January

Alyssa, Yuma, AZ

How old were you when you started pitching???

I started playing softball when I was five years old, my tee-ball picture is on the website!  I started pitching when I was eight years old.

Lindsay, Calgary, AB, Canada

I'm a pitcher and I'm pretty good but I just wanted to know how much you practice and if you could tell me how to get better? I feel like I'm not fast enough yet and I want to work on that. I have a pitching coach but I haven't seen him in a while. thanks PS: I watched you play in Saskatoon and your amazing!

I usually practice pitching every other day.
How to get better?
I feel that if you work out as hard as you can go and with the right mechanics, you will get better.  You have to make sure that you're not cruising and that you're pushing yourself to get better. A really good quote about this is "Practice like its competition and compete like its practice."

Lesli, El Paso, TX

Will you be in town when Casey is pitching in a game at the Diablos?

Yes, I will be visiting my fiancé Casey in El Paso occasionally.  My schedule is really busy with school, helping out and traveling with U of A, and training.  Hopefully he does well and will get moved up to Triple A in Tucson!!! :)

Danielle, Greenfield, MA

if you weren't playing softball what do you think you would be doing?

Wow, this is a tough question, softball is a huge part of my life.  I think I would of went to college and played volleyball.  I would love to be a beach volleyball player, who knows maybe after softball!!! if I wasn't an athlete I am sure I would be doing something that involves kids, I enjoy being around children.  Hmmm, or maybe a vet, that's what I wanted to be when I was a little girl.

Shelby, Celina, TX

Hi!  Are you going to be doing softball camps this summer near Dallas TX?  I would love to come and learn from you!

I will be speaking at a camp some where in Texas in March.  I will make sure it gets posted to let you know where, thanks for asking!

Tony, Coral Springs, FL

I would like to know what kind of music she likes and will there ever be Jennie merchandise for sale on this or any site?

Music. I like a variety of music it depends what kind of mood I am in.  I really enjoy country, I also like hip-hop, alternative, and top 40 stuff.

Jennie Finch-Mizuno merchandise will be for sale in stores this summer.  I think you will be able to purchase it online at www.mizunousa.com.

Crystal, Bullard, TX

Are you going to help assist the Arizona coaching staff this softball season?

Yes, I will be helping coach at U of Arizona this year.  it is a lot of fun being around the team and helping out.  I am still in school in Tucson, it would be weird to be in Tucson and not around the field.

Trish, Columbia, MD

I, more or less, have 2 questions. One is serious, but the other is just a  random attempt at something.
1. When you're on the field and all the pressure is on you... what do you do to calm yourself down?
2. Come and watch one of my games??? (See, told you... pathetic attempt)

Trish, first of all I love your email address!

1. When the pressure is on me what do I do to calm myself down? Before the game I find a spot in the outfield, for example a tree.  After every pitch I turn and look at it and recite "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength."  Then I turn around and step on the mound and take a deep breath and exhale then start my wind up.  I feel that in tough situations I feel confident because I know that I have practiced so hard.  I try and go through opponents line ups in practice during the middle of the week that when it comes game time I have already done it.  I try to focus not on the hitters strong points but on their negative points and attack those.  The night before game days when I am laying in bed I too will go over the hitters once again.

2.  I would love to watch one of your games... maybe one day on ESPN!!!!

Jessyca, Patterson, CA

Who do you think has taught you the most about pitching and hitting?  is there anything you could tell me that might help my game?  Thanks.

There has been so many awesome coaches along the way that have helped me get where I am today.  I couldn't name just one, sorry!  I have been so fortunate to have had and continue to have such great coaching.  My parents were the ones who kept me in line and on the right path; I owe them everything!  Here a few of the ones whom have had an impact in my career:  my dad Doug Finch, Coach Candrea, Larry Ray, Stacy iveson, Coach Erikson, Gary Haning, Howard Kabata, Mickey Smith, Ron Bouldin, Jesse, Mr. Carlson, and many many more (its really unfair to not list them all).

I was wondering who your favorite setter was in high school?

it would have to be one of my best friends Jennifer Saenz.  it doesn't get much better than her when it comes to setting me up for a huge kill on the volleyball court! 

I know you played high school basketball. Would you ever plan on playing basketball for the WNBA?

