Tai Emery Loves Johngy's Beat

My coverage of the Legends Football League usually focuses on the Chicago Bliss, but today, I am featuring Tai Emery, a former LFL star player for the Queensland Brigade (Australia), the Las Vegas Sinn and the Los Angeles Temptation.

An all-star and one of the most popular players in the LFL, Tai has also done some modeling. More recently she shifted gears and started training for MMA.

Last year, Tai was kind enough to send a shout out to us here at Johngy's Beat. While doing cleanup on my files, I realized I had not featured this promo video yet. Tai's voice needs to be heard and her fans always are happy with more Tai!

With her charisma, athleticism and dedication, I have no doubt that Tai will do well in whatever field she chooses. I am sure we will be seeing more of Tai in the future and I will certainly cover her career as it continues to develop. 

We thank Tai for her kindness and we wish her well. Be sure to follow Tai Emery on Twitter.

On the Beat With Brian F. Colin at Chicago Pop Culture Con 2017

When I walked into Chicago Pop Culture Con, I saw a lot of my old favorite video arcade games, including Arch Rivals, my all-time favorite game.  Louie and I used to have serious battles on Arch Rivals during lunch breaks 25 years ago.  I believe I lead the all-time series 44-41 (or so).

As I stared at the game in awe, Chicago Pop Culture Con Promoter Tim Zurko introduced me to Brian F. Colin, the man who did the artwork for Arch Rivals.  Of course, I had to talk to him about the game, but I also learned some other fascinating things.

Aside from Arch Rivals, Brian worked on so many other great video games, including Rampage.  He talked to me about Rampage and the upcoming movie.  I love Brian's thoughts on the movie.  I think his take is what all gamers initially think.  I know it is what I always think about movies made from video games, but because of Brian's opinion, I am now interested in seeing it (and not just because it stars Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson).

Of course, Brian has done a ton of other stuff and gamers owe him a tremendous debt of gratitude.  He is responsible for so many of the images of my video arcade youth.  Brian and Jeff Nauman are the founders and principal game designers at Game Refuge.  For over 25 years, they have designed and developed the games we love to play.

Back when I was having a video game blast at Aladdin's Castle and Wright's Barnyard, little did I realize I would someday meet one of the men responsible for my enjoyment.  This was a real pleasure and just one of the many reasons why I totally loved Chicago Pop Culture Con.

For more info on Brian and his work, including future appearances, check out the Game Refuge Facebook page.  Also, if you see him at an appearance, make sure to thank him for the years of entertainment he has provided.

Thank you to Brian for his time.  Thanks to Tim Zurko and Chicago Pop Culture Con for the hospitality.  I had a great time and look forward to next year.  For more info, check out ChicagoPopCultureCon.com.

On the Beat With John Borowski at Chicago Pop Culture Con 2017

When I saw the guest list for Chicago Pop Culture Con, John Borowski's name immediately jumped out.  Aside from being a film maker, author and more, I am proud to consider John a friend and I am always happy to promote his excellent work.

John deals with some heavy subject matter in true crime.  In the interview below, he gives the perfect explanation for his intent in presenting this material.  I recommend you listening to his own words, rather than just reading my recap.

You can tell he is passionate about the subjects, but in a historian sort of way.  He values information over sensationalization.  This is why I really admire and appreciate his work.  Not every creative person could pull this together and present it in the right manner.

In the interview, John also talks about his current project, Dahmer's Confession: The Milwaukee Cannibal's Arrest Statements, as well as other projects in the works.  John digs deep for interviews, arrest records, actual case studies and more.  He is the perfect example of why we should support independent film makers and artists.

After you watch the interview below, check out JohnBorowski.com for more info on John and his projects.  You can find his books on Amazon, too.

Thank you to Tim Zurko and Chicago Pop Culture Con for the hospitality.  I already look forward to covering it again in 2018.

