Mary Alice Stark began her career in 1976 as a 16-year old shortstop with the eventual 1977 National Champions, Fox Valley Lassies.  Lead off batters were not known to have power, but Mary Alice revolutionized the leadoff position.  A line drive, power alley hitter who compiled a .592 lifetime USSSA average and 25 homeruns. You couldn't cheat Mary Stark.  With her quick feet, soft hands and strong arm, tournament Golden Gloves and Mary Stark went hand-in-hand.  Mary was named to numerous All-Tournament teams from 1980-1986, and won many Golden Glove and MVP awards.  In the 1981 Class "A" State Tournament she was selected Most Valuable Player, even after taking a called third strike by her favorite umpire.  Mary was MVP at the Mixed NIT in Rockford in 1985 and won the Golden Glove award at the same tournament in 1986 playing an unheard of "female shortstop" position in the mixed program.  Mary wasn't given this award because of her gender, she earned the award on her ability.  This was prior to presently equal awards to males and females in the Mixed Program.