The Tampa Contingent

Bill Guerra (left) takes on Bob Taylor (right) in 1985 ABA play (during the cards and dice era). In the center is former ABA Commissioner Ernie Charette. The site of the series is Ernie's home at 2302 W. Norfolk in Tampa which served as ABA Headquarters from 1973 through 1983.

Ernie's Place

Ernie Charette's trophy room with his many plaques from his years of APBA play. Ernie served as ABA Commissioner from 1973 through 1983. During the 12-year period of 1973-1984, Ernie's Tampa Tigercats reached the ABA World Series 8 times and won a total of 5 league championships.

Mulling it Over

Former ABA manager Ray Mull with his pride and joy sports car. Ray was dismissed from the ABA following the 1983 season. He later returned for a year or so in the 1990's but wound up being dismissed again.

Everybody Looks Good in Spring Training

ET manager Jerry Valenti checks out Trailblazer prospect Duane Walker of the Cincinnati Reds who homered in this spring training game against Toronto. Walker had showed promise in 1984 with a .292 average and 10 HR in less than 200 AB but he wound up under .200 in 1985 and never got regular AB again. By the way, a Toronto minor leaguer named Fred McGriff also homered in this game.

Getting the Straight Scoop

NBC Broadcaster and former Yankees shortstop Tony Kubek does a pre-season interview at Al Lopez Field in Tampa.