NEWSPAPER ARTICLES:
Between 1941 & 1945 (not sure what paper they were from)
SPORTS STEW--SERVED HOT by Eddie Beachler----You've got to hand it to Billy Zmrzel, the blind golfer from Library, PA...He's a real all-American guy...Disqualified from taking a first-hand part in the war because of physical handicaps, Bill is busy trying to line up a foursome to play exhibition matches which might help to spur the sale of bonds and defense stamps among members of the golfing fraternity...He's rounded up two similarly handicapped golfers, Irvin McGill, who lost an arm in an accident, and Bill Purkey, who is required to use crutches following an attack of infantile paralysis, and thus needs only one more member to complete the foursome...Yesterday the trio played their first practice match at South Park...Zmrzel, National Pulinex qualifier a few years ago prior to the auto accident which cost him his sight, scored a 95, one more than McGill required and two less than Purkey.
SHOOTS 79 AT SOUTH PARK; GOLFER, BLINDED IN ACCIDENT, STILL HOPES FOR PUBLINX TITLE--by Eddie Beachler; Bill Zmr-zel the "Racehorse" publinks golfer, is wearing blinders these days but he's still galloping around the County's South Park Public Golf course in thoroughbred style. Bill is totally blind, the result of an auto accident last September (1941). Along with losing the sight of both eyes, he suffered a double concussion--not to mention a score of lesser injuries and the best brain specialists pronounced his case "hopeless" allowing him very slim chance to live, in fact. But Bill "just had to play some more golf," and the doctors hadn't counted on that. Furthermore, he was only 19 years old and, prior to the accident, had been in perfect physical condition, thanks to the countless rounds of golf he had played.
He refused to give up. Two days ago, he climaxed an amazing recovery by touring the long 6461 yard par-72 South Park course in 79! "It's a first-class miracle," South Park pro Al McBride commented yesterday as he, along with a good-sized gallery, watched Zmr-zel drive long, straight tee shots, blast several practice shots out of the sand trap to within eight or 10 feet of the pin, and drop four to six-foot puts dead to the pin. What's more Bill is planning to continue his competitive golf campaign, which only last summer began to bear fruit as he qualified for the National Publiks championship tourney and made the trip to Spokane, Washington, just a few weeks before that accident.
The sturdy 150-pound Slovenian boy, chuck full of courage, tells the world: "I fooled 'em all. They said I didn't have a chance; And I'm going to keep on fooling 'em!"
How did he shoot that 79, or in fact, how does he even manage to hit the ball? "Well," he exclaims proudly, "I've been playing golf since I was 11 years old, and even before that with a makeshift stick I cut from a tree. Hitting the ball is a mechanical motion which anyone can do with his eyes closed once you get to swing in the right groove. "I used to hit the ball practically blind when I'd finish up a round late in the evening. The only thing tough about it is getting the proper stance and finding the ball. "Well," he exclaims proudly, "I've been playing golf since I was 11 years old, and even before that with a makeshift stick I cut from a tree. Hitting the ball is a mechanical motion which anyone can do with his eye closed once you get to swinging in the right groove. "I used to hit the ball practically blind when I'd finish up a round late in the evening. The only thing tough about it is getting the proper stance and finding the ball."
His "seeing-eye" caddy and close friend. Jerry Castelli, Library, PA, theater owner, takes care of that. "Jerry places me in the proper position for the shot, lines up the club and ball, and tells me how far to go to the green or hole. I guess he deserves more credit than I do. I taught him to play the game last year and now he's paying me back by showing me how to do it. Imagine that?" Bill adds, and his thin mustache curves upward in a wide smile displaying two rows of glistening white teeth. "My stance is a lot stiffer than before and I find I have a bad tendency to pull my shots as I have to grip the club much tighter. But I'm gradually over-coming these faults."
Zmr-zel began his remarkable recovery just three weeks after he was released from the hospital last October, struggling through three nightmarish holes of golf in his first test. Throughout the winter, when weather permitted, he would sneak out to the 14th tee at South Park---just a short piece from his home in Library and there could be found hitting practice shots so long as anyone would chase them.
Bill was the first golfer off the tee when South Park opened last month, being granted special permission to get an early start in the morning prior to the opening noon-time ceremonies. He's played everyday since, sometimes two and three rounds per day, rain or shine.
His highest score was 105 and his low cane Tuesday--that amazing 79. He's had seven "birdies" already this season, and on the 239 yard par three No. 13 hole came within six inches of a hole-in-one.
Zmr-zel cam up through the caddy ranks at South Park, caddying since he was 11 (although he had to tell a white lie at the time, giving his age as 15), He played on Snowden High golf and football teams, the latter at an end position, in 1937-38. On graduating from Snowden in 1939, he took a job as lathe operator in the Christy Park Plant of National Tube Company in McKeesport, working in that capacity until his accident last September. He was the second low qualifier, surpassed only by former champion Andy Swedzko who qualified automatically, thus giving him medalist honors in last year's National Publinks qualifying test. Bill shot 72-72 and in the Nation at Spokane won Consolation honors.
Zmr-zel was the subject of a hot controversy in the County Parks championships last year. He tried with four others, including Carl Kauffmann, for the last qualifying position, but had to leave early to work a late shift at National Tube. When he failed to show for the playoff, he was disqualified and three of the remaining playoff contenders conceded the last position to the veteran Kauffmann due to his experience. The Sphinx when on to win the title. Zmr-zel in a public protest charged County authorities with unsportsmanlike conduct in not waiting to give him a chance to play-off with Kaufmann for the final qualifying berth. He still hoping to get in that championship!
THE PRESS (S?) THURSDAY, MAY 7, 1942--Here's how Bill Zmr-zel, blind publinks golfer, tours the course with the aid of hi "seeing-eye-caddie," Jerry Castelli of Library, PA. Zmr-zel, blind only since last September, blasts out of a sand-trap while Castelli looks on. Castelli lines up a putt for his blind friend.
REAL SEEING EYE--caddie is the prise possession of Bill Zmrzel, amazing blind golfer of Library, PA. Now that he's secured one of the famous "Seeing Eye" dogs, he;'s looking ahead to a banner golf season. The dog originally was named "Lulu" by the "Seeing Eye" organization of Morristown, NJ, where she was trained, but Zmrzel has rechristened her "Art" in honor of the Athletic Round Table, of Spokane, Washington, by taking first letter of each work in the club's name. It is through the help of the nationally known Spokane sports club, which has sent Zmrzel funds to give him a start in business, that he hoes to earn sufficient money to pay for the dog.
