Joel DeGennaro

 

Elected : USSSA New York Hall Of Fame in 2023
Inducted : March 2026, Lake Ronkonkoma, NY.

Joel DeGennaro’s journey in slow pitch softball began humbly on the fields of Nassau County in 1999. What started as a recreational passion quickly became a lifelong pursuit of excellence, as Joel grew from a player into one of the most respected sponsors and managers in the sport. Over the past 25+ years, he has poured his heart, time, and resources into supporting the game he loves, and building champions at every level.

In 2013, Joel founded his first tournament team, Chosen, and immediately established himself as a force in the Northeast softball scene. Known for his leadership, loyalty, and deep understanding of the game, Joel guided his team Chosen/The Scene to the pinnacle in 2017, capturing the USSSA “C” World Championship against a field of nearly 100 teams from across the country. That same year, in a proud and symbolic moment, Joel was named USSSA Manager of the Year during the awards ceremony at Disney’s Wide World of Sports.

But Joel’s story didn’t stop there—it was only just beginning. Since that 2017 triumph, Joel has taken his talents to the highest stage in the game, managing and sponsoring some of the most dominant teams in USSSA and USA Softball history. His championship résumé includes:

  • 2019 USA “A” National Champions – Thunder Chosen
  • 2020 USA Super National Champions – Resmondo
  • 2021 USA Super National Champions – Resmondo
  • 2021 USA “AA” National Champions – Thunder Chosen
  • 2021 USA “A” National Champions – Thunder Chosen
  • 2021 USA “B” National Champions – Thunder Chosen
  • 2024 USA “A” National Champions – Thunder Chosen

In 2021, Joel accomplished something never before seen in the sport of slow pitch softball. Across a single historic season, his teams achieved a clean sweep of championships that spanned nearly every major level of competition. That year, Joel-sponsored teams won:

  • USSSA Major World Series
  • USSSA “AA” World Championship
  • USA Super Nationals
  • USA “AA” Nationals
  • USA “A” Nationals
  • USA “B” Nationals

This unprecedented accomplishment solidified Joel’s reputation as a once-in-a-generation figure in the game, a leader capable of building championship-caliber teams across every level, all within the same season. It is a feat unmatched in the history of the sport.

A true believer in the mindset that “winners win,” Joel has exemplified this mantra in every aspect of his softball and personal life. Whether on the field or off, he brings a championship mentality rooted in integrity, perseverance, and heart. That unwavering standard has inspired everyone around him and left a lasting mark on the sport.

When you play for Joel, you know that he not only cares about you as a player, but cares about you as a person. His passion for the game is never outmatched by the content of his character. Joel’s ability to lead with both intensity and compassion sets him apart and creates a family-like culture around every team he touches.

Joel DeGennaro’s legacy is one of passion, excellence, and unshakable commitment. From local league fields to the brightest lights of the national stage, he has helped shape the lives of countless athletes while elevating the game itself. He has helped so many players achieve their ultimate goal: winning a championship and being the last team standing. His induction into the USSSA Hall of Fame honors a career defined by success—and a spirit that truly embodies what it means to be a winner.