Jennie Finch
Jennie Finch
Full Name and Common Aliases
Jennie Finch is a renowned American softball player, sports broadcaster, and philanthropist.
Birth and Death Dates
Born on March 3, 1979, in Grant Park, Illinois, Finch is still active in her professional endeavors.
Nationality and Profession(s)
American; Professional Softball Player, Sports Broadcaster
Early Life and Background
Growing up in a family of athletes, Jennie Finch was introduced to softball at an early age. Her parents, Tom and Nancy Finch, encouraged her passion for the sport, which ultimately led to her becoming one of the most dominant pitchers in college softball history.
Finch's dedication to her craft was evident from a young age. She attended University High School in Normal, Illinois, where she excelled as a pitcher and helped lead her team to two state championships. Her impressive high school career earned her a full scholarship to the University of Arizona, which further solidified her reputation as one of the top softball players in the country.
Major Accomplishments
During her collegiate career at the University of Arizona, Finch achieved numerous accolades, including:
Being named an All-American three times (2002-2004)
Winning the 2001 National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) Player of the Year award
Holding multiple NCAA records for pitching
Finch's success on the field didn't go unnoticed. In 2004, she was drafted by the Chicago Bandits in the first round of the Women's Professional Softball League (WPSL) draft.
Notable Works or Actions
In addition to her impressive softball career, Finch has made a name for herself as a sports broadcaster and philanthropist:
In 2010, she began working as a studio analyst for ESPN, providing commentary on college softball games
She has also worked as a color commentator for the Chicago Bandits and the USSSA Pride
Finch is involved with various charitable organizations, including the National Alliance for Youth Sports (NAYS) and the Children's Miracle Network
Impact and Legacy
Jennie Finch's impact on softball extends far beyond her impressive playing career. Her dedication to promoting the sport has inspired countless young athletes:
She was one of the first female softball players featured on the cover of ESPN The Magazine in 2003
Finch has been named a Top 100 Female Athlete by the Women's Sports Foundation and has received numerous other awards for her contributions to the sport
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Jennie Finch is widely quoted and remembered due to her exceptional athletic achievements, as well as her tireless efforts to promote softball and give back to her community. Her commitment to inspiring young athletes through her philanthropic work has left a lasting impact on the world of sports.
As one of the most dominant pitchers in college softball history, Finch's legacy continues to inspire generations of softball players. Her dedication to promoting the sport and giving back to her community ensures that she will be remembered as a true legend in the world of softball for years to come.
Quotes by Jennie Finch
Jennie Finch's insights on:
Growing up, I looked up to major league baseball players, and now these young women have amazing, incredible women all across the board, from swimming to gymnastics to softball to basketball. It is incredible how far women have come and women in sports have come.
Dad was the pitching coach, while Mom was the emotional supporter. Her unconditional love was great, and she wanted what was best for me. It was more about what she did than what she said, and she made sure I was the best I could be.
I try to not be too hard on myself regarding my diet. I've always been a workout-to-eat kind of a girl.
I was honored to wear 'Arizona' across my chest. I am extremely blessed to have my education completely paid for and take part in the great tradition of Wildcat softball. To have my jersey number retired was the ultimate compliment.
You're not going to get off the couch and be at some amazing fast pace or burn crazy amounts of calories, but you have to start somewhere... Eventually, you'll get there.
From what I hear, it’s a normal thing to feel guilty as a mother, especially when trying to fill the needs of a newborn along with maintaining what you had with your first child.
I blame and credit my brothers for my competitive fire within me. Growing up, I lost at everything! My brothers are quite a bit older – 10 years and 5 years – so it was a challenge, but I have some of the most amazing memories with my big brothers.
How’s motherhood? It is absolutely wonderful. Oh, my gosh. It’s truly indescribable and amazing.