News and TV Coverage of 35th Annual 2023 Rock ‘N Reno

June 1, 2023

By Nic Francois
Softball News Report

     RENO, NV. – Senior Softball USA’s 35^th Annual Rock ‘N Reno Challenge Cup is the oldest senior softball tournament in the world and one of the largest senior tournaments.

     191 teams came to Reno between May 26 and June 4, including teams from Hawaii, Alaska and Canada.

     The signature senior tournament attracted two news agencies:

KOLO – ABC 8

     Kurt Schroeder, sports director of KOLO – ABC 8, came out to Golden Eagle Complex on May 27 during session one while the Men’s 40s, 60s and all Women’s divisions played.

     Rick Hernandez of SMASH 60s (CA), Doug Smith and Mario Garcia of West Coast United 40s (CA), and Senior Softball USA’s CEO Terry Hennessy were featured in the video and article. They all highlight the camaraderie, the ability to still play despite age, and coming to Reno to win.

Nevada Sports Network

     Nikki Pica of Nevada Sports Network also visited Golden Eagle Complex on June 2, during the third and final session while the Men’s 50-55s played.

     While the video features Dave Dowell, SSUSA’s master scheduler, the story primarily follows a father and son at Golden Eagle. James Crane of CaliGold 50s was playing in Reno as his father, John Crane, a retired senior softball player watched. John Crane used to play with California Olden Bears and Bringin the Pain (CA) before retiring.

     James’ parents were traveling between complexes to also watch James’ brother, Keith Crane, who plays on Cali Gold 50 in that same session.