Jim Clark’s softball career began in the 1970s and he would quickly become what some have considered one of, if not the best slowpitch player in the state during that time. He was the prototypical 5-tool outfielder with the speed to take away the gaps and the arm to keep runners in check. One letter of recommendation compared him to Minnesota Twins outfielder Byron Buxton in his ability to steal a homerun while crashing into the outfield fence. Offensively, he could effectively hit to all fields, including displaying opposite-field power. He did not get too many singles, though. His speed would routinely turn them into extra base hits. On the rare occasions his team was not playing, he was more than willing to help other teams eager to add him as a pickup player. Among his personal highlights was playing (and winning) coed tournaments with his 2 brothers and 3 of his sisters.

Jim also stepped up to manage teams in those early days. His Woodworth team would place as high as 3rd place in the AA state tournament. His All-Region performance with that team helped them earn a national tournament berth and a chance to compete in Cincinnati. In 1974, they managed a 70-12 record while ripping off 5 consecutive tournament championships and 29 straight wins. His teams were among the forerunners of the use of the 5-man infield.

He served briefly as the state Vice President at the request of Commissioner Duane “Tiny” Schafer. That is no surprise as leadership has always been a hallmark of his personality. He recently retired after 46 years as the University of Jamestown women’s cross-country & track coach. As a testament to the kind of leader Jim has proven to be in softball as well as in his career in coaching, UJ established the Jim Clark Award for outstanding commitment to character driven, servant leadership.