Tom Dotterer
Baseball
Enshrined: 2008
Born: December 19, 1935
Syracuse, New York
Mr. High School Baseball in the Central New York area would be an accurate tab for Tom Dotterer. A former professional player, Dotterer (Christian Brothers Academy, Class of 1953) assumed the head coaching position at his alma mater in 1980 and began an illustrious career with the Brothers.
Before becoming a coach, Dotterer played professional baseball, signing with the Cincinnati Reds organization in 1953. His 10-year pro career took him through the lower minor leagues all the way to Triple A where he played for Jersey City and Toronto. In 1962, Dotterer played for his hometown Syracuse Chiefs and batted .417 in seven games.
Dotterer’s unique coaching style has endeared him to his players over the years. He frequently incorporates his love for books and baseball in pre- and post-game talks. He was named The Post Standard’s All-CNY Coach of the Year twice (1996, 2008) and his 1996 team compiled a 21-3 record en route to the state title, the first ever for a Central New York team.
Dotterer was inducted into the CBA Hall of Fame in 2002. He is also the third Dotterer family member to be honored by the Greater Syracuse Sports Hall of Fame, joining his father, Dutch (1992), and brother, Henry (2005).
Career highlights
1953: Signed a professional baseball contract with the Cincinnati Reds
1980-Present: Baseball Coach at CBA
1996: Won state championship with a record of 21-3. Selected All-CNY Coach of the Year
2002: Inducted into the CBA Sports Hall of Fame