This Was Brainerd - April 27 A look through the Brainerd Dispatch archives with Terry McCollough combing the microfilm for tidbits of history through the decades going back to 1921. Written By: Terry McCollough | × Gay Zelinske, 79, has been passionate about American Legion baseball for 50 years. He coached the Brainerd team for 19 years. But the current coach stepped down and Gay hasn't been able to find a replacement. Brainerd is in danger of not fielding a team this year. The Legion has been an important feeder for the high school. APRIL 27 20 years ago (2001) (Photo) Gay Zelinske, 79, has been passionate about American Legion baseball for 50 years. He coached the Brainerd team for 19 years. But the current coach stepped down and Gay hasn't been able to find a replacement. Brainerd is in danger of not fielding a team this year. The Legion has been an important feeder for the high school.