AAGPBL Interview - Vivian Anderson

Vivian Anderson was a Wisconsin native who played for the short-lived Milwaukee franchise. She granted us the following interview.

1) How did you get interested in playing baseball and where did you play before you turned pro?

I started playing when I was 14 in West Allis, Wisconsin.

2) Describe your signing.

Nothing spectacular, just the excitement of being signed.

3) What position(s) did you play? Which teams did you play for?

I played third base for the Milwaukee Chicks.

4) What was the best thing about playing pro ball?

The fun and excitement.

5) What was the worst thing about playing ball?

When I broke my fingers, which ended my short pro career.

6) What was the highlight of your career?

Everything.

7) Who were the best players you played with or faced? Comments?

The best players were my teammates.

8) Do you think the fans and press accepted you more as the years wore on? (Describe how it was when you started. Did increased exposure change some minds?)

No.

9. Who were your favorite big league ballplayers during the era you played in?

The entire Milwaukee Brewers team.

10) Do you follow big league ball now? If so, how do you think it compares with your day?

No.

11) Should women have their own pro league, should they play in the majors, or should we have both (a women's league and the chance for the best women players to play in the majors?)

Both

12) Briefly describe your life since your pro career ended.

At age 83, I work part time in an office, namely for a national furniture mover, Barrett Moving and Storage Co., agent for United Van Lines, just to keep busy.

13) What advice do you have for young women who want to become pro ballplayers?

Just sign up and play your best.

It is difficult to put your feelings into words, other than, I loved the game.

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