I would love to, if I had the time and talent!  I've put all my energy into softball growing up; I only played volleyball and basketball for school (no club/travel teams).  Unfortunately I didn't have time to play other than that.

February

Paige, Linden, NJ 

Hi Jennie!! I just wanted to ask you if you could give me some advice.  I am a freshman and would really like to make the Varsity team.  I am starting to practice, but is there anything else I can do to prepare for tryouts?  Thanks!!!! 

I would make sure you are prepared physically so mentally you feel you have worked so hard and have earned your spot on the team.  You have to go above and beyond what your teammates are doing, put in the extra time and focus on the little things, mechanics, fundamentals, hustle, etc.  Prove that you are mature enough and ready to be a varsity teammate.

Chelsea, Stratford, NJ 

When you were a kid did you dream you would ever make it this far in your career?  What do you think of yourself as a pitcher? 

When I was a kid I dreamed of and envisioned myself being on the Olympic team.  it has been a lifelong dream and goal.  God has blessed me with so many great people and coaches and he has given me the opportunity to be where I am today.

Chelsea, Stratford, NJ 

How old were you when you first started to play softball? What was your favorite team you ever played on?

I have a tie for favorite teams...Arizona of course, GO CATS.  However there is no comparison when you have USA across your chest and you are representing your country at the highest level.  it is an amazing feeling playing with the best softball players in the world.

Sarah, Greenwood, CA

We watched you in the World Series last year, and you were awesome!  I'm 9 years old, and starting my 5th year in softball, my 2nd year as a pitcher.  I want to start learning different pitches. When did you start learning different pitches, and how old do you think I should be?  How much did you practice each week when you were my age? Thanks, I'll be watching for you on ESPN! 

I had all five of my pitches (screwball, change-up, drop, curve, and rise) when I was 10.  I don’t know how well they worked but I had them installed in my mind and mechanics to improve as I progressed.  The sooner the better!  I usually practiced every other day.

Jack, Louisville, KY

I am actually asking a question on behalf of my 9 year old niece. Miranda has amazing talents in both softball and basketball. The only problem is that she is rather smallish in frame. My question is this, her father would like to encourage her to continue one sport or the other to the eventual end of a career. Obviously there is the WNBA, but for softball (the sport in which her talent is the greatest) to what level can she continue beyond college? Thank you so much for your time and outstanding achievement in the sport!

Hopefully by the time Miranda is out of college there will be something like the WNBA for her to continue playing softball.  I would urge her to keep playing both sports it will only make her more versatile and more athletic!

Matt, Iowa City, IA

What is the fastest you have ever pitched a ball, and about how fast is your average fastball in game situations?  Also, what do you have to say to people who don't respect softball as a legitimate sport (comments like 'girls trying to play baseball' and the like)?

I have topped out at 71 mph, but on average I pitch in the high 60's.  My goal, however, is to average 70 this summer! To people who don’t respect fastpitch softball...obviously they haven’t put the time in to watch and appreciate the various aspects of the game.  You can ask Mike Cameron (All-Star centerfielder of the Mariners) if he respects fastpitch softball, after I struck him out. :–)   Take a look at the articles on my website about Mike Cameron, Alex Rodriguez, and Troy Percival–they all have found a new respect for the game of fastpitch softball. Baseball and fastpitch softball are both great games; they each have their unique qualities that make them challenging and exciting.  While the two games are similar on the surface, game, defensive, and offensive strategy for baseball and fastpitch softball are very different.  We should simply appreciate each game for what they are.

March

Freddy, Tustin, CA

I was looking at your pics and I noticed that in some of them you are with your family and u guys are at the Crystal Cathedral. I was wondering when you  were there because I work there and I don't know how I missed you when u were there. Also do you come to the Cathedral often? 

Yes, I was at the Crystal Cathedral. My parents attend church there, so when I am home visiting in California I go along with them.

Juan, Miami, FL

Hey Jennie, 
First off, I would like to congratulate on being ESPN's hottest female athlete. Personally I think you are much better looking than Anna Kournikova, and obviously a much better athlete.

