(WBBM NEWSRADIO) — One of the only professional women's softball teams in the country is staying in Chicago for another five years and players spent the morning recruiting fans.
A giant 12-foot, yellow softball took center stage in Daley Plaza while young athletes got autographs and a little advice from the pros.
Allysa Denham is a pitcher for Athletes Unlimited, a new model of pro sports where women are paid to play the game, compete, be decision makers and share in the profits.
“It's all female based, so there's women's softball, lacrosse, basketball and volleyball.
And so it just gives females a platform to play after school,” Denham said.
Amanda Lorenz is an outfielder. She says interest in women's sports has exploded recently, thanks in part to WNBA star Caitlyn Clark.
“Everybody cracked the ceiling and she punched through, right. So, just showing how passionate we are, how hard working we are and how we're fun to watch,” Lorenz said.
“And it's about time that people buy in and watch what we have to offer, because we're a really good product.”
Athletes Unlimited owns and operates professional women’s softball, lacrosse, volleyball, and basketball leagues.
The softball team begins its five week season at Rosemont's Parkway Bank Sports Complex on July 26.
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