News Summary

The Englewood community is mourning the passing of Sue Parsons Zipay, a former professional baseball player and tennis champion who passed away at 91. Celebrated for her contributions to women’s athletics, Sue played in the All American Girls Professional Baseball League and co-owned the Englewood Tennis Club. Her legacy includes founding organizations for female athletes and advocating for youth tennis programs. Sue’s influence extended far beyond sports, inspiring generations to embrace their passions in athletics.

Englewood, Florida Mourns the Loss of a Sports Legend

As the sun sets over the charming coastal town of Englewood, Florida, the community is coming together to remember a remarkable woman who left an indelible mark on the world of sports. Sue Parsons Zipay, a beloved former professional baseball player and talented tennis champion, passed away on Monday at the age of 91. Her contributions to women’s athletics and her spirited dedication to promoting opportunities for female athletes will never be forgotten.

A Baseball Pioneer

Born and raised in Hingham, Massachusetts, Sue’s journey into sports began with the All American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL). She played for the Rockford Peaches from 1953 to 1954, a time that was revolutionary for women in sports. Sue’s passion for baseball and her love for the game placed her alongside a generation of women who broke barriers and paved the way for future athletes. In a nod to her baseball legacy, she even made a cameo appearance in the iconic 1992 film “A League of Their Own”, showcasing the spirit and camaraderie of women athletes in a fun, lighthearted manner.

A New Chapter in Englewood

In 1987, Sue made the move to Englewood, bringing her vibrant spirit and love for sports with her. She co-owned the Englewood Tennis Club with her son, Bob, from 1989. This venture not only exemplified her dedication to the game but also her commitment to the community. It was in this sunny Florida town that she truly flourished, transitioning from a baseball icon to a tennis champion.

Starting her tennis journey in the 1970s, Sue excelled and achieved impressive rankings in the New England and national 40+ divisions. In 1973, she embarked on a coaching career, focusing on young athletes eager to learn the game. She served in various roles, including as the FTA League Coordinator for USTA Junior Team Tennis and later as the League Director for Team Tennis Junior League across multiple counties. Her energy and enthusiasm for nurturing young talent were infectious.

Creating Opportunities

Recognizing the funding cuts that impacted middle school tennis programs in Sarasota County, Sue didn’t just sit back—she took action. She founded a middle school league to ensure that young players still had opportunities to blossom and shine in the sport she loved. This initiative reflected her unwavering commitment to keeping the love for tennis alive among the youth.

A Champion for Women’s Baseball

Throughout her life, Sue remained a staunch advocate for women in baseball. She became a board member for the AAGPBL Players Association, acknowledging the importance of recognizing the contributions of women athletes. Furthermore, she founded the American Girls Baseball organization, dedicated to providing girls and women with the chance to play baseball competitively and passionately. Excitingly, the 2025 AGB All-American Women’s Baseball Classic Tournament is set to take place in Durham, North Carolina, furthering Sue’s mission of fostering women’s baseball.

A Legacy Remembered

In 1988, Sue was honored by being inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York, alongside her fellow AAGPBL players. In 2007, she was also honored by her hometown, being inducted into the Hingham High School Athletic Hall of Fame. Her legacy lives strong in the stories of her three grown children and six grandchildren, including Benjamin Zipay, who showcased athletic prowess at a young age, becoming a ranked USTA tournament player at just 10 years old in 2013.

As the Englewood community remembers Sue Parsons Zipay, they celebrate a life rich in sportsmanship, advocacy, and love for the game. With her incredible spirit, she not only played the field but also inspired countless others to follow their dreams, proving that sports can be a powerful platform for change.

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