The Observer-Reporter is a member of the Pittsburgh Suburban Newspaper Network
122 S. Main St.
Washington, PA 15301
WASHINGTON REPORTER 8-21-1942--NEWS AND VIEWS--this article has some parts missing due to it being taped.---The eyeless spokesman is Bill Zmr-zel, Library, and has aroused considerable notice through out the country this past year as a first rate golfer. Zmr-zel was one of the most promising young folfers in the game when he was involved in an automobile accident slightly over a year ago which cost him his sight. Shortly before this accident occured, Bill had played South Park course in 67 and was labeled as a sure-fire bet to become one of golfin's great.
However, Zmr-zel has not allowed himself to become discouraged over his misfortune and with the assistance of a friend, whom Bill has titled his "seeing eye", has continued to follow his favorite pastime and several weeks ago registered 79.
Zmr-zel attracted world-wide notice when he entered the publinks tournament last week, but he was off form on his putting and failed to qualify.
Without any means of support, Bill is considering the advisability of making a trip cross the country giving exhibitions. providing shuch a thing is possible. Since losing his sight, he has never played any course except Sourth Park and whether he will be able to shoot in the 80's or low 90's on other courses remains to be determined. That is the primary reason for Saturday's exhibition here. Following his two rounds tomorrow one at 2 o'clock and the other at 6 PM, the blind wonder will go to Waynesburg and Sunday will find him trying his skill on the Greene County greens.
The officials of the Washington Club have been asked to name two men, who shoot around 85, to oppose Zmr-zel. Another thing to be determined by these two matches is how bill will react when he has a large gallery following him. Many who witnessed the publinks play last week stated he appeared extremely nervous when the fans followed him around. The boy like Bill Zmr-zel is deserving of everything possible and we hope his trip here will be a plus for him. Turn out tomorrow, you goe (?) and help Bill get started on his exhibition tour. There is on admission charge.
BLIND VOLUNTEERS FOR WARTIME JOBS--entered the vocational shops of the Morse School Annex, South Side, this week in an experimental class to determine their training capacities. Two of the men arrived with seeing-eye dogs. There are eight in this drill press class, including one woman. Mrs, Charles Henthart, East End; Raymond E. Buerkle, teacher Arthur Nussbaumer, New Eagle; James Lostlen, New Eagle, Joe Carson, Canonsburg; Bill Zmrzel, Library, and Amol Iocca, Ambridge
BLIND MAN STUDIES WAR WORK--Bill Zmr-Zel, Pittsburgh's blind golfer, believes anyone who can play golf without seeing can help in the nation's war effort. Here, with "Art," his faithful Seeing Eye dog. Bill is training in the operation of a drill press in the vocational shops where an experimental class is being conducted for blind volunteers for war jobs. His rhythm swing in golf enables him to shoot in the low 80's.
OBITUARY:
ZMRZEL--On Saturday, February 19, 1944, William Zmrzel, age 22 of Library, PA, son of Louis Zmrzel, brother of Cpl. Joseph of Alaska, Mrs. Frank Celin, Mrs. Joseph Timko, Mrs. John Johnson, Mrs. Thomas Burke all of Library and Mrs. Walter Bridegum of Hookstown, PA. Friends received at the home of his sister Mrs. Frank Celin, 17 Orchard St., Library, PA. Requiem high mass at Nativity Church in Broughton, PA on Wednesday, Feb 23rd at 9:00 AM, friends invited.
FEBRUARY 19, 1945 ZMRZEL--William (Bill). In loving memory of our son and brother who passed away one year ago today since you passed away. Dear Bill, we loved you and we miss you. We hope and humbly pray that God will let us meet you again someday. Sadly missed by his family, Ann and his dog Lulu.
NEWSPAPER ARTICLE:
1944 Feb 19--BILL ZMRZEL, FAMED BLIND GOLFER, DIES: Twenty-two-year-old William Zmrzel of Library, former Pittsburgh public links golf star blinded in both eyes as a result of an accident in the fall of 1941, died last night in Municipal Hospital.
Bill awakened last Wednesday morning complaining of a severe headache and lapsed into unconsciousness shortly before noon. He was taken to the hospital and never regained consciousness. He died at 6:10 PM last night.
Zmrzel was well along toward national fame as a public links golfer when he suffered the injuries that blinded him. He scored a 79 at South Prk, only seven over par in one of his best rounds after being blinded.
He was low qualifier in the Pittsburgh national rounds for the 1941 National Public Links championship and competed in the title tournament at Spokane, Washington, winning consolation honors in his first test in national competition.
One month after his return from that tournament he suffered the injuries that almost proved fatal. The Athletic Round Table of Spokane, hearing of Bill's blindness and noting that he was still capable of playing good golf, presented him with a "seeing eye" dog. With his new aide and companion he returned to vocational school to prepare for a defense job, but gave that up and late last year took over the operation of a gasoline service station in Library.
Zmrzel virtually grew up on the South park golf course, turning from caddying to tournament golf after he had been graduated from Snowden Twp High School in 1939. In high school, he played on the football and golf teams.
His many friends among South Park golfers knew him as the "race-horse golfer," one of the fastest players in the Pittsburgh district.
After his accident, he returned to the South Park fairways as soon as he had been released from the hospital, and with Jerry Castelli, Library theater owner, to help him, began his comeback.
Castelli was more than caddie to Bill; he would set him in position for his shot, inform him of distances and directions, and place Bill's club in position for striking the ball . Between them, they collaborated on the 79 score that brought Zmrzel a story of recognition in Herb Graffis' golf magazine, distributed nationally, and this ultimately brought Bill's plight to the attention of Spokane's Athletic Round Table.
After whipping his golf game into shape following the auto accident, Bill contemplated going in for exhibitions to aid the USO and other wartime charity organizations, but he was forced to abandon these plans with the advent of gasoline rationing. On the day he lapsed into unconsciousness, however, he had been scheduled to address a women's club in Pittsburgh on the subject of "seeing eye" dogs.
