By Mark Stone

As many of you know our brother Dale Leisen has been an integral member of DTW for over seven years but it appears that this past year will now be his last. Dale has struggled with illness over the past several years and now finds that that has taken its toll and prevents him from participating as he would like.

In a recent email to league secretary Doug Yount, which has been forwarded on to the members, Dale expressed his retirement this way.

“I greatly appreciate your words of support in this situation. I had pretty much made my decision before my Aunt's Funeral and I am very much at peace with it. The light-headedness, the nauseousness and mental lock-ups are now just too much to overcome. I was hoping that taking a year off to make myself stronger to counteract these symptoms would allow me to continue to play but it's just not the case. Believe me, I got a lot of advice from my doctor, friends and family but I still had the final decision.

I have had a fantastic time at DTW with tons of great memories and friendships. I couldn't imagine the last 7 years of my life without it. The personal benefits of playing could not overcome the possible risk of injury. So before I injure [sic] myself or somebody else, I'll have to end my playing days. DTW is full of amazing people and some damn good ballplayers and, by the looks of things, that isn't going to change any time soon. To single out the many friends I cherish from this organization would take way too long and I'm sure I'd leave somebody out so I will just say a sincere "Thank You" to DTW for being my friend and a cherished part of my life.”

Dale, you have been a valuable member and contributor in more ways that just on the field and you will be sorely missed. I know I speak for all your brothers when I say that the door is always open for you to return, be it for only one game or full time. But even though you will no longer be playing, we expect to see and hear from you from time to time - whether you just stop by to watch a game or join us at our various activities.

All our best to you Dale and thanks for being “our brother.”