ROSEMONT, Ill. — The Chicago Bandits will return to the Parkway Bank Sports Complex in Rosemont, Illinois, for the 2026 AUSL season, the league announced on Jan. 13, 2026. The Bandits, one of the league’s four original franchises, hosted the AUSL’s first game in 2025 and will now call Rosemont their permanent home.
The announcement is part of the AUSL’s transition from a touring model to city-based franchises, with all six teams receiving permanent home venues for 2026. The Bandits open the season June 9 at home against the Utah Talons, the reigning AUSL champions.
Venue and Facilities
The Bandits will play at the Rosemont venue in the Chicago metropolitan area, returning to a region with deep roots in professional softball. Chicago has been home to various iterations of professional women’s softball since the 1990s, and the Bandits name carries significant brand recognition from the former National Pro Fastpitch league.
The Chicago market represents one of the AUSL’s largest media markets, giving the Bandits access to a broad fan base and strong corporate sponsorship opportunities. The team’s proximity to major transportation hubs and downtown Chicago makes game-day attendance accessible for fans across the greater Chicagoland area.
Front Office Leadership
Jenny Dalton-Hill, a former University of Arizona standout and longtime collegiate head coach, leads the Bandits as general manager. Head coach Dot Richardson, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and one of the most recognizable figures in softball history, brings decades of experience at the highest levels of the sport.
The combination of Dalton-Hill’s front-office acumen and Richardson’s coaching pedigree gives Chicago one of the most experienced leadership groups in the league. The Bandits selected Cori McMillan (Pick No. 4) and Emiley Kennedy (Pick No. 7) in the 2025 AUSL Draft, building a roster around young, dynamic talent.
2026 Season Outlook
The Bandits open the 2026 season on the road before returning to Rosemont for their first home series. With the AUSL’s permanent home-city model replacing the touring format used in 2025, Chicago will host multiple series throughout the 50-game season. All games air on ESPN networks, with select marquee matchups on ABC.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where do the Chicago Bandits play?
The Chicago Bandits play at the Parkway Bank Sports Complex in Rosemont, Illinois.
When do the Bandits play their first home game in 2026?
The Bandits host the Utah Talons on Opening Day, June 9, 2026.
Who coaches the Chicago Bandits?
Dot Richardson, a two-time Olympic gold medalist, serves as head coach of the Chicago Bandits. Jenny Dalton-Hill is the team’s general manager.
Which players were drafted by the Bandits?
The Chicago Bandits selected Cori McMillan (Pick No. 4) and Emiley Kennedy (Pick No. 7) in the 2025 AUSL Draft.
About the Chicago Bandits
The Chicago Bandits are one of six franchises in the Athletes Unlimited Softball League. Based in Rosemont, Illinois, the Bandits are led by general manager Jenny Dalton-Hill and head coach Dot Richardson. The team competes in the AUSL’s permanent home-city model beginning with the 2026 season.
About Aspen Eighty
Aspen Eighty is a female-founded, independent digital publication covering the Athletes Unlimited Softball League. We publish breaking news, scores, draft analysis, and player profiles for all six AUSL teams. Our mission is to amplify women’s professional softball and inspire the next generation of athletes.
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