2016 Longevity Player: Terry Thies

Terry Thies

Terry “Tater” Thies was one of the most consistent players to ever take to the ball fields of Southern Illinois.  Thies was known for his solid defense and line drive hitting.  Predominately a second baseman, Thies could play every infield position plus pitch with excellence.  At bat “Tater” continually hit line drives even when making an out.

Terry played for some of the most dominate teams in Southern Illinois including Kay’s Bait & Tackle, Moore and Wittenborns, Mary’s Tavern, Percy Hardware and Victor Drugs.  Thies played well into his fifties all across the country while participating in the Masters program.  His teams won so many league championships that he can’t recall all of them.

Thies feels fortunate to have played in an era when defense was as important as offense. He also relishes the fact that he was able to play on the same team with five of his brothers, two brothers in law, and a couple cousins.

Terry amassed a .650 lifetime batting average and was named to the All- State Tournament team four times while playing three different positions.  He was also selected MVP of the 1995 Masters State Tournament.