2010 Male Player: Dave Villareal

Dave Villareal

As a player (first baseman, pitcher and catcher), Dave was known as not only one of the finest in the state of Illinois, but one of the finest nationally. He played for some of the best teams ever assembled in the state, with The Boyz of Plano, The Kings of Bensonville, Sports Page of Arlington Heights and Joe Blacks of Highland Park topping the list of A and AA quality squads.

Dave also played for a number of teams over his 30-year playing span in the St. Charles league. His lifetime .615 batting average and over 1,600 homeruns helped identify him as one of the best.

Dave began his playing career at the B level, but quickly moved up to the A and AA levels, while qualifying and playing in two Men's Major World Series. He also was chosen to a number of All-State tournament teams, while playing for several state championship teams.

Dave's best memories occurred while playing for the Joe Black's team that beat Steele's Sporting Goods out of Ohio, when they were ranked #1 in the country.

Another great memory occurred when he hit 3 homeruns in a Major NIT to help his team in acquiring a berth in the Men's Major World Series in Daytona Beach, Florida.

Of all his accomplishments, Dave says he is most grateful for the opportunities to play against the best players ever to play the game.