On the Beat With John Borowski at Flashback Weekend 2017

At Flashback Weekend, I reconnected with filmmaker and author John Borowski.  John started as an interesting interview subject, but I am also proud to call John a friend.

John's focus has been on serial killers, international criminals and other similar subjects.  While some might find the subject matter to be controversial, I urge all to check out John's work.

He doesn't sensationalize the topics.  This isn't about shocking for theatrical effect.  John's work is about studying and learning about the horrors.  This is history and we can learn from it, thanks to John's efforts.

Prior to my first meeting with John, I wondered about how John handled the subjects.  After watching some of his movies and talking to him, I learned that John treats his work very seriously.  Of course, there has to be an entertainment value in any media form, but John never makes that the priority.  His productions are entertaining through the information he gets from first-person accounts, interviews, artifacts and more.

I find John's work to be fascinating.  He presents information you won't find in history books or even websites.  John doesn't give a glossy surface account of anything.  He digs in and gets some incredibly interesting and unique material.

I always appreciate John giving us his time and his updates.  I will continue to follow and report on John and his projects.  You can also learn more about John at JohnBorowski.com.

On the Beat With Dr. Destruction and Lilith Lovecraft at PopCon MIlwaukee 2017

At comic cons, I am always on the lookout for local horror hosts.  I find them fascinating.  At PopCon Milwaukee, I found two great ones in Dr. Destruction and Lilith Lovecraft.  Based out of Kenosha, WI, the macabre duo has been entertaining horror fans for many years.  

Nicknamed "The Godfather of Goth," Dr. Destruction lists his birth year as 1905.  I'd say he is aging incredibly well.  He was the Channel 14 Newcomer of the Year in 2003, one of many awards and accolades he has collected over the years.

Lilith is his lovely hostess and she's not just there to brighten the set.  Her contributions, including her Pro Wrestling Report, are always entertaining.

They have great chemistry together and they present an eclectic mix of interesting topics.  In the world of horror hosts, it is difficult to truly stand out, but Dr. Destruction and Lilith have made their mark and have quite a following.  In addition to their personalities, their show is unique in that they aren't limited to old horror movies.  They discuss "the underground, unusual and macabre," as they like to say.  I have to agree with Lilith about wrestling fitting into at least one (if not all) of those categories.  In any case, the result is 4 hours of fun every week night!

In the interview below, Dr. Destruction and Lilith talk about their ongoing projects, their favorite horror hosts, their favorite wrestlers and more.  Dr. Destruction also gives us a couple area history nuggets.

For more info on these two and their projects, check out the Dr. Destruction Facebook page, the Lilith Lovecraft Facebook page and the Dr. Destruction's Bigtop Radio Broadcast After Midnight Facebook page.  You can also give them a listen, Monday through Friday, midnight to 4 a.m. on AM1050 WLIP or streamed at WLIP.com.

Thank you to PopCon Milwaukee for their hospitality.  Thanks, too, to Dr. Destruction and Lilith for their time and consideration.

On the Beat With Marla McKenna at PopCon Milwaukee 2017

When I signed on to cover PopCon Milwaukee, I wanted to meet and interview author Marla McKenna.  Then I found out she would be sharing convention space with Fergie Jenkins.  I love how this all ties in.

Marla authored the children's book Mom's Big Catch.  It's about a special day at the ballpark and her daughters and their dog are characters in the book.
In our interview, Marla talked about Mom's Big Catch and her other books.  Marla also revealed that partial proceeds from Mom’s Big Catch, Sadie’s Big Steal and I’m a Secret Superhero go to the Linda Blair WorldHeart Foundation, a wonderful organization near to my heart.  The LBWF is committed to fighting animal cruelty through education, rescuing animals and placing them in good homes.  Also, legendary rocker Rick Springfield is matching Marla’s donations from her books!
If all of that wasn't cool enough, Mom's Big Catch has become fully customizable.  The custom editions feature plenty of specific references to the team.  (This isn't just a token cover sticker deal).  At PopCon Milwaukee, she had special Chicago Cubs editions with Fergie Jenkins.  Several other editions are in the working stages.
All of Marla's books convey positive messages, which she has happily discussed in schools across the area.  These messages are universal and as the book editions grow, Marla should be appearing all over.

