League of Fans' Sports Forum

This week's guest is Anika Orrock, author and illustrator of "The Incredible Women of the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League."

For many, the AAGPBL was brought to light by the movie "A League of Their Own," directed by Penny Marshall and starring Tom Hanks, Geena Davis and Madonna.  "A League of Their Own" was entertaining, funny and told the story of an important moment in female sports history in this country.  The movie was a box office success, becoming the highest grossing baseball movie of all-time.  But that's Hollywood, the true story of the AAGPBL is equally as fascinating as the movie, and Orrock's wonderful book truly captures the spirit of the pioneering ladies who played baseball in this league.

Our conversation ranges from a discussion of the hoops these ladies had to jump through in order to play the game they loved, including having to attend charm school, take beauty lessons and where skirts while playing, to a chat about the long-term impact and legacy of the AAGPFL women when it comes to advancing sports opportunities for girls and women.

Those who like baseball and inspiring stories about underdogs in sports should enjoy listening to Orrock's tales of the AAGPBL.