2024 Softball Saskatchewan Hall of Fame Inductees
Saturday, October 26th, we a wonderful afternoon spend with incredible people. The atmosphere was filled with laughter, and there were even a few heartfelt moments. Congratulations to all who received well-deserved recognition for their outstanding contributions!
Below, you'll find the 2024 Hall of Fame Inductees along with their bios.
It is a tremendous honor to be here today to celebrate a remarkable team that has made an indelible mark on the sport of softball in Saskatchewan. Today, we induct the Black Sox into the Hall of Fame—a team that has represented our province with pride, skill, and tenacity.
The Black Sox story began in 1994, in the small town of Delisle, where two teams were formed: the younger Sox, competing at the peewee level, and the older Black Sox at bantam. Under the guidance of coach Norbet Loroff, the younger Sox dominated the Saskatoon peewee ‘A’ Division, winning every city, league, and provincial playoff game from 1994 to 1996. This impressive run was anchored by key players like Jonathan Loroff, Curt Korte, Chad Starling, and Cameron Konecnik.
Meanwhile, the older Black Sox, coached by Calvin McMahon, showcased their talent with a provincial championship win in 1995 and a silver medal finish in Richmond, BC. In 1996, they moved up to the midget division, where they hosted the Canadian Midget Championship in Prince Albert, finishing fourth.
In 1997, the teams joined forces at the midget level, with Loroff as head coach and McMahon as the assistant. Together, they excelled in the first division men’s league in Saskatoon, finishing in second place, going undefeated in provincials, and placing sixth at the Canadian Championships. This collaboration marked a turning point for the Black Sox, combining talent, dedication, and hard work.
The year 1998 brought their greatest triumph yet. Their combined skills led them to a second-place finish in the first division men’s league and ultimately to gold at the Canadian Championships—a testament to their relentless pursuit of excellence.
In 1999, the team moved up to the junior division, facing new challenges head-on. They played in the Special Men’s League in Saskatoon, defeating the Saskatoon Bandits 3-1 in the provincials and earning a respectable sixth place at the Canadian Championships in Moncton, NB.
In 2001, despite their success, the team faced challenges in securing sponsorship. The decision to change their name from “Delisle Black Sox” to “The Black Sox” was made in an effort to attract support. Throughout their journey, it was the dedication of the parents and the community that ensured the boys could travel to tournaments and compete at the highest levels.
The success of the Black Sox can be attributed to a collective effort from a devoted coaching staff, including Darrell and Penny Starling, Al Korte, Norbet Loroff, Dan Mantyka, Calvin McMahon, and Chris Wright. Their commitment to excellence in coaching, administration, and fundamental instruction laid the foundation for the team’s achievements over a decade.
Winning a Canadian Championship is undoubtedly a crowning achievement, but perhaps the greatest measure of success is the ongoing involvement of these young men in the sport they love. Many have continued to play, coach, and support softball in their communities, passing on the values and skills they learned as Black Sox players.
As Barrie Campbell from the Ottawa Sun aptly put it in August 1998, “They grow wheat, barley, and oats in fields near Delisle, Saskatchewan, and they do not do a bad job of raising ballplayers either.”
Today, we honor not just a team but a legacy. The Black Sox exemplify teamwork, resilience, and a commitment to the sport that continues to inspire. It is with great pride that we induct the Black Sox into the Hall of Fame.
Congratulations to all the players, coaches, and supporters who made this journey possible. Your contributions to the game of softball will be remembered for generations to come!
It is with great pride that I stand before you to honor the incredible career of Wayne Wallace, a true icon in the world of softball. Today, we celebrate not only his many accomplishments on the field but also the lasting impact he has had on the sport and all who have had the privilege of playing alongside him.
Wayne’s journey began in Rush Lake, Saskatchewan, where his talent and work ethic were clear from an early age. At just fifteen, while most were throwing orthodox pitches, Wayne took it upon himself to master the windmill pitch. This rare skill would later make him one of the most formidable forces on the mound, and combined with his powerful hitting, Wayne became an intimidating figure in the game, known for his distinctive Fu Manchu mustache and commanding presence.
