Rachel Maxwell

In the world of sports, excellence isn’t always defined by statistics or titles. Sometimes, it’s the intangible qualities that truly set a player apart. These qualities might include leadership, dedication, teamwork, and the undeniable spirit of a champion. For the Top Gun community, these attributes are celebrated through the annual tradition of selecting the “Player of the Year.” These are individuals who embody the essence of Top Gun – individuals who may not always be the star players but contribute in meaningful ways to their team’s success.

Top Gun isn’t just about winning championships; it’s about creating an environment where athletes and teams can thrive. It’s about camaraderie, sportsmanship, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. The “Player of the Year” represents these values in the most remarkable fashion.

These are the players who go above and beyond their roles on the field. They inspire their teammates, lead by example, and bring out the best in those around them. While their contributions may not always be measured in stats, their impact on the team is immeasurable.

One unique aspect of the Top Gun “Player of the Year” selection is that it’s made by each team’s manager based on criteria of their choosing. This process ensures that the recognition is deeply personal and acknowledges those players who, in the eyes of their coaches, have made a significant difference during the season.

We are thrilled to share some exciting news within the Top Gun Senior Softball community — our very own Bob Johnson has been elected to the Senior Softball USA (SSUSA) Hall of Fame! This prestigious honor recognizes not only Bob’s outstanding playing and managing career but also his remarkable leadership and all-encompassing contributions to the sport of senior softball.

Bob’s journey in senior softball has been nothing short of extraordinary. His playing career, spanning from 2001 to 2005, was marked by an exceptional level of excellence, with a lifetime batting average of an impressive .725. However, it is his role as a coach, mentor, and leader that truly sets him apart.

As the President of Top Gun Senior Softball (TGSS) from 2001-2006 and again from 2015 to the present, Bob has been instrumental in shaping the organization into what it is today. Under his visionary leadership, TGSS expanded from five teams to a flourishing league of 13 teams by 2024. His commitment to fiscal responsibility and good governance resulted in the successful transition of TGSS into a registered non-profit organization, ensuring its long-term financial health.

Bob’s coaching career further exemplifies his dedication to the sport. From leading the Top Gun II 50s+ team to two world championships in 2001 and 2004 to coaching the Top Gun Diamonds 80s team to victories at Spring Worlds, Southwest Championships, and the Tournament of Champions, his impact on the field has been profound.

What makes this achievement even more special is the selfless nature of Bob Johnson. He eschewed personal recognition, never selecting himself for any MVP or All-Tournament selections, always directing the spotlight towards his teammates. His ethos of team-first and commitment to the collective success and camaraderie of the team is a testament to his character.

Bob’s induction into the SSUSA Hall of Fame is not just an individual honor; it is a reflection of the excellence and dedication within the Top Gun organization as a whole. His meritorious service to Top Gun Senior Softball has been a driving force behind the growth and success of our community. As we celebrate this momentous achievement, let us also recognize the enduring impact Bob Johnson has had on senior softball, and specifically, the Top Gun family.

Join us in congratulating Bob on this well-deserved honor! His legacy will undoubtedly inspire generations of Top Gun players to come.

The annual Top Gun banquet held on November 4th at the Elks Club in Vista was a night to remember. With Phil’s BBQ providing the catering, this year’s event surpassed all expectations, setting new records and leaving a lasting impression on all who attended.

This year’s banquet drew an impressive crowd of 150 attendees, marking a remarkable 50% increase from the previous year. The camaraderie and sense of community among Top Gun members were on full display as players, coaches, and supporters came together to celebrate another outstanding season.

The Top Gun community once again showcased its commitment to giving back. A generous donation of $2500 was made to the Navy Marine Corps Relief Society. This donation not only exemplifies the spirit of goodwill within Top Gun but also provides invaluable support to those who have served our country.

“The guest speaker, Gary Adams of the Top Gun Blue Angels, former UCLA baseball coach and confidant of John Wooden, captivated us with anecdotes from their close bond. An accomplished author on life lessons through sports, Gary’s motivational talk, peppered with humor, left us in stitches. His insights and the concluding baseball poem added a memorable touch to the evening.”

