Kim Ng's Groundbreaking Appointment

In a bold move that has sent ripples through the sports world, Kim Ng has been named the commissioner of the Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL). This historic decision entrusts the future of the league, set for a major expansion this summer, to Ng—a pioneer who shattered barriers as the first female general manager in Major League Baseball.

A Rich History in Baseball and Softball

At 56, Ng brings a wealth of experience, having overseen baseball operations for the Miami Marlins from 2020 to 2023. She previously served as a senior adviser for AUSL, helping to orchestrate a groundbreaking tour featuring four teams across ten cities. With a deep-rooted passion for softball—stemming from her own days as a player—Ng emphasizes her commitment to the sport's growth.

"I love this sport," she declares. "It's been a huge part of my life, and I believe we're witnessing a vital transformation in women's professional sports today. We're finally part of the mainstream conversation, and that's exhilarating!"

Addressing the Challenges Ahead

Despite previous setbacks for professional softball leagues, AUSL has steadily carved a niche, executing unique tournaments in Rosemont, Illinois. Players rack up points throughout the season, culminating in an All-Star Cup, scheduled to take place in regions like Illinois and North Carolina.

Ng's extensive history in Major League Baseball—from starting as an intern with the Chicago White Sox to becoming a senior VP at MLB—positions her uniquely for this new endeavor. Although her tenure with the Marlins was tumultuous, leading to her departure after a surprise playoff run, Ng is ready to apply her leadership skills in a different context.

A New Direction for AUSL

Ng acknowledges that leading a league differs greatly from managing a team, focusing on ensuring player involvement and organizational stability. Her vision is rooted in creating a robust foundation before pursuing growth. The AUSL kicks off its season on June 7, with matchups in Rosemont and Wichita, Kansas, and further stops across the country.

Harnessing Media and Community Engagement

With the goal of expanding the league's reach, AUSL plans to leverage social media and events like the upcoming "AUSL College Draft Show" airing on May 3. Co-founder Jon Patricof emphasizes the urgency of putting the product in front of a larger audience. "We need to boost the sport's presence and attract more fans," he says.

Joining Forces with Legends of the Game

The league also boasts an impressive roster of key figures, including superstar GMs like Cat Osterman and Lisa Fernandez, and advisors like Jennie Finch and Jessica Mendoza, ensuring AUSL is staffed with some of the most talented personalities in women's sports.

The Future Looks Bright for Softball!

The spotlight on softball is set to intensify with its upcoming return to the Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028. Ng is optimistic and believes connecting the dots strategically will elevate the sport to new heights. "If we play our cards right, we could bring home gold in '28—a significant boost for softball!"

While Ng hasn’t specified how long she'll serve as commissioner, her focus is clear: to ensure a successful launch and positive trajectory for AUSL. Patricof considers her presence vital to the league's future, underscoring, "Getting the right people in leadership positions is crucial, and Kim is setting new standards for excellence."