Between 1941 & 1945 (not sure what paper they were from)
SPORTS STEW--SERVED HOT by Eddie Beachler----You've got to hand it to Billy Zmrzel, the blind golfer from Library, PA...He's a real all-American guy...Disqualified from taking a first-hand part in the war because of physical handicaps, Bill is busy trying to line up a foursome to play exhibition matches which might help to spur the sale of bonds and defense stamps among members of the golfing fraternity...He's rounded up two similarly handicapped golfers, Irvin McGill, who lost an arm in an accident, and Bill Purkey, who is required to use crutches following an attack of infantile paralysis, and thus needs only one more member to complete the foursome...Yesterday the trio played their first practice match at South Park...Zmrzel, National Pulinex qualifier a few years ago prior to the auto accident which cost him his sight, scored a 95, one more than McGill required and two less than Purkey.
SHOOTS 79 AT SOUTH PARK; GOLFER, BLINDED IN ACCIDENT, STILL HOPES FOR PUBLINX TITLE--by Eddie Beachler; Bill Zmr-zel the "Racehorse" publinks golfer, is wearing blinders these days but he's still galloping around the County's South Park Public Golf course in thoroughbred style. Bill is totally blind, the result of an auto accident last September (1941). Along with losing the sight of both eyes, he suffered a double concussion--not to mention a score of lesser injuries and the best brain specialists pronounced his case "hopeless" allowing him very slim chance to live, in fact. But Bill "just had to play some more golf," and the doctors hadn't counted on that. Furthermore, he was only 19 years old and, prior to the accident, had been in perfect physical condition, thanks to the countless rounds of golf he had played.
He refused to give up. Two days ago, he climaxed an amazing recovery by touring the long 6461 yard par-72 South Park course in 79! "It's a first-class miracle," South Park pro Al McBride commented yesterday as he, along with a good-sized gallery, watched Zmr-zel drive long, straight tee shots, blast several practice shots out of the sand trap to within eight or 10 feet of the pin, and drop four to six-foot puts dead to the pin. What's more Bill is planning to continue his competitive golf campaign, which only last summer began to bear fruit as he qualified for the National Publiks championship tourney and made the trip to Spokane, Washington, just a few weeks before that accident.
The sturdy 150-pound Slovenian boy, chuck full of courage, tells the world: "I fooled 'em all. They said I didn't have a chance; And I'm going to keep on fooling 'em!"
How did he shoot that 79, or in fact, how does he even manage to hit the ball? "Well," he exclaims proudly, "I've been playing golf since I was 11 years old, and even before that with a makeshift stick I cut from a tree. Hitting the ball is a mechanical motion which anyone can do with his eyes closed once you get to swing in the right groove. "I used to hit the ball practically blind when I'd finish up a round late in the evening. The only thing tough about it is getting the proper stance and finding the ball. "Well," he exclaims proudly, "I've been playing golf since I was 11 years old, and even before that with a makeshift stick I cut from a tree. Hitting the ball is a mechanical motion which anyone can do with his eye closed once you get to swinging in the right groove. "I used to hit the ball practically blind when I'd finish up a round late in the evening. The only thing tough about it is getting the proper stance and finding the ball."
His "seeing-eye" caddy and close friend. Jerry Castelli, Library, PA, theater owner, takes care of that. "Jerry places me in the proper position for the shot, lines up the club and ball, and tells me how far to go to the green or hole. I guess he deserves more credit than I do. I taught him to play the game last year and now he's paying me back by showing me how to do it. Imagine that?" Bill adds, and his thin mustache curves upward in a wide smile displaying two rows of glistening white teeth. "My stance is a lot stiffer than before and I find I have a bad tendency to pull my shots as I have to grip the club much tighter. But I'm gradually over-coming these faults."
Zmr-zel began his remarkable recovery just three weeks after he was released from the hospital last October, struggling through three nightmarish holes of golf in his first test. Throughout the winter, when weather permitted, he would sneak out to the 14th tee at South Park---just a short piece from his home in Library and there could be found hitting practice shots so long as anyone would chase them.
Bill was the first golfer off the tee when South Park opened last month, being granted special permission to get an early start in the morning prior to the opening noon-time ceremonies. He's played everyday since, sometimes two and three rounds per day, rain or shine.
His highest score was 105 and his low cane Tuesday--that amazing 79. He's had seven "birdies" already this season, and on the 239 yard par three No. 13 hole came within six inches of a hole-in-one.
Zmr-zel cam up through the caddy ranks at South Park, caddying since he was 11 (although he had to tell a white lie at the time, giving his age as 15), He played on Snowden High golf and football teams, the latter at an end position, in 1937-38. On graduating from Snowden in 1939, he took a job as lathe operator in the Christy Park Plant of National Tube Company in McKeesport, working in that capacity until his accident last September. He was the second low qualifier, surpassed only by former champion Andy Swedzko who qualified automatically, thus giving him medalist honors in last year's National Publinks qualifying test. Bill shot 72-72 and in the Nation at Spokane won Consolation honors.
Zmr-zel was the subject of a hot controversy in the County Parks championships last year. He tried with four others, including Carl Kauffmann, for the last qualifying position, but had to leave early to work a late shift at National Tube. When he failed to show for the playoff, he was disqualified and three of the remaining playoff contenders conceded the last position to the veteran Kauffmann due to his experience. The Sphinx when on to win the title. Zmr-zel in a public protest charged County authorities with unsportsmanlike conduct in not waiting to give him a chance to play-off with Kaufmann for the final qualifying berth. He still hoping to get in that championship!
THE PRESS (S?) THURSDAY, MAY 7, 1942--Here's how Bill Zmr-zel, blind publinks golfer, tours the course with the aid of hi "seeing-eye-caddie," Jerry Castelli of Library, PA. Zmr-zel, blind only since last September, blasts out of a sand-trap while Castelli looks on. Castelli lines up a putt for his blind friend.
REAL SEEING EYE--caddie is the prise possession of Bill Zmrzel, amazing blind golfer of Library, PA. Now that he's secured one of the famous "Seeing Eye" dogs, he;'s looking ahead to a banner golf season. The dog originally was named "Lulu" by the "Seeing Eye" organization of Morristown, NJ, where she was trained, but Zmrzel has rechristened her "Art" in honor of the Athletic Round Table, of Spokane, Washington, by taking first letter of each work in the club's name. It is through the help of the nationally known Spokane sports club, which has sent Zmrzel funds to give him a start in business, that he hoes to earn sufficient money to pay for the dog.
