A Hall of Fame Celebration
The South Dakota Amateur Baseball Association (SDABA) will welcome five new members to its Hall of Fame during the 2026 state amateur baseball tournament in Mitchell, with a special banquet scheduled for Sunday, November 1 in Flandreau.
Delwin Ochsner, remembered for his fierce fastball and relentless competitiveness, once captured a full scholarship to Iowa State University before posting an 8‑4 record with a 1.53 ERA as a junior. His dominance on the mound defined an era for local pitchers.
Craig Mock brings a record of 18 tournament appearances and multiple runner‑up finishes, complemented by his later work as a youth coach who guided teams to state titles in 2010 and 2011. His influence extends beyond playing, shaping the next generation of athletes.
Wes Risse, the fourth member of his family to earn induction, spent 18 years in amateur baseball and played a pivotal role in reviving Little League in Martin, creating pathways for youngsters who might otherwise have been left out of the sport.
Brian Relf, a standout catcher in the Corn Belt League, appeared in 21 state tournaments and served on the board of directors for Helping Kids Round First, a nonprofit that uses baseball to support community charities.
Joe Maunders, whose career spanned 34 years and included more than 20 state tournaments, retired with a batting average near .400, a testament to his consistency and skill at the plate.
Legacy and Community Impact
Each inductee’s story reflects a different facet of the sport’s influence in South Dakota, from individual excellence to family tradition and community outreach. Their contributions have helped cement baseball as a unifying force across small towns and larger cities alike.
The banquet will bring together players, coaches, families and fans to celebrate these achievements, reinforcing the SDABA’s commitment to preserving the state’s rich baseball heritage while inspiring future talent.