One of Wayne’s most remarkable seasons came in 1969 while playing for the Rush Lake Red Sox. The team wasn’t in a formal league but competed in exhibition games and tournaments every weekend. Wayne’s impact was undeniable: 43 hits, 14 home runs, and 42 RBIs in 119 at-bats, while striking out an incredible 244 batters in 184 innings. He delivered two no-hitters in the Moose Jaw tournament, showing that when it mattered most, Wayne stepped up.
In 1970, he helped lead the Red Sox to the Swift Current Fastball League title, pitching 221 innings and striking out 298 batters, while maintaining a .333 batting average. His success continued when he joined the Saskatoon Executives, where he was named both Rookie of the Year and MVP in his first season—an accolade he repeated the following year.
Wayne’s career reached new heights when he joined Canada’s first professional fastball league, the Western Major Fastball League, playing for the Saskatoon Jacks. His six seasons with the Jacks included competing in the 1978 World Championship, where the team took home the title. Wayne’s name became synonymous with success, earning him a place among the game’s greats.
But Wayne’s legacy is about more than stats. His humility, passion, and sportsmanship made him a role model to teammates and opponents alike. Whether playing for the Saskatoon All-O-Matic A’s or representing Canada on an international stage in Japan, Wayne’s love for the game and respect for others always shone through.
Today, we recognize Wayne Wallace not just for his incredible talent, but for the inspiration he has provided to countless athletes. His career is a testament to hard work, dedication, and the joy of the game.
Congratulations, Wayne Wallace, on your well-deserved induction into the Hall of Fame. We are all proud to honor you today!
It is an immense honor to be here today as we celebrate two remarkable individuals who have left an unforgettable legacy in the world of softball—Don and Doug Funk. Their visionary leadership, dedication, and passion have not only shaped the game of softball but have transformed the community here in Saskatoon. Today, it is only fitting that we induct them into the Hall of Fame, a recognition they richly deserve.
Honoring the Late Doug Funk
Doug Funk’s influence on softball cannot be overstated. As the International Softball Congress (ISC) Commissioner for Western Canada, Doug's dedication spanned years of tireless work, ensuring that the ISC grew and thrived in this region. His passion for the game wasn’t confined to administrative roles; Doug also took to the field as a player, traveling extensively to represent Western Canada in multiple international tournaments.
One of Doug’s greatest contributions came in 1987 when Saskatoon was awarded the bid to host the ISC World Championship—the first time this event was held outside of the United States in its 47-year history. Competing against seven other cities, Saskatoon won the bid on the second round of voting, and despite two days of heavy rain, the tournament attracted 100,000 fans. This would not have been possible without Doug’s leadership, vision, and unwavering commitment to bringing this world-class event to Canada.
Doug’s work in bringing the ISC to Saskatoon opened the doors for future international events across Canada, from Victoria to Ontario. His efforts laid the foundation for Canadian softball’s growing global presence, and his legacy continues to influence the sport today. Though Doug has passed on, we honor his memory and his many contributions, which have forever shaped the landscape of Canadian softball.
Honoring Don Funk
Turning now to Don Funk—Doug’s partner in this incredible journey. Don, like Doug, has dedicated his life to advancing softball in Canada and beyond. One of Don’s crowning achievements was his instrumental role in bringing the International Softball World Championship to Saskatoon. At the time, the Gordie Howe Park did not meet the standards for hosting such a prestigious event, but Don’s determination and vision helped make it a reality. With the support of Mayor Cliff Wright, Don ensured that Saskatoon became a host city for world-class softball events.
Together, Don and Doug co-owned the Allomatic A’s, a senior men’s softball team that dominated the scene from 1979 to 1987. Under their leadership, the team won six provincial titles and earned multiple national medals. But their ambition didn’t stop at home. They took the Allomatic A’s to international tournaments, including two tours of Japan where they played in eight different prefectures, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and New Zealand. Their appearance at the 1981 International Friendship Games in Japan was especially memorable, with over 10,000 fans staying to watch their game at the Tokyo Dome following a professional baseball match. Allomatic’s pitcher, Gene McWillie, was named the All-Star of that game and was presented with a beautiful Kimono.