My question regards the symbol on the top left of your web site. it appears that you are a protestant Christian. if so how has your faith affected your career. I am a Christian and was pleasantly surprised with that. :)

Yes, I have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ; He is my Lord and Savior. My faith has affected my career greatly. I would not be who I am today. God gave me this talent to use and he helps me daily to continue to pursue his will. He has blessed me with the great parents, great friends, awesome teammates, so many great coaches, a great strength coach and so much more.

Sloan, Modesto, CA

First of all, I wanted to tell you, you are a great role model! Your attitude really reflects who you are. When you lost in the world series in 2002, everyone noticed that not only are you the best pitcher, but you have the best attitude! I was reading the other questions and answers and we both do the same thing! The thing we do the same is say Phil. 4:13. (I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Or the other version.) Well, anyway, my questions are how many nationals have you been to and what age were you when you started to pitch? Thanks!

P.S. I went to Texas on my 10U team and I went to Arizona with my 12U team.  On my second year of 12U (which is right now) our goal is to go to Georgia.

I went to nationals starting at the age of ten and was lucky enough to go every year until I was 17, then 4 College World Series. I started pitching at the age of eight.

JoMarie, Brooklyn, NY

Did you look up to any sports players while growing up or any people in particular that helped you make it this far? if so, then who?

My mom was a big Dodger and Laker fan; we had Dodger season tickets growing up. My favorite athletes were Steve Sax, Orel Hershiser, and Magic Johnson.

Brian, Shoreview, MN

Hi Jennie! I am a personal trainer who is also working with athletes and I was wondering what kind of workouts you go through both during the season as well as the off season? Anything that you think really benefited/s your play? Thanks for the opportunity to ask questions. Good Luck with you Olympic Dreams!! Thanks Brian

I lift three days a week and run usually five days a week. I started lifting weights when I got to college and continue to do so now. I do a lot of cardio, to keep my endurance up and to feel good too. in the off season I slow it down a little, I've really only had one off season of my life, this past winter.

Marissa, Cypress, CA

Hi Jennie,
My younger sister Olivia (4 years old) and I (9 years old) are currently taking pitching lessons from your dad (Doug). I am also using the Finch Windmill. Your dad is great. We really like him. When we go for our lessons at your dads indoor building we see all your pictures and awards and it really encourages us that we can make it if we work hard and keep using our Windmill. My question is how much has your father helped you get where you are today? Also, how much did your family as a whole play in your success growing up? Do you think that you would be where you are today without them? Thank you and I hope we get to meet you someday.

My dad has played a huge role in my success, along with my mother. He was the one that always caught me, would instill good safe mechanics and still does. I couldn't have done it without them, they have made so many sacrifices and took the time out every week 4 times a week to practice and be at my games. Looking back I am so grateful and lucky that God enabled them to follow my career so intensely. I took it for granted when I was little. I don't know how they did it--they both had full time jobs and still found a way to be at 99% of my practices and games!

When will we be able to see you on "This Week in Baseball"?

"This Week in Baseball" will start in May of 2003. it will show on your local Fox channel, and it will play before "The Game of the Week" on Saturdays.

April

How does your hard work and dedication to softball help you in your social life?

Softball has had a huge impact on my social life. I have met so many great people and friends, including my fiancé. Playing a team sport helps you understand so much about the game of life. it teaches you about team work, holding each other accountable, keeping your head up.... in softball/baseball as a hitter its a game of failure, it tests you. if you fail seven out of ten times your a good hitter. its about believing in yourself and trusting your teammates.

I enjoyed your interview on The Best Damn Sports Show Period. What is the model of the glove you use? Any recommended exercises to build arm strength? Thanks!

I use a Mizuno glove, only the best. As for the model of my glove I have used many.  Arm strength...the Finch Windmill, check it out (www.finchwindmill.com).

I just started pitching about a year ago, and my average speed in games is around 50 mph and my location is pretty good. You said that you started at 8. is there any chance for someone who stated so late to be good enough to be on the USA team? Thank you so much..

Of course there is, many successful pitchers started later. Keep up the good work. Best of luck to you!

