Athletes Unlimited Announces Launch Of Pro Softball League

Athletes Unlimited announced its launch on Tuesday with the advent of a new women's professional softball league that is set to begin in August.

The league's inaugural six-week season will be held at Parkway Bank Sports Complex in Rosemont, Ill. and start on Aug. 17, following the conclusion of the 2020 NPF season. Several professional softball players have already signed on to compete in the league, including A.J. Andrews, Kelly Barnhill, Kylan Becker, Caleigh Clifton, Emily Crane, Sara Groenewegen, Victoria Hayward, Abby Ramirez, Jade Rhodes, Randi Rupp, DJ Sanders, Samantha Show, Gwen Svekis and Haylie Wagner.

The league's unique model will eliminate team owners, general managers and the traditional fixed-team format.

"I am excited for this opportunity to entertain the fans of our sport, and even more ecstatic to be a part of the creation of a league that I am confident will one day change the way in which sports are viewed," Svekis said in a press release.

The league, which was co-founded by Jon Patricof and Jonathan Soros, will reportedly divide $1 million in compensation between its 56 players. The compensation for players will include a base salary and bonuses based on a scoring system that allows them to earn points on every play throughout the six-week season.

"Pro sports fans want faster, more exciting and more meaningful games - and newer, expanded ways to engage with the players they love," Patricof said in the release. "We literally change the game with faster play and fluid teams, delivering next-level competition and engagement."

The inaugural season will consist of three games each week for all four of the league's teams, with teams being redrafted by the highest performing players every week.

Stay tuned for more details about Athletes Unlimited.

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