One of the highlights of the evening was the recognition of excellence within the Top Gun community. Two new Hall of Fame inductees were celebrated, joining an elite group of individuals who have left an indelible mark on the sport.

The heart of the evening was undoubtedly the acknowledgment of the Players of the Year. Eleven exceptional individuals were recognized for their unwavering commitment, leadership, and the profound impact they had on their respective teams. These players represent the very essence of what makes Top Gun Senior Softball exceptional.

As the evening concluded, and the applause subsided, one thing was clear: the Top Gun Annual Banquet for 2023 set a new standard. The sense of community, the spirit of giving, and the celebration of excellence came together to create an unforgettable event.

In the coming year, Top Gun Senior Softball looks forward to another season of camaraderie, competition, and continued support for their members and the broader community. The 2023 banquet will be remembered as a testament to the dedication and passion that defines the Top Gun Senior Softball family.

In a dazzling display of offensive and defensive prowess, the Stealth soared to victory in the 65+AAA Tournament of Champions, etching their name in softball history. The Stealth secured their place as trailblazers by becoming the first team in Top Gun history to win the coveted TOC crown, leaving an indelible mark on the competition.

The Stealth’s journey to the championship was marked by exceptional performances in the Round Robin matches. They opened with a hard-fought 19-16 win against 65 Major Prime Time (IL), showcasing their offensive might with a narrow three-run victory. The following game against 65 AA Shannon Fence CPOA (OH) was a defensive masterpiece, as Charles practically pitched a ‘shutout’ in a commanding 19-5 win with the inferior team being given a 5-run advantage.

Bracket play saw the Stealth as the #2 Seed, with victories against tough opponents like Spring Ford (PA) with a 25-10 win and a thrilling come-from-behind 7th inning win against Steve Levin Ameriprise (FL), where Tom sprinted home to score the winning run, capping off a memorable moment.

The journey continued with a setback against Northern Virginia Force (VA), but Coach Leigh’s invaluable guidance and the team’s unwavering support turned the tide in their favor.

In the Championship Finals, the Stealth showcased a remarkable display of both offensive and defensive skills. A stellar three-home run game against Northern Virginia Force (VA) propelled them to a 31-15 victory. The Stealth not only double-dipped their opponent but also dominated in the “If” game Finals, securing the Tournament of Champions title.

The individual brilliance of players added an extra layer of excellence to the Stealth’s triumph. Tom “Killer Eyes” Mendez was awarded the coveted MVP title for his outstanding contributions throughout the tournament. His exceptional skills and leadership on the field played a pivotal role in the Stealth’s success.

Additionally, the All-Tournament players, David Bradford, Dan Tsuruta, Dave “D-Rod” Rodriguez, Fred “Woody” Calloway, and Brian Lamb, showcased their exceptional talents, contributing significantly to the team’s overall success.

The Stealth’s dominance was reflected in their impressive statistics. Offensively, they scored a total of 165 runs, and their run differential totaled 64, winning by an average of eight points per game. On the defensive end, they gave up a total of 101 runs, showcasing their resilience and strong performance.

As the Stealth celebrates their well-deserved victory, the Top Gun community extends heartfelt congratulations. The 65+AAA Tournament of Champions witnessed not only softball excellence but also a testament to the enduring spirit and camaraderie that define the sport.

In a historic achievement for the organization, the Top Gun Strike Force 60+ team emerged victorious, clinching gold in the Hawaii Mayor’s Cup held in Kona in January. This marked the team’s inaugural visit to the picturesque Hawaiian Islands, making it an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

The mastermind behind the success, Richard Pratt, not only organized the team but also coached them to an undefeated record. Clad in striking red and black uniforms with white and gray accents, the team, aptly named Strike Force, showcased their prowess on the field. The roster included 13 players, each with a Top Gun history, along with an enthusiastic entourage of family members.

