The Chicago Force women's pro tackle football team was in it to win it in its home opener against the Minnesota Machine April 9. The Force took an impressive 14-0 lead at the end of the first quarter and then just slammed it home for a 69-0 victory. The home-team stands were packed with fans, both long-time and new to the game.
Many Force players had standout performances, but particularly strong were quarterback Samantha Grisafe ( No. 15 ) and running back Jessica Springer ( No. 46 ) , who powered past the Minnesota team for several long runs. Brandy Hatcher ( No. 28 ) also had a great offensive game. The defense held Minnesota to a shut-out with sacks, interceptions and all-around strong play.
The Chicago Spirit Brigade were fabulous cheerleaders for the team.
The Force, which plays at Winnemac Stadium on Leaviitt just south of Foster, takes on the Wisconsin Wolves April 16 in an away game. Their next home games are three in a row: April 30 vs. St. Louis Slam, May 7 vs. KC Tribe and May 14 vs. West Michigan Machine. See www.chicagoforcefootball.com .
The very top photo shows one of the Force's touchdowns, a run by Jessica Springer. The above photo shows quarterback Samantha Grisafe ( seated ) , who even sang to start the season-opener. Text by Tracy Baim; photos by Hal Baim