2015 National Pro Fastpitch Best Ever

The NPF Draft for 2015 was the best NPF draft ever and probably more entertaining for both the live audience and the TV audience than ever before. GrandmaOnDeck was on the center mezzanine with a fantastic view of the stage, big screen and all of the audience seats. I even had firsthand view of the TV Cameras at work and the men working the consoles for the TV production.

The event started before the Program went live on TV with instructions for the audience as to gift give- a –ways, #hashtag tweet instructions, and sending pictures. CBS Sports Network would show selected ones.  The audience loved this one. During Commercial breaks, gift give-a-ways were to be done by drawing tickets.

NPF VP-Development Gaye Lynn Wilson was introduced. Barbara Jordan and Bernie Gunther, The TV Hosts were introduced followed by introduction of sponsors in the VIP section, NPF Sponsors, 8 special current NPF players, team owners, general managers, and coaches. The Commissioner, Cheri Kempf was introduced to welcome the crowd.

The big screen lit up and the CBS Sports Network Program began. The draft selection process was thoroughly stated. The excitement in the audience built up. The softball dreamers in the audience had a chance to select a picture placard of an NPF Team of their choice. They waved the placards energetically when a draftee was selected to their favorite Pro-Team team.

What made this draft different?

The Availability of League sponsors gave the program the feel of community.

#Short comments by TV Host Barb Jordan about benefits the draftee would bring to the NPF team while a video of then in action was shown. It was good to see their skills and how they would fit in .

#Interviews of Pro Players, team owners and general managers gave the program added interests and color to overall Draft appearance. It gave the audience a chance to see that the player’s, are smart, beautiful, and highly skilled at what they do.

#Placards and special designed tickets and event posters were upbeat and classic. It gave the audience an automatic souvenir for signing.

#Tweeting, picture sharing, and meeting the 8 Professional Players for ball or placard signing gave the audience a chance to participate. In fact, GrandmaOnDeck got all 8 Pro-players signatures.

#The Reception afterward, provided The Pro League staff, team owners, general managers, coaches, players, and interns to meet and share with Sponsors and special guests ,pro –league players and community leaders to share some good food and conversation.