It was a real pleasure meeting and talking to Marla.  Her passion was evident as we talked and also as every fan approached her.  I also witnessed her family arriving and the love that is there.
I'll be keeping up with the progress of Marla's books and reporting back here.  Until then, check out MomsBigCatch.net for more info and updates on Marla and this great book project.  You can also follow the Mom's Big Catch Facebook page and Marla McKenna on twitter.

On the Beat With Fergie Jenkins at PopCon Milwaukee 2017

I was already on board with covering PopCon Milwaukee, when I found out there was going to be a major announcement from Hall of Fame pitcher Fergie Jenkins.  Fergie's Personal Assistant (also my longtime friend) Steve Gassman alerted me to the Saturday announcement and I made sure to be there to get the first interview with Fergie after the announcement.

As you will hear in the interview below, Team Fergie is producing a book featuring Fergie's inside stories book about the 1969 Chicago Cubs set for a 2019 release.  Along with Steve, Team Fergie is comprised of Fergie, Publisher (and another longtime friend) John Schenk, Author (and another longtime friend) George Castle and artist John Hanley.  It's an excellent team and I am happy to be associated with these fine folks.

This book is going to be awesome.  John knows what makes an interesting book.  George is very talented and one of the most knowledgeable sports writer I have ever seen.  Fergie is loaded with great memories and funny stories.  Steve's organization and coordination skills will keep everything running smoothly, with proper media updates released.  John H's artist creativity will provide beautiful illustrations.

John and Steve have promised to keep me updated, so I can continue to report on the book's progress.  Of course, with these folks, that probably also means a few new projects and certainly fun and surprises along the way.  Johngy's Beat will continue to provide recurring coverage of Fergie's book.  You can also check Fergie's Facebook page for updates and info.

Thank you to PopCon Milwauke for their hospitality.  This convention will become a regular staple on my yearly calendar.  Thank you, too, to Team Fergie for their time and consideration.  I value your friendships and I appreciate and enjoy you all!

On the Beat With Matheson Iacopelli of the Rockford IceHogs

Right winger Matheson Iacopelli is in his first full season with the IceHogs.  He played 8 games last season, scoring a goal and three assists.  He was selected 83rd overall by the Blackhawks in the 2014 NHL Draft.

Iacopelli had played 2 seasons with the Muskegon Lumberjacks of the USHL, leading the league in goals in the 2013-14 season.  In 114 games in 2 seasons, he scored 64 goals with 37 assists.  He went on to play 2 seasons at Western Michigan University.  scoring 21 goals with 22 assists in 67 games.  After that, he joined the IceHogs.

After the tough 5-2 loss on Friday night, I was part of the postgame media session.  I asked him about the team potentially being tired after they have played 5 games in 8 days with another game the next night.  I followed up that question with asking about that next game.  Iacopelli was open and honest with his answers.

I wrote more about the actual games on Puck Planet at IceHogs Split Weekend Games, Remain in 1st.  I also covered the experience for the Patch at Rockford IceHogs Remain in 1st Place.

As always, thank you to the Rockford IceHogs for their hospitaity.  Thank you also to Iacopelli for his time and willingness to talk after the game.

Check out IceHogs.com for all of the info on the IceHogs.  You can also check here and on PuckPlanet.com for my recurring coverage of the IceHogs.

