It took some effort, but I got a picture with pro softball player Delanie Wisz. She was my only goal on her team and I succeeded.
Delanie starred at UCLA, before joining Athletes Unlimited. At UCLA, she helped lead the Bruins to a pair of NCAA College World Series appearances. She debuted with AU in 2023 and became a Bandit in 2025, when real teams were announced.
Two new teams joined AU in the offseason and the Bandits (now the Chicago Bandits) could only protect five players. No disrespect to those chosen, but Delanie should have been protected. She has versatility of playing several positions, including RF, 3B, 1B and catcher. That type of ability, coupled with her skill set, should have made her an easy keeper. Instead, she became a great pickup for the Oklahoma Spark.
On her first series back in Rosemont, she hit 3 HRs in three games. Despite her being on the opposing team, I cheered every time.
I have been a fan of Delanie's for many years. I actually started as a fan and admirer of her sister Stevie. A player at UCLA prior to Delanie, Stevie has battled heart issues for many years. She is tough and inspirational.
I have followed Stevie, Delanie and their mom on social media and I have seen all of their triumphs and hurdles. They have such a strong faith and positive attitude, despite the hardships they have experienced.
AU instituted a new tougher policy with player pictures and autographs. I camped out near the player locker room door and hoped to catch her when she wasn't in game mode. Prior to the last game, she was already on the field, but she went back to the clubhouse. When she reappeared to head to the field, she was accompanied by a policeman, a common practice now to discourage fans from bothering her. Undaunted, I approached her just as she neared the field and the policeman started walking away. To her credit, Delanie was as sweet as could be.
I immediately sent the picture to Delanie's mom, like I did with every previous picture I took with Delanie. Mom Wisz has always been kind to me. On one Chicago roadtrip to see Delanie, she came over to me to thank me for my support over the years. Like I wrote, it is a beautiful family.
For more info on Delanie and the league, go to auprosports.com. Also, check here for my recurring coverage.
Delanie Wisz and me in Rosemont, IL-June 2026.
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