The Observer-Reporter is a member of the Pittsburgh Suburban Newspaper Network
122 S. Main St.
Washington, PA 15301
WASHINGTON REPORTER 8-21-1942--NEWS AND VIEWS--this article has some parts missing due to it being taped.---The eyeless spokesman is Bill Zmr-zel, Library, and has aroused considerable notice through out the country this past year as a first rate golfer. Zmr-zel was one of the most promising young folfers in the game when he was involved in an automobile accident slightly over a year ago which cost him his sight. Shortly before this accident occured, Bill had played South Park course in 67 and was labeled as a sure-fire bet to become one of golfin's great.
However, Zmr-zel has not allowed himself to become discouraged over his misfortune and with the assistance of a friend, whom Bill has titled his "seeing eye", has continued to follow his favorite pastime and several weeks ago registered 79.
Zmr-zel attracted world-wide notice when he entered the publinks tournament last week, but he was off form on his putting and failed to qualify.
Without any means of support, Bill is considering the advisability of making a trip cross the country giving exhibitions. providing shuch a thing is possible. Since losing his sight, he has never played any course except Sourth Park and whether he will be able to shoot in the 80's or low 90's on other courses remains to be determined. That is the primary reason for Saturday's exhibition here. Following his two rounds tomorrow one at 2 o'clock and the other at 6 PM, the blind wonder will go to Waynesburg and Sunday will find him trying his skill on the Greene County greens.
The officials of the Washington Club have been asked to name two men, who shoot around 85, to oppose Zmr-zel. Another thing to be determined by these two matches is how bill will react when he has a large gallery following him. Many who witnessed the publinks play last week stated he appeared extremely nervous when the fans followed him around. The boy like Bill Zmr-zel is deserving of everything possible and we hope his trip here will be a plus for him. Turn out tomorrow, you goe (?) and help Bill get started on his exhibition tour. There is on admission charge.
BLIND VOLUNTEERS FOR WARTIME JOBS--entered the vocational shops of the Morse School Annex, South Side, this week in an experimental class to determine their training capacities. Two of the men arrived with seeing-eye dogs. There are eight in this drill press class, including one woman. Mrs, Charles Henthart, East End; Raymond E. Buerkle, teacher Arthur Nussbaumer, New Eagle; James Lostlen, New Eagle, Joe Carson, Canonsburg; Bill Zmrzel, Library, and Amol Iocca, Ambridge
BLIND MAN STUDIES WAR WORK--Bill Zmr-Zel, Pittsburgh's blind golfer, believes anyone who can play golf without seeing can help in the nation's war effort. Here, with "Art," his faithful Seeing Eye dog. Bill is training in the operation of a drill press in the vocational shops where an experimental class is being conducted for blind volunteers for war jobs. His rhythm swing in golf enables him to shoot in the low 80's.
OBITUARY:
ZMRZEL--On Saturday, February 19, 1944, William Zmrzel, age 22 of Library, PA, son of Louis Zmrzel, brother of Cpl. Joseph of Alaska, Mrs. Frank Celin, Mrs. Joseph Timko, Mrs. John Johnson, Mrs. Thomas Burke all of Library and Mrs. Walter Bridegum of Hookstown, PA. Friends received at the home of his sister Mrs. Frank Celin, 17 Orchard St., Library, PA. Requiem high mass at Nativity Church in Broughton, PA on Wednesday, Feb 23rd at 9:00 AM, friends invited.
FEBRUARY 19, 1945 ZMRZEL--William (Bill). In loving memory of our son and brother who passed away one year ago today since you passed away. Dear Bill, we loved you and we miss you. We hope and humbly pray that God will let us meet you again someday. Sadly missed by his family, Ann and his dog Lulu.
NEWSPAPER ARTICLE:
1944 Feb 19--BILL ZMRZEL, FAMED BLIND GOLFER, DIES: Twenty-two-year-old William Zmrzel of Library, former Pittsburgh public links golf star blinded in both eyes as a result of an accident in the fall of 1941, died last night in Municipal Hospital.
Bill awakened last Wednesday morning complaining of a severe headache and lapsed into unconsciousness shortly before noon. He was taken to the hospital and never regained consciousness. He died at 6:10 PM last night.
Zmrzel was well along toward national fame as a public links golfer when he suffered the injuries that blinded him. He scored a 79 at South Prk, only seven over par in one of his best rounds after being blinded.
He was low qualifier in the Pittsburgh national rounds for the 1941 National Public Links championship and competed in the title tournament at Spokane, Washington, winning consolation honors in his first test in national competition.
One month after his return from that tournament he suffered the injuries that almost proved fatal. The Athletic Round Table of Spokane, hearing of Bill's blindness and noting that he was still capable of playing good golf, presented him with a "seeing eye" dog. With his new aide and companion he returned to vocational school to prepare for a defense job, but gave that up and late last year took over the operation of a gasoline service station in Library.
Zmrzel virtually grew up on the South park golf course, turning from caddying to tournament golf after he had been graduated from Snowden Twp High School in 1939. In high school, he played on the football and golf teams.
His many friends among South Park golfers knew him as the "race-horse golfer," one of the fastest players in the Pittsburgh district.
After his accident, he returned to the South Park fairways as soon as he had been released from the hospital, and with Jerry Castelli, Library theater owner, to help him, began his comeback.
Castelli was more than caddie to Bill; he would set him in position for his shot, inform him of distances and directions, and place Bill's club in position for striking the ball . Between them, they collaborated on the 79 score that brought Zmrzel a story of recognition in Herb Graffis' golf magazine, distributed nationally, and this ultimately brought Bill's plight to the attention of Spokane's Athletic Round Table.
After whipping his golf game into shape following the auto accident, Bill contemplated going in for exhibitions to aid the USO and other wartime charity organizations, but he was forced to abandon these plans with the advent of gasoline rationing. On the day he lapsed into unconsciousness, however, he had been scheduled to address a women's club in Pittsburgh on the subject of "seeing eye" dogs.