On the Beat With Coach Jeremy Colliton of the Rockford IceHogs

The Rockford IceHogs split their two weekend home games.  On Friday, they lost to the Milwaukee Admirals, but bounced back on Saturday by beating the Grand Rapids Griffins.
The split put their record at 7-2, which was good for first place in the Central Division, the Western Conference and the AHL overall.  After playing 6 games in 8 days, that is a pretty good place to be.
Obviously, it is early in the season, but first place is good no matter when it is.  Coach Jeremy Colliton has the team hustling and playing aggressively.  I have gone on record as saying I think he just might be the next coach of the Blackhawks, but I am getting ahead of myself.
The most impressive stat of the weekend for me was the shot advantage by the IceHogs on Saturday.  Admittedly and understandably playing a bit tired after a rough stretch in the schedule, the IceHogs outshot the Griffins 39-20.  That type of pressure will pay dividends.
I really enjoy going to Rockford to see the IceHogs.  It is about an 75b minute drive west, but worth the effort.  The drive home i usually quite relaxing as traffic is minimal.  It's especially nice after a win!
I wrote more about the actual games on Puck Planet at IceHogs Split Weekend Games, Remain in 1st.  I also covered the experience for the Patch at Rockford IceHogs Remain in 1st Place.

As always, thank you to the Rockford IceHogs for their hospitaity.  Thank you also to Iacopelli for his time and willingness to talk after the game.

Check out IceHogs.com for all of the info on the IceHogs.  You can also check here and on PuckPlanet.com for my recurring coverage of the IceHogs.

On the Beat at HeroTV With Carley Cooprider

The fifth episode of our HeroTV show is airing on Comcast and is also available on our HeroTV YouTube channel.  You can find that episode at HeroTV 2017: Episode 5 Carley Cooprider.
Carley is a very special you lady.  She talks candidly about her childhood, her time as a ref in pro wrestling, her new career path as a nurse, her battle with Lyme Disease and more.
Our paths had crossed prior to this interview, but I never really knew Carley until PL Myers and I interviewed her.  Within minutes of talking to her before the interview began, I was so impressed with her composure, courage and strength.  She has overcome a lot in life and is still crushing the obstacles.  Her message is so positive, so inspirational.
After the interview, I drove home thinking about Carley and HeroTV.  PL always says HeroTV is about the everyday heroes.  Carley is a hero in every sense of the word.  She is a true unsung hero.  I hope HeroTV shines a little light on her life and accomplishments.  I hope many people are introduced to this special person.  She has a wonderful message for life.  This isn't just lip service.  She has and is living courageously and admirably.
My respect goes to Carley.  I am proud that she is a new friend I have met through HeroTV.  It's not every day that I meet a real hero.

PL Myers, Carley Cooprider and me in Elmhurst, IL-July 2017.

On the Beat At HeroTV With Emily Allard of the Chicago Bandits

I often get asked why I love the Chicago Bandits or women's softball so much.  One easy answer is Emily Allard.
Emily is a California girl who attended college and played softball at Northwestern University.  She was selected by the Chicago Bandits in the 2014 National Pro Fastpitch Draft.  The outfielder quickly played her way into the lineup and the  hearts of fans.
Midway through her third season, Emily suffered a season-ending concussion.  She worked very hard and came back strong last season, but concussion issues lingered and her season was cut short again.  Her future in softball is in question at the moment.
Emily is a huge favorite of the fans.  There are many #24 jerseys worn in the stands at every game.
Outside of playing for the Bandits, Emily is co-founder of BeTheMomentumSoftball.com.  Emily is a slap-hitter and she is teaching youngsters the skill.  Not everyone can hit a towering home run.  Emily has used her speed and her well-placed hits to become a very valuable table-setter for the home run hitters behind her.
When I joined PL Myers on HeroTV, my first suggestion for an interview was Emily.  I figured she would be a very interesting interview,, but more important, I wanted to shine the light on her and the Bandits.  These ladies deserve much more recognition than they get.
When I asked Emily, she quickly agreed and despite a busy schedule, she met us early one Sunday morning at the Ballpark.  This was typical Emily.  Why stay in and catch more sleep, when she can be out giving of herself.
I am so happy and proud of this interview, which can be found on YouTube.at HeroTV Episode 4: Emily Allard.  We talked to Emily about her path to the Bandits, her passion, the young fans, her goals, her role models, her injury issues and much more.  You can feel the commitment she has to the sport and the young fans (and even us older fans, too).
This interviews was conducted prior to her stepping away from the game because of the lingering effects of her concussion.  Unfortunately, she made that decision about 10 days later.
Getting back to my main point, Emily is a perfect example of everything I have loved about covering the Bandits and being involved in the NPF.  The dedication of the players is amazing.  They play for little pay (and deserve much more), but it isn;t about the money.  It's about the sport and the young fans.  I see that on a daily basis around the team.
Win or lose, the players put smiles on their faces and walk the long line of fans after the game.  They sign autographs, pose for pictures and engage in a bit of chat with everyone there.The Bandits won two straight league titles, yet I saw so little coverage of the team.
I have no idea if Emily will play pro ball again.  I hope she does, but I know she will be fine either way.  She has a lot going on and she will continue to make a difference no matter where her career path takes her.
I thank Emily for her time in giving us this interview and for her friendship over the last few years.  I thank the Chicago Bandits for their continued hospitality in allowing me to do what I love.  I thank PL Myers for seeing something in me to ask me to join his show.

