I spent much of the last two weeks soaking in the last few games of the National Pro Fastpitch season in Rosemont. In addition to enjoying the action from the stands, I also had some fun on the field.

© MARK PANDOCCHI

Prior to one of the games, I joined the Chicago Bandits for a round of batting practice. For a long-time softball player and Bandits fan, this was about as cool as it gets. The players gave me a little cheer as I stepped into the batter’s box with regular catcher Kristyn Sandberg as the pitcher.

Even at half speed (35 mph) from 30 feet, the pitches came in quickly, and I had trouble keeping up. I managed to hit a few nice shots, but my dream of launching one over the fence was not realized. Still, it was a fantastic experience, thanks to Director of Game Day Operations Jourdan Skirha.

JADA RHODES

JENNIE FINCH

A couple games later, multimedal-winning Olympian Jennie Finch held a clinic, and I talked to her about softball returning for the 2020 Olympics and travel. Her legendary career took her all over the world, but she still lists Chicago as a favorite city to visit.

The Bandits finished the season in second place and faced the first-place USSSA Pride in the championship series, played at the Parkway Bank Sports Complex, the Bandits’ home field.

The championship series weekend started with a big tailgate party. I met Rawlings NPF Gold Glove winner Jada Rhodes. She is the third NPF player to win the award, a big step for the league and women’s sports in general.

Unfortunately, the Pride beat the Bandits to become the 2018 NPF champs. The Bandits played well but came up a bit short. It was a tight, exciting series, and both teams should be proud.

BRENNA MOSS
© CHRIS BEJCEK

JESSIE SCROGGINS
© JACK KEENAN

Although the Bandits did not win the NPF championship, they had a very successful season. Several Bandits received individual awards, including NPF Player of the Year Brenna Moss and NPF Rookie of the Year Jessie Scroggins.

I really enjoyed following the Bandits and the NPF over the last few seasons. Despite some growing pains, the NPF continues to put out a fantastic and underappreciated product. The addition of international teams helped bolster the league and attract worldwide fans.

In an era of big salaries and large egos, it is refreshing to see these young, dedicated, passionate athletes who want nothing more than to play the game and grow the sport. Every game, I see young girls waiting to meet the players, hoping that they will one day wear a pro uniform.

© DINA KWIT

© DINA KWIT

I already miss the softball action, and I look forward to next season. I thank GM Toni Calmeyn, Director of Media Relations Jason Lowenthal and the Bandits organization for their hospitality.

— John Wroblewski, online writer