Elgin, Ill. - Improvements to the softball field on the campus of Judson University continue to happen as the Chicago Bandits prepare to start the 2008 season.  On Thursday, May 22, the field received a new look with grass turf upgrades and a special dirt for the infield.

The special dirt for the infield will help with water and is laid atop the Illinois soil.  The dirt that will be on the infield is only the third of its kind in the state of Illinois as DePaul University and Northwestern University softball are the only other two softball fields to receive this dirt.  Judson is the first NAIA institution to receive this kind of infield for softball.

The Bandits open the 2008 season on Thursday, May 29th in Rockford against the Thunder.  The first home game for the Bandits at Judson University will be on Thursday, June 6th, at 7:05 p.m.

The grand opening of the Chicago Bandits store will take place on Saturday, May 24th, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at 72 S. Grove St. in Elgin.  All are welcome and food will be available.

On Memorial Day, the Bandits will have their media day at On-Q Hennessey's Seafood/Steak from 2pm to 5pm. Members from the Bandits 2008 squad will be on hand to sign autographs, take pictures and answer fan questions.