The highly skilled and experienced player, Jocelyn Alo, has been picked up by the Savannah Bananas and has made a powerful statement in her recent game.
Alo will go down in history, with her debut recently, as the first female athlete to be a part of this team and organization. I was fortunate enough to be there at her debut and witnessed the impact she is making on numerous people, like myself. Due to her determination and consistency in her college career at the University of Oklahoma, Alo has earned the title of All-Time Home Run Champion in Women’s Softball. Her collegiate career consisted of a two-time USA Softball Player of the Year, three-time first-team All-American, two-time Big 12 Player of the Year, and the 2022 WCWS Most Outstanding Player. (Lovelace 2022). However, Alo was not done challenging herself.
The Savannah Bananas
The Savannah Bananas is a team based out of Georgia, that plays baseball with a twist. Many often refer to it as Banana Ball. The game and team were created by the owner, Jesse Cole who recruits former players from any level. The team consists of former MLB players, collegiate players, and high school players. Because of this, Cole is continuously on the lookout for talent to make the game better than it was yesterday. Alo was the next key piece to Cole’s game plan.
Alo’s debut
Alo made her debut on April 27th, 2024. It was nothing but a smooth transition for her. The culture of the Savannah Bananas is critical to their success, and Alo embodied it very quickly from shadowing other players to learning the many dances that have been choreographed, to dancing on her own and doing the skits confidently in just one game. Also, within a week of her first debut, Alo made her first hit in Fresno, California. During the game, she stated, “you can do anything you set your mind to. Don’t let anyone ever tell you that you can’t.”
Future is bright
Lastly, Alo is predicted to have many more career hits with the Savannah Bananas. Because of the talent and energy she brings to the table, could her one-month contract turn into a longer one? Who knows, either way, she is representing female athletes proudly and will inspire many on and off the field.
