The hit 1992 film A League of Their Own made the All-American Girls Professional Baseball League famous. But the players’ stories remain largely untold. The 600 women who played for the AAGPBL through the 1940s and 1950s enjoyed a rare opportunity to lead independent lives as well-paid professional athletes. Their experiences in the league led many to education and careers they never imagined.

The league’s greater mission was saving America’s pastime as millions of men fought in World War II. This sense of commitment to a larger cause stayed with the players throughout their lives. As teachers, coaches and role models, they strove to broaden the horizons of girls and young women. Many continued to be involved in athletics, supporting the efforts leading to Title IX and the women’s sports revolution. Today, they are dedicated to preserving the history of women in baseball and creating opportunities for girls to play.