PL Myers, Emily Allard and me in Rosemont, IL-June 2017.

On the Beat With Zombie Bit Me at Wizard World Chicago 2017

Cosplaying is a huge part of Wizard World.  Many attendees arrive in full costumes and spend a good portion of their time posing for pictures with other attendees.  Zombie Bit Me is a cosplayer who has taken it to another level.

Zombie Bit Me, who describes herself as "deliciously undead," is brought in by many comic cons and other fan events.  She is an attraction all by herself and by the looks of the line to meet her at Wizard World Chicago, she is a very popular attraction.

Being my job as a reporter, I researched her a bit and discovered there is much more to Zombie Bit Me than just being a beautiful cosplayer.  She is in the process of producing her own comic book.  We talked about that comic book in the interview below.

In an event filled with colorful characters and celebrities of all types, I love finding the hidden gems like Zombie Bit Me.  She made it fun for all who came near her and it seemed like she was having a good time, too.  That makes for a perfect fan experience.

She has certainly gained a fan in me.  I will be looking forward to the release of her comic book and hopefully to seeing her at future events.

You can learn more about her, including seeing a lot of her other cosplay ensembles at ZombieBit.me.  You can also follow Zombie Bit Me on Facebook, Zombie Bit Me on twitter and Zombie Bit Me on Instagram.  Hopefully, you will also see her here in the future.

Thank you to Wizard World for the continued hospitality.  Of course, a big thanks to Zombie Bit Me for taking a break from her many fans to talk to us for a moment.  It was my pleasure!

On the Beat With Thomas Ian Nicholas at Wizard World Chicago 2017

We last saw and interviewed Thomas Ian Nicholas a few months back.  While at Wizard World Chicago this last weekend, we had the chance to get an update from him.

As Henry Rowengartner in Rookie of the Year, he was the kid pitcher who led the Chicago Cubs to the World Series.  That earned him a place in the hearts of long-suffering fans fo the team and also a yearly invite to throw out the first pitch at a game.  Since then, he has carved out quite a resume of acting roles, including Kevin Myers in the American Pie franchise.

He has also made his mark on the music scene.  The Thomas Nicholas Band has been performing for years and recently did a show in Chicago.

At Wizard World Chicago, he was meeting fans and promoting Handbook For Mortals, by Lani Sarem.  He will be producing and acting in the upcoming film.

He also produced and stars in The Lost Tree, to be released October 13.  Also, in January 2018, Living Among Us will be released.  As Thomas states, unfortunately, that is also John Heard's last movie.

For more info on Thomas or his projects, you can go to the Handbook For Mortals Facebook page, the Lost Tree Facebook page, the Living Among Us Facebook page and ThomasIanNicholas.com.  You can also check back here for future update on Thomas and his projects.

