1976 Breskis

The Pioneers of Pro Softball – Who is Playing Where and Why?

When Henry Breski decided to buy a team in the new pro softball league, there was one stipulation: that his daughter Cindy play first base. This may sound indulgent - it wasn't - it was good business. Cindy Breski was first team All-American in 1975 and managed a .667 batting average in the National Championship. Several of Cindy's amateur teammates turned pro along with her; among the standouts is Mary Ann Cardillo, billed as the power hitter of the league.

The amateur Breskis (who make up the core of the professional Breskis) finished seventh in last year's National Championship and hope to place considerably higher in pro competition. They are particularly anxious to tangle with the Southern California Gems and their highly touted pitcher, Rosie Black.

"Rosie and her team came to Buffalo three years ago," explains general manager Tim Maloney, "and Cindy hit three triples against her." Unfortunately, the first baseman was stranded there all three times, and the Queen and Her Maids won the game.

While R.B.I.s may, on occasion, be in short supply, crowd support is rarely lacking in Buffalo. In one game against the Brakettes 7,500 fans showed up to watch the confrontation despite the fact that it was pouring rain.