With the Chicago Bandits theoretically back, it's the perfect time to feature Bandits swag. How about an autographed team ball?
The 2017 Chicago Bandits were more interesting than usual. A partnership of sorts was formed with Team Australia, which saw eight Aussies join the Bandits for the season. The Elite Eight produced a few athletes who represented Australia in the 2021 Olympics.
Having Aussies on the team created an unusual dynamic. The fine folks in Australia began following the Bandits, bringing a real international flavor to the team and the fan base. The players and their families and friends could not have been nicer.
National Pro Fastpitch fans didn't know how to feel about this at first. Teams get new players every year, but getting eight players "on loan" from Australia meant eight less jobs for players we all knew better. While it was different, it wasn't a bad thing. It quickly became a good thing when the Aussies blended into the team and the Aussie fans merged with Bandit Nation. In the end it was a really cool experience, made even cooler by seeing some the the Aussie Eight play in the Olympics.
The 2017 team ball is one of about 25 softballs I received over the years covering the NPF. they are all special in their own way, but this one is certainly unique because of the Aussie Eight.
No comments:
Post a Comment