Tailgate Party

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2004 Tailgate Party

WIN had a very successful tailgate party with the 1974 AIAW National Championship Softball Team on Saturday, April 17th. The SMS softball team, coached by Holly Hesse, Beth Perine and Sue Fredrick celebrated the 30th anniversary with the team on Friday night at a banquet with many memories and funny stories. It was a wonderful celebration. The team members that were present included:

Coach Kay Hunter
Cindy “Sam” Henderson-Snead, Pitcher
Brenda Gunier, Pitcher
Debbie Dace, Pitcher
Becky Goad, Catcher
Susan Alley, First base/outfield
Robbie Johnson, Second base
Glenda Bond, Short stop
Irene Barnes, Third base
Janet Cutbirth, Outfield
Dee Bratcher-Mallons, Outfield
Mary Doyen, Outfield
Diane Gaehle, Outfield
Janis Morgan, Outfield
Dr. Kay Sterner, Manager/Scorekeeper
Those not in attendance were
Karen Bethuren, Catcher
Pam Mangrum, First base
Carole Myers, Assistant Coach, deceased

During the decade Kay Hunter coached SMS softball, she maintained one of the most respected programs in the country. She has six national top 10 finishes to her credit including the 1974 National Championship. In 1982, Kay was inducted into the SMS Athletics Hall of Fame. Following her into the Hall were players Cindy Henderson-Snead, Debbie Dace, Karen Bethurem and Glenda Bond. She finished her career at SMS softball with a 227-111 record for a .672 winning percentage.

The team was introduced between the 2 games of a double header of SMS and Illinois State. The stands were packed for the games and the celebration with the ‘74 Championship team. SMS split the twin bill with the Redbirds.