Month: March 2025

The Top Gun Senior Softball organization proudly welcomes Joel Hawk and John Failla into the Top Gun Hall of Fame for their outstanding contributions both on and off the field.

Over the past decade, Joel has played for five Top Gun teams—Top Gun III, Elite, Thunder, Stealth, and Fury—leaving his mark as a fierce competitor with more than 15 All-Tournament, World, and MVP selections. His versatility and skill on the field have been instrumental in the success of every team he has played for.

In 2019, he joined the Top Gun Leadership team as Secretary, where his efforts were instrumental in restructuring the club into a 501(c)(7) non-profit, ensuring long-term sustainability. His dedication as Tournament Director helped secure the organization’s financial stability, overseeing logistics and operations to keep Top Gun-hosted events running smoothly.

A retired U.S. Navy aerospace maintenance officer with 24 years of service, Joel’s leadership, strategic vision, and tireless commitment have strengthened the foundation of Top Gun Senior Softball, making an indelible impact on both its present and future.

John’s impact on Top Gun Senior Softball spans more than twelve years as a player, coach, and mentor. He has played for and managed multiple teams, including Top Gun Thunder, Growlers, Storm, and Fury, building strong, cohesive teams with minimal turnover. His teams are consistently among the most competitive, regularly finishing near the top of tournament standings.

Despite being one of the best players on the field at any level—evidenced by multiple MVP awards, All-Tournament selections, and an outstanding .842 on-base percentage over 162 at-bats this year—John has always prioritized team success over personal accolades. Often passing up individual awards to recognize his teammates, he embodies the selflessness that defines true leadership. His ability to elevate those around him has been a driving force behind the sustained excellence of every team he has led.

Beyond the field, John’s contributions have been invaluable. He has served as an assistant to the board and sponsored teams. His generosity extends to Top Gun charities, where he has helped secure prizes and donations for events like the annual banquet. Additionally, John played a crucial role in developing the new Top Gun website, further solidifying his lasting impact on the organization. His dedication to team integrity, recruitment, and mentorship embodies the spirit of Top Gun Senior Softball.