Watching the Winter Olympic Games in Sochi brings back the memories of the excitement that surrounds the Olympic Games for the athletes, parents, and the entire United States of America. Having the honor of coaching in the Olympic Games in Athens and Beijing, I can remember like it was yesterday the hours and hours of preparation that goes into these performances you see on TV today. The Olympic experience for the athlete is something very special and one that will last a lifetime. The pride of wearing the USA across your chest becomes a responsibility that athletes take very seriously and prepare diligently for 4 years to accomplish a great performance that hopefully results in a medal. What most people do not realize is the sacrifice and dedication that our athletes must endure throughout the process to make a dream a reality. Many must give up job opportunities and time away from families to dedicate their energy and effort to prepare for their Olympic performance. Behind our athletes are families, support staff, coaches, and many others that also sacrifice to give our athletes the best preparation and opportunity to bring home the Gold! 

I would like to share with you some insight from former Olympians that have had the opportunity to wear the USA uniform and represent the greatest country in the world: 

“As an athlete, I felt extremely proud to be chosen to represent Our country in the Olympic Games. USA Softball had a standard of excellence, class, and integrity and we wanted that standard to shine for the world to see when we took the field. Winning the Gold medal was the ultimate dream come true. I will never forget watching the American flag being raised up and being overwhelmed with many different emotions as we listened to our National Anthem. There is no greater honor as an athlete than to wear your country’s jersey!” Leah Amico – 3 time Gold Medalist 1996 Atlanta, 2000 Sydney, 2004 Athens 

“To have the opportunity to wear USA across my chest and compete for my country was the greatest honor that I have achieved as an athlete. To play for something so much bigger than yourself, not only your family, hometown, but your country. It was a dream come true to be able to be surrounded by the best of the best, wearing red, white, and blue with complete pride! Jennie Finch-Daigle – Olympic Gold & Silver Medalist – 2004 Athens, 2008 Beijing 

“In a softball season whether it be college, professional, etc. you compete for your TEAM. Usually this group includes teammates, coaches, family, your university, your city, and all those who support you. There is a tremendous sense of pride and responsibility that comes with competing for something way bigger than yourself. Playing in the Olympics Games took that to a whole new level. When I put the USA jersey on I was playing for even more than everything listed above. I was competing for my country. We weren't just the USA Softball team or the USA Basketball team anymore. We played for one team, The United States of America. And competing for the Red, White, and Blue was truly the highest honor in my career.” Caitlin Lowe – Olympic Silver Medalist – 2008 Beijing 

RED, White, and Blue Pride Forever! Go USA!

Coach Mike Candrea