Jeremiah Perez
Player/Coach
Jeremiah Perez’s journey in diamond sports is a testament to passion, perseverance, and leadership. From humble beginnings at Runyon Field, where he played baseball with little more than t‑shirts for uniforms and second‑hand gear, Jeremiah’s commitment to the game has evolved into a distinguished career in fastpitch softball and coaching.
After concluding his baseball playing days, Jeremiah embraced fastpitch softball in 2006 by joining the Pueblo Bandits. Competing in several ISC World Tournaments, he laid the foundation for a lifelong bond with the sport.
His transition began in 2017, mentoring his daughter Sophia on the Azteca 8U team. Sophia’s later achievement as the 2026 Tony Bobian Memorial High School MVP underscores the impact of Jeremiah’s guidance. Building on this success, he established his own Bandits teams at the 10U and 12U levels, renown for their powerful offense that frequently launched home runs over Runyon’s small field.
In 2021, he founded the Regulators, reuniting many players who had matured under his direction. The Regulators thrived, amassing an impressive 134-69-2 record and fostering a vibrant, supportive organization.
What distinguishes Jeremiah is his holistic approach to development. He instills values of accountability, teamwork, confidence, and resilience, shaping young women into not only skilled athletes but also empowered individuals. His influence resonates through the programs he created, the players he nurtured, and the coaches he inspired.
Jeremiah’s expertise has reached beyond Pueblo, contributing to Team Mexico during the International Challenge and supporting the Stars National Walker team on national and international stages.
Jeremiah Perez’s story is one of unwavering dedication to sport and community. Through his leadership, countless athletes gain not only the skills to excel on the field but also the character to succeed in life.
The Pueblo Softball Hall of Fame Committee proudly welcomes Jeremiah Perez into the Class of 2026.
John "Mello" Metsker
Player/Umpire
John’s baseball journey began at the tender age of seven, where his talent quickly shone through as he earned selection as an Old Timers youth baseball All-Star every year he played. At East High School, he excelled as both a pitcher and shortstop, graduating in 1963 with a strong foundation in the sport.
That same year, John enlisted in the United States Air Force, where his dedication to serving his country did not diminish his passion for baseball and softball. Throughout his military assignments in El Paso, Texas; the Philippine Islands; and Cheyenne, Wyoming, John continued to play, keeping the game a meaningful part of his life.
Upon completing his military service, John returned to Pueblo and quickly established himself as a standout in the local fastpitch softball scene. He earned MVP honors in the C.F.&I. League and was a consistent Bessemer All-Star for many seasons. His athletic versatility extended to slo-pitch softball, where he teamed with fellow Pueblo Softball Hall of Fame inductee Lewis “Fuzzy” Fesmire, winning three State Championships with Hedrich-Landrum team.
John’s influence on the sport transcended his playing days, becoming one of the most respected officials in Colorado and the Rocky Mountain region. His officiating career is distinguished by five seasons as a Region 9 College Softball umpire and over 30 years umpiring softball and baseball for Triple Crown. Additionally, he dedicated 40 years to officiating youth and high school basketball, showcasing his broad commitment to sports officiating.
A true pillar of the softball community for more than fifty years, John continues to give back generously. At 75 years young, he mentors developing officials at the Runyon Sports Complex, imparting his extensive knowledge, experience, and passion for the game. His profound impact on both fastpitch and slo‑pitch softball is lasting, and widely recognized.
In 2024, John’s decades of dedication and excellence were formally honored with his induction into the Runyon Sports Complex “Umpire Hall of Fame,” a well-deserved testament to his enduring legacy.
The Pueblo Softball Hall of Fame Committee would like to welcome John "Mello" Metsker into the Class of 2026.
Ron "Big O" Oreskovich (posthumously)
Player
Ron “Big O” Oreskovich’s athletic journey began on the humble dirt fields of St. Mary Catholic Grade School in Pueblo, where he played football, basketball, and softball during the mid-1950s. His passion for sports followed him to Keating Junior High in 1958, where he competed in football and basketball, before making a significant mark at Central High School.
As a key player on the Wildcats’ 1961 State Championship football team, Ron’s competitive spirit and natural athleticism were clear well before he stepped onto a softball field.
His fastpitch career took off as high school senior pitching for Alibi Lounge in the Pueblo Summer Softball League, where his immediate impact helped secure two State Championships.
Graduating from high school in 1963, Ron entered the Premier Softball Association (PSA) as a pitcher and also earned a tryout with the New York Yankees baseball organization. Choosing to serve his country, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where his pitching talent gained widespread recognition. While stationed at Vandenberg Air Force Base, his skill was so respected that other Air Force teams flew him in specifically for tournaments.
After completing his military service in 1967, Ron returned to Pueblo and resumed his dominant pitching career in the PSA. Standing 6’ 2” tall and a commanding left-handed pitcher, Ron was known for his rare ability to throw any pitch with precision. His reputation as a formidable competitor grew throughout the region.
