Jennie Finch Camp a Big Success
9/18/2009 11:30:33 AM | Softball
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RADFORD, Va. – Over 1,000 people descended on Radford and the New River Valley to attend the Jennie Finch Softball Camp and Champions Dinner last weekend (Sept. 11-13).
Because of the collaborative effort between the Radford University and Roanoke College softball programs, the three-day event was a big success.
“It was great partnering with Coach Mickey Dean, Radford University, and the community,” said Jennie Finch. “The weekend was a huge success, and we as a group were able to share our love and passion of the great game of softball! It was an incredible event--way more than just a camp.”
The event kicked off with a Champions dinner and silent auction on Friday evening at the Shelor Event Center. Over 200 attendees were able to have dinner with Finch and her Olympic and professional teammates. Following dinner, the evening was highlighted by a speech from Finch and a silent auction, emceed by Matt Sales.
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“This was the biggest thing to ever happen for women's sports in this area,” Radford head coach Mickey Dean said. “I can't tell you how many people came up to me and said that this weekend. It was an honor for us to host this event in the New River Valley.”
As the fog rolled in on Saturday morning, 400 campers and their parents made their way to RU Softball field. After the registration was completed, Dean, assistant Roanoke College coach Rick Anderson and Finch welcomed the campers, who over the next two days took part in instructional sessions.
Those sessions included bunting, hitting, fielding, base running, outfield instruction and pitching. Highlighting Saturday's lunch was a special pitching demonstration by Finch.
“It was a great opportunity to promote a wonderful sport to young girls who see Jennie Finch and the other Olympians as role models,” said Anderson. “It was also a great opportunity for the coaches and players of Radford University and Roanoke College to be able to work together at such an event. I am glad to have been a part of it.”
“It was nice to see members of Radford's softball team come out and volunteer their time, helping out with several aspects of the camp from concessions to working with the campers,” commented Dean.
Along with the instructional period, each camper was able to take picture with Finch and her gold medal. They also participated in a Q&A session with the Olympians and received autographs as well.
Finch was joined by current and former National Team and professional teammates; Laura Berg, Andrea Duran, Toni Mascarenas and MacKenzie Vandergeest, along with Finch's father Doug Finch and Valdosta State head coach and Chicago Bandit assistant coach Thomas Macera.
“I am so humbled by the turnout and welcome we the Jennie Finch Softball Camp felt,” Finch said. “We look forward to doing it again next year!”
Thursday, April 23
Sunday, April 12
Thursday, April 02
Saturday, March 21
