Koscho, John “K.J.”

John “K.J.” Koscho – (1987)

 

John ‘K.J.’ Koscho

The John Koscho moniker was “KJ” and just as with “Hawks” – “Bumpy” or “Bubbles”, Lorain sport fans needed nothing more to recognize the athlete involved, the position he played and just how good he was.

“KJ” had two great loves–playing the hot corner in fast pitch softball and his sweet little girl friend, who attended most of his games, “Pudge”. It was questionable which love put the biggest fire under him for he played the corner like he owned it and he married the girl.

“KJ” began his softball career in 1937 with the Lorain Sokols in the ARS traveling league covering eastern Ohio and western Pennsylvania. The Sokols won district championships every year through 1941 except for 1940. Aided by John’s speed and quickness and potent bat, the Sokols captured the National Tournament in 1939.

Continuing with his heavy wood, “KJ” hit .342 for Rusines, .365 for Crystal Clear and .395 for Harts Jewelers before military service temporarily halted his career. Even while in the service, “KJ” helped capture the North African title in 1943 and Southern Italy Title in 1944 and 1945.

Upon return from active duty, KJ’s highlights and teams included the following:

1946 — Hahn Manufacturing – Lakewood AA – Batted .295
1947 — Russo Slav – City & County Titles – Drafted by Sobel’s for State
1948-49 — Harts Jewelers – City, County, District Winners and went to State both years
1952 — Nicholoff Builders won Lakewood AA Title – Hit .292
1953 — Fattys Sports won the City – went to the State – Hit .394

1957 — Highest Batting Average .742 with his National Tube Championship Team

Overall “KJ” Played on 31 Championship Teams

As the playing days dwindled, John turned to public service. Before “Manager Pudge” convinced John that “home” was better than “third” and permanently benched “KJ”, he served as City Councilman and as a member of the City Parks and Recreation Commission. He sponsored and supported legislation creating Columbus Park, lighted diamonds, swimming pools, boat ramps and fishing piers. “KJ” remembered the sport fans as they will remember him.