January 13, 2026, New York, N.Y. – The Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL) is stepping up its game! After a fantastic first season, the league has announced its six host cities for 2026, marking a significant milestone for professional softball.
The AUSL will showcase teams in six major U.S. cities, placing a strong focus on community and fan engagement. This shift not only highlights the popularity of softball but also connects with a younger audience. According to a survey from Sports Marketing and Management, 68% of Gen Z and Millennials now actively follow women’s sports, making this a prime time for leagues like AUSL.
**Host Cities and Their Passion for Softball**
Each city chosen reflects a rich tradition and enthusiasm for softball:
Carolina Blaze – Based in Durham, North Carolina, at Duke University Softball Stadium, this team embodies the region’s love for the sport. The Carolinas have long been a hotbed for softball talent, nurturing athletes like former Duke stars Ana Gold and Jala Wright.
Chicago Bandits – The Bandits are back, playing at the Stadium at Parkway Bank Sports Complex in Rosemont. Chicago is known as the birthplace of softball, making it the perfect backdrop for this team’s return.
Oklahoma City Spark – Playing at Tom Heath Field, the Spark are in a city that boasts a strong connection to softball, being home to USA Softball and the Softball Hall of Fame. The city’s fervent fan base adds to the excitement as stars like Kinzie Hansen and Sydney Romero take the field.
Portland Cascade – The Cascade will play at Hillsboro Ballpark. Portland has a rich culture of supporting women’s sports, creating an ideal environment for the Cascade and athletes like Sis Bates.
Texas Volts – Situated at Dell Diamond in Round Rock, Texas, the Volts reflect the state’s storied history in softball. The region’s strong fan support during AUSL games last summer showed that Texas is hungry for top-tier professional softball.
Utah Talons – Hosting games at Dumke Family Stadium, this team brings a championship energy back to Salt Lake City. With a strong community behind them and players like Hannah Flippen leading the way, the Talons are set for an exciting season.
“These host cities represent the next major chapter of the AUSL’s growth,” said Kim Ng, Commissioner of the AUSL. “We aim to build lasting connections with communities and set the stage for professional softball to thrive.”
The 2026 season kicks off on June 9, featuring all six teams in exciting matchups. Notably, the AUSL will also expand its playoff format, introducing a play-in game for the second- and third-ranked teams. This adds an extra layer of competitiveness and anticipation, ultimately leading to the championship showdown.
For those who missed it, AUSL recently secured a multi-year broadcasting deal with ESPN. This will allow fans to watch 50 exclusive AUSL games annually, including several on ABC. This partnership marks an important step for professional softball, bringing it into mainstream media.
In a world where women’s sports are gaining traction, the AUSL is tapping into a vibrant market filled with passionate fans eager for more professional gameplay. As the league grows, it brings hope for a bright future in women’s athletics.
For more updates, you can follow@theauslofficial or visit the AUSL website.
