A longtime star in the premier leagues of the Muny Association, Gene played almost every position, except pitcher. He batted right and threw right and on one occasion was six-for-six in one game for Flori Pipe. Schlereth signed with the Chicago White Sox and played in their farm system, hitting over .300 for two years, before he was drafted into the military service. Playing for the Sioux Falls Army Air Force team (South Dakota State Champs), Gene led the team in hitting, home runs, and RBIs for two years. A special thrill for him was batting against the great Satchel Paige in an exhibition game. He also dedicated 21 years to managing CYC and Khoury Leagues teams.