Cleveland ScrappersYears Played: 1989-2012
The Definition of “Great Teammate”
Written by Kevin Barrett
Bill was introduced to the Scrappers in 1989 by Scrappers Wilbert Turner and Richard Benesh whom Bill met at work. At the time the team was preparing for the 1989 season with the goal of making it to the NBBA World Series to be held in Topeka, KS that August.
First impressions became lasting impressions as Bill was and is just a good person. Over the years he has constantly put the team and others first. Always ready to help, give encouraging words and by example working and practicing very hard to be the best player he could be.
Just as was the case with some of the Scrappers founders Bill also had played youth beep baseball in Akron where he grew up. Being partially sighted it took time for William to get used to the blindfold but, he persevered molding himself into a solid outfielder and good contact hitter and accurate base runner. Many times at tournaments, including many World Series competitions Bill, would make a clutch putout in right field to hold off an opponent’s rally.
Additionally, he was so much more help as he was on the ready to help anyone as an extra set of volunteer eyes. He understood his role on the team never worrying about personal stats or playing time and always pulling for his teammates and a good sport with the opposition.
An important aspect of fielding a beep baseball team is the necessity of fundraising, community service activities and off season practices. Being a small non-profit the Scrappers struggle gaining community support to raise the funds needed to be able to travel to play other beep baseball teams. From 1997 thru 2008 the team took on the task of working the concessions at both Jacobs Field (1997-2001) and Cleveland Browns Stadium (1999-2008). Many believed we beat the odds staffing the concessions since we were such as small organization. Most of the team members had to work almost every event for us to succeed and Bill was one of the most dedicated. One role he was best know for was preparing the big pretzels we sold. He got so proficient at it that he became known as “Pretzel Bill”. His dedication along with the rest of the team and all of the sighted volunteers who helped us made it possible for the Scrappers to attend and compete in numerous out of town competitions including most of the NBBA World Series Championships between 1997 thru 2008.
When it came to community service activities such as disability awareness events with schools or businesses Bill along with other teammates was always ready to take a day off and help. He also made all of our sports clinics with sight challenged youth and young adults the Scrappers did with the Cleveland Sight Center.
A true advocate Bill hosted a radio show on WERE public access called the Aware Show about disability issues and awareness. He is a member of AFB of Ohio and has served in many leadership roles like chapter president. He also is involved with the Greater Cleveland Blind Bowlers League. Bill has been employed by IRS and currently works for the Social Security Administration.
In 2011 and 2012 serious health issues cut short Bill’s playing career but, he remains a big booster and his positive example in word and deed is a continuous lesson in life. Another nickname for Bill was “Mild Bill” because he was always so calm, collected, kind and a true gentleman
A good friend and the ultimate teammate. William Pretzel Bill Turner