Kathy Quinn
Overview
Kathy Quinn has devoted nearly five decades to the growth, stability, and spirit of beep baseball. A member of the NBBA Hall of Fame Class of 2007 as a non-competitor and catcher, she has served continuously from the sport’s earliest days in 1975 through 1992, and again from 2007 to the present.
As the daughter-in-law of NBBA co-founder Jim Quinn, Kathy became deeply involved in the formative years of the league. Working alongside pioneers such as Jim Quinn, John Ross, Kathi Ross, Jim Mastro, and Dennis Huberty, she helped support the implementation of the “Minnesota Rules” and the landmark East versus West games in 1975 that led to the formal formation of the NBBA in Chicago in March of 1976.
Building the Foundation
In Minnesota, one of the birthplaces of modern beep baseball, Kathy played a vital role in supporting teams and organizing events during the league’s earliest growth. She assisted with the St. Paul Gorillas and the Minneapolis Braille Sports Foundation and contributed to the stability and success of Minnesota programs that captured multiple World Series championships.
Between 1976 and 1992, Minnesota hosted five NBBA World Series tournaments. In later years, Rochester, Minnesota hosted three additional World Series events, and Kathy contributed in various capacities at each. Whether serving as catcher, spotter, coach, or mentor, she has remained a steady presence on the field and behind the scenes.
National Leadership
On the national level, Kathy served on the NBBA Board of Directors from 2015 through 2022. During that time, she worked extensively with the Tournament Committee and served as First Vice President and co-tournament director at multiple World Series events from 2015 through 2022.
Since 2007, she has also served as guardian and co-chairperson of the Jim Quinn Award Committee. In that role, she oversees the selection and presentation of the NBBA’s most prestigious service honor, ensuring that the award reflects the values and legacy of its namesake.
Legacy of Service
In 2024, the NBBA recognized Kathy’s lifetime of dedication by presenting her with the Legacy of Jim Quinn Award. The inscription honored her faithful commitment to preserving the Quinn family tradition and advancing opportunities for those who are blind and visually impaired.
Kathy Quinn’s impact reaches beyond statistics or titles. She represents continuity between the founding generation and today’s athletes. Through tireless volunteerism, leadership, and mentorship, she has helped sustain the culture, tradition, and integrity of the NBBA for nearly half a century.