My name is kyra I'm 13 years old. I love you so much! your amazing! I want to be just like you!! I've been pitching since I was nine years old! I hope to make it to the big show someday! I was just wondering if you had any secrets on dealing with the pressure? Everybody always tells me you cant throw great every time! I think I have a real shot at being somebody! but sometimes I let my frustration take over and I end up doing badly! I have been working on it this year and have done much better ! but I was wondering if you could help me out!!! THANKS TONS

Take a deep breath, slow the game down, and take it one pitch at a time. This is a really good quote and one I truly believe in, "Practice like its competition, compete like its practice." Therefore in big situations you wont panic, because you do it everyday in practice. Practice and put pretend situations in your head...bases loaded, full count, practice throwing a strike, but an unhittable strike. Thanks for your support, best of luck!

Hey, I am in 9th grade and my coach has just taught me a new way of pitching and I am trying to adjust but it can be very frustrating. I was just wondering how many different times you have changed your pitching "ways" before you are at the one you use now. And also I was wondering (because I play short stop too) how hard it is to play two positions once you get to be in a higher level of softball. Thanks!

I have been throwing pretty much the same since I was eight years old. I didn't ever really drastically change my mechanics.

Playing two positions is great, I encourage all girls to do so. it helps you become a well rounded player and more diverse. Who wants to sit the bench when you are not pitching??? :-)

I usually jog and stretch before I pitch. it takes me about 20 minutes to fully warm-up pitching. For a game we are warming up for about an hour and a half before I start actually warming up pitching. I start out getting loose with my fastball then throw it 100% from the mound. Then I move up to about 20 feet and spin/warm-up lightly each pitch and then go back to the mound and throw it 100%, each pitch individually. After I have done that I mix them up.

How hard does your soon-to-be husband throw, and what kind of pitches does he throw? Do y'all ever play catch or anything sports related, or do you try to keep sports out of the relationship? I enjoyed watching your fabulous career at the U of A. Good luck in the future.

My fiancé, Casey Daigle, throws in the high-mid 90s. He has a slider, change up, and fastball...maybe a cutter too. We do play catch, he mainly catches for me, he's pretty good too! I catch for him but he only throws in the 80s then.

its great that we are both pitchers, we help each other out and give each other tips. The only negative about it is that we critique each other to the fullest extent. I guess its a good thing in a way.

Jennie, when is your softball line at Mizuno coming out?

The "Jennie Finch Fastpitch" line will be out this summer ('03). There will be gloves, a bat, batting gloves, cleats, and a few articles of clothing. if you go to the Mizuno website you can look for the local Mizuno representative and buy directly from them.

May

hey Jennie,
hi, my name is Brooke and am a catcher. is there anything that u could tell me that I need to know on how and what the pitcher throws? how to work with them for u and her to get things down? understand how they throw and what they are going to do? I was the catcher this year but I broke both of my wrist, so am out! which it sucks. but am ready to get back to doing something I love, and give it all to make up what I have missed. I hope one day I could meet u and u can give some help on thing I do.

A catcher is so important. Behind every great pitcher there is a great catcher. The relationship between a pitcher and a catcher is very crucial. You should always give the pitcher feedback whether its positive or constructive criticism. You have to build a bond and trust between the two of you. I have to know that my catcher did her homework studying the team and that she is giving it her all behind the plate--100% of the time. This goes for the pitcher too, she has to earn the catcher's respect. Always be positive and make sure your pitcher and you have a close relationship. it doesn't hurt to challenge your pitcher in practice by making her always to workout at 100% and mix up the counts and put the pressure on to make practice more game-like. Great question, catchers play a huge role!!!! Best of luck!

Hey what's up? if you didn't get into University of Arizona where else would you have liked to play? Where there any other colleges that you were interested in going to, and what made you choose Arizona, what benefits does that school have over all the other ones? that Best Of Luck!!

I took a recruiting trip to the University of Washington along with taking one to U of Arizona. I really liked UW but I just felt Arizona was the best place for me. I love the heat of Arizona, it's great softball weather. Coach Candrea was one of the main reasons for my decision to attend--he is amazing. in addition, the tradition that Arizona softball had and continues to uphold made it the "right" place for me. I really liked everything about U of A. it was God's plan I guess you could say. Everything was tremendous: the fans, Hillenbrand stadium, the city of Tucson, the administration, the facility. I would give it a 10+.

No, unfortunately I don't have any pitching videos out yet. Hopefully I will pretty soon and we will keep you posted at www.jenniefinch.net.