NEWSPAPER ARTICLES:
Between 1941 & 1945 (not sure what paper they were from)
SPORTS STEW--SERVED HOT by Eddie Beachler----You've got to hand it to Billy Zmrzel, the blind golfer from Library, PA...He's a real all-American guy...Disqualified from taking a first-hand part in the war because of physical handicaps, Bill is busy trying to line up a foursome to play exhibition matches which might help to spur the sale of bonds and defense stamps among members of the golfing fraternity...He's rounded up two similarly handicapped golfers, Irvin McGill, who lost an arm in an accident, and Bill Purkey, who is required to use crutches following an attack of infantile paralysis, and thus needs only one more member to complete the foursome...Yesterday the trio played their first practice match at South Park...Zmrzel, National Pulinex qualifier a few years ago prior to the auto accident which cost him his sight, scored a 95, one more than McGill required and two less than Purkey.
SHOOTS 79 AT SOUTH PARK; GOLFER, BLINDED IN ACCIDENT, STILL HOPES FOR PUBLINX TITLE--by Eddie Beachler; Bill Zmr-zel the "Racehorse" publinks golfer, is wearing blinders these days but he's still galloping around the County's South Park Public Golf course in thoroughbred style. Bill is totally blind, the result of an auto accident last September (1941). Along with losing the sight of both eyes, he suffered a double concussion--not to mention a score of lesser injuries and the best brain specialists pronounced his case "hopeless" allowing him very slim chance to live, in fact. But Bill "just had to play some more golf," and the doctors hadn't counted on that. Furthermore, he was only 19 years old and, prior to the accident, had been in perfect physical condition, thanks to the countless rounds of golf he had played.
He refused to give up. Two days ago, he climaxed an amazing recovery by touring the long 6461 yard par-72 South Park course in 79! "It's a first-class miracle," South Park pro Al McBride commented yesterday as he, along with a good-sized gallery, watched Zmr-zel drive long, straight tee shots, blast several practice shots out of the sand trap to within eight or 10 feet of the pin, and drop four to six-foot puts dead to the pin. What's more Bill is planning to continue his competitive golf campaign, which only last summer began to bear fruit as he qualified for the National Publiks championship tourney and made the trip to Spokane, Washington, just a few weeks before that accident.
The sturdy 150-pound Slovenian boy, chuck full of courage, tells the world: "I fooled 'em all. They said I didn't have a chance; And I'm going to keep on fooling 'em!"
How did he shoot that 79, or in fact, how does he even manage to hit the ball? "Well," he exclaims proudly, "I've been playing golf since I was 11 years old, and even before that with a makeshift stick I cut from a tree. Hitting the ball is a mechanical motion which anyone can do with his eyes closed once you get to swing in the right groove. "I used to hit the ball practically blind when I'd finish up a round late in the evening. The only thing tough about it is getting the proper stance and finding the ball. "Well," he exclaims proudly, "I've been playing golf since I was 11 years old, and even before that with a makeshift stick I cut from a tree. Hitting the ball is a mechanical motion which anyone can do with his eye closed once you get to swinging in the right groove. "I used to hit the ball practically blind when I'd finish up a round late in the evening. The only thing tough about it is getting the proper stance and finding the ball."
His "seeing-eye" caddy and close friend. Jerry Castelli, Library, PA, theater owner, takes care of that. "Jerry places me in the proper position for the shot, lines up the club and ball, and tells me how far to go to the green or hole. I guess he deserves more credit than I do. I taught him to play the game last year and now he's paying me back by showing me how to do it. Imagine that?" Bill adds, and his thin mustache curves upward in a wide smile displaying two rows of glistening white teeth. "My stance is a lot stiffer than before and I find I have a bad tendency to pull my shots as I have to grip the club much tighter. But I'm gradually over-coming these faults."
Zmr-zel began his remarkable recovery just three weeks after he was released from the hospital last October, struggling through three nightmarish holes of golf in his first test. Throughout the winter, when weather permitted, he would sneak out to the 14th tee at South Park---just a short piece from his home in Library and there could be found hitting practice shots so long as anyone would chase them.
Bill was the first golfer off the tee when South Park opened last month, being granted special permission to get an early start in the morning prior to the opening noon-time ceremonies. He's played everyday since, sometimes two and three rounds per day, rain or shine.
His highest score was 105 and his low cane Tuesday--that amazing 79. He's had seven "birdies" already this season, and on the 239 yard par three No. 13 hole came within six inches of a hole-in-one.
Zmr-zel cam up through the caddy ranks at South Park, caddying since he was 11 (although he had to tell a white lie at the time, giving his age as 15), He played on Snowden High golf and football teams, the latter at an end position, in 1937-38. On graduating from Snowden in 1939, he took a job as lathe operator in the Christy Park Plant of National Tube Company in McKeesport, working in that capacity until his accident last September. He was the second low qualifier, surpassed only by former champion Andy Swedzko who qualified automatically, thus giving him medalist honors in last year's National Publinks qualifying test. Bill shot 72-72 and in the Nation at Spokane won Consolation honors.
Zmr-zel was the subject of a hot controversy in the County Parks championships last year. He tried with four others, including Carl Kauffmann, for the last qualifying position, but had to leave early to work a late shift at National Tube. When he failed to show for the playoff, he was disqualified and three of the remaining playoff contenders conceded the last position to the veteran Kauffmann due to his experience. The Sphinx when on to win the title. Zmr-zel in a public protest charged County authorities with unsportsmanlike conduct in not waiting to give him a chance to play-off with Kaufmann for the final qualifying berth. He still hoping to get in that championship!
THE PRESS (S?) THURSDAY, MAY 7, 1942--Here's how Bill Zmr-zel, blind publinks golfer, tours the course with the aid of hi "seeing-eye-caddie," Jerry Castelli of Library, PA. Zmr-zel, blind only since last September, blasts out of a sand-trap while Castelli looks on. Castelli lines up a putt for his blind friend.
REAL SEEING EYE--caddie is the prise possession of Bill Zmrzel, amazing blind golfer of Library, PA. Now that he's secured one of the famous "Seeing Eye" dogs, he;'s looking ahead to a banner golf season. The dog originally was named "Lulu" by the "Seeing Eye" organization of Morristown, NJ, where she was trained, but Zmrzel has rechristened her "Art" in honor of the Athletic Round Table, of Spokane, Washington, by taking first letter of each work in the club's name. It is through the help of the nationally known Spokane sports club, which has sent Zmrzel funds to give him a start in business, that he hoes to earn sufficient money to pay for the dog.
