Friday, June 23, 2017

Good Bye, Good Luck and Thank You Michelle Gascoigne

Michelle Gascoigne had an outstanding career at Oklahoma, going 49-7 record with a 1.65 ERA.  She threw a perfect game, along with setting records and receiving awards and achievements.  This lead to her being drafted by the Bandits seventh overall in the 2013 NPF draft.
Gascoigne went on to have a solid career with the Bandits.  She was a fierce compeitor on the mound and a lovable fan favorite off the mound.  She was a big part of the pitching staff that lead the team to two straight NPF titles.
While playing with the Bandits, she started her coaching career.  First she was a Graduate Manager at Oklahoma, then an assistant coach at Northwestern, a position she still holds.  She has a bright future in coaching.  I am hoping she stays in the Chicago area, but I think many schools will be calling her soon.  Either way, I'll continue following her career.
Gascoigne was one of the pitchers I sought out prior to my one at bat against the Bandits in a charity game.  Like the others, she said I pretty much had no chance and she was right.  It all was in fun though and I appreciated her talking to me about it and not just brushing me off, like the over-excited fan that I was.
Gascoigne was always a class act on and off the field, in interviews or just casual ballpark chats.  I appreciate her time and consideration.  I wish her great success at Northwestern and I am excited to be able to continue covering her there.  I thank her for all you have given the Bandits fans and me.  Good luck and Go Cats!
For more info on the reigning back-to-back champion Bandits, go to ChicagoBandits.com.  For more info on the Northwestern softball team, go to NUSports.com.
Michelle Gascoigne and me in Rosemont, IL-July 2014.

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