A unique blend of experience was evident in the team composition, featuring three 60+ players, six 65+ players, and four 70+ players – making Strike Force the oldest team in the division. Despite facing teams with the advantage of three 55+ players, Top Gun’s seasoned players proved age is just a number.

Despite challenging field conditions, including rain delays and gusty winds, Strike Force overcame adversity. The temporary outfield fences and 75-foot bases posed no hindrance to the team’s determination.  The spirit of sportsmanship was not confined to the field; the Top Gun Strike Force team exemplified goodwill by presenting thoughtful Top Gun mementos to opposing coaches and tournament officials, fostering a sense of camaraderie that extended beyond the game.

The tournament wasn’t just about the games; off the field, the team shared memorable moments during team dinners and lively gatherings at the bar. Days without games were filled with island exploration, including visits to Hilo, waterfalls, volcanos, water sports, and more.  The King Kamehameha hotel provided a comfortable home base just minutes away from the ball fields. The team also enjoyed socializing at the welcome reception and indulged in an authentic luau organized by the tournament hosts.

Looking ahead, Richard Pratt has set his sights on next year, intending to assemble a 70+ team for another remarkable adventure. The Top Gun Strike Force’s triumph in Hawaii stands as a testament to the spirit of camaraderie, skill, and sportsmanship that defines the Top Gun organization.

60+ Players:

• Bobby Gun – 3rd base
• Jeff Blakeman – Shortstop
• Pat Rea – Outfield

65+ Players:

• Ed Francel – 1st base, Outfield
• Graham Sterling – 2nd base
• Joel Hawk – Catcher
• Johnny Gullatta – Outfield, Catcher
• Mickey LeBlanc – Outfield
• Steve VinCurek – Outfield

70+ Players:

• Joe Hensley – Outfield
• Mark Purdy – Catcher, 3rd base
• Richard Pratt – Pitcher
• Scott Wolters – 1st base, Catcher

• Pat Rea was named team MVP for flawless outfield play and consistent leadoff performance.
• Bobby Gun led the team with 3 home runs and 11 RBIs.
• Johnny Gullatta led the team in On-Base-Percentage with Scott Wolters and Mark Purdy both over 800.
• Richard Pratt’s crafty pitching limited opponents to just 12 runs in 5 games against 5 different teams.
• The team dominated, never batting in the open inning and never trailing having won by the mercy rule on the last two games.
• Strike Force’s infield turned at least 10 double plays, showcasing their electric performance with diving catches in the outfield and numerous outfield assists.

The recent SSUSA World Championships held in Las Vegas during September witnessed two remarkable teams triumph and bring home championship trophies.

Olde Dawgs, Led by Steven Koontz, Seize Victory in the 70AA Division

In an exhilarating turn of events, Steven Koontz guided the Olde Dawgs to a spectacular victory in the 70AA division. With an extraordinary comeback that saw them score eight runs in an open inning, including four impressive in-the-park home runs the last being a championship winner by Rick Roman (tournament MVP), the Olde Dawgs displayed exceptional determination and skill. Looking ahead to 2024, they are gearing up to compete at the AAA level.

Outstanding All-Tournament Selections: The tournament recognized and honored standout performers – Roger Penticoff, Ed Arroyo, Steve Koontz, Gary Mueller, and Gary Bloch.

Red Simmons and the Blue Angels Secure Another Championship in the 85+ Major Category

In the 85+ Major category, Red Simmons led the Blue Angels to yet another championship. Their victory was nothing short of thrilling, with a hard-fought win over Center for Sight, a formidable team from Florida. Remarkably, this marks Red Simmons’ eighth world championship in the last two decades, an impressive achievement as both a player and a manager.

Outstanding All-Tournament Selections: The tournament’s stellar performers included Gary Adams, Al Grefsheim, Rico Coronado, Bob McCormick, and Ronnie Guest.

Congratulations to both the Olde Dawgs and the Blue Angels for their exceptional achievements and for showcasing the true spirit of championship-level play at the SSUSA World Championships.”