Not every year do we induct a TEAM, or individuals into our Hall of Honor. However when this team was nominated two years ago, the unanimous vote of the HOF Committee validated the efforts of Athletic Shop of Hammond, Louisiana.

In 1977, the Athletic Shop Softball team was formed by team owner and sponsor, Joe Schillace. In a period of four (4) short years, THE SHOP went from playing in local recreational tournaments to a nationally ranked Men’s Class “A” team in 1981.

For all the players who played for Athletic Shop, it was always more than just a game, as Mr. Schillace and the Shop faithful created a FAMILY type atmosphere, which welcomed not only players, but wives and their children to share in the success of THE SHOP.

Athletic Shop experienced great success on the field as well, and claimed a NSA Super Major National Championship, a ASA Major National 5th Place finish, and a TOP 10 finish in the grand daddy of them all, the USSSA Major World Series.

The accomplishments of THE SHOP and its players resulted in several SHOP players being recognized by Louisiana USSSA and induction into this Hall of Fame. Myles Schexnayder, Butch Alleman, Danny Robichaux, Jody Hebert, Larry Fredieu, Bobby Cormier, and the late Terry Magee as well as tonights inductee Hal Harlan, have all been inducted over the past 16 years, including sponsor Joe Schillace.

The high point for Athletic Shop was their TOP EIGHT status in 1987, as they were recognized as being one of the top eight teams in the country. Unfortunately, Mr. Schillace passed away in May 1989 and ended the existence of THE SHOP.

 

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