Michael Gibeau Inducted into Minnesota Softball Hall of Fame
Tue, 02/26/2019 - 10:59am
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Mike Gibeau has been called “Clearbrook’s Number 1 Fan.” As far as softball goes, Mike was a fan in the best sense of the word, as he made it possible for others to learn and play the sport he loved. Mike’s contributions were recognized on November 2, 2018 when he was inducted into the Minnesota Softball Hall of Fame at a banquet held at the St. Cloud Convention Center. Kevin Prosser, George Postier, and Dan Lindom began the nomination process after Mike’s death in 2014.
Mike joins a class of 19 inductees honored for outstanding contributions in categories that include player, coach, manager, umpire, sponsor, and volunteer. Mike’s honor is based on his roles in softball as an organizer, promotor, and manager. The nominee’s integrity and the length of time the nominee has participated in softball are also given consideration in the Hall of Fame selection process.
In Clearbrook, Mike is especially remembered for his efforts in developing Kloster Park, a facility not only used for ball games, but also a place for picnics, reunions and other community events. His Hall of Fame profile describes how he worked to promote softball in the Clearbrook area. He founded and managed the Clearbrook Men’s Softball League, which has been running since 1983. He also founded the Clearbrook Summerfest Men’s and Women’s Softball Tournaments and directed these from 1985 until 2013.
Mike’s Hall of Fame profile also tells of his role as a community leader, one he took on as a young man. He served on the Clearbrook City Council since 1975 and was elected as mayor in 2003. In addition to his role in the development and improvement of Kloster Park, he also supported projects such as the Clearbrook Community Center and the community pool.
The Minnesota Softball Hall of Fame Plaque was presented to Shawn Johnson, Mike Gibeau’s nephew, by Mayor Dylan Goudge at the February Clearbrook City Council meeting. The plaque is “given in recognition of superior performance and contribution to the sport of softball”. It will hang near the city offices where Mike Gibeau spent much of his time serving his city and the sport he loved.