Linda Hermann, Linda Mertens & Patti Anderson

Three Plymouth women re-invent themselves by embracing their passions.

By: Kate McBride | From the issue: August 2011

Photo: Emily J. Davis

Plymouth's Linda Hermann works at Target Field as both usher and team-store supervisor, determined to share her passion for the Twins with other fans.

Webster’s defines “passion” as “a powerful emotion or appetite; boundless enthusiasm.” Passion is exactly what drives three Plymouth women who launched second careers. While Linda Hermann, Linda Mertens and Patti Anderson entered the new chapters of their lives at different times and for different reasons, all share an infectious enthusiasm for their chosen passion, making anyone think that it really is possible to re-educate and re-invent one’s self.

Fire Up

“I call it my refirement, not retirement,” says former teacher Linda Hermann about her two post-teaching jobs with the Minnesota Twins. Hermann knew that she needed to fill her post-career years with something that charged her up, and as a lifelong Minnesota Twins fan, she knew just where to look. As both a Target Field usher and a team-store supervisor, Hermann gets to share her passion for baseball with fellow fans, something she considers to be a privilege.

In fact, Hermann gets a little choked up when she recalls the honor of ushering during Target Field’s inaugural season, particularly on July 4. “After the game, there were fireworks, and the Twins’ players, their wives and children came out and sat on the grass to watch,” she says. “It was a perfect evening, and I got to share it with my son Rich, who was ushering that summer in the section right above mine. It still gives me goosebumps.”

Hermann takes seriously the Twins’ guest-service motto to create “magical moments,” greeting each visitor with a smile and a “welcome to Target Field.” Fans who are lucky enough to encounter Hermann are treated to her wealth of Twins’ trivia. “Did you know that the pitcher chooses the jersey that the team will wear that day?” she volunteers. If you head to Target Field this month, look for Hermann, one section up directly behind Joe Mauer.

To take in a Twins game or to tour Target Field, check out:

Twins Tickets, Target Field Tours.

The Majestic Twins Clubhouse Store is located on Target Plaza near section 102.