Danielle had an outstanding career at the University of Illinois. The three year captain is the Illinois career leader for batting average (.384), hits (277), runs scored (202), stolen base attempts (106), stolen bases (91) and stolen base percentage (.858). In her senior year, she hit .429, while starting all 49 games at second base. She was also a three-time first-team All-Big Ten selection while with the Illini.
She went undrafted, but earned a spot on the Bandits via a tryout. She has been a great player ever since. She has played at least 30 games every season, while batting .265 over her career.
In her 7th season, she is playing as good as ever. She is hitting .254 with 7 rbi's and 14 runs scored. Defensively, she has made only one error in 29 chances.
In our interview below, I asked Danielle about going from a tryout to playing (at a high level) for 7 seasons, her role as a team leader, her superpower wishes and more. I also asked a couple questions submitted by Kenzie Parker, a young softball player and huge fan of the Bandits.
Danielle was one of the first Bandits I ever interviewed. She is one of 2 Bandits (Natalie Hernandez is the other) remaining from my first season covering the team. She is a true pro and I have a ton of respect for her on and off the field. It really has been a pleasure watching her play (and practice) and talking to her around the park. Danielle is a great role model and a great ambassador for the league and the sport.
Thank you to the Chicago Bandits for allowing me to do what I love. Thanks to Danielle for giving us her time and for years of great play. Thanks to Kenzie Parker for her contributions to the interview. Thank you to Mark Pandocchi (of Bandit Nation) for his solid video work and assistance on these last couple interviews.
Today is the last regular season game, but the playoffs are ahead. Check ChicagoBandits.com for more info and news. Keep checking here for our continual coverage of the reigning NPF champs!
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