Steve Gordon Inducted into Cincinnati Softball Hall of Fame January 27, 2019
· Steve Gordon is one of the most recognized Slow Pitch umpires ever to be a part of the local softball scene
· All started Fall 1985 – Steve was a major complainer to Ed Eggleston – in the office every week – tired of umpires who did not move much less hustle – Ed told Steve to do it himself and even bought him a uniform
· Steve liked it – was involved in starting Eggleston Umpires Assn. – then wanted to do more & advance
· Attended every local training program possible and continues to do so – including as time went on, four USA Softball National Umpire Schools and two USA Softball week long Advanced Camps
· Key to Steve’s success has been his competitive drive and desire to improve – started working Metro in late 80s
· Wanted to get better – Jerry Fick watched his games with extra softballs in a bag that he’d take out between innings and give him tips on the two umpire system, angles and distances, etc. Always hustled and worked so hard.
· Reputation developed and moved to the National Level where he again advanced quickly and is recognized as one of the top Slow Pitch umpires in USA Softball
· 6 Mens A, 3 Supers, 3 Armed Forces National Championships, and others.
· Worked 2018 Canadian National Championship in Lethbridge, Alberta as one of two USA Softball umpires
· We believe that Steve’s drive and determination resulted in his quick advancement but he credits the outstanding competition here in his hometown.
· No doubt that both were key factors in his rise to the top
· It was here that he developed game management skills and a national reputation for controlling and running a ball game – he credits all this to Cincinnati softball – the Metro in its heyday years, the Wednesday night Rumpke Major League, Super Shootouts, MAB Major League, and more for his development
· Has been involved in training fellow umpires in USA Softball and continues as part of our UIC training staff.
· 34 years after starting – He’s Mr. Modesty – talking about the Hall of Fame he said – “it’s hard for me to do this – All I did was umpire, immerse myself in every game, hustle and give it my best”
· So Steve will downplay his success but what he has done for our game very much qualifies him for this honor. His fellow umpires recognize his accomplishments.
· Congratulations to Steve Gordon
