HomeMy WebLinkAboutKeprios USSSA Hall of Fame
Contact: Jennifer Bennerotte, Communications & Marketing Director
Phone 952-833-9520 • Fax 952-826-0390 • Web www.CityofEdina.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Edina Park & Recreation Director inducted into Softball
Hall of Fame
Edina, Minn., Feb. 1, 2010 – Edina Park & Recreation Director John Keprios was inducted into the
Minnesota United States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA) Hall of Fame on Friday, Jan. 29.
Each year, seven to 10 men and women are inducted into the Minnesota USSSA Hall of Fame. This
year, Greg Brown, Barb Drake Lindgren, Kurt Hornnes, Jeff Kurkowski, Mike Pendzimas, Jim Sweat,
Jeff Thompson, Mike Trewick and Keprios were honored, each receiving a plaque and custom-made
ring nestled in an attractive commemorative ring box. Similar in style to a Super Bowl championship
ring, Keprios’ bauble has the USSSA logo and “2009” on one side, the Minnesota Recreation & Parks
Association (MRPA) logo and his name on the other and is topped by a ruby red surface surrounded
by the words “Hall of Fame” and softballs.
Of the honorees, six were players, one an umpire and two administrators. One of the two
administrators, Keprios was selected for the honor for his commitment to the sport of softball. Over
the years, he has served as a volunteer, player, coach, league scheduler, tournament director and
umpire. He served as MRPA Recreational Sports Commission Chairman and President. An employee
of the City of Edina since 1977, he oversaw the construction of two local softball complexes.
“John was an ideal candidate for induction into the Hall of Fame,” said Gerry Turnberg, Minnesota
USSSA State Director and Chairman of the Hall of Fame Selection Committee. “He has basically held
every position in organization of the sport. He is well respected among his peers for his organization
and support of softball.”
Keprios, who was introduced to the crowd at the ceremony by Edina Recreation Supervisor Donna
Tilsner, was humbled by the award. “I was really honored and flattered. I didn’t see this one coming,”
he said of the award. “It has been a labor of love to promote the game from behind the desk. I feel
like I have been compensated many times over for my work to promote softball.”
For more information on Edina Park & Recreation, call 952-826-0367 or visit www.EdinaParks.com.
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