Pueblo SB Hall of Fame to Induct RSC General Manager Larry Romero

Chris Abdelmalek
Pueblo Chieftain | May 5, 2024 
(Excerpts taken from story by Chris Abdelmalek)

The Pueblo Softball Hall of Fame will induct its 2024 class later this month. The five newest members of the Pueblo Softball Hall of Fame will be introduced during an on-field presentation at 5:30 p.m. on May 24 at Joe Santos Field at Ray Aguilera Park during festivities kicking off the Annual Joe Santos Memorial Fastpitch Tournament.

Larry Romero, the General Manager of the Runyon Sports Complex, will be inducted along with June "Juna" Duvall, John "JC" Carrillo, Rogers Samuels and two recipients of the Tony Bobian Memorial High school MVP: Bradie Poteet-Herrera (Pueblo West) and Marisa Gonzales (Pueblo East). 

A proud Central High School graduate, Larry Romero was in his early 20s when he began his long, successful coaching career.

After years of playing, Romero retired his glove and turned his focus to coaching. He mentored, fathered, fundraised, supported and aided in creating strong young women. Many of his players have moved on to become successful mothers, professionals and community members. Romero taught his players the importance of family, grit, passion and a strong work ethic.

During his 17 years as the coach of Central High School girls softball, he coached two teams that made it to the state finals. He also made it to the postseason all 17 years. Among his recognitions are:

• Colorado High School Activities Association’s “Coach of the Year” (three times)
• Colorado High School Activities Association’s “Coach of the Decade”
• Coached Colorado High School All-State (six times)
• USSSA “Coach of the Year”
• USSSA Coach (five times)

Romero had the opportunity for one of his USSA teams to play against the Russian national team. The accomplishment he is most proud of is that 92 of his players went on to play at the collegiate level.

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