In 1984, Don and Doug invited the Japanese National team to Saskatoon as part of a warm-up series for the World Championships. The game drew a record-breaking crowd at Gordie Howe Park, further cementing Saskatoon’s reputation as a hub for international softball. Their efforts culminated in Saskatoon becoming known as the "Softball Capital of Canada."
Don’s leadership extended beyond the field. He helped outfit the Allomatic’s team with world-class Mizuno gear, thanks to the support of Mr. Hirose, President of Softball Japan. Don also worked closely with Mayor Cliff Wright to develop the city’s softball facilities, which helped attract major events like the Challenge Cup in 1990, despite a little too much rain! It’s no wonder that the City of Saskatoon honored both Doug and Don by naming “Funk Park” after them, recognizing their incredible contributions to tourism and sports.
Their Shared Legacy
Together, Don and Doug put Saskatoon and Canadian softball on the global map. They were recognized as Goodwill Ambassadors by the Province of Saskatchewan in 1983 and received the Federal Government’s Certificate of Merit in 1988 for their contributions to the community. Their efforts have left a lasting legacy that continues to shape the softball community in Saskatoon, across Canada, and beyond.
While Doug may no longer be with us, his spirit and passion for the game live on through the countless lives he touched and the legacy he helped build. Don continues to be a visionary force in the sport, and today, we celebrate both brothers for their monumental contributions to the sport of softball.
It is a profound honor to stand before you today to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of one of our sport's true legends, Larry Pavloff. Today we gather not just to recognize his accomplishments on the field, but also to honor the spirit, leadership, and dedication that have defined his career.
Larry spent many years shaping the Saskatoon softball scene, playing at the Senior ‘A’ level with some of the finest teams in our community: the Saskatoon Merchants, Crown Tire Merchants, All-O-Matics, Molson’s, Rempel Brothers, and Safeway’s. During his time on these teams, Larry won an impressive 13 provincial Senior A championships between 1974 and 1989. His teams also earned four silver medals and a bronze at the national Senior A championships—a testament to his skill and tenacity.
His talent did not go unnoticed, as he was selected to join the Canadian Senior ‘A’ All-Star Team three times, earning honors as a centerfielder in 1978 and 1985, and as a first baseman in 1983. His effective hitting and defensive prowess, combined with his outstanding leadership qualities as a captain and playing coach, ensured that he consistently performed at a high level.
Larry’s excellence on the diamond is matched only by his influence off of it. His former teammates often speak of his unwavering dedication to the game and his exceptional qualities as a leader. He was not only prepared and organized, but he also instilled a sense of mental toughness in his teammates—a crucial attribute when faced with pressure on the field.
What truly sets Larry apart is his ability to recognize and celebrate the achievements of others. He famously purchased gold stars to acknowledge teammates for remarkable performances—whether it was an incredible defensive play or a clutch hit that changed the game’s momentum. This thoughtful recognition fostered a strong team spirit and camaraderie, showing that his leadership extended beyond just strategy and skill.
After his illustrious Senior ‘A’ career, Larry continued to shine in the Masters division, achieving ten provincial championships and winning eight medals in the Western Canadian Championships, including two golds, two silvers, and a bronze. His international experience is equally impressive, with tours to Japan, New Zealand, and Taiwan, where he not only played but also coached minor softball, winning a gold medal with Auckland United in 1987.
Larry Pavloff's impact on softball is profound and far-reaching. He has left an indelible mark not just through his achievements but through his unwavering commitment to excellence, his leadership, and his ability to inspire those around him.
It is with great pride that we welcome Larry Pavloff into the Hall of Fame. Please join me in celebrating a true icon of our sport!
Congratulations, Larry! Your legacy is a shining example for all athletes and coaches, and we are incredibly grateful for everything you have given to the game of softball.
It is an immense honor to be here today as we celebrate the exceptional contributions of individuals who have left an indelible mark on the sport of softball. Tonight, we induct a true legend into the Hall of Fame: Larry Besse.
