Over 400 attendees gathered at Drury Lane in Oakbrook Terrace on Saturday to induct 20 individuals, six teams and two parks into the 16-Inch Softball Hall of Fame in Forest Park.
John Doss, who served as commissioner for the Park District of Forest Park for over a decade, was awarded manager of the year. Doss currently coaches Circus, which won this year’s No Glove Nationals tournament in Forest Park. When Doss played 16-inch softball, he won a National MVP award and Major All-American multiple times.
Frank Lentine won the presidential service award. Lentine is already in the Hall of Fame for his 27-year softball career, but this award recognizes him for his support and dedication for the Hall of Fame. Lentine also won the Frank Holan award at this year’s induction ceremony.
The Chicago Jets were also inducted into the Hall of Fame. The Jets played from 1976 to 1985 and won 22 Chicago championships, six major tournaments and the 1985 USSSA State Tournament.
New inductees will join over 700 athletes in the 16-Inch Softball Hall of Fame, which recognizes those with careers spanning back nearly 100 years ago.
