McKenzie Clark Embraces AUSL’s Team Format: “I’m So Excited. It’s Such a Relief.”
The AUSL has it right..
Athletes Unlimited Softball has been around for a few years now, putting professional softball on a bigger stage with games aired across the ESPN network. But for me, the original point system always felt a little off. It individualized a team sport more than it should, and while unique, the weekly drafts made it hard for players and fans to build lasting connections. How can you root for a team when the team changes every week?
That’s why the new Athletes Unlimited Softball League feels like a breath of fresh air. This is what fans are going to gravitate to. People want to buy gear, cheer for the same team night after night, and build a connection with a consistent roster. I truly believe this version of the league has staying power. If the backing continues and the growth follows, it will only get stronger from here.
Earlier today, Softball America’s Tara Henry and Gray Robertson sat down with Volts center fielder McKenzie Clark, now in her second year with Athletes Unlimited and one year removed from her time at Clemson. The conversation touched on the major differences between last season’s individualized point system and this year’s fixed-team setup.
Tara Henry asked Clark about the transition, and her answer said everything:
“You know, the point system was really entertaining, I thought, and, of course, coming from collegiate ball to a point system where it’s it is about the team, but at the same time, it’s more you, you, you, you, you. Like, it was a very quick turn, very different route I had to take, but to be back with a team and, okay, we’re gonna win as a team, we’re gonna lose as a team. We’re singing kumbaya hand in hand and just go do our thing. I’m really enjoying this setup a lot more because of it.“
That right there is why this format will work. Just like the fans, players want to feel the team aspect of the game. It’s natural. From a young age, we’re taught that there’s no “I” in team, and AUSL’s new format brings that message back to life. It matters, and Clark made that even more clear when she doubled down on her thoughts:
“Being in the cages and throwing with, like a partner or like a net or whatever is all fun in games. But to be with a team, when I tell you guys, I’m so excited. It’s such a relief to be back with a team. Very happy to be a part of it.”
I feel the same way, McKenzie. This league is going to keep growing. We as fans and media should support the AUSL however we can to make it a legitimate and lasting opportunity for some of the best athletes in the sport.
Just look at the talent. This league is already filled with some of the best softball players on the planet. And still, you can glance over the rosters and see so many big-time names from the college game not yet part of it. That tells me one thing — there is a real need for expansion. Only four teams exist right now, and it already feels like not enough.
This is the opportunity I’ve wanted to see for years. And now that it’s here, I believe in it fully. Let’s keep pushing it forward, and make professional softball what it deserves to be.
