Athletes Unlimited just completed its debut season of AUSL (Athletes Unlimited Softball League). It was a return to tradition softball for the women's league that previously was fantasy points based. From all accounts, it appears to be a success, although changes definitely need to be made.
Currently, there are four teams, with no city affiliations, although the Bandits appear to be Chicago's future team. Putting the Bandits elsewhere would be a major mistake. They are also adding two more teams. Hopefully, those will be announced soon, along with city affiliations for all teams.
There is confusion as to whether there will be an expansion draft, in which each team protects all but a few of their players from being selected by new teams. That is typically how expansion works. I have read the entire league will be redrafted. That would be another major mistake. Fans want continuity. This would pretty much negate having city affiliations. If the Bandits change every year, fans lose the attachment. They have no reason to invest emotionally and financially in players and teams.
Lastly, I have said from the debut of AU years ago, they need a fourth umpire. For a league that just had Major League Baseball invest and partner with them to have three umps like college ball is silly. How much could a fourth umpire cost?
There are a few other minor things, but these three are the most important. I hope they get addressed.
With that being as is, AUSL still took a major step forward for women's sports and softball. They had sold out crowds. They gained a large tv audience.
At this season's opener, I met Jon Patricof the founder and big cheese of AU. Patricof had attempted to do a lot for women's sports. Softball is succeeding. The AU lacrosse league folded, but the volleyball and basketball leagues remain, both use the individual points system.
Go to auprosports.com for more info on Athletes Unlimited. Check back here for my recurring coverage.
Jon Patricof and me in Rosemont, IL-June 2025.
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