Lilly Air Systems, of Chicago, competed in six USSSA Major World Tournaments during the 1980's. In both 1982 and 1983 they finished eighth at the World Tournament and were ranked 10th nationally. The 1984 season brought an eleventh place finish at World, an 84-24 record and a national ranking of sixth and a National Major Championship title in another organization. In 1985, Lilly Air Systems compiled a very impressive 76-17 record. They again finished eleventh at the Major World Tournament and finished ranked fifth in the nation. Lilly broke up after the 1986 season in when they won the Illinois Class A (open) State Championship, but without a doubt left an unforgettable mark on not only Illinois, but softball nationwide.

Lilly Air Systems players who reigned during the 1980's included: John Lilly, Ken Dohm, Al VanGampler, Ron Olesiak, Benny Holt, Tom Spahn, Kurt Steger, and Manager Pete Williams all of which are Illinois USSSA Hall of Fame members. Also on the team, Tom Chmela, Phil Higgins, (WI Hall of Fame) Ken Parker, Ron "T-Bird" Funderberg, Ron Scillian, Dan Barnett, Jake Jacobi, Jim Reeves, Ron Danoski (WI Hall of Fame), George Tankas, Jim Burke, Paul Moore, Jay Graziano, Don Snyder, Dave Steffan, Ed Ambacher, Tim Russell, Gary Winemaster and Tom Starck.