A Community's Tribute
A sea of gloves and baseballs filled the fields of Madison this weekend as the community gathered for a tournament that has become more than a game. The event, now in its second year, was organized to honor a man whose presence on the diamond was as steady as his commitment to the young people he coached.
Ken Prorok, a dedicated sheriff's deputy and longtime coach, was killed in 2024, leaving behind a legacy of mentorship on the diamond and in law enforcement. Those who knew him recall his quiet authority, his willingness to stay after practice to discuss life choices, and his habit of pairing a firm handshake with a genuine smile.
His wife, Renee Prorok, has said she wants his memory to be celebrated for the lives he touched rather than the circumstances of his death. "Ken would have wanted us to focus on the kids he helped, not on how he left us," she explained, emphasizing the importance of remembering his impact on the community.
JD Prorok, Ken’s son, spoke of the lessons his father taught him about discipline, teamwork and caring for others, values that continue to shape his own path. "My dad taught me that a good coach is also a teacher of character, and that lesson stays with you whether you're on the field or in the courtroom," he said.
The tournament includes two scholarships in Ken’s name for students pursuing careers in law enforcement or excelling in baseball, offering a tangible way for the community to invest in the next generation. Recipients are selected based on academic standing, athletic promise and a demonstrated commitment to service.
Even as legal proceedings continue, the event provides the Prorok family with a space to find joy in the sport their patriarch loved. For Renee, watching the young players take the field is a reminder that Ken's spirit lives on in every swing of the bat and every cheer from the stands.
Organizers and local supporters hope the tradition will endure, ensuring that Prorok’s impact on young athletes and officers lives on for years to come. "We want this tournament to be a permanent fixture," said a spokesperson for the Madison Baseball Association, "so that future generations can learn about Ken's dedication and carry it forward."