FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

The Love for the Game

by John Wroblewski

Aug 3, 2016

For the last four seasons, I have spent many summer nights watching the Chicago Bandits (women’s pro softball).

Last week, I enjoyed my first Bandits’ road trip, traveling to Akron, Ohio, for their series against the Racers. The Racers were started by Ms. Joey Arietta in 1999. In 2004 they joined the NPF  (National Pro Fastpitch). The Racers are the longest-tenured team in the NPF. Firestone Stadium — home of the Racers —  was dedicated in 1925 by Harvey Firestone, the founder of the Firestone Tire and Rubber Company, which owned the stadium until donating it to the city of Akron in 1988. We missed the first game — a 1–0 win by the Racers — but saw the next two games, both won by the Bandits.

Taylor Edwards — my pre-game prediction for Star of the Game — hit two home runs to lead the Bandits and pitcher Michelle Gascoigne to a 6–3 win. The next night, the Bandits exploded for a 17–4 win, lead by Brittany Cervantes — my friend Chuck’s pre-game prediction for Star of the Game — who hit a home run and had three RBIs to back the pitching of Lacey Waldrop.

After the games, both teams signed autographs and posed for pictures with the younger fans. Every kid went away happy and every parent went away grateful. It really is quite a sight. I cannot say enough good things about the players, organizations or the league. The young female athletes truly play for the love of the game, the young fans and the future of the sport. The International Olympics Committee has recommended the return of softball for the 2020 Olympics.

Retired softball legend Jennie Finch predicted this in a conversation with me last year. It’s because of efforts from people like Finch but also because of the goodwill current players are spreading. I appreciate the hospitality of the Racers organization, especially media manager John Urchek, but it wasn’t just limited to this visiting journalist. I saw several members of the organization go above the call of duty in helping fans. One other part of this trip worth mentioning was our meal at Tres Potrillos. My shrimp tacos were among the best I have ever tasted. Their salsa had a unique flavor which was wonderful.

The 2016 NPF season is almost over, but I am already looking forward to doing this trip again in 2017. I have fallen in love with this sport.

— John Wroblewski, online contributor

Introducing

FX Excursions

FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.

Explore Excursions

#globility

Insta Feed
Daily
May 30, 2025

Grupo Brisas Opens New Las Brisas Mérida Boutique Hotel

Grupo Brisas opened its newest property in Mexico. Las Brisas Mérida, an exclusive boutique hotel strategically located in the heart of the interesting Mexican town of Mérida within the Yucatan Peninsula, marks the brand’s 13th property in Mexico. Grupo Brisas reaffirms its leadership as one of the fastest-growing Mexican hotel chains in the country.

Sail Unique with Explora Journeys

SAIL UNIQUE: A New Chapter in Luxury Ocean Travel Imagine a place where modern European elegance meets the rhythm of the sea — where time slows down, and every detail is crafted to inspire connection and quiet indulgence. This is Explora Journeys, the luxury lifestyle ocean brand from MSC Group created to redefine how we explore the world.

May 2025
May 30, 2025

By-the-cabin Yachting Redefines the Cruise Experience

I wish this day could last forever!” my windswept 9-year-old exclaimed, his voice soaring over the Mediterranean. He gripped the helm of a Bali 4.6 sailing catamaran off the coast of Marseille, his sun- bleached hair whipping in the salty breeze. The scent of the sea mingled with the aroma of warm baguettes drifting from the Côte d’Azur shoreline. Our captain, a seasoned sailor, subtly adjusted course, letting my son feel the exhilarating pull of the wind against the sails. As the waves lapped against the hull, I realized this was no ordinary vacation — this was freedom, unfiltered.

Daily
May 30, 2025

4 U.S. Hotels to Stay at This Pride Month

Pride Month kicks off June 1, and hotels around the country celebrate with special events and offerings.

Find Your Perfect Escape with Paradisus by Meliá — More Than Just All-Inclusive

Luxury travel today is about more than just beautiful accommodations — it’s about experiencing the destination. Paradisus by Meliá takes traditional all-inclusive resorts to the next level by offering indulgence with immersion, experiences and authenticity. Each resort is shaped by its location, local flavors and curated Destination Inclusive® experiences that bring you closer to the heart of the destination.

Daily
May 30, 2025

Summer Gin Cocktail Recipes Inspired by Destinations Around the World

Sometimes our memories of trips to certain destinations and cities around the world become synonymous with a specific dish or drink we had there — whether it was sipping an Aperol Spritz on the Italian coast or cooling off with a gin and tonic in London, a good cocktail in particular elevates a destination.

May 2025
May 28, 2025

Discover the Dazzling Beauty of Amalfi’s Legendary Cave

PHOTO: © GUILLOHMZ | DREAMSTIME .COM

Royal Air Maroc Introduces Groundbreaking Safety Video: A Captivating Invitation to Discover Moroccan Heritage

Royal Air Maroc continues to elevate the passenger experience with the launch of its new in-flight safety video — a cinematic journey that seamlessly blends essential safety instructions with a celebration of Moroccan cultural heritage.

Daily
May 28, 2025

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises Announces First-Ever Extended Weddell Sea Expedition

Hapag-Lloyd Cruises recently announced its 2025/2026 Antarctic season will include a 22-day expedition into the rarely visited Weddell Sea for the first time in the company’s history. The extended route will sail on HANSEATIC spirit.