Oklahoma City, Oklahoma (November 20, 2024) – Earlier this month, USA Softball of Metro Detroit proudly inducted eight remarkable individuals into its Hall of Fame during a special ceremony at the Century Club in Sterling Heights, Michigan. This prestigious recognition honors their outstanding contributions, accomplishments, and dedication to softball in the Metro Detroit area. The inductees now join a select group of legends who have had a profound impact on the sport, both on and off the field, in an inspiring evening of celebration and recognition.
Briggs Beautyware – Sponsor
For decades, the Briggs-Beautyware men’s fast pitch teams have been a dominant force in softball, starting in the 1930s. These teams collected numerous championships, cementing Detroit’s reputation in the sport. Notable Hall of Fame players such as George Caloia, Sam Lombardo, Ed Figelski, and many others contributed to this legacy, all supported by Briggs Beautyware’s dedication to the sport.
Joel Casey – Meritorious Service
Joel Casey’s journey in softball began unexpectedly. After graduating from Eastern Michigan University in 1973, Joel took a temporary role managing the adult men’s softball program at the City of Detroit’s Recreation Department. He went on to expand the women’s softball program and introduce a co-ed league in Sterling Heights in 1986. Joel’s leadership and vision left a lasting imprint on the growth of softball across the Metro Detroit area.
Nikki (Nemitz) Cortis – Fast Pitch Player
Starting at age 9, Nikki (Nemitz) Cortis’s passion for softball propelled her to become one of Michigan’s top players. She was named the 2006 Michigan High School Gatorade Softball Player of the Year, later representing the USA National Team and earning Pan-American gold in Venezuela. At the University of Michigan, Nikki earned three NFCA All-America honors and helped her team achieve great success, proving that dedication can fuel a remarkable softball career.
Al Gibson – Slow Pitch Player
Al Gibson, one of the most powerful hitters in slow pitch softball, began his career in 1971 with the Tartars out of Ecorse. Throughout his career, Al played for some of the top teams in Metro Detroit, including Bert’s Blackhorse, Uniroyal, and the professional Detroit Caesars team. His legacy includes championships with multiple teams and has set the standard for power hitting in slow pitch softball.
Alec Lesko – Meritorious Service
With over 30 years in softball, Alec Lesko has coached, mentored, and trained countless players at all levels. His coaching legacy includes success with teams such as Finesse, Compuware, and the Michigan Devils. Alec’s crowning achievement was leading the Finesse organization to a USA Softball 16U Gold National Championship in 2021. Today, Alec continues to inspire the next generation of players through camps and individual coaching.
Craig Seaman – Slow Pitch Player
Craig Seaman’s passion for slow pitch softball began after college and quickly evolved into a storied career. After joining the Softball City team, Craig’s talent earned him recognition across Metro Detroit, where he played for top teams like Miller’s, Coors, and Snyder’s. His performance with the Nothdurft team, including national championships and All-Tournament Team honors, solidified his place as a dominant force in the game.
Thomas Donovan – Umpire
With over 44 years of experience, Thomas Donovan has become a cornerstone of Metro Detroit’s softball community. He has umpired at five USA Softball National Championships and remains dedicated to his craft, continually improving through clinics and training. Thomas’s leadership and commitment to excellence earned him membership in the National Indicator Fraternity and the Medals Program Associate.
Stephanie Perrie – Umpire
Stephanie Perrie broke barriers as one of the first female umpires in men’s Class A slow pitch softball. Her exceptional game management and knowledge of the rules earned her respect across the field. In 1994, she shifted her focus to women’s fast pitch, officiating prestigious tournaments like the Girls’ 18U Gold Fast Pitch Tournament in Oregon. With a career spanning five decades, Stephanie remains a trailblazer in the sport of umpiring.
The induction of these eight individuals into the USA Softball of Metro Detroit Hall of Fame highlights their invaluable contributions to the sport. Whether through outstanding athletic performance, service to the community, or dedication to officiating, these inductees have left an indelible mark on the softball community. Their legacies will continue to inspire and ensure the future growth of softball in the region.