Born in May of 1862 in the small town of Houcktown, Ohio, William Ellsworth Hoy was one of five children. Like many children, William was born hearing, but unfortunately contracted meningitis at the young age of three years, eventually becoming both deaf and mute. Such an obstacle could not, and did not, stop William Hoy from pursuing a regular lifestyle; in 1872, he entered the residential Ohio School for the Deaf, and went on to graduate in 1879 at the top of his class. Confiding to the norms of his town and era, Hoy opened a shoe shop in his town. In his downtime, he would play baseball outside of his shop with the local neighborhood children. While meaninglessly showcasing his talents outside of his shop, his skillset was recognized, earning him an invitation to play for a team in Kenton, Ohio, …show more content…
Especially on fly balls, communication is key to ensure that the outfielders do not collide. One of Dummy’s fellow outfielders, Tommy Leach, once gave his input on playing with Hoy in the outfield; “You listened for him and if he made this little squeaky sound, that meant he was going to take it" (sabr). Playing with Dummy Hoy had many advantages, which clearly outweighed the few, minor disadvantages. The disadvantages, which were easily overcome by adapting to the play of Hoy, did not effect the team negatively. The advantages, however, were numerous, and contributed a great deal of success to the team’s record. Hoy was speedy, had a strong throwing arm, and was a very good hitter. Hoy’s high baseball IQ and overall feel for the game made him an elite athlete, even at the professional level. In 1902, Dummy Hoy faced off against Dummy Taylor, a deaf pitcher. Before beginning the at-bat, the two had signed “hello” to each other, then proceeded to continue with the game. Years later, the friendship had rekindled at an Ohio State Softball