Longtime Grand Forks residents might be forgiven for approaching the latest collegiate summer league with a healthy dose of skepticism. Over the past three decades, three different baseball teams have come and gone, each departure leaving the community feeling burned. So when the Northwoods League announced plans to bring an expansion softball team to town, it's understandable that many locals took a cautious "wait and see" approach.
But John Bollinger, a key member of the Grand Forks Spitfires ownership group, believes this time is different—and he's not just talking about swapping bats for softballs. Bollinger, who also serves as majority owner and CEO of the Bismarck Larks, Minot Hot Tots, and the Minot Honeybees, knows the history of failed franchises in the area. He's read the local editorials, and he's taken the lessons to heart.
"Folks that have their doubts, I'd say you should, because we have to earn it," Bollinger acknowledges. "But I'd also say we came into this with eyes wide open. We know why teams have come and gone. It won't be easy. But I do know we care a lot, and we have some really good, fun strategies and ways we approach this. I think that's why it's different."
As opening day approaches on June 9, the Spitfires are already addressing the concerns that sank previous teams. The venue itself—Albrecht Field—opened in 2024 and hosted the North Dakota Class A state tournament in 2025, making it one of the premier ballparks in the league. The team's identity also hits close to home: the "Spitfires" name, chosen by the community through a naming contest, honors Grand Forks' rich aviation history.
The Northwoods League itself brings a stronger pedigree than past leagues. Founded in 1994, it's a well-established staple of Upper Midwest collegiate summer baseball. The league expanded into softball in 2024 with four teams, added a fifth in 2025, and Grand Forks will now be the sixth. That kind of growth signals stability and staying power.
On the field, the Spitfires are stacking their roster with local talent, including UND standouts Brooklyn Hofer and Makenna Alexander. They're also drawing players from powerhouse programs like Washington and San Diego State, all of whom will live with local host families—a model that builds community ties from day one.
Off the field, the operation is built to last. Unlike previous teams that relied heavily on interns, the Spitfires have four full-time employees: general manager Roberto Lemus, sponsorship activation and marketing manager Gabby Knopik, corporate ticket sales and experience manager Jessica Sardilli, and ballpark operations and ticket sales manager Caitlyn Connolly. That's a professional front office committed to the long haul.
While all of these factors are important, Bollinger believes the real difference comes down to something simpler: genuine care and a proven playbook. The Spitfires aren't just another team hoping to stick around—they're building a foundation designed to make Grand Forks a home for college summer softball for years to come.