Hi Danielle Finch... My sister in law has the same name!!!!! That is so neat. I played volleyball throughout junior high and high school. I love the game... you might find me on the beach volleyball tour after my softball career!!!

Hi Jennie, I am 14 years old and starting pitching when I was 12 years old. This past year I started for our varsity high school team. My coach clocked my fastball pitch at 57 miles per hour. My problem is I have trouble hitting my spots, along with the wrist snap. Can you please tell me what drills I can use to help this. Especially the wrist snap.

Congrats on making varsity! To help you hit your spots really focus on a body part to hit. Wrist snap...try to have your finger tips beat your wrist during the snap. Focus on your finger tips coming through first. Make sure that when your finger tips do come through that your pinky and pointer fingers are even, this will help with your accuracy. Good luck!

-Jennie

 I live in a small town between Phoenix and Tucson and play softball. Everyone tells me that I should play for a team in Phoenix and Tucson so I can be seen playing more and possible get to play softball in college. But I like playing in my hometown with my friends and so my family can come watch me play. is playing for a big town ASA team really going to help me be seen by a college scout?

Yes, it will definitely help you. I understand about your friends and family but it is so important for you to be seen by college coaches. I would really look into it if you are serious about it and want to pursue your career in softball. This is a decision you and your family should make together. Best of luck!

-Jennie

June

You are the most gorgeous softball player I have EVER seen. I was just wondering, have you ever considered posing nude? Please say yes. if so, under what circumstance, and for what magazine?

No, I would not pose nude. I don't feel that there are any pros to posing nude. No amount of money could influence me. My morals and standards come first. I am here to be a role model for young girls and show them what really counts...and that is what is on the inside.

Hi Jennie, I go to La Mirada High School and you are an idol there. I remember you and my sister (Jennifer B.) hanging out together. But my question is how does it feel being on top of Women's Sports?

GO Matadors!!! Thanks for thinking I am at the top of women's sports. God has blessed me tremendously. He is the reason I am where I am today. I am just a softball player...to think all this is possible is crazy. I still don't know if I realize what all is going on. My life has been a dream come true. I am anxious to see what God has in store next.

My name is Mallory and I have worked with your father before at the Spano Dome. I would just like to let you know how much I admire you. I have a question though. Do you know what my problem is when my fastball goes into the dirt? I have been trying to figure it out. Please respond as soon as possible.

Thank you,

When your fastball goes in the dirt, it means you are releasing the ball too early. Keep your finger tips strong and be sure to get good wrist snap at your release. Remember: "Fingers Up!"

I was just wondering if you ever felt like quitting because you had to miss out on a lot of fun stuff and had to practice instead.

No, I never felt like quitting. Yes, there were times when I didn't want to but my parents pushed me and continued to help me along the way. When I signed my letter of intent to go to Arizona, I finally understood why they did what they did. Sure there were times when I wanted to be a normal girl, but now there is no way. I am glad and proud to be an athlete. it is who I am and why you are writing me. if you are fortunate enough to go to college and get an education for free you will look back and understand why you sacrificed all you did. The sport of softball and all those hours of practicing allowed me to pursue my dreams while getting an education. You can do the same if you stick with it and work hard. Best of luck.

Hi Jennie! I was curious...what did you major in at Arizona and what are you planning on doing job wise?

I majored in communications at the University of Arizona. As for a job here is some of what's going on. I hope to do more commentating with ESPN. I also hope to continue hosting "This Week in Baseball". I want to do what I can to help the Professional Fastpitch League out. I plan on traveling and working with young girls doing camps and clinics. I have teamed up with Cal Ripken and his foundation to help young girls learn about teamwork, leadership, and accountability. I want to help Mizuno continue to develop the best fastpitch products in the world.

July

is there a particular reason you wear the number 27?

I chose #27 because it was the anniversary date of when my parents started dating way back in the mid-1960s.
 

Ashley, Carlsbad, CA

I have been having a problem of hitting my hip as I release the ball and it is starting to get in the way, it is slowing my pitch down. What could I do to stop hitting my hip?

Ashley...
This question is a timely one...I have been hitting my hip lately as well.  it is terrible...we watched video of me and it looks as though my arm is slow through my release.  Try to increase your arm speed.  Don't let up, that will make you hit your hip more.  Make sure you are getting the hips open and then close them after release.  Best of luck to you.
 

