The National Softball Association will welcome five new members into its Hall of Fame on November 12, 2026, in Panama City Beach, Florida. The Class of 2026 represents five states and recognizes contributions to the game across the Director, Umpire and Player categories.

This year’s inductees are:

• Steve Humphries – Director | Washington

• Tony Clayborn – Umpire | Michigan

• Joe Horvath – Player | Indiana

• Greg Birt – Umpire | Illinois

• Kathy Presley – Umpire | California

Hall of Fame induction is a lasting recognition of an individual’s impact on the sport of softball. For the Class of 2026, the ceremony will bring together honorees whose contributions reflect several essential parts of the game: the leadership that makes competition possible, the officiating that upholds its standards and the players who bring it to life on the field.

Humphries will be recognized in the Director category, while Clayborn, Birt and Presley will enter in the Umpire category. Horvath will be honored in the Player category. Together, they represent the dedication to softball that the NSA Hall of Fame celebrates and preserves for future generations.

The November 12 ceremony will provide an opportunity to reflect on their individual journeys and celebrate this milestone with the broader NSA community. It will also serve as a reminder that the strength of the sport comes from people who invest their time, talent and passion into helping it thrive.

Additional coverage highlighting each inductee’s career and accomplishments will be shared as the ceremony approaches.

The National Softball Association congratulates Steve Humphries, Tony Clayborn, Joe Horvath, Greg Birt and Kathy Presley on their selection to the Hall of Fame Class of 2026.

You can read more about each inductee below:

Steve Humphries

Director Category

Steve began his journey with NSA in 1991, quickly becoming an important part of the organization’s efforts to develop and expand the fast pitch program. From 1996 through 2003, he served as a World Series Age Division Coordinator, helping provide leadership and direction for some of NSA’s premier events.

Steve traveled extensively throughout the country, building relationships and helping introduce NSA Fast Pitch to new areas. His tireless efforts made him one of the key catalysts behind the growth, success, and national expansion of the program.

Away from the field, Steve shares his life with his significant other, Lynn Shawback, his partner of 21 years, and is the proud father of three sons: Jamie, Randy, and A.J.

In recognition of their extraordinary career and lasting influence, Steve has rightfully earned a place in the NSA-BPA Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2026.

Greg Birt

Umpire Category

A dedicated leader, mentor and umpire, Greg has proudly served NSA since 2012. Currently serving as a State Director while continuing to work as a part-time umpire. He has devoted countless hours to growing the game and supporting players, coaches and fellow umpires throughout Illinois and across the nation.

He has been married to his wife, LeAnn, for 36 years. Together they have raised two daughters, Daryann and Hailey, and enjoy spending time with their beloved dogs, Scrappy, Bourbon and their many grand dogs.

Throughout his NSA career, he has earned numerous prestigious honors recognizing his commitment, professionalism and service. His unwavering dedication, integrity and passion to the sport, have made a lasting impact on the NSA family.

In recognition of their extraordinary career and lasting influence, Greg has rightfully earned a place in the NSA-BPA Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2026.

Kathryn “Kathy” Presley

Umpire Category

Kathy Presley’s dedication to NSA Softball spans three decades, beginning her journey with the organization in 1996. While Kathy is well known for her work as an umpire, her contributions to NSA extend far beyond officiating. Over the years, she has served in numerous leadership roles, including UIC, Training UIC, Assistant State UIC, and Tournament Director.

Away from the softball field, Kathy is equally proud of her family. She and her husband, Jon, will celebrate an incredible 40 years of marriage in June. Together, their family includes daughters Nicole Haynes and Sarah Hagan, sons Stephen and Chris, and 10 grandchildren.

Kathy’s 30 years of dedication and service to officiating, training, and tournament operations has made her a valued member of the NSA family.

In recognition of their extraordinary career and lasting influence, Kathy has rightfully earned a place in the NSA-BPA Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2026.

Anthony “Tony” Clayborn

Umpire Category

Anthony “Tony” Clayborn’s dedication to NSA Softball spans more than four decades. Beginning his NSA journey in 1981, Tony has built an outstanding umpiring career defined by professionalism, commitment, and a genuine love for the game.

Away from the field, Tony and his wife, Susan, have shared 49 wonderful years together. Their family includes children Tisha, Michael, Amanda, and their late son, Matthew.

Those who have spent time around Tony at the fields also know him affectionately as “The Snack Guy.” In fact, seeing a package of red Twizzlers around the complex is usually a pretty good sign that Tony is working nearby. That familiar tradition, along with his personality and friendship, has made him a memorable part of the NSA family.

In recognition of their extraordinary career and lasting influence, Tony has rightfully earned a place in the NSA-BPA Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2026.

Joe Horvath

Player Category

Since beginning his NSA career in 1995, Joe has established himself as one of the most accomplished and respected players in NSA. Through dedication, consistency, and an unmatched passion for the game, he has built a remarkable softball legacy.

Over the course of his career, he has amassed more than 5,000 home runs, earned over 200 NSA tournament championships, captured 20 Tournament MVP Awards, and received 100 All- Tournament Team selections. These accomplishments reflect not only exceptional talent but also a commitment to excellence that has inspired teammates and competitors alike.

Away from the field, family has always been his greatest source of support. He has shared the past 20 years with his wife, Esme, and is the proud father of twin daughters, Madison and Jordan, son Riley, and stepson Donnie.

In recognition of their extraordinary career and lasting influence, Joe has rightfully earned a
place in the NSA-BPA Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2026.