LAS VEGAS, Nev. -- The Hickok Award -- a diamond, ruby and sapphire-studded gold belt given to Los Angeles Dodgers shortstop Maury Wills for his stealing prowess 19 years ago -- has been stolen from a display case at the Las Vegas Club.
Mel Exber, owner of the downtown resort, said he was informed of the theft early Wednesday by security guards.
'I'm just sick about this,' Exber said. 'Maury gave it to me about 10 years ago to put on displayfor everyone to see. The funny thing is, Maury said he was afraid to keep it in his home for fear it would be stolen.'
Exber said the belt was worth $50,000 when it was given to Wills in 1962 -- the year Wills set a record with 104 stolen bases.
'Who knows what it's worth now?' said the club owner. 'I imagine someone would have a difficult time hocking it. There aren't that many around. As a matter of fact, I think it has Maury's name stamped on it.'
Exber said he planned to contact the presenters of the Hickok Award to see if a duplicate belt could be made for Wills. The award is given to the Professional Athlete of the Year.
