Indianapolis Clowns players greet fans before big return

Hundreds of fans packed outside the Academy Sports + Outdoors in Avon for a chance to meet Banana Ball stars before this weekend’s matchup featuring the Indianapolis Clowns and the Party Animals at Victory Field.

"It's super cool, because just like usually, you would have to go to a game to get something signed, but we get to do it here, right where we live," one fan said.

Players signed baseballs and jerseys and posed for pictures with fans and even one four-legged supporter. His owner said this is what Banana Ball is all about.

"It just brings more togetherness. It just actually brings a positive outlook in the world," she said.

This weekend also marks a major moment for the Indianapolis Clowns, their first time headlining as part of the Banana Ball Championship League. For many fans, it’s a chance to celebrate a historic team with deep Indiana roots.

"I think it's really special, because it's just, like, such a huge moment for Indianapolis," one young fan said.

"You gotta represent the new team. We're super excited and the great history is behind, so we gotta...we gotta root for them," said a mother who went to the signing with her daughter.

The Clowns date back to the 1930s, when African American players were barred from Major League Baseball. Known for blending entertainment with talent, the team became one of the most recognizable barnstorming clubs in the country.

"When you look at the bigger picture, it's like living inside a living history book. And it's kind of hard to explain that feeling to people other than basically like that, but it's unbelievable to be back home," Indianapolis Clowns player Malachi Mitchell said.

"It's so cool to be a part of history, truthfully, and to get to do this with them, and just to see tomorrow and the game on Saturday. This is a new show that we haven't even gotten to see yet," Party Animals player Noah Fisher said.

A historic weekend — and a show Hoosier fans have been waiting a long time to see.