John Rockway

John Rockway was first an exceptional fastpitch softball pitcher then a long-time ambassador for the sport and other recreational athletics opportunities in Tacoma and Pierce County. In the 1940s, he developed a reputation as an ace with an excellent curve ball. He played for Seaview Tavern, Clothiers, the Teamsters over the years and his biggest thrill was tossing a no-hitter in a dual with the legendary pitching ace Woodrow Red.

John subsequently became the first Metro Tacoma Softball Commissioner and was instrumental in the growth of fastpitch and slowpitch in Pierce County. In 1960, John was elected the president of the Tacoma Athletic Federation.

John served in leadership roles with the Amateur Softball Association of America (ASA) for 20 years. He was also a member of the Tacoma Athletic Commission, supporting the Golden Gloves along with its other activities. In 1974, the year of his death, John was honored with the Member of the Year Award from the Tacoma Sports and Recreation Federation.

His leadership also extended to serving as president of Good Shepherd Church, treasurer of Concordia School, and a Bible teacher. In spite of his many civic activities he made sure that his four children were involved in sports from their early childhood and was never too busy to attend their games.