My latest crazy idea is to start playing baseball (not softball) again – when I haven’t played organized ball for a long time. However, I go to the batting cages (love it) and work our religiously. I remembered hearing about a women’s hardball leagues somewhere in the Chicago area, so I decided to do some research. I found the Chicago Gems, an all-female baseball league which has 4 teams and plays in Bedford Park. I sent an email to the address on the web site, basically here is the body copy:
Hi -
My name is Shellie Hall and I have been searching for a women’s hardball league and I came across your site. I would be interested in finding out more about your ballclub and playing ball this year. I played softball because there were not any hardball leagues for women. I have coached Little League Minors and I now warm up pitchers on my son’s Little League Major Team. I just recently started catching and I love it. I also like to play 2nd or 3rd base. If there is room for someone like me in your league, I would love to hear back from you.
Thanks for your time and consideration.
Shellie Hall
Well – shortly thereafter, I heard back from 2 League Officers, Dana and Christine, who were both very friendly and said I would be welcomed into the league. I started receiving mailing-list emails and we had our first meet & greet event last Friday night at Diversey River Bowl in Chicago. There were about 20 women that showed up and I had such a great time talking baseball with other women who love it just as much as I do. Come to realize, that I will be the oldest member of the league – so I will definitely have something to prove. I am totally up for the challenge.
Yesterday I hit the batting cages and was able to hold my own in the 45mph lane. I realized that I need to get new contacts because my right eye is set to see near and my left eye far. I need to see good with both, so I ordered new lenses today. The batting cages are also a great way to relieve stress – everyone should try it.
I will keep you posted.
