Meet Plumhoff: GM Employee by Day; Softball Star by Night

By day he is a metal model maker for General Motors.

But come Friday night, Shelby Township's own Rolf Plumhoff is swinging strong for the 3-2 St. Thomas Community Presbyterian Tornadoes softball team. 

The Tornadoes play in the Washington Township men's softball league in Ray Township during the spring and summer.

Plumhoff, 53, uses his youth-like speed to chase down balls in the outfield for his side.  As the senior member of the squad, he shares his experience and sportsmanship with the younger players.

"At 53 I'm just glad to be able to still play ball," said Plumhoff.  "It's great to hear 'great catch' from the younger guys on the team and the camaraderie is fun.  We have a good group of guys and I enjoy it very much."

The St. Thomas team is comprised of men of all ages who attend the church and have worked together on several community service projects including the annual MCCREST program.  Following Hurricane Katrina, Plumhoff and his fellow parishioners traveled to New Orleans to assist in the rebuilding of a church and neighborhood. 

The team that plays together, also prays together.

"We always say a prayer together at home plate before and after each game," said Plumhoff.  "The fellowship is great."

Plumhoff, the oldest player on the squad aside from a part-time pitcher who is pushing 60, enjoys playing alongside one teammate in particular, his son. Dominic Plumhoff is currently 18 years old and has enjoyed playing with his father for the past three years.  He will attend Oakland University in the fall.

The married father of three sons also coaches the Angels of Grace women's softball team and enjoys bonfires, bad classic rock and horseshoes.

Plumhoff's batting average dropped from a respectable .400 to .350 in the past two weeks, but he vows to "get it back up there."

When asked about his team's recent loss and his temporary batting slump, Plumhoff replied, beer in hand, "I'm already over it."