Living a dream come true as a Chicago Bandit

Editor's note: Samantha Findlay is a first baseman with the Chicago Bandits, who play their home games at Judson University in Elgin. For ticket information, call 1-877-7BANDIT or go online to chicagobandits.com

For me, being a Chicago Bandit is like a dream come true!

I never thought I would get the chance to say I am a professional softball player. Being a part of the NPF and the Chicago Bandits, I get to play with and against the best softball players in the world.

I love the opportunity I have to play in Chicago since this is where I was born and raised. In addition, I enjoy seeing a lot of my hometown fans.

The best part of being a Bandit is the time my whole team takes after our games to sign autographs.

The smiles it brings to young girls' faces lets me know they have hopes and aspirations to one day compete in this league or be a Chicago Bandit like me.

Not many people can say they love what they do, but I can truly say it is an honor and a privilege to be a Chicago Bandit.

I recently had the opportunity to play in the 2009 MLB Legends and Celebrity softball game on ESPN in St. Louis during the All-Star Game festivities.

I got a chance to represent the Chicago Bandits and meet a lot of celebrities, including Nelly, Jenna Fisher from "The Office," Ozzie Smith, Brian Litrell, Ashanti, and Billy Bob Thornton.

It was great to take part in that game in front of that many fans.

Being a Chicago Bandit is something I take pride in, and I am thankful for my opportunity each and every day.