As coaches we spend a great deal of time discussing the fundamentals and strategies of the game by showing examples of various players executing the necessary skills.  I thought it would be fitting to draw attention to a great example in our game and discuss what has allowed her to become a tremendous role model while excelling on the field and becoming the face of our sport.  It is these traits that sometimes are the difference between a good player and a great player.  We know as coaches and parents that the physical skills they possess are only a part of the equation to develop good players and more importantly great people

A major part of coaching or parenting is to use athletic opportunities and experiences to teach life long lessons that prepare young people for the challenges they will face in life.  I was fortunate to have had the opportunity to coach one of our games finest players and people.  She was a tremendous player and we can talk for hours about her accomplishments at the ASA, College and International levels. 

The ultimate compliment that can be given to someone who has accomplished everything the sport has to offer and has become the face for our sport and transcended the game as Jennie Finch has touched the lives of millions of young kids by what and how she represents herself, family, and the game we all love.  She has the intangible traits that make her a tremendous teammate, leader, friend and remarkable icon for our sport.  What are the traits that make her so special?

• Great work ethic and always willing to do the extra work
• Unselfish
• Gracious
• Approachable
• Passion for the game
• High respect for the game
• Great teammates
• Leads by example
• Gives back to the game - great ambassador for softball
• Quick to accknowledge teammates for her successes
• Competitive
• Humble
• Balanced

I have had the pleasure of knowing Jennie Finch for a long time and have watched her grow from a travel ball player to one of the best players in the world.  The one thing that has never changed through her successes and popularity has been her ability to stay genuine and maintain great balance in her life.  She has always kept the right things in the center of her life – family and her spirituality.

Our game needs to utilize role models that are about the right things that will make a difference not only on the athletic field but more importantly in life!  These traits of Jennie Finch can be used as an example of the traits we should all be teaching and demonstrating to young people.  It has been said that your accomplishments in life are not as important as how many people you can touch and effect in a positive way.  When your players ask what it takes to become the best ………you can begin by discussing these powerful traits that have made Jennie not only a great athlete but also one of the finest human beings on this planet!  

We are going to miss watching Jennie perform on the field but I will promise you she will continue to be a strong role model for the future of our sport.  Thanks for all you have done for this great game we all love!

To get more on Jennie, listen to the brand new podcast from the Responsible Sports team where she talks about playing other sports made her a standout in softball and the "privlege of pressure".

Until next month,

Coach Candrea