Ed Young - Pioneer Manager, inducted in 2000

Ed Young's Burla Construction/Malnars Tap was one of the finest softball teams to ever some out of Joliet, and one of the top teams in the USSSA Central division in the mid 1980's.

With Young at the helm and key players like pitcher Dick Morelli, left fielder Dan Prater, and Dave Shortz and Benny Holt, Burla compiled a record of 665 and 234, finishing in the top four at numerous NIT's, and winning the 1982 Class B Regional and 1985 Class A State titles.

In only their third in existence, Burla finished third at the rain shortened USSSA World in Milwaukee, with only one loss.  In 1985, his Burla/Malnar's squad was ranked fifth in the USSSA Class A Central Division final rankings.

Beside his championship trophies, Young is most pleased of his teams battling spirit.  "We beat 'em all somewhere along the line," Young says proudly. 

"They" being the likes of such eighties powerhouses as Bunca Car Wash, Lilly Air Systems, Jerry's Catering and Steele's Sports.

Through the competitive years, Young has the backing of not only Burla Construction, but the loyal support of Chet Markstrom of Malnar's Tap, support that Young always appreciated.

"Chet was always there to cover any shortages," says Young. 

            

                                                                                      

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