Baseball, often referred to as America's favorite pastime, usually brings to the forefront names like Jackie Robinson, Babe Ruth, Derek Jeter or "Big Papi." What about Irene Hickson, Mary Baker, or Helen and Marge Callaghan? Who? You may ask. These are names of some of the women who made up the All American Girls Professional Baseball League, which was started in 1943 with the intent of defending America's pastime while the men were off at war.
Now I'm guessing flashes of Geena Davis, Madonna and Rosie O'Donnell are going through your head with clips from A League of Their Own. That's right! The movie was based off of the women in this professional league.
Fast forward to today: what does Albuquerque have to do with any of this? The All American Girls Professional League 2014 Reunion kicks off tomorrow (July 19th) in Albuquerque with events happening through July 22, 2014.
The Reunion will bring a slew of fun events for the public to attend. From getting to meet some of the players to watching as they are honored at an Isotopes game (followed by a screening of A League of Their Own!) there is a lot going on. If you'd like to get in on the action, there will even be a special ceremony and reenactment game.
Check out the schedule of events below, then grab your family, baseball caps and gloves and head out to the field to continue the celebration of America's pastime.
Events (Open to the public)
Sunday, July 20th - 9:00 a.m.
AAGPBL Reunion: Legendary Women in Baseball Victory Ride Celebration
Alvarado Transportation Center in Albuquerque - Ride the Rails to Santa Fe as AAGPBL players and league associates travel to the Ancient City on the New Mexico Rail Runner Express Northbound Train #702 to meet fans and sign autographs before touring the historic plaza.
Monday, July 21st - 6:00 p.m.
AAGPBL Reunion & Screening of "A League of Their Own"
Albuquerque Isotopes Park -Meet AAGPBL players and get their autographs after the gates to Isotopes Park open at 6:00 pm on Monday, July 21, 2014. Enjoy a special on-field tribute to the women prior to the Isotopes-Fresno game. Stick around after the game for a screening of "A League of Their Own" on the video-board.
Tuesday, July 22nd - 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
AAGPBL Reunion Day of Celebration and Remembrance
New Mexico Veterans Memorial - Attend a special celebration and reenactment games at the New Mexico Veterans Memorial. This once in a lifetime event is FREE to the general public.
Editor's Notes: Learn more about the All American Girls Professional Baseball League here. Find updated events for the AAGPBL's Albuquerque event on their Facebook page.