Legendary Baseball Pioneer Sue Zipay Passes Away at 91 in Englewood

Englewood, Florida, USA - Sue Parsons Zipay, a pioneering figure in women’s baseball, passed away at the age of 91 in Englewood, Florida, on July 14, 2025. A member of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League (AAGPBL), Zipay played for the iconic Rockford Peaches during the league’s final seasons in 1953 and 1954. Her legacy doesn’t just stop at baseball; she was also an accomplished tennis player and co-owner of the Englewood Tennis Club, a venture she undertook with her son, Bob, starting in 1989. Born and raised in Hingham, Massachusetts, she later embraced Florida as her home, making Englewood her base since 1987.

A life marked by sports and service, Sue was recognized for her contributions to women’s baseball with her induction into the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown in 1988, an acknowledgment of the profound impact she made during her athletic career. As a player, her spirit and dedication on the field inspired teammates and young athletes alike. Her role in the AAGPBL, a groundbreaking league that introduced professional women’s baseball in the United States, cannot be overstated. The league, which operated from 1943 to 1954, showcased the skills of over 600 women and facilitated opportunities for female athletes at a time when such chances were rare. As noted by mysuncoast.com, her contributions to the sport were recognized even further when she appeared in the 1992 film „A League of Their Own,“ which further immortalized the league’s history.

A Trailblazer for Women in Sports

In addition to her illustrious playing career, Sue Parsons Zipay was passionate about creating opportunities for young female athletes. In 2019, she founded the American Girls Baseball (AGB) organization, aiming to build pathways for girls interested in playing baseball and providing them options between baseball and softball. According to American Girls Baseball, AGB’s initiatives include supporting training and competitions at all levels, fostering communities for budding athletes, and facilitating national tournaments, such as the upcoming All-American Women’s Baseball Classic set for August 1-3, 2025, in Durham, North Carolina.

Beyond the diamond, Sue’s impact as a tennis coach was equally significant. Starting her teaching career in 1973, she became a prominent figure in the tennis community, playing a vital role in the formation of a middle school tennis league in Sarasota County after funding cuts. She also achieved New England and national rankings in her age division, showcasing her talents well beyond her baseball career. Known for her leadership in youth programs as an FTA League Coordinator for USTA Junior Team Tennis in Region 5, Sue truly exemplified what it meant to give back to her community.

Remembering a Legacy

As we celebrate her life, Sue Parsons Zipay leaves behind a legacy that goes beyond championships and accolades. She is survived by her three grown children and six grandchildren, the youngest of whom, Benjamin Zipay, reached the heights of being a ranked USTA tournament player in 2013. Her commitment to both sports and family has inspired countless individuals who now carry her torch forward.

Her passing has left a void in the world of sports, but her impact will resonate for many years to come. As the AAGPBL continues to have its story told through various media, including the 2022 television series based on the original film, Sue’s contributions will always be recognized and celebrated. Donations in her memory can be made to American Girls Baseball, ensuring that her commitment to advancing women’s sports continues long after her passing. Indeed, there’s something to be said for the lasting influence of trailblazers like Sue Parsons Zipay, whose memory will live on in the hearts of many.