Bandits sign softball star Pauly from NU, Palatine
Former Palatine High School softball star Nicole Pauly has signed a rookie contract to play with the Chicago Bandits of the National Pro Fastpitch league.
The Bandits selected the Palatine native and former Northwestern University infielder after an open open tryout on Saturday, and Pauly, a 5-foot-10 right-handed hitter, signed her contract Tuesday. The deal must still be approved by NPF officials.
About 30 players from colleges across the country attended the tryouts, including Megan Hill from the University of Southern Mississippi, Lauran Ziegler from Florida Gulf Coast University, and Kara Foster from the University of Utah.
"I'm a huge fan of Northwestern kids and we're very happy to have her aboard," said Bill Sokolis, president and CEO of the Bandits.
Pauly, naturally, is excited about the opportunity to play professionally in the Chicago area.
"I grew up around here and knew about the Bandits and they are such a great organization," Pauly said, adding "extending my college career here will be awesome."
Pauly ended her senior season at Northwestern University with a strong senior season: a .289 batting average over 48 starts and a .644 slugging percentage. Of her 39 hits, 22 were extra bases (13 HR, 9 doubles). Pauly also led her team with 36 runs scored.
The Bandits home opener is June 20 at Judson University. For tickets, call the Bandits box office at 877-7BANDIT.