Honoring the Pioneers: ISC Fan Votes Crown the Best of the 1940s & 1950s
As we celebrate the 80th Anniversary of the International Softball Congress, we invited you—the fans—to look back at the eras that started it all. The 1940s and 1950s were a golden age for fastpitch, defined by gritty performances, legendary arms, and the birth of dynasties.
After weeks of voting, the results are in. Here are your winners for the Best Player, Best Pitcher, and Best Team of the 1940s/1950s.
Best Team: Long Beach Nitehawks
In one of the most decisive victories of the poll, the Long Beach Nitehawks took home a staggering 84.6% of the vote. As perennial powerhouses and multiple-time ISC World Champions, their legacy in Long Beach, CA, remains the gold standard for team excellence in the sport’s early history. In second place came the Merchants from Taft, CA and The Farm ending up in third place.
Best Pitcher: Leroy Zimmerman
When it came to the circle, one name stood above the rest. Leroy Zimmerman captured 77.5% of the fan vote. Zimmerman wasn’t just a pitcher; he was an era-defining force whose dominance helped shape the competitive landscape of the ISC. In second place came George Pearson with 7.5% and Les Haney with 6%, making Zimmerman the undisputed “Best Pitcher” of the 1940s/1950s.
Best Player: Cleo Goyette
The race for Best Player featured a deep field of talent, but Cleo Goyette emerged as the fan favorite with 33.3% of the total vote. In second place came Al Cotti (17.9%) and Clint Herron (12.8%) coming in third Known for his incredible skill and consistency, Goyette’s impact on the game during these two decades remains unforgettable.
A Legacy That Lives On Thank you to everyone who participated in this tribute to our history. These legends didn’t just win games; they built the ISC. Stay tuned as we move into the next decade tomorrow February 15.
Vote link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf6tZeTOmTLBOucSCZpdWDDyrR2OlSqkgWL7LvwhozuhLS-fg/viewform
