Local Baseball Family Celebrates Late Rich Alday with Charity Golf Tournament for Pima Team

Rich Alday, the beloved former Pima Community College baseball coach, left a lasting impression on his players and the community. Known for his nurturing approach and structured leadership, Alday fostered a family-like atmosphere in the competitive world of collegiate baseball.

His coaching prowess shone brightly from 1974 to 1989, leading the Aztecs to three NJCAA World Series appearances. Later, as head coach at the University of New Mexico from 1990 to 2007, Alday became the program’s all-time winningest coach, amassing 515 victories before retiring after a final season at Pima in 2017.

Alday passed away in 2021 at the age of 71, but his legacy continues through his accomplishments and the annual Rich Alday Memorial Golf Tournament. The event recently concluded its fourth iteration at El Rio Golf Course, serving as a fundraiser for the upcoming baseball season.

More than just a fundraising effort, the tournament also celebrated the profound impact Alday had on his players. Alumni shared stories and reminisced, reinforcing the bonds that Alday had helped create. Norma Alday expressed her joy at seeing former players maintain their connections, saying, “It’s like a family reunion.”

Norma emphasized the importance of alumni support for current athletes, sharing, “These kids are the future.” Her affectionate term for Alday’s former players, ‘mijitos,’ or ‘my little sons,’ highlights her continued connection to them.

Among those ‘mijitos’ is Oscar Romero, now an assistant coach at Pima. He remarked on the significance of the event, stating, “It’s great to see all these past Aztecs and people in the community come out and support the team.” The casual four-man scramble tourney awarded prizes based on an honor system, celebrating both teamwork and individual excellence.

Participants enjoyed a lunch, which was accompanied by a silent auction featuring signed memorabilia. Ken Jacome, Pima’s baseball coach and first-year athletic director, appreciated the strong turnout, particularly from those who had first-hand experience with Alday’s coaching. “It’s all about coming together and enjoying the moment with each other,” Jacome said.

Gilbert Heredia, a former player who competed under Alday, expressed his gratitude for being part of the tournament. Heredia, who triumphed in the College World Series with the University of Arizona in 1986 and later enjoyed a ten-year MLB career, echoed the sentiment of honoring Alday.

Terry Francona, a renowned former MLB manager, was a notable guest at this year’s tournament. Invited by Jerry Stitt, Pima’s executive assistant athletic director, Francona spoke fondly of his relationship with Alday, calling him a brother. He conveyed his delight at gathering to commemorate Alday while also contributing to Pima’s baseball program.

As preseason games continue, including a doubleheader scrimmage against the University of Arizona, the Pima baseball team remains focused on preparing for the spring season ahead. Alday’s legacy continues to inspire current and former players alike, uniting them in a shared commitment to the sport.