Upon retiring from competitive softball in 1975, Ron transitioned to a distinguished banking career. Spending over 30 years with Minnequa Bank, he rose to Vice President and served on the Board of Directors, earning respect in the business world as he had on the field.
In recognition of his athletic achievements and contributions, Ron was posthumously inducted into the Greater Pueblo Sports Hall of Fame in 2017, cementing his legacy as a beloved sports figure and community leader.
The Pueblo Softball Hall of Fame Committee proudly welcomes Ron "Big O" Oreskovich into the Class of 2026.
Joe E. Garcia
Player
Joe E. Garcia is a proud graduate of Centennial High School, where he distinguished himself as a multi-sport athlete in baseball, basketball, cross country, and track, graduating in 1962. Committed to both education and athletics, Joe pursued higher education extensively, earning a degree from Southern Colorado State College in 1968, attended Adams State College in 1972, and furthered his studies internationally at Concordia University in Montreal, Canada, and the Boson Sports College in Stockholm, Sweden.
As a competitor, Joe left a lasting mark in fastpitch softball, participating in five State Championship games and earning recognition as a consistent All-Star and MVP at third base with the competitive Walter’s Brewery club during the late 1960s and early 1970s.
Joe’s influence expanded profoundly through his long career with Pueblo School District 60, where he coached baseball, tennis, track, and basketball at East High School. However, his greatest passion and legacy lie in coaching boys’ and girls’ cross country. His cross-country teams achieved remarkable success, including one State Championship, 17 South-Central League titles, 15 Regional titles, five consecutive undefeated seasons, and numerous city cross-country championships.
Recognized for his outstanding contributions, Joe was inducted into the Greater Pueblo Sports Hall of Fame in 1985 and the Pueblo East High School Alumni Foundation Hall of Fame in 2008, cementing his legacy as an exceptional athlete, coach, and mentor.
The Pueblo Softball Hall of Fame Committee would like to welcome Joe E. Garcia into the Class of 2026.
Sid Colglazier (posthumously)
Player
Sid Colglazier was a foundational member of the Pepsi‑Cola fastpitch softball team, established in 1965 by fellow Pueblo Softball Hall of Fame inductee Bob Ore (Class of 2025). Known for his versatility and dependability, Sid excelled at both catcher and first base, consistently bringing toughness, intelligence, and leadership to every team he played for.
Prior to joining Pepsi, Sid had already earned a reputation as one of Pueblo’s most respected catchers. He began his fastpitch softball career catching for Rio Grande and later for Daurio’s Standard and Martin Moore Insurance. Throughout his career, Sid caught for nearly every top pitcher in Pueblo, a testament to his skill, reliability, and esteemed standing behind the plate. His determination and aggressive style made him a standout player and a trusted teammate.
Sid showcased his talent on the national stage by competing in two World Tournaments, in 1970 and 1972. In 1970, following Pepsi’s first State Championship victory, Sid was honored with selection to the All‑State Team. Pepsi secured another State Championship in 1972, further solidifying the team’s legacy and Sid’s role in its success. He concluded his illustrious career with Pepsi in 1973.
Sid is the eldest of the Colglazier brothers, a remarkable softball family legacy in Pueblo. His brothers Norm (PSHOF Class of 2025) and Alan (PSHOF Class of 2009) together represent one of the region’s most accomplished softball families, with Sid’s career serving as a cornerstone of their collective achievements.
It is with great pride that the Pueblo Softball Hall of Fame Committee welcomes Sid Colglazier into the Class of 2026.
Luther Nava
Player
Luther Nava’s athletic journey began at Freed Junior High School, where he played football, basketball, and track. He continued to excel at Centennial High School, distinguishing himself as a standout athlete in football, baseball, and basketball. Luther earned Honorable Mention All-American honors while helping the Bulldogs secure a conference football championship and a state runner-up finish. As a two-time All-Conference baseball player, he led Centennial to the South-Central League baseball championship.
After graduating high school in 1964, Luther attended Adams State College, where he played both football and baseball, graduating in 1969.
Luther’s fastpitch softball career spanned 18 years, featuring notable stints with the Pepsi-Cola and Walter’s Brewery teams. He played second base for the Pepsi-Cola team, which earned local, state, and national acclaim, and he was recognized as an All-State player four times during his tenure.
While with Walter’s Brewery, Luther’s power hitting regularly led the team to victories and multiple appearances in ISC State Tournaments. His teammates included fellow Pueblo Softball Hall of Fame inductees Dan Rosales, Bobby Armijo, Joe Santos, Don “Corky” Madrid, Clem Aragon, Carmen Rivas, Jerry Baca, Jim Bond, and Joe Garcia.
Luther’s coaching career began as an assistant football coach at Keating Junior High, progressing to football coaching roles at Central High School and cross-town rival Centennial High School.
In recognition of his outstanding contributions as both an athlete and coach, Luther was inducted into the Greater Pueblo Sports Hall of Fame in 1983 and the Centennial High School Hall of Fame in 2018.
It is with great pride that the Pueblo Softball Hall of Fame Committee welcomes Luther Nava into the Class of 2026.