Photo of the Week, 64: Redbirds Crowned National Champs in 1969

Get Your Replica Cap Today!
Illinois State University's baseball team captured the NCAA College Division (now Division II) national championship
on June 6, 1969, defeating Southwest Missouri State College (now
Missouri State University). The Illinois State squad, led by Coach Dufy
Bass, returned from Springfield, MO the following day, and the players
rode a fire truck for a victory parade through Bloomington-Normal.
Seen here is ISU pitcher “Buzz" Capra holding the NCAA championship
plaque and giving the “victory" sign. Lee William "Buzz" Capra went on
to enjoy a solid Major League Baseball career, pitching for the New York
Mets and Atlanta Braves from 1971 to 1977. This Saturday, April 26, at
12 noon, members of the only national championship team in Illinois
State University history will gather at Duffy Bass Field on the ISU
campus to stage a long-overdue reunion. And then, at 2:00 p.m., the
current crop of Redbirds takes the field against the Salukis of Southern Illinois University.
Since last fall, the McLean County Museum of History has been selling a
replica, limited-edition baseball hat worn by the 1969 champs. Created
by Seattle-based Ebbets Field Flannels Inc.,
the $40 hats can be purchased at the Museum's “On the Square" gift
shop. If you're not able to visit the Museum, you can place a
long-distance order for one of these surefire collectibles. Call
309-827-0428 or email Museum Director of Development Beth Whisman at
bwhisman@mchistory.org for more information.