Katie, Ravenswood, WV

Jennie,
I don't know what to say! I am just so inspired by you! The first time I ever watched you I was so amazed! I hope to be at Arizona some day, that is my dream, it has been ever since I have seen you on TV! I have the Windmill, it is great! My dad wants my dreams to come true, that's why he got it for me! I don't know if I will ever see you because your teams never comes up this way! But I will have you in my heart! Thanks for the motivation! Good luck in everything you do in your life! Love ya.

Thank you Katie.  That was a really sweet note.  I hope to see you at AZ too, good luck with everything.  Never be satisfied!!!
 

Matt, Dayton, OH

Hi Jen!
I noticed a pic of you out on a golf course.  Do you golf on a regular basis?

Yes, this off season I have picked up golfing.  My fiancé, Casey, is really into it.  We were playing about 3 times a week.  I haven't played recently as I have been too busy.  I am playing in a few charity tournaments this off season and I am looking forward to it.
 

Madalyn, Eagle Lake, TX

HEY Jennie! I was wondering I pitch pretty fast, but why do my balls go out of control. Could you give me some pitching tips. Thanks, and your a wonderful
athlete.

Hi Madalyn-
There could be a few things...make sure you your shoulders start square then your front shoulder should turn towards your catcher and then back to square again.  When you release the ball think fingers up and make sure your arm stays close to your side.  I hope these tips help...good Luck.  You could also stand in front of a mirror and throw rolled up socks to see your mechanics.

it is awesome!!! it is fun being surrounded by such talented, great people. The team is inspiring in itself, it makes you a better player, playing with them. it is nice to be around so many focused, determined, and competitive women with the same goal in mind!

I started lifting weights in college, which I highly recommend. Weights can be dangerous if you do not do them properly! I recommend having a coach that is educated and can critique you on your technique to make sure you are lifting safely!

I come from Germany and I have played Softball for two years. Now I am 18 years old. Unfortunately I started very late because Softball is not as popular as in the USA! My question refers to bats: How long and heavy of a bat do you use? Do you use different bats? Do you think it is good to have different bats? Thank you and good luck!

The Mizuno bat I am currently using is 33 inches and 26 ounces. I used a 25 ounce bat in college. I often carry a heavier bat in my bag in case we face a really slow pitcher. Other than that I would recommend keeping the same bat, that way you are used to it! Good luck, I would love to go to Germany one day!

Not as often as I would like to...I was out there last weekend! I probably won't be out for awhile unfortunately!

hi Jennie, just wondering what you thought of the all-star game? did you enjoy it?

I had an amazing time. it was an incredibly fun experience being in a ball park with all of that talent. it was neat being on the field experiencing the environment with the players.

Hi Jennie! I was required to write a paper on an athlete for P.E. class and I found your website very informative. Thanks. My question is: do you regularly watch/follow Major League Baseball? if so, what is your favorite team (c'mon, tell me it's the Yanks!)?

Yes, I have grown up watching baseball and do keep up with it. My favorite team is the Dodgers!!! Sorry, the Yanks are up on my list, though! I grew up going to Dodger games so I have to root for the home team...if they don't win its a shame....   :-)!!!

Hello Jennie! I am a big fan of yours. My question is how do you become so consistent when you throw 70 mph?

Practice and more practice. When you practice at 100% and you do it every time you go out...that's what builds the consistency.

You've increased the stock market rates for eye drop companies. Whenever I see you pitch on TV, I barely blink because I'm afraid I'll miss something spectacular! I'm curious about what is most meaningful to you about your teammates? Also, for your training and conditioning when it comes to lifting - do you focus on balanced overall full body workout or concentrate more on upper body? Thank you for being such an inspiration to our younger generation. Looking forward to seeing you play in Athens 2004. GO USA!

The friendships that I have built over the many years of playing is what I treasure most about my teammates. it is so great to be in a team environment, to all have the same goals and aspirations. it is great to go through all the hard work with 17 other girls, and train together. When I weight train I focus on my entire body. I didn't start lifting until college, which I recommend due to injuries that can occur without proper technique. I condition about 5 times a week, biking or running. Thanks for your support, I wish you the best!