The Observer-Reporter is a member of the Pittsburgh Suburban Newspaper Network
122 S. Main St.
Washington, PA 15301
WASHINGTON REPORTER 8-21-1942--NEWS AND VIEWS--this article has some parts missing due to it being taped.---The eyeless spokesman is Bill Zmr-zel, Library, and has aroused considerable notice through out the country this past year as a first rate golfer. Zmr-zel was one of the most promising young folfers in the game when he was involved in an automobile accident slightly over a year ago which cost him his sight. Shortly before this accident occured, Bill had played South Park course in 67 and was labeled as a sure-fire bet to become one of golfin's great.
However, Zmr-zel has not allowed himself to become discouraged over his misfortune and with the assistance of a friend, whom Bill has titled his "seeing eye", has continued to follow his favorite pastime and several weeks ago registered 79.
Zmr-zel attracted world-wide notice when he entered the publinks tournament last week, but he was off form on his putting and failed to qualify.
Without any means of support, Bill is considering the advisability of making a trip cross the country giving exhibitions. providing shuch a thing is possible. Since losing his sight, he has never played any course except Sourth Park and whether he will be able to shoot in the 80's or low 90's on other courses remains to be determined. That is the primary reason for Saturday's exhibition here. Following his two rounds tomorrow one at 2 o'clock and the other at 6 PM, the blind wonder will go to Waynesburg and Sunday will find him trying his skill on the Greene County greens.
The officials of the Washington Club have been asked to name two men, who shoot around 85, to oppose Zmr-zel. Another thing to be determined by these two matches is how bill will react when he has a large gallery following him. Many who witnessed the publinks play last week stated he appeared extremely nervous when the fans followed him around. The boy like Bill Zmr-zel is deserving of everything possible and we hope his trip here will be a plus for him. Turn out tomorrow, you goe (?) and help Bill get started on his exhibition tour. There is on admission charge.
BLIND VOLUNTEERS FOR WARTIME JOBS--entered the vocational shops of the Morse School Annex, South Side, this week in an experimental class to determine their training capacities. Two of the men arrived with seeing-eye dogs. There are eight in this drill press class, including one woman. Mrs, Charles Henthart, East End; Raymond E. Buerkle, teacher Arthur Nussbaumer, New Eagle; James Lostlen, New Eagle, Joe Carson, Canonsburg; Bill Zmrzel, Library, and Amol Iocca, Ambridge
BLIND MAN STUDIES WAR WORK--Bill Zmr-Zel, Pittsburgh's blind golfer, believes anyone who can play golf without seeing can help in the nation's war effort. Here, with "Art," his faithful Seeing Eye dog. Bill is training in the operation of a drill press in the vocational shops where an experimental class is being conducted for blind volunteers for war jobs. His rhythm swing in golf enables him to shoot in the low 80's.
OBITUARY:
ZMRZEL--On Saturday, February 19, 1944, William Zmrzel, age 22 of Library, PA, son of Louis Zmrzel, brother of Cpl. Joseph of Alaska, Mrs. Frank Celin, Mrs. Joseph Timko, Mrs. John Johnson, Mrs. Thomas Burke all of Library and Mrs. Walter Bridegum of Hookstown, PA. Friends received at the home of his sister Mrs. Frank Celin, 17 Orchard St., Library, PA. Requiem high mass at Nativity Church in Broughton, PA on Wednesday, Feb 23rd at 9:00 AM, friends invited.
FEBRUARY 19, 1945 ZMRZEL--William (Bill). In loving memory of our son and brother who passed away one year ago today since you passed away. Dear Bill, we loved you and we miss you. We hope and humbly pray that God will let us meet you again someday. Sadly missed by his family, Ann and his dog Lulu.
NEWSPAPER ARTICLE:
1944 Feb 19--BILL ZMRZEL, FAMED BLIND GOLFER, DIES: Twenty-two-year-old William Zmrzel of Library, former Pittsburgh public links golf star blinded in both eyes as a result of an accident in the fall of 1941, died last night in Municipal Hospital.
Bill awakened last Wednesday morning complaining of a severe headache and lapsed into unconsciousness shortly before noon. He was taken to the hospital and never regained consciousness. He died at 6:10 PM last night.
Zmrzel was well along toward national fame as a public links golfer when he suffered the injuries that blinded him. He scored a 79 at South Prk, only seven over par in one of his best rounds after being blinded.
He was low qualifier in the Pittsburgh national rounds for the 1941 National Public Links championship and competed in the title tournament at Spokane, Washington, winning consolation honors in his first test in national competition.
One month after his return from that tournament he suffered the injuries that almost proved fatal. The Athletic Round Table of Spokane, hearing of Bill's blindness and noting that he was still capable of playing good golf, presented him with a "seeing eye" dog. With his new aide and companion he returned to vocational school to prepare for a defense job, but gave that up and late last year took over the operation of a gasoline service station in Library.
Zmrzel virtually grew up on the South park golf course, turning from caddying to tournament golf after he had been graduated from Snowden Twp High School in 1939. In high school, he played on the football and golf teams.
His many friends among South Park golfers knew him as the "race-horse golfer," one of the fastest players in the Pittsburgh district.
After his accident, he returned to the South Park fairways as soon as he had been released from the hospital, and with Jerry Castelli, Library theater owner, to help him, began his comeback.
Castelli was more than caddie to Bill; he would set him in position for his shot, inform him of distances and directions, and place Bill's club in position for striking the ball . Between them, they collaborated on the 79 score that brought Zmrzel a story of recognition in Herb Graffis' golf magazine, distributed nationally, and this ultimately brought Bill's plight to the attention of Spokane's Athletic Round Table.
After whipping his golf game into shape following the auto accident, Bill contemplated going in for exhibitions to aid the USO and other wartime charity organizations, but he was forced to abandon these plans with the advent of gasoline rationing. On the day he lapsed into unconsciousness, however, he had been scheduled to address a women's club in Pittsburgh on the subject of "seeing eye" dogs.
