Born: 1936 (St. Louis, Missouri)
Biography:
Lorene Ramsey, a pioneer in women’s sports, is one of the most successful college coaches of all time. Born on July 10, 1936, in St. Louis, Missouri, she would go on to leave an indelible mark on women’s athletics. In 1955, Ramsey made the move from St. Louis to central Illinois to pitch for the Pekin Lettes, a professional women’s softball team. This decision set the stage for an illustrious career in athletics.
Ramsey’s talent as a pitcher was evident from the start. During her 18 years with the Pekin Lettes, she amassed an incredible overall record of 401-90. In 1965, she pitched a remarkable 981⁄3 scoreless innings. Her skill and dedication to the sport earned her recognition as a four-time ASA All-American. Ramsey’s success as a player set the foundation for her future contributions as a coach and advocate for women’s sports.
In 1968, Ramsey left her teaching position at Pekin High School to join the staff of Illinois Central College (ICC) in East Peoria, Illinois. At ICC, Ramsey played a crucial role in developing an intramural sports program for both men and women. Inspired by her passion for empowering female athletes, she took the initiative to start the women’s athletic program at ICC, even before the passage of Title IX.
Ramsey’s impact as a coach was nothing short of extraordinary. Over her 28-year tenure as the softball coach, she compiled an exceptional overall record of 840-309. Her leadership and expertise guided the team to two NJCAA National Softball Championships. Ramsey’s commitment to excellence extended beyond softball, as she also served as the women’s basketball coach for 33 seasons. Under her guidance, the basketball team achieved an impressive record of 887-197 and captured four NJCAA Women’s Basketball Championships.
Recognized as one of the most influential figures in women’s sports, Ramsey has been inducted into 10 halls of fame, including the National Softball Hall of Fame and the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame. Her impact on the sport extends beyond her coaching achievements. Ramsey was a founding officer of the National Fastpitch Coaches Association, demonstrating her commitment to advancing women’s athletics on a national scale.
Ramsey’s dedication to the craft of coaching and her tireless efforts to elevate women’s sports has left a lasting legacy. Her influence on society is evident in the countless female athletes whose lives she has touched and inspired. Through her leadership and mentorship, hundreds of women from Illinois Central College have gone on to receive NCAA Division I and II athletic scholarships to four-year colleges and universities.
Lorene Ramsey’s unwavering commitment to excellence, her significant contributions to women’s sports, and her role as a trailblazer make her an iconic figure in women’s history. Her legacy as a coach, advocate, and mentor has paved the way for generations of female athletes to pursue their dreams and reach new heights. Ramsey’s impact will continue to resonate within the world of women’s sports for years to come.
Awards:
– Inductions into the ASA Hall of Fame
– Induction into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame
– Two NJCAA National Softball Championships
– Four NJCAA Women’s Basketball Championships