Friday, August 5, 2022

Haylie Wagner and Athletes Unlimited Softball 2022

 Last weekend, Athletes Unlimited Softball returned to Rosemont, IL for its third season. As always, I was "On the Beat" and loving every minute of the softball action.

As much as I love softball, the best part of the weekend was seeing so many friends again. I caught up with fans, officials and players there, one of whom was pitcher Haylie Wagner.

A star pitcher at the University of Michigan, Haylie started her pro career with the National Pro Fastpitch Pennsylvania Rebellion in 2015. In 2017, she joined the Chicago Bandits, where I had the pleasure of getting to know h, see and interview her.

Pre-game on Opening Night, I wandered to the bullpen area and saw Haylie warming up with catcher Taylor Edwards, another former member fo the Bandits. It was like old times.

Not wanting to bother her, I simply watched her work on a few pitches. As her session ended, Haylie looked over and warmly greeted me. With a lot on her mind, facing her first start of the season in her former ballpark in front of so many fans, I didn't expect anything from Haylie, but her happy greeting made my night. Haylie is all class and definitely a fan favorite.

After the game, I was lucky enough to see Haylie again and grab a selfie. We greeted each other with "Go Blue," in reference to her Michigan ties. Although I have no connection to the Wolverines, I love the Big 10 and it is a fun thing with Michigan alumni.

I'll be "On the Beat" all season at AU. My coverage will be here and on TheEveryDayFan.com. Also check AUProSports.com for more info and updates.

Haylie Wagner and me in Rosemont, IL-July 2022.

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