Ross Crocker – Athlete

Inducted October 18, 1997

Ross Crocker, a native of Heart’s Delight, Trinity Bay can legitimately claim the title of most versatile player ever to play Canadian Men’s Softball. A career of over 26 years has brought him numerous awards and honours at the national, provincial and local level.

While Ross’s many records and stats are too extensive to list here, some are of special mention. He represented our province 17 times in national competition and his all round ability was confirmed through winning MVP in 1973, Top Pitcher in 1976 and Top Batter and Allstar First Baseman in 1982. Ross is the only Newfoundlander to be named Senior National Male M.V.P. and also holds the enviable record of being the only Canadian to play at every position in national competition.

At the provincial level, Ross had a remarkable career. He competed in 20 provincial championships winning 11 times. He was MVP and Top Batter twice. A special highlight of his provincial play came when he struck out 29 batters in a 17 inning game in 1976.

At the local level, Ross excelled during his 25 years in the St. John’s Men’s A league. He played on 10 championship teams and was MVP 3 times, Play-off MVP 5 times, and top batter once. Ross currently holds league records in 9 different categories.

It was no wonder that such a fine softball career led to Ross being named Softball Newfoundland and Labrador male player of its first 25 years and to his induction to the SNL Hall of Fame in 1997. There were few arguments as well when the Evening Telegram sports department named Ross the best male softball player in the history of our province.

As a result of his softball achievements, as well as being a better than average bowler (238 avg.) and a good basketballer (he scored 86 points in one game), Ross was named Male Athlete of the Year for St. John’s on two occasions.

In summary, Ross Crocker has been a credit to his family (wife Dianne and daughter Ashley), to his friends, to his province and most of all to himself. Even in his retirement, he continues to give back to sport by conducting numerous pitching clinics for youth throughout the province. Ross exemplifies how dedication, sportsmanship, talent and attitude can be combined to produce a remarkable Newfoundland athlete.

Sport Newfoundland and Labrador is honoured to induct athlete Mr. Ross Crocker into the Newfoundland and Labrador Sports Hall of Fame.