Sal Rizzo

 

Elected : USSSA New York Hall Of Fame in 2013
Inducted : March 2014, Syracuse, NY
 

Sal was born in 1949 in Utica NY where he developed his instincts for the game, soft hands, a quick release and a strong arm as a catcher at Proctor High School and at Mohawk Valley Community College earning All Central Oneida League Honors and All Conference distinctions. He is an American Legion State Champion and a NYS League MVP.

In 1970 Sal began his career in Syracuse with the NYS Department of Transportation.  At that time he started playing in the Fulton Softball Association, the Syracuse City league, and the surrounding town leagues. Having played the outfield for Brennan’s Beach, B&T Sports, and Mousey’s/Lamplighter Hotel, Sal transitioned to shortstop taking the field with exceptional teams like Bowl Inn, the Euclid Hotel, RC’s, Twin Trees, and Crossroads Tavern.  He has been essential to his teams in the middle of the infield directing the defense and providing consistent all-around play. His ability to hit to all fields made him an outstanding situation hitter seldom making a “bad” out.

Senior Softball with the Syracuse Merchants has been a source of pride for him having earned the title World Champion and earning the respect of the best players from all over the country.

Most important to Sal are the lasting friendships he has made over the years playing the game of softball.

Sal and his wife Kris will be celebrating their 40th wedding anniversary this year along with their children, Julie, Jeff and Brian and four granddaughters.