Between 1941 & 1945 (not sure what paper they were from)
SPORTS STEW--SERVED HOT by Eddie Beachler----You've got to hand it to Billy Zmrzel, the blind golfer from Library, PA...He's a real all-American guy...Disqualified from taking a first-hand part in the war because of physical handicaps, Bill is busy trying to line up a foursome to play exhibition matches which might help to spur the sale of bonds and defense stamps among members of the golfing fraternity...He's rounded up two similarly handicapped golfers, Irvin McGill, who lost an arm in an accident, and Bill Purkey, who is required to use crutches following an attack of infantile paralysis, and thus needs only one more member to complete the foursome...Yesterday the trio played their first practice match at South Park...Zmrzel, National Pulinex qualifier a few years ago prior to the auto accident which cost him his sight, scored a 95, one more than McGill required and two less than Purkey.
SHOOTS 79 AT SOUTH PARK; GOLFER, BLINDED IN ACCIDENT, STILL HOPES FOR PUBLINX TITLE--by Eddie Beachler; Bill Zmr-zel the "Racehorse" publinks golfer, is wearing blinders these days but he's still galloping around the County's South Park Public Golf course in thoroughbred style. Bill is totally blind, the result of an auto accident last September (1941). Along with losing the sight of both eyes, he suffered a double concussion--not to mention a score of lesser injuries and the best brain specialists pronounced his case "hopeless" allowing him very slim chance to live, in fact. But Bill "just had to play some more golf," and the doctors hadn't counted on that. Furthermore, he was only 19 years old and, prior to the accident, had been in perfect physical condition, thanks to the countless rounds of golf he had played.
He refused to give up. Two days ago, he climaxed an amazing recovery by touring the long 6461 yard par-72 South Park course in 79! "It's a first-class miracle," South Park pro Al McBride commented yesterday as he, along with a good-sized gallery, watched Zmr-zel drive long, straight tee shots, blast several practice shots out of the sand trap to within eight or 10 feet of the pin, and drop four to six-foot puts dead to the pin. What's more Bill is planning to continue his competitive golf campaign, which only last summer began to bear fruit as he qualified for the National Publiks championship tourney and made the trip to Spokane, Washington, just a few weeks before that accident.
The sturdy 150-pound Slovenian boy, chuck full of courage, tells the world: "I fooled 'em all. They said I didn't have a chance; And I'm going to keep on fooling 'em!"
How did he shoot that 79, or in fact, how does he even manage to hit the ball? "Well," he exclaims proudly, "I've been playing golf since I was 11 years old, and even before that with a makeshift stick I cut from a tree. Hitting the ball is a mechanical motion which anyone can do with his eyes closed once you get to swing in the right groove. "I used to hit the ball practically blind when I'd finish up a round late in the evening. The only thing tough about it is getting the proper stance and finding the ball. "Well," he exclaims proudly, "I've been playing golf since I was 11 years old, and even before that with a makeshift stick I cut from a tree. Hitting the ball is a mechanical motion which anyone can do with his eye closed once you get to swinging in the right groove. "I used to hit the ball practically blind when I'd finish up a round late in the evening. The only thing tough about it is getting the proper stance and finding the ball."
His "seeing-eye" caddy and close friend. Jerry Castelli, Library, PA, theater owner, takes care of that. "Jerry places me in the proper position for the shot, lines up the club and ball, and tells me how far to go to the green or hole. I guess he deserves more credit than I do. I taught him to play the game last year and now he's paying me back by showing me how to do it. Imagine that?" Bill adds, and his thin mustache curves upward in a wide smile displaying two rows of glistening white teeth. "My stance is a lot stiffer than before and I find I have a bad tendency to pull my shots as I have to grip the club much tighter. But I'm gradually over-coming these faults."
Zmr-zel began his remarkable recovery just three weeks after he was released from the hospital last October, struggling through three nightmarish holes of golf in his first test. Throughout the winter, when weather permitted, he would sneak out to the 14th tee at South Park---just a short piece from his home in Library and there could be found hitting practice shots so long as anyone would chase them.
Bill was the first golfer off the tee when South Park opened last month, being granted special permission to get an early start in the morning prior to the opening noon-time ceremonies. He's played everyday since, sometimes two and three rounds per day, rain or shine.
His highest score was 105 and his low cane Tuesday--that amazing 79. He's had seven "birdies" already this season, and on the 239 yard par three No. 13 hole came within six inches of a hole-in-one.
Zmr-zel cam up through the caddy ranks at South Park, caddying since he was 11 (although he had to tell a white lie at the time, giving his age as 15), He played on Snowden High golf and football teams, the latter at an end position, in 1937-38. On graduating from Snowden in 1939, he took a job as lathe operator in the Christy Park Plant of National Tube Company in McKeesport, working in that capacity until his accident last September. He was the second low qualifier, surpassed only by former champion Andy Swedzko who qualified automatically, thus giving him medalist honors in last year's National Publinks qualifying test. Bill shot 72-72 and in the Nation at Spokane won Consolation honors.
Zmr-zel was the subject of a hot controversy in the County Parks championships last year. He tried with four others, including Carl Kauffmann, for the last qualifying position, but had to leave early to work a late shift at National Tube. When he failed to show for the playoff, he was disqualified and three of the remaining playoff contenders conceded the last position to the veteran Kauffmann due to his experience. The Sphinx when on to win the title. Zmr-zel in a public protest charged County authorities with unsportsmanlike conduct in not waiting to give him a chance to play-off with Kaufmann for the final qualifying berth. He still hoping to get in that championship!
THE PRESS (S?) THURSDAY, MAY 7, 1942--Here's how Bill Zmr-zel, blind publinks golfer, tours the course with the aid of hi "seeing-eye-caddie," Jerry Castelli of Library, PA. Zmr-zel, blind only since last September, blasts out of a sand-trap while Castelli looks on. Castelli lines up a putt for his blind friend.
REAL SEEING EYE--caddie is the prise possession of Bill Zmrzel, amazing blind golfer of Library, PA. Now that he's secured one of the famous "Seeing Eye" dogs, he;'s looking ahead to a banner golf season. The dog originally was named "Lulu" by the "Seeing Eye" organization of Morristown, NJ, where she was trained, but Zmrzel has rechristened her "Art" in honor of the Athletic Round Table, of Spokane, Washington, by taking first letter of each work in the club's name. It is through the help of the nationally known Spokane sports club, which has sent Zmrzel funds to give him a start in business, that he hoes to earn sufficient money to pay for the dog.
