#ngbldocumentary

On the first day of Black History Month, we'd like to honor two women who deserve more recognition for their exploits on the diamond.

Yvonne "Coky" Coker was a first basewoman, shortstop, and outfielder who integrated the American Girls Softball League (based in the New York metro area) in 1945. When the AGSL switched to baseball in 1949, she became the first African-American woman to play in a major women's baseball league.

Betty Chapman soon followed, integrating the Chicago-based National Girls Baseball League (which actually played softball) in 1951. She joined the league in July of '51 and played outfield and catcher for the Music Maids.

Today is Betty Chapman Day!

On this day 74 years ago — July 18, 1951 — Betty made her debut for the Music Maids in the National Girls Baseball League, becoming the first African-American player in a professional women’s softball league.

While her time on the field was brief, her impact was lasting. Betty Chapman didn’t just play ball — she broke barriers, opened doors, and made history.

Chapman’s debut marked a powerful step forward for inclusion in women’s sports — one worth remembering and honoring every year.

For those of you who have been following this project for a while, you might know that I once worked for the Chicago Bandits, part of the now-defunct National Pro Fastpitch league. When the NPF folded, it was genuinely heartbreaking... I loved my time with that team and the community around it.

That’s why it meant so much to me to see the Bandits take the field again this past Saturday. While they’re now part of a different organization, I’m encouraged by what Athletes Unlimited is building. Their model feels built to last, which gives me real hope for the future of professional softball.