, Thomas has not only mentored countless fellow umpires, but he has also remained dedicated to improving his craft by attending clinics and national umpire schools. Throughout his career, Thomas has represented Metro Detroit at five USA Softball National Championships. His commitment to excellence has earned him recognition as a member of the prestigious National Indicator Fraternity and the Medals Program Associate. Thomas’s dedication and passion have made a lasting impact on the game of softball.
Stephanie Perrie – Umpire
At a time when female umpires in men’s Class A slow pitch softball were almost unheard of, Stephanie broke barriers and made her mark. Her exceptional game management, deep understanding of the rules, and unmatched hustle quickly earned her the respect of both players and fellow officials. Stephanie found her true passion in 1994 when she shifted her focus to women’s fast pitch softball. Among her many accomplishments, she was selected to umpire the prestigious Girls’ 18U Gold Fast Pitch Tournament in Oregon and she officiated the championship game of the Women’s Class A Slow Pitch Tournament in Alabama. With a career spanning five decades, Stephanie remains a trailblazer and a dedicated ambassador for the craft of umpiring, continuing to inspire those who follow in her footsteps.
The induction of these eight exceptional members into the USA Softball of Metro Detroit Hall of Fame is a celebration of their remarkable achievements and highlights the enduring spirit of the softball community in Metro Detroit. Each inductee has made a significant impact – through their exceptional performance on the field, their commitment to growing the game, or their role in shaping the future of the sport. Their legacies serve as an inspiration to all who follow – ensuring that the tradition of excellence in softball will continue to thrive in the region for years to come.
For more information visit USASoftballofMetroDetroit.org.