For 34 consecutive years, Larry has been a steadfast presence in the world of Senior ‘A’ softball. His journey began in Saskatoon, where he not only played but also became a vital figure in the softball community. He played for esteemed teams such as the Clippers and Burnells, and in 1972, he took on the role of team manager for Burnells. It was just the beginning of a remarkable career that would see him manage teams at the highest levels of competition.
Larry was instrumental in the formation of the Saskatoon Jacks, one of the original five operators in the Western Major Fastball League. As owner-manager for five years, he laid the groundwork for future success in the league. In 1978, he transitioned to managing the K & K Olson team, which became the Saskatoon All-O-Matics. Under his leadership, the All-O-Matics made five trips to the nationals, earning silver medals in 1980 and 1983, and even embarked on international tours to Japan and New Zealand.
In 1984, with Larry at the helm, the All-O-Matics secured a new sponsorship with Molson’s, and the team once again made its mark at the Canadians, bringing home another silver medal. Larry’s influence extended beyond club management; he was also part of the Canadian team that competed at the world championships in Midland, Michigan, that same year.
In 1985, Larry’s team amalgamated with Rempel Brothers, marking the dawn of one of Saskatoon’s most successful softball franchises. Under his guidance, the Rempels claimed the Canadian Championship in Calgary in 1987 and repeated the feat in Saskatoon in 1994. Larry was more than just a manager; he was the heartbeat of the team, often driving the bus to Canadian finals, navigating the roads to tournaments across the country and even into the United States.
What truly sets Larry apart is not just his knowledge of the game but also his infectious personality. His easygoing demeanor fostered a positive environment that kept the team relaxed and focused, allowing them to perform at their highest level. His ability to attract talent and build a cohesive team dynamic is a testament to his leadership and dedication.
Larry Besse’s contributions to softball have been nothing short of extraordinary. His commitment, passion, and unwavering support for the sport and its athletes have made a lasting impact on the community and the game itself.
It is with immense pride that we welcome Larry Besse into the Hall of Fame. Please join me in celebrating a true icon of softball!
Congratulations, Larry! Thank you for everything you’ve done for our sport and for inspiring generations of players and coaches alike. Your legacy will continue to shine brightly in the world of softball!
We are now going to honor a remarkable individual whose contributions to the sport of softball span over 50 years. Yvonne has truly touched all the bases in her journey, and her impact resonates throughout our community.
Yvonne began her softball journey as a catcher, where her talent shone brightly. During the Western Canadian Championships, she earned the distinction of All-Star while playing with the Golden Gems—a testament to her skills and dedication on the field.
After hanging up her cleats, Yvonne transitioned into coaching, where she continued to inspire and nurture the next generation of players, working alongside esteemed local coach Cameron Ray. Her coaching years were marked by a commitment to excellence and a passion for the sport.
Yvonne's influence extended beyond the field when she joined the Softball Saskatchewan Board of Directors as the District 7 Director. For an impressive 27 years, she served in this role, contributing her expertise to numerous committees and holding the position of Vice President for several terms. Yvonne supervised countless provincial championships within her zone and built invaluable relationships with minor ball associations, ensuring the growth and development of our sport.
Her contributions were not limited to our province. Yvonne played an instrumental role in the Western Canadian Softball Association, serving as a Board Member and President from 2003 to 2005. She oversaw several Western Canadian Softball Championships hosted in Saskatchewan, showcasing her leadership and dedication to the game.
Yvonne's commitment to softball extended to national representation as well. She attended many Softball Canada AGMs, forging friendships across the country and eventually supervising Canadian championships.
In her journey, Yvonne formed a close bond with the umpires of our sport, particularly with former District 7 UIC, Marilyn O'Driscoll. Together, they were like teammates, sharing many memorable moments at tournaments, league games, and provincial championships throughout District 7.
Yvonne's tireless dedication as a volunteer in our sport is nothing short of inspiring. She has given back to the game of softball far more than she has ever received, leaving an indelible mark on all of us.
Thank you, Yvonne, for your outstanding contributions. You have truly had a Hall of Fame career, and we are honored to celebrate you today.
