Male Player Category
With his imposing size and defensive tenacity, Gary Nelson became an iconic figure on the mound for many of Greater Cincinnati’s most renowned softball teams during his 34-year career. This was especially true during the 1990’s and early 2000’s, when Gary’s teams dominated the local softball landscape. He competed exclusively with Cincinnati-based teams like Fry Fastening, Perkins Roofing, Backstop, Western Hills Window and EAP, but was best known for his contributions to legendary Watanabe Optical. Gary led Watanabe to a plethora of invitational titles, including prestigious events like the Thoroughbred Classic in 1992 and ’99. But he also shined in championship play, capturing an ASA Class A Metro crown in 1989, back-to-back ASA Major Metro titles in 1998 and ’99, and an ASA A National Championship in Steven’s Point, Wi., in 1993. On his way to a first team Greater Cincinnati All-Decade selection as Greater Cincinnati’s best pitcher during the 90’s, Gary also finished 2nd in the USSSA Mixed Couples World in 2000, and won first team All-World honors while leading his club to an ISA 35-Over World Championship in 1997. His effectiveness as a pitcher was complemented by his prowess as a clutch hitter, compiling a lifetime batting average of .600. He also possessed great power, clubbing over 800 home runs. In 2000, Gary was also named to the Greater Cincinnati All-Century team.