I want to thank the fine folks at Wizard World for their hospitality always.  I also want to extend my sincere gratitude to Thomas for his time and consideration.  Like all celebs there, Thomas is very busy at Wizard World.  Giving us a few minutes of his time is very appreciated.  Thomas is funny, interesting and just a good guy.  I'm a reporter, but I'm also a fan!

On the Beat With Wesley Eure and Kathy Coleman of "Land of the Lost"

Saturday morning television was a lot different when I was a kid.  It was a lot less high tech, but it was a lot more fun.  A huge part of my Saturday television experience was "Land of the Lost, " which ran for 3 seasons starting in 1974.

The Marshall family was on a camping trip and fell through a portal into an alternate universe.  This "land of the lost" was filled with dinosaurs, a civilization of people called "Pakuni" and lizard creatures called "Sleestak."  Wesley Eure and Kathy Coleman portrayed the Marshall children.

The show was simple, even though the concept was a bit intricate.  Were they lost in their world or were they living parallel lives?  How did the portal and crystals work?  None of that really mattered though, because the heart of the show was the Marshall family and the interaction with each other and their new surroundings.

When I saw Wesley and Kathy would be appearing at the Wheaton All-Night Flea Market, I contacted both about doing an interview.  Both responded positively and quickly.  I had so many questions I would have loved to ask them, but I knew they would be very busy at the event.  Instead, I opted for just a fun, light interview.

Wesley and Kathy jumped into the fun immediately by belting out the theme song (originally sung by Wesley).  I'm sure I did not add to the harmony by jumping in, but when would I have another chance to sing with these two?  I had to join the fun.

We sailed through a short interview.  They talked about the fun they had and are having and their closeness.  Obviously, they are good friends (unrelated siblings, you might say).  We ended, appropriately, with the closing theme.

I cannot tell you how cool this was for me.  This is one of those moments I never could have imagined 40 years ago when I was watching them on Saturday morning.  I wasn't the only one basking in the nostalgia.  They were easily the most popular guests at the event.  Fans presented them with cool gifts, too.  Wesley and Kathy could not have been nicer or more appreciative of the fans.

Wesley and Kathy came well-prepared, too.  They had many 8x10's and Kathy brought her book, Run, Holly, Run! (available on Amazon).  They also brought a raft and paddles for cool photo ops!

This was tremendously fun for me.  For a few minutes, I was right back there watching their show as a kid.  I sincerely appreciate their time and consideration.  You can follow both of them on Facebook and hopefully you get a chance to meet them at a future convention!

Thank you Wesley and Kathy for entertainment back then and for being so awesome now.  I hope to catch you both again.

On the Beat With Mike Carey and Chris Margetis at Flashback Weekend 2017

I first met Mike Carey (M.J. Carey) at the premiere of Fancypants back in 2011.  I later learned that Cuzz Gekas knew Carey.  I have seen Carey every year since at Flashback Weekend.
This year, Mike was joined by Chris Margetis.  They were promoting their project The Manson Brothers Midnight Zombie Massacre.  They explain the concept in our interview below, but the movie does contain wrestling, zombies, mayhem and other fun stuff.
It's still a bit early in the whole production process of The Manson Brothers Midnight Zombie Massacre.  The movie is in pre-production.  They don't even have a website up and running yet, but they promised to relay that info to me and I will update everyone here as details are released.
I am looking forward to seeing the movie, but also the updates and the progress.  It sounds like it's going to be a fun movie.  Mike has invited be to go on set and to get behind-the-scenes coverage.  I'll be there and I'll report here!
As promised earlier, I will keep everyone updated as Mike and Chris update me.  Check here for news on The Manson Brothers Midnight Zombie Massacre.  You can also follow MJCarey99 on twitter and Chris Margetis on Facebook.

