At age 12, when Allen G. Goldis won a home run hitting contest against Robin Roberts at Connie Mack Stadium in conjunction with the Junior Baseball Federation, he knew baseball would be in his future.

He had a passion for sports and excelled at everything he tried. While at John Bartram High School, he not only played baseball but also basketball and soccer. He was First Team All-City in baseball all three years at Bartram, playing the outfield, first base and pitching Bartram to the Public League championship in 1959.

The Cincinnati Reds signed him to a bonus contract in 1963. He played in that organization until 1966, when he was dealt to the Kansas City Athletics. An injury ended his career.

Goldis accepted a scholarship to the Philadelphia College of Textiles and Science for a student/varsity coaching position from 1966-68. He became the only salaried student/varsity coach in the history of the NCAA. He received his Master’s Degree in Physical Education, Motor Learning and Biomechanics from Columbia University. His first job was in technical sales for the J.P. Stevens Co. in New York City. He then moved on to teaching and coaching at several high schools in New York.

It was then back to sports. He was Sports Information Director and Director of Sports Marketing and Promotions for Queens College from 1982-86, while at the same time scouting for the California Angels.

Goldis, who currently is Senior Director of Player Development and Scouting for the Cincinnati Reds, has held similar scouting and player development positions with the Baltimore Orioles, California Angels, Chicago White Sox, Milwaukee Brewers and the Chicago Cubs.

From the sandlots of Southwest Philadelphia to the professional ballparks of America, Al Goldis has made his mark on America’s Pastime.