SAVANNAH, Ga. — "I've been playing baseball ever since I could pick up a ball. I always had a ball in my hand," said Noah Niznik.
Baseball is a big deal in this city.
"I'd always be outside, really trying to recreate Jim Edmonds back in the day. He was my favorite Cardinal growing up. So, I'd always be out there diving catches" he said.
While he may not be repping the Cardinals at Busch this season, Noah Niznik is going Bananas!
The Savanah Bananas are a professional team based in Georgia that ESPN called the greatest show in sports.
Some fans sum it up as the Harlem Globetrotters of baseball. In a game of Banana Ball, players may be swinging flaming bats, performing choreographed dance routines, or taking part in other in-game shenanigans.
Shenanigans that I think would make Jim Edmonds proud.
"I'm a big stanky leg guy. That's kind of my go-to when I'm out there," Noah said.
This past July, a recruiting coordinator for the team reached out to Noah and asked for an audition tape.
"They know, we're good at baseball. So, the video was more like, show us how you would fit in with us. So, there's a little bit of dancing. My girlfriend Lydia, took full control. She choreographed a little dance for me and a little intro video for that," he said.
And the rest is history! From his little league days to the mound at Vianney to an impressive college career at Southeast Missouri State. This hometown bananas' hard work has paid off.
"You know my mom is probably watching this. So, shoutout to my mom, Tracy. She was always a big part. Growing up with a single mom, she was always taking me wherever it was, lessons, games, practice. It wasn't the easiest for her sometimes, but you know she got the job done," Noah said.
Although he isn’t taking the field at Busch, his team is selling out MLB stadiums across the country. It’s a dream come true for this kid from Lou, because well, baseball is a big deal in this city.
For further information about the Savannah Bananas, click here.
You can watch all the Savannah Bananas games on their YouTube channel.
Follow along with the team and Noah on TikTok, @thesavanahbananas, and @noahniznik.
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