This is an independently produced documentary film that traces the history of the Mary Vazquez Women's Softball League in Northampton, MA, U.S.A. Personal interviews, historical footage, photographs, and archival materials are used to examine the thirty-year history of this unique league.

At a time when there were very few opportunities for women to play organized team sports, this League was started by a group of passionately political lesbian feminists in 1976. From the beginning, the League's core philosophy has been one of inclusion - any woman regardless of ability was, and is, encouraged to play. These women have laid claim to their own brand of softball by developing their own rules (one can ask the pitcher to slow down the pitch!), by creating their own uniforms (purple with red lettering), and by their choices of team names (Hot Flashes, Common Womon). The League started with just a small group of women playing informal games on weekends, and at its height had over two hundred and fifty participants. To this day, one can find teams playing softball on most summer evenings. This League has provided a sanctuary, a social hub, a place for women to share their athleticism.

Twenty-one players, coaches, fans, and umpires past and present were interviewed for this film. My intent was not only to capture individual stories, but to place this League within a broader historical context. The film documents how the League's evolution has reflected the growth and changes within the larger (women's/lesbian) community in Western Massachusetts. It also spans a period of time when Title IX had a profound effect on women's opportunities to play sports.

54 Minutes, 2007, USA
Director/Producer S. Lacey Johnston

To order a copy of the DVD, use my contact page,
or email me at ljohnston@ellejayproductions.com