Softball is a fun and engaging game that both male and female athletes of all ages can play. The United States professional fast pitch softball team is made up of talented ladies from all over the country. This team plays at each summer Olympic Games event.
The 2009 softball team was made up of eighteen players. Nine players play on the team at one time, just as with baseball. These players use top of the line equipment, especially when it comes to softball gloves and bats. The team is outfitted with matching softball shirts and other uniform components. Most of these players have been involved with the sport from a very young age, and played all the way through High School and college.
At the Olympic Games, these women play against other softball teams from a variety of countries. They also participate in events such as the Japan Cup.
These athletes are seen as celebrities and are often featured in magazines and on television giving memorable quotes and interviews. Jennie Finch, team USA’s starting pitcher, is very popular with fans of all ages and can be seen in many advertisements.
The 2009 team was coached by Jay Miller, who is also the head coach for Mississippi State University’s college program. Assistant coaches were Gordon Eakin, head coach at Brigham Young University; Ken Eriksen, head coach at the University of Southern Florida; and Barbara Jordon, coach of the California State University’s Northridge team.
Players are chosen for this team by a dedicated committee. These people visit schools and teams around the country to identify possible players. Most of these players are viewed at ASA (American Softball Association) games and events. The players are then invited for an audition and to try out for the U.S. team.
Fastpitch softball has and always be a popular sport in United States athletics.
