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Chicago Bandits

Bandits and OYA Team up for Developmental Program

July 22, 2014 - National Pro Fastpitch (NPF)
Chicago Bandits News Release


ROSEMONT, Ill. - The Chicago Bandits of National Pro Fastpitch (NPF) announced today that they have teamed up with the Orland Youth Association for Girls Softball (OYA) to create its first-ever youth softball developmental initiative.

The partnership with the Bandits will allow players, coaches and parents of OYA to connect on a more opportunistic and intimate level for the professional team. Affiliate members of the program will gain exclusive access to player and coach clinics, coaching curriculum, game day experiences and competitive team training.

"The partnership between OYA and the Bandits has been something in the making for several months," exclaimed Bandits owner Bill Sokolis. "As the Bandits organization continues to grow and expand its reach, programs such as this will be very important to our success and longevity.

"The Bandits organization is committed to youth softball in and around Illinois, so this is definitely something we're excited about and think it's only the beginning."

The primary purpose is to advance the game of softball at the youth level by providing opportunities for professional coaching and focused teaching. The partnership between OYA and the Bandits will be able to reach more players, coaches, teams and their families in an effort to enhance, not only the talent of the athletes, but also the growth of all athletes involved and additional playing opportunities.

The Orland Park youth teams will continue to play in the development recreation league, but with the partnership these athletes will have the opportunity to represent the Orland Park Bandits on a competitive, travel team. The Orland Park Bandits will be comprised of local athletes and these teams will wear the official team colors and Boombah uniforms of the Chicago Bandits.

Additional information on the program will be released in upcoming days and weeks, including information on the various camps and clinics offered, player appearances and various activities at Bandits games.

The Bandits have just eight home games remaining on the 2014 schedule, including a four-game series with the USSSA Pride July 31-August 3. On July 31, the Bandits will wear special ALS jerseys and on Aug. 1, Jennie Finch, Crystl Bustos and Leah O'Brien-Amico will be on hand to sign autographs.

Tickets for all remaining home games, including the television games on Aug. 13 and Aug. 14, are available now by calling the Bandits office at (877) 7BANDIT or visiting www.chicagobandits.com.

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The opinions expressed in this release are those of the organization issuing it, and do not necessarily reflect the thoughts or opinions of OurSports Central or its staff.

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