1978 Sunbirds

1978 was a difficult year for the Sunbirds. Right at the beginning of season, ten players walked out on strike after not being able to reach a salary agreement with management. When the financial situation worsened, management cut salaries completely and the ten players walked out in protest. As a result, the Sunbirds returned only four players from the 1977 team; Rhonda Ebersole, Karen Ambler, Mary Flint and Sue Lindh.

The striking players charged management with unfair labor practices. They formed picket lines around the field and grabbed considerable attention in the local media. Attendance fell sharply and the Sunbirds were forced to cancel the last two home stands against Buffalo and Connecticut. The Sunbirds also compiled a league worst 12-66 record. For the Sunbirds, it was definitely a year to forget.