Johngy (and Mike Knezevich) Through Dina's Lens

Last week, I wrote Through My Lens: A Decade of National Pro Fastpitch Photos, about Dina Kwit's book of photographs and interviews from her 10 years as the team photographer of the Chicago Bandits. I loved the book and not just because I am pictured on page 301.

I am thrilled as can be to be in Dina's book. As I have written, this book is a museum piece. It is a virtual encyclopedia of the Bandits and the NPF. It is the definitive look at the team, the sport and all around it.

The picture in question is of Bandits broadcaster Mike Knezevich and me in the dugout at the ballpark in Rosemont. I remember the exact moment Dina took the picture, but I never imagined it would end up in the book. I figured it was one of thousands of pictures Dina took. At best, I thought it would be seen on social media or ChicagoBandits.com.

A couple weeks ago, Bandit Nation met Dina by the ballpark and we received the first copies of Through My Lens. Dina even said then that I was in the book. I figured she meant I was visible in the background of some shots. It wasn't until I got home and really dug into the book that I saw myself on page 301.

I am incredibly honored to be included. It is even better to be pictured with ace broadcaster Mike. He is such a huge part of the team and the league. 

My picture is one of thousands in Through My Lens. Most people will probably just see it as one of the sights of the ballpark. Maybe I am making too much out of it, but to me, It means I have been a part of this experience. Dina selected this photo because it meant something. It wasn't just filler or a favor. I am proud to have some place cemented in the history of the NPF.

I appreciate Dina for her hard work and dedication in publishing this book. It is a labor of love for her and a gift of love for all softball fans.

For more info on the book, including where to purchase it, go to BookBaby.com. Ifyou bring it to the ballpark next season, I'd be happy to sign page 301 for you!

Mike Knezevich and me in Rosemont, IL-Summer 2018. (Photo by Dina Kwit)

On the Beat With Photographer Dina Kwit of the Chicago Bandits

Last weekend, along with interviews of three Chicago Bandits, which ran yesterday, I interviewed longtime Bandits photographer Dina Kwit. While she is usually busy, lately she has been extra busy putting together Through My Lens: A Photo Collection of Women's Pro Softball, her upcoming book.

Dina joined the Bandits in 2008 and has been capturing the beautiful, historic, exciting and fun times on and off the field ever since. She has seen it all over the years. World class athletes. Championships. Fan interaction. Dina has brought all of that to sports fans through her brilliant photography.

Lately, Dina has been pouring through her thousands of pictures to find the right ones to put in her book. Those pictures, combined with interviews, will make the first such book focusing on the NPF. Through My Lens: A Photo Collection of Women's Pro Softball promises a behind-the-scenes look that only Dina could get.

I started my coverage of the Bandits 5 seasons ago. I was looking for a one time coverage of something different and I fell in love with the sport, the team and the experience.

During those seasons, I saw how hard Dina worked and how keen her eye is. Not only did she get the best shots, she was always thinking of new angles or new concepts. I enjoyed watching  her work and I definitely loved her pictures.

When I heard she was putting together the book, I immediately wanted to share the news. This is awesome for fans of the Bandits, NPF, softball, women's sports and more. You don't even have to be a fan to enjoy the beauty of her pictures.

If you are a fan though, you'll see all of your favorites in the book. There will be a lot of history and memories packed into the 200 pages. I'm sure Jennie Finch, Cat Osterman and Monica Abbott will be represented, as will hundreds of other players. You might even see me in the background somewhere (but don't let that scare you away).

To help in making this book a reality, there is a Kickstarter page. Through that page, you can donate to the cause and get various rewards based on your level of pledge. The goal is $5,000 and about 40% has been raised with 31 days to go. I am sure the goal will eventually be met, but I want to see it reached much sooner than the deadline.

The players, the teams, the fans and the sport deserve this book. Women's pro softball is such an underappreciated sport. The elite women athletes have worked hard to build and grow the sport. Dina has also worked hard for the sport. Now all of that work will be documented in this wonderful book.

To get a little glimpse of what to expect, you can follow Dina Kwit on Instagram and Dina Kwit on Facebook. She has been sharing a lot of her pictures through her #The100DayProject. It has been awesome seeing those pictures and it has really gotten me even more excited about the book.

Check out the Kickstarter page for Through My Lens - A Photo Collection of Women's Pro Softball for all of the info and to support the cause. Like I said in the interview, this book will happen, but let's get it secured quickly!

Thank you to the Bandits for their hospitality. Thanks to Dina for her time and consideration.

On the Beat With the NPF: Jade Hewitt and Dina Kwit

National Pro Fastpitch isn't just about the players.  It is also about the many unsung heroes who help make it a wonderful experience.

Jade Hewitt is the Media Director for the Scrapyard (Houston) Dawgs and the Texas (Dallas) Charge.  She is also a photographer, videographer and runs JadeHewittMedia.com, which specializes in College Athletic Recruiting Videos.  She started Jade Hewitt Media in 2008, while still in school.  She is one talented and busy young woman.

Dina Kwit is the Team Photographer for the Chicago Bandits.  A talented and tireless fixture around the Bandits, Dina is much beloved by Bandit Nation.

I have had the pleasure of knowing and watching Dina for a few years.  It always fascinates me to be around her and watch her mind work as she finds interesting images to capture.  She has a keen eye.  You can see some of her work at OutsideTheBox.co.

Jade has facilitated a ton of media coverage for her teams.  Dina has taken thousands of pictures.  How often are either of these women on the other side of the camera?  Fortunately, I was able to appear in a rare picture with these two 

I know I speak for fans, colleagues and staffers when I extend my gratitude to both of these ladies for all they do.  The NPF is full of elite athletes on the field and dedicated individuals behind the scenes.  Check out NationalProFastpitch.com for more info on the league.

Jade Hewitt, Dina Kwit and me in Rosemont, IL-July 2017.