2023 Umpire: Stan Craven

I began my umpiring journey in 2001 in Joliet, IL.   That passion quickly grew into supporting several local leagues in Joliet, Plainfield, Romeoville, and Lockport. 

Prior to umpiring, I enjoyed playing for local teams such as H&H Roofing (Jimmy Hensely) D'arcy Olds (Ray Keto) Local 150 (Tom Gruben) Stone City (Joe Mutz) and a few other teams with the Poplawski. 

It wasn’t long before my love of the game switched over to the other side, maintaining the rules of the sport.  

In my career, I had the opportunity to umpire with the likes of Tommy Seddon “who will never be forgotten and will always be in our hearts” Mike Mackey, Adrain Foster, Tim Sewing, Brett Wing and Jeffery Myles to name a few. 

I gave 110 % when I was on the field umpiring. I took great pride in the responsibilities, maintained a professional attitude, and most importantly, always respected the players. 

My umpiring adventures have taken me to local, State and National tournaments throughout Illinois then ultimately to Florida at Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports for the Worlds. 

My favorite times were spent umpiring the local city tournament.  Being local gave us an opportunity to make it a family event.  These times I was able to umpire alongside my son Bobby Craven and my Daughter Megan Vuckovich would do the 50/50 raffle. 

I now live in South Carolina with Dr. Victoria St. Germain and enjoy life on the beach and on the lake. I have extremely supportive parents and siblings. Also, I have four grandchildren Adalyn Craven, Victoria Vuckovich, Elliott Craven and Kent Oliver Vuckovich and they're all proud that grandpa is to receive this honor. 

Thank you, it truly is my pleasure to follow other great Joliet Umpires and Players into the Hall of Fame.