Bandits expect sellout for their home opener
In 2008, the Chicago Bandits welcomed 11 newcomers. They also moved to a new stadium in a new community — and they became NPF champions, the franchise's only post-season title.
In 2011, the Bandits are again welcoming 11 new players, moving to a new community, and introducing a new stadium — one that was built specifically for the team.
While a league title remains to be seen, the Bandits will take their first steps in that direction Thursday night when they play their home opener.
The Rosemont Stadium officially opens this weekend with a four-game series against the USSSA Pride.The franchise first played at Benedictine University's stadium in Lisle, and then moved to Elgin to play in Judson University's stadium. Rosemont's is the only facility worldwide that was specifically designed for professional softball.
#8220;Mayor Brad Stephens is excited to showcase the stadium,#8221; said Andrew Phillips, Bandits director public relations. #8220;Having a park like this will have an impact on our league and sport for years to come.#8221;
The Bandits have played two exhibition games at home, but Thursday will be their first league game.
#8220;Exhibition games are fun and a good practice, but nothing compares to the real deal #8212; especially on Opening Day in front of a crowd that we anticipate will be a sellout,#8221; said Phillips.
Nearly 1,200 of the stadium's 1,500 seats were sold as of Wednesday afternoon. #8220;Our fans are excited for regular-season play to begin. They like seeing our players play against (NPF) teams because the competition level and talent pool is so high.#8221;
As always, there will be plenty of fan interaction, such as games, giveaways and light-hearted competitions to keep the atmosphere fun for all. Two weeks ago, the coach of a youth girls softball team attending a game won a prize after beating two of his players in a crowd-judged dance competition.
#8220;Our players, coaches and staff are very excited and pumped up to be #8216;officially' opening the stadium with the ribbon-cutting and game against our arch rivals,#8221; Phillips said.
The Bandits faced the Pride last weekend in Florida and managed to come back and split the series after dropping the first two games.
Though each of Chicago's four pitchers started a game in Florida, Monica Abbott will be on the mound on Thursday. Last weekend she pitched opposite Cat Osterman, and they battled for 10 innings.
#8220;There is no better matchup in the world,#8221; Phillips said of that pitching duo.
#8220;There may not be a lot of runs scored Thursday night, but it will be a pitching contest for the ages.#8221;