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Chronically Ill Girl, 6, Drafted For Gophers Softball Team

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO)  - The Gopher women's softball team has high expectations for the upcoming year.

Last season, they reached the super regionals. It was the best showing in team history.

This year, they expect to go even further with the help of one new teammate who signed a letter of intent Saturday morning.

Six-year-old Maisy Martindale joined the lady Gophers with the help of Team Impact, a non-profit organization that pairs chronically ill children with college sports teams.

Game day preparations at Jane Sage Cowles Stadium set the stage for a big day in Gopher softball.

"It's a huge deal. It's a huge deal. I remember my signing day like it was yesterday," said Paige Palkovich, a member of the Gopher softball team.

Maisy Martindale made her debut as a Golden Gopher. But, before she could take the field, there were some formalities.

"We have decided, with our No. 1 draft pick for gopher softball, for the 2014-2015 season, we have chosen Maisy Martindale," said Gopher softball head coach Jessica Allister.

Not many six-year-olds can say they're a No. 1 draft pick. But, not many six-year-olds are born with health issues that lead to 28 surgeries.

"She's just a medically complex child," said Julie Martindale, Maisy's mom. "I knew I wanted her to be part of a team, but she's not going to be able to be a part of a team like this, most likely."

With the help of Team Impat, the women's softball team heard Maisy's story. They knew she was a fan of Gopher softball and knew she'd be a great addition to the roster.

"We feel like she deserves it," Palkovich said. "She's gone through a lot in her life and she's still here smiling every day."

During her "draft day," Maisy signed an official letter of intent to join the team. She'll join the players at practice, games, even off the field at team get-togethers.

"If she's cheering for you, how could you lose," said Julie.

The lady gophers have yet to throw the first pitch of the season, but this newest teammate makes them feel like they've already won.

"It's a reality check when she's around," Palkovich said. "She has so many things she's dealing with that she's that happy and always smiling."

Making this weekend even more special, Maisy turns 7 on Monday.

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