On a memorable Saturday night in Springfield, Illinois, Sarah Hodel and Rachel Koehler found themselves among hundreds of eager fans at Robin Roberts Stadium. They arrived more than four hours early for the inaugural game of the Women’s Professional Baseball League (WPBL), marking the return of such a league in the U.S. after nearly 30 years.
Hodel, a 43-year-old athletic trainer from Duluth, Minnesota, has long been passionate about women’s involvement in baseball. “In high school, I spoke about women in baseball,” she shared. “I’ve looked forward to this for years.”
The game saw a thrilling conclusion with Mo’ne Davis leading the Los Angeles Queens to a 10-8 win against Denae Benites and the New York Heights. This marked the first game in the history of WPBL, showcasing strong performances despite rainy conditions.
Rachel Koehler, 33, from St. Paul, Minnesota, reflected on her experience growing up playing softball. “I dreamed of professional baseball, but there weren’t any opportunities,” she said. “Now, seeing this league come about is incredible for young girls.”
The game started with a historic moment when Maggie Foxx recorded the league’s first hit for Los Angeles. Benites achieved another milestone, hitting the WPBL’s first home run.
Though the Queens were trailing 8-4, they made a strong comeback with six runs in the final innings. Foxx expressed deep emotion about the experience. “Walking onto the field brought me to tears,” she said. “This moment means the world to us.”
Despite steady rain, over 4,000 fans gathered at the 101-year-old stadium. Many fans lined up early, hoping to get a Mo’ne Davis bobblehead. Lines for merchandise stretched far and wide.
Among the attendees was 47-year-old Antonietta Mabry from Columbus, Ohio, who aimed to inspire her daughter Rosalee. “It’s special to expose her to female professional athletes,” she remarked.
The league also features the Firebells and Boston Hunters, who played on Sunday. Players from both teams eagerly helped maintain the field, underscoring their commitment to the league’s success.
Rosalee, an enthusiastic young softball player, was thrilled to see women athletes excel. “Watching professional women play is amazing,” she said.
In a tribute to women’s baseball, the WPBL paid homage to history with a rain-delayed pregame ceremony. Fans erupted in applause as team lineups were announced, with a special tribute to 99-year-old Maybelle Blair.
Blair, a former player in the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League, threw the ceremonial first pitch. Her involvement with the league dates back to its inception, and her presence at the game was deeply cherished.
Lindsey Keirsey, a 42-year-old history teacher from Fenton, Missouri, attended with her family. A devoted fan of women’s baseball history, she praised the significance of the event. “It’s inspiring to see women take on roles traditionally given to men,” said her daughter Hadley.