On the Beat With White Sox Dave of Barstool Sports

I have written several times about my one at bat against Kirsten Verdun and the Chicago Bandits.  I struck out on four pitches (I worked that count!) and never really had a chance at making good contact.
I never felt too bad about it.  Kirsten was an elite pitcher (all of these ladies are elite players).  The pitches come in at about 65 mph from 40 feet, which translates to about 100 from regular distance.  Even in my prime, I don't think I would have done much better.
I had never seen any "regular" guy bat against the Bandits since then, until Saturday night, when WhiteSoxDave from Barstool Sports had his chance.
I was ecstatic and nervous about my at bat.  Dave was cool and cocky.  He talked smack on social media and at the ballpark.  He wanted softball legend Jennie Finch, but she politely declined.  Dave would face USSSA Pride pitcher Kelsey Nunley.
Nunley is a second year pitcher alum from the University of Kentucky.  She has a career NPF record of 14-2 with an ERA of 2.51.  She has 112 strike outs in 114.1 innings pitched.
Dave was younger than me and seemed fairly athletic, but I still thought he had no chance of making real contact.  Nunley is a pro.  While this was just an exhibition at bat, I didn't think she'd want to give up any big hit to a regular guy.
Dave gave it his all in the at bat.  He took some mighty swings.  In the end, he had the same result I did.  I felt better about my feeble attempt.
Dave took it all in good spirits.  He even started early trash-talking for his revenge next season, as you can hear in the interview below.
Dave did bounce back a bit later when he raced against Sammy Marshall.  In the first race, with a huge headstart, Dave "beat" Sammy.  In the next race, with a bit of a headstart, the race was too close to call, but I think Sammy edged him out.
Dave (aka WhiteSoxDave) is a Chicago contributor for Barstoolsports.com.  It's a fun, sports site, one which I visit on a regular basis.  I encourage all to check it out.  You can also follow BarstoolSports on twitter, BarstoolWSD on twitter, BarstoolCarl on twitter and Barstool Sports on Facebook.
I had a lot of fun hanging out in the bullpen area with the Barstool Sports gang.  I look forward to seeing them again next season at the ballpark in Rosemont.

I thank the Chicago Bandits for their continued hospitality.  I thank Barstool Sports and WhiteSoxDave for the interview.  I also extend an open offer to do any extra coverage of the Bandits for them.  Johngy's Beat would love to be (even a small) part of the Barstool Sports universe.

On the Beat With Coach Sharonda McDonald of the Chicago Bandits 2017

As we await the National Pro Fastpitch playoffs, our coverage of the Chicago Bandits continues.  After a season of interviewing the Bandits, we finally get to Coach Sharonda McDonald.

Sharonda had an excellent playing career at Texas A&M.  She finished with a .338 career batting average and is the Texas A&M all-time leader for both runs scored and stolen bases, while earning All-Big 12 honors all four years.  In 2005, her sophomore season, she won the Golden Shoe award, presented annually to the nation's top baserunner.

She went on to play two seasons with the Philadelphia Force in the NPF, followed by a season in the Italian Professional League, before returning to the NPF for 3 seasons with the Akron Racers and one season with the USSSA Pride.

Her coaching career started as an Assistant at Texas Southern University.  After stops at Ohio University, LSU and Texas Tech, she joined the University of Florida staff in 2016.  In early 2017, Sharonda was named Coach of the Bandits.

She came in under less than ideal circumstances.  A lot of changes occurred during the offseason and the back-to-back reigning champs barely resembled the team from last season.  While it has been a challenging season, the Bandits have hung tough.

The Bandits finished the season with a record of 25-24, good for 4th place and a spot in the playoffs.  They will now face the USSSA Pride with the first game on Thursday, August 17.

After Sunday's loss, I had the opportunity to talk to Coach Sharonda on the field.  I asked her about the rough series with the Pride, her first season coaching in the NPF and Bandit Nation.  Coach Sharonda was upbeat and ready for the playoffs.

I thank the Bandits for allowing me to get access to do all of these interviews.  I appreciate Coach Sharonda for giving us her time and thoughts.  I thank everyone who helped me with the interviews.  Finally, thank you to Bandit Nation and all others who watched (and hopefully enjoyed) these videos.

