The USA Softball of Wisconsin Hall of Fame actually took 8 years of on and off planning before the first banquet was held. The original idea came from State Commissioner Aubery Olson back in 1976. Olson added former Hall of Fame Chairman, Roger Regez to his staff as State Historian. Regez took over as State Commissioner in 1980 but the Hall of Fame did not function as a reality until 1984 when State Commissioner David Markow organized the first banquet in Milwaukee.
The first nominations to the USA Softball of Wisconsin Hall of Fame were made in Wautoma, Wisconsin on March 24, 1984. Hall of Fame Chairman, Roger Regez nominated Bill Pecknick, a pitcher from Kenosha and Shirley Martin, a player/manager from Milwaukee for the Hall of Fame. Jerry Proft of Melrose was nominated for the Hall of Honor. The Membership Council voted unanimously to accept the nominations. Milwaukee would be the site of the first Hall of Fame Banquet. History was made. The dream of State Commissioner David Markow came true.
About thirty people attended the first banquet. Shirley Martin was the first person inducted. As of 2022, the USA SOFTBALL OF WISCONSIN, INC. Hall of Fame will number one hundred fifty three (153). The Hall of Fame is located at (TBD), Wisconsin.
The Wisconsin Softball Historical Society is looking for photos and articles from past Wisconsin State Tournaments. Championship team photos, tournament brackets, order of finish and tournament play photos.