Making My Pitch: A Woman's Baseball Odyssey

Making My Pitch is a documentary film that follows the life of Ila Jane Borders, a Little League prodigy who became the first woman to pitch and win a complete mens collegiate game. Despite facing obstacles such as a troubled family life, a difficult adolescence, and an emotionally fraught college experience, Borders achieved self-acceptance and created a life as a firefighter, paramedic, coach, and goodwill ambassador for baseball.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 01 April 2019
Publisher: University of Nebraska Press

Making My Pitch is a captivating documentary film that delves into the remarkable life of Ila Jane Borders, a remarkable woman who defied societal expectations and achieved incredible feats in the world of baseball. Despite facing numerous obstacles and challenges throughout her journey, Borders emerged as a Little League prodigy, MVP of her all-male middle and high school teams, the first woman awarded a college baseball scholarship, and the first to pitch and win a complete mens collegiate game.

In May 1997, Borders' talent caught the attention of Mike Veeck, the owner of the St. Paul Saints, a team in the independent Northern League. Veeck signed Borders as a pitcher, making history as the first woman to play mens professional baseball since the Negro Leagues era.

Borders' journey was not without its challenges. She had to navigate the complexities of fitting in with her teammates, reassuring their wives and girlfriends, dealing with the media, and fending off groupies. However, these challenges paled in comparison to the personal struggles she faced. Borders had a troubled family life, enduring a difficult adolescence as she grappled with her sexual orientation. She also had to navigate the emotional turmoil of being a closeted gay athlete at a Christian university, where she faced discrimination and isolation.

Making My Pitch offers a raw and intimate portrayal of Borders' experiences, showcasing the loneliness of a groundbreaking pioneer who experienced profound personal loss. The film delves into the challenges she faced as the only woman on the team bus, in the clubhouse, and on the field. It is at times both poignant and humorous, capturing the essence of Borders' resilience and determination.

Through her journey, Borders ultimately achieved self-acceptance and found purpose in her life. She became a firefighter and paramedic, using her skills and experiences to help others in need. She also became a coach and goodwill ambassador for baseball, inspiring young players and promoting inclusivity and diversity in the sport.

Making My Pitch is a testament to the power of perseverance and the ability to overcome adversity. It serves as a reminder that gender should not be a barrier to achieving one's dreams and that talent and determination can pave the way to greatness, regardless of the obstacles one may face.

In conclusion, Making My Pitch is a must-watch documentary for anyone who loves baseball, or for anyone who appreciates the stories of remarkable individuals who defied societal expectations and achieved greatness. Borders' journey is a testament to the human spirit's resilience and the power of pursuing one's passions, and her story will continue to inspire generations to come.

Weight: 410g
Dimension: 154 x 228 x 16 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781496214058