The Observer-Reporter is a member of the Pittsburgh Suburban Newspaper Network
122 S. Main St.
Washington, PA 15301
WASHINGTON REPORTER 8-21-1942--NEWS AND VIEWS--this article has some parts missing due to it being taped.---The eyeless spokesman is Bill Zmr-zel, Library, and has aroused considerable notice through out the country this past year as a first rate golfer. Zmr-zel was one of the most promising young folfers in the game when he was involved in an automobile accident slightly over a year ago which cost him his sight. Shortly before this accident occured, Bill had played South Park course in 67 and was labeled as a sure-fire bet to become one of golfin's great.
However, Zmr-zel has not allowed himself to become discouraged over his misfortune and with the assistance of a friend, whom Bill has titled his "seeing eye", has continued to follow his favorite pastime and several weeks ago registered 79.
Zmr-zel attracted world-wide notice when he entered the publinks tournament last week, but he was off form on his putting and failed to qualify.
Without any means of support, Bill is considering the advisability of making a trip cross the country giving exhibitions. providing shuch a thing is possible. Since losing his sight, he has never played any course except Sourth Park and whether he will be able to shoot in the 80's or low 90's on other courses remains to be determined. That is the primary reason for Saturday's exhibition here. Following his two rounds tomorrow one at 2 o'clock and the other at 6 PM, the blind wonder will go to Waynesburg and Sunday will find him trying his skill on the Greene County greens.
The officials of the Washington Club have been asked to name two men, who shoot around 85, to oppose Zmr-zel. Another thing to be determined by these two matches is how bill will react when he has a large gallery following him. Many who witnessed the publinks play last week stated he appeared extremely nervous when the fans followed him around. The boy like Bill Zmr-zel is deserving of everything possible and we hope his trip here will be a plus for him. Turn out tomorrow, you goe (?) and help Bill get started on his exhibition tour. There is on admission charge.
BLIND VOLUNTEERS FOR WARTIME JOBS--entered the vocational shops of the Morse School Annex, South Side, this week in an experimental class to determine their training capacities. Two of the men arrived with seeing-eye dogs. There are eight in this drill press class, including one woman. Mrs, Charles Henthart, East End; Raymond E. Buerkle, teacher Arthur Nussbaumer, New Eagle; James Lostlen, New Eagle, Joe Carson, Canonsburg; Bill Zmrzel, Library, and Amol Iocca, Ambridge
BLIND MAN STUDIES WAR WORK--Bill Zmr-Zel, Pittsburgh's blind golfer, believes anyone who can play golf without seeing can help in the nation's war effort. Here, with "Art," his faithful Seeing Eye dog. Bill is training in the operation of a drill press in the vocational shops where an experimental class is being conducted for blind volunteers for war jobs. His rhythm swing in golf enables him to shoot in the low 80's.
OBITUARY:
ZMRZEL--On Saturday, February 19, 1944, William Zmrzel, age 22 of Library, PA, son of Louis Zmrzel, brother of Cpl. Joseph of Alaska, Mrs. Frank Celin, Mrs. Joseph Timko, Mrs. John Johnson, Mrs. Thomas Burke all of Library and Mrs. Walter Bridegum of Hookstown, PA. Friends received at the home of his sister Mrs. Frank Celin, 17 Orchard St., Library, PA. Requiem high mass at Nativity Church in Broughton, PA on Wednesday, Feb 23rd at 9:00 AM, friends invited.
FEBRUARY 19, 1945 ZMRZEL--William (Bill). In loving memory of our son and brother who passed away one year ago today since you passed away. Dear Bill, we loved you and we miss you. We hope and humbly pray that God will let us meet you again someday. Sadly missed by his family, Ann and his dog Lulu.
NEWSPAPER ARTICLE:
1944 Feb 19--BILL ZMRZEL, FAMED BLIND GOLFER, DIES: Twenty-two-year-old William Zmrzel of Library, former Pittsburgh public links golf star blinded in both eyes as a result of an accident in the fall of 1941, died last night in Municipal Hospital.
Bill awakened last Wednesday morning complaining of a severe headache and lapsed into unconsciousness shortly before noon. He was taken to the hospital and never regained consciousness. He died at 6:10 PM last night.
Zmrzel was well along toward national fame as a public links golfer when he suffered the injuries that blinded him. He scored a 79 at South Prk, only seven over par in one of his best rounds after being blinded.
He was low qualifier in the Pittsburgh national rounds for the 1941 National Public Links championship and competed in the title tournament at Spokane, Washington, winning consolation honors in his first test in national competition.
One month after his return from that tournament he suffered the injuries that almost proved fatal. The Athletic Round Table of Spokane, hearing of Bill's blindness and noting that he was still capable of playing good golf, presented him with a "seeing eye" dog. With his new aide and companion he returned to vocational school to prepare for a defense job, but gave that up and late last year took over the operation of a gasoline service station in Library.
Zmrzel virtually grew up on the South park golf course, turning from caddying to tournament golf after he had been graduated from Snowden Twp High School in 1939. In high school, he played on the football and golf teams.
His many friends among South Park golfers knew him as the "race-horse golfer," one of the fastest players in the Pittsburgh district.
After his accident, he returned to the South Park fairways as soon as he had been released from the hospital, and with Jerry Castelli, Library theater owner, to help him, began his comeback.
Castelli was more than caddie to Bill; he would set him in position for his shot, inform him of distances and directions, and place Bill's club in position for striking the ball . Between them, they collaborated on the 79 score that brought Zmrzel a story of recognition in Herb Graffis' golf magazine, distributed nationally, and this ultimately brought Bill's plight to the attention of Spokane's Athletic Round Table.
After whipping his golf game into shape following the auto accident, Bill contemplated going in for exhibitions to aid the USO and other wartime charity organizations, but he was forced to abandon these plans with the advent of gasoline rationing. On the day he lapsed into unconsciousness, however, he had been scheduled to address a women's club in Pittsburgh on the subject of "seeing eye" dogs.
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