Month: October 2025

The Top Gun Senior Softball family is proud to celebrate two of its own being inducted into the Senior Softball USA (SSUSA) Hall of Fame: Joe Hensley and Richard ‘Red’ Simmons. Both representing the very best of what our organization stands for: excellence on the field, leadership through example, and lifelong dedication to the game and its people. Their inductions took place during opening ceremonies at the 2025 World Championships in Las Vegas during September.

Joe Hensley’s induction as a player recognizes not only his decades of elite performance but also the character and integrity that have defined his career. A fixture in the outfield for powerhouse teams including Top Gun and Timberworks, Joe was known for his consistent play, keen instincts, and unwavering commitment to team success.
Over his senior softball career, Joe has been part of ten SSUSA World Championship teams and 3 Huntsman World Senior games gold medals: a testament to both his talent and the respect he’s earned among teammates and competitors alike. His calm demeanor and humble approach have long set him apart as a leader by example, the kind of player who makes everyone around him better.

Adding to the sense of family at the induction ceremony, Joe was introduced by fellow Hall of Famer and former Top Gun member: Carl Gustafson, who spoke warmly about Joe’s “quiet excellence” and the countless ways he’s contributed to the Top Gun legacy.
As SSUSA Executive Director Fran Dowell noted, Joe’s induction shines a light on what makes senior softball special: It’s about the people who elevate the game not for themselves, but for those around them.

While Joe earned his place through his play, Red Simmons was honored in the manager category, recognizing an extraordinary career of leadership and accomplishment spanning decades. Red’s teams have amassed more than 1,000 tournament wins, won over 85 tournaments and captured World Championships in every age division from 65s to 85s: an unparalleled record of success.

Red’s influence on the game stretches far beyond the diamond. A strategist, motivator, and mentor, he has shaped the experience of hundreds of players across the Top Gun organization and beyond. He is already a member of multiple Halls of Fame, including the National Senior Softball Hall of Fame, the Top Gun Hall of Fame, and several regional honors; but this SSUSA induction represents the capstone of a remarkable journey.
Fran Dowell, SSUSA’s executive director, called him a “model of managerial excellence,” while Gary Adams (former UCLA baseball coach and fellow senior softball participant) said, “Red Simmons is undoubtedly a Hall of Fame manager.” At the ceremony, Red was introduced by his son, who reflected on the values his father modeled “teamwork, perseverance, and humility values that have carried through generations of players and family alike.”

For Top Gun Senior Softball, the induction of Joe Hensley and Red Simmons is both a celebration and a reminder of the foundation our organization is built upon. These two men exemplify what it means to be a Top Gun member: to strive for excellence, to honor the game, and to give back through leadership and mentorship.

Their enshrinement in the SSUSA Hall of Fame not only honors their individual achievements but also reflects the lasting impact of the Top Gun community: a network of players, coaches, and volunteers dedicated to the game and each other.
Congratulations, Joe and Red your Hall of Fame recognition makes us all proud to wear the Top Gun name.

St. George, Utah, October 6-10, 2025

The Top Gun Bandits once again struck gold at the Huntsman World Senior Games, repeating as champions in the 60+ division after an inspiring week of softball, sportsmanship, and sheer determination. Facing top teams from across the country, the Bandits embodied the spirit of camaraderie and perseverance that defines the Top Gun program.

After suffering a setback in the championship game to Seaglass of Oklahoma, the Bandits regrouped and came roaring back in the ‘if’ game unleashing a relentless offensive attack to capture the gold medal with a resounding 38-17 victory. The win was a testament not only to their talent but to their resilience through injuries, fatigue, and the emotional grind of tournament play.

The 2025 Huntsman roster reflected both the depth and balance of this veteran squad:
Top Row: Warren Lawter (Pitcher, Outfield), Vince Skandunas (Pitcher), Dennis Carvalho (Middle Infield), Jon Gibbs (First Base), Phil McCrea (Third Base), Tom Larson (Super Sub)
Bottom Row: Gene Leves (Outfield), Tom Mott (Outfield), Roy Alberts (Outfield), Jeff Blakeman (Coach), Joe Hensley (Catcher/Outfield), Mike ‘Doc’ Burke (Outfield)

At the plate, the Bandits’ bats were on fire. Mike ‘Doc’ Burke led the offensive charge, posting video-game numbers with a .808 batting average and on-base percentage, 1.423 slugging percentage, and a 2.231 OPS. Roy Alberts led the team in hits (23) and tied with Phil McCrea for most runs scored (18). Phil also paced the team in total bases (41) while sharing the home run crown (5) with Warren Lawter and Dennis Carvalho. Dennis showcased his power as well, leading the club in isolated power (ISO) at .727. Meanwhile, Joe Hensley and Tom Larson anchored the lineup’s discipline, each drawing four walks to keep the pressure on opposing pitchers.

The Bandits’ success was built on steady teamwork and dependable performances from top to bottom. Each player contributed in key moments, helping the team overcome injuries and tight games along the way.

When the final out was recorded, the Bandits had once again proven their depth, experience, and will to win. Their repeat championship at Huntsman stands as another proud moment for the Top Gun organization.

Congratulations to the Top Gun Bandits – 2025 Huntsman World Senior Games 60+ Gold Medal Champions!