Check ChicagoBandits.com for information on how to watch the playoffs and for other news.  Check here for continuing coverage of the Bandits.  Our interviews are done for now, but our coverage will continue.

On the Beat With Stacy May-Johnson of the Chicago Bandits 2017

The 2017 National Pro Fastpitch regular season ended on Sunday for the Chicago Bandits and now they head to the playoffs.  Our coverage of the back-to-back reigning champs continues today with our interview with Stacy May-Johnson.

Stacy has one of the most interesting stories.  After a stellar career at Iowa, the Bandits selected Stacy in the second round of the 2006 NPF draft.  She was the 2006 NPF Rookie of the Year.  She followed that by being named the 2008 NPF Player of the Year, while leading the team to their first title.  She won her second Player of the Year award in 2011, while the Bandits won their second title.

Stacy retired after the 2011 season, with her place secured as one of the NPF all-time greats.  The Bandits retired her #5 jersey and Bandit Nation adjusted to life after Stacy.

Earlier this year, Stacy announced she was coming out of retirement and signed with the Bandits.  I was excited, as I hadn't seen Stacy in her earlier years.  I was finally going to see the legend in action.

This season, Stacy hit .211 in 76 at bats in 35 games.  She also had 9 RBI's and 6 runs scored.

I'd call it a successful comeback.  Her contributions go well beyond her stats though.  The fans embraced her again.  As a returning veteran, she immediately became a team leader.  She looked to be having fun.  It was a real feel-good story.

I had the pleasure of finally interviewing Stacy.  I asked her about her decision to return and her thoughts on the season.  Stacy talked about the possibility of next season and the Olympics.  I also asked her about her children seeing mommy and her role as a team leader.

It was really great talking to Stacy.  She is a true professional and a class act.  The team, the NPF and the sport of softball are better because of her.

Thank you to the Chicago Bandits for giving me the access to do these interviews.  Thank you to Stacy for her time and consideration.  Thanks to Bandit Nation's Mark Pandocchi for last-minute duty in helping me with this interview.

The Bandits head into the playoffs   ChicagoBandits.com has the latest info on scheduling and viewing options throughout the playoffs.

On the Beat With Danielle Zymkowitz of the Chicago Bandits 2017

We remain "On the Beat" as the regular season winds down for the back-to-back National Pro Fastpitch champion Chicago Bandits.  Today, our coverage features Danielle Zymkowitz.
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!

On the Beat With Alexa Peterson of the Chicago Bandits 2017

The Chicago Bandits have clinched a playoff spot and we continue our coverage as they end their regular season and charge into the playoffs.  Today, our coverage brings us to 4th year outfielder Alexa Peterson.

Alexa had an outstanding career at the University of Oregon, where she had a .360 career batting average with 30 home runs and 153 RBI's.  As a junior, she hit .471 to win the Pac 12 batting title.  She ended her career at Oregon ranking in the top ten in hits, doubles, homers, walks, rbi's and batting average.  The USSSA Pride selected her with the 11th pick in the 2014 NPF draft.

In her rookie season, she appeared in 18 games, hitting .389 with a home run, 3 rbi's and 5 runs scored.  After the season, she was traded to the (now defunct) Pennsylvania Rebellion. She saw considerable playing time with the Rebellion and hit .248 and .256 in her two seasons there.  She also hit 4 homers and had 27 rbi's and 27 runs scored over the 2 seasons.

After the Rebellion folded, Alexa signed with the Bandits.  This season, in 25 games, she is hitting .286, with 2 homers, 6 rbi's and 9 runs scored.  She also has a stolen base and has been hit by a pitch 4 times.
As always, I appreciate the Bandits for allowing me to do what I love.  Thanks, too, to Alexa for giving us her time and consideration.

Three games and the playoffs remain in the 2017 NPF season.  Keep returning here, because we still have a few interviews to run.  Also, check ChicagoBandits.com for more news and info.