Yes, you can say that I am a girly girl. I love make-up, clothes, and shopping! My hair... I try for perfection but you know how that goes! Fun question!

I was wondering if there was ever a time where you were just on a slump hitting and pitching, I'm sure you have been. But did you ever not have fun playing during a slump? I just bought the Finch Windmill, I hope it works.... You probably don't remember me but you helped me with my change up in El Paso at a camp. I play for El Paso Community college. well I kind of just wanted to say hi and wish you good luck this year, I'll be rooting for you.

I do remember you! I hope you are doing well and that your change up is working! About playing in a slump, of course I have been in one, haven't we all? That is why it is good that we play a team sport...your teammates will pick you up. Try to stay positive and continue to support your team. You will prevail!!! Our game is a game of failure...its how you respond to failure. Do you give in or do you work harder and keep plugging away? Remember why you play...you love it. Try to think about all of the positives...how fun it is when you win! Best of luck. Jennie

I bought the Finch Windmill and I was wondering how long did it take you to reach the speed you wanted to?

Just keep setting realistic goals. Once you reach your goal, set another...its a progression! Always pitch at your max and push to throw harder. Never be satisfied! Good Luck!!!

Which college team do you think will dominate this year? My vote would have to go with the Longhorns, even with the possibility of having Cat red shirt, they'll hold their own. Good luck and sit 'em down!

I have to go with my Arizona Wildcats, they will be tough. UCLA has a competitive recruiting class coming in. Oklahoma is a strong program along with Cal State Fullerton. You just never know, we have to wait it out and see!

if I could play for a major league baseball team it would have to be the Dodgers, and I have to admit being a Yankee would be pretty amazing too.

August

I was playing in the Canada Cup futures and I watched all of your games as well. I am a major fan of both you and Lisa Fernandez. What is it like playing with Lisa?

it is incredible. She is an amazing athlete and an awesome person. Her intensity and work ethic is everything you would imagine and more. I have learned a lot from her and am honored to share a dugout with the entire USA team! Being on the team with Lisa and all of the other veterans is a lot of fun. We all make each other better. I have enjoyed every minute of it!

I was wondering if you have a certain diet-like not eating certain food, making sure you get enough calories, getting lots for protein, not drinking caffeine/carbonated drinks, restrict sugar or fat, etc... Do you eat (or not eat) certain foods or drinks on game days or before games? Also, how often do you usually lift weights or run a week? Well, thanks for any info!

Hi Megan - About my diet...it varies. Sometimes its good and sometimes its not. I do try to eat a lot of protein! I try to eat a lot of fruits and vegetables, and stay away from fried food. its hard to eat really well on the road but I try. I try to lift weights 3 days a week and run almost everyday, or do some kind of cardio.

What would you say to someone who has the talent and skill of an outstanding softball player, but is in that mode where they are tired of playing ball continuously for so long, that they talk about quitting? What was it that kept you motivated all these years to get you where you are now? Finally, next time your in your hometown, would you be down for a one-on-one basketball game?

Hey Francine - What's up? I hope this is the Francine from the good old days at LM. Tell the family I said hello. I hope all is good with you! What keeps me motivated is the fact that I love to play. I really didn't have any outside distractions, I had a lot of friends through my traveling teams...my parents helped me out tremendously, pushing me along the way. Oh about the one on one game...its on!!! Take care.

Florian-
The last few minutes before the game starts I am usually focusing on the first hitter of the game. Drinking a little bit of water and anxiously awaiting my start. I don't like to get too excited...I feel it is important to stay in a steady mental state, not too high and not too low. One of my favorite feelings is taking the mound before a game!!!

There is only 1 "number one recruit" in the nation and all the other thousands of players aren't. Don't let this bring you down. There is nothing better than taking your talent to the next level and playing in college. There is a place for everyone. I would make a list of the schools that have an interest in you and that you would consider attending. Then write down the pros and cons of every school and weigh out your options. I would recommend doing this with your parents and others whom you are close with to help you with your decision. Good Luck and listen to your heart!
-Jennie

In high school I remained super busy playing sports and maintaining good grades in school. I didn't have time to go to parties, I usually had my school sports during the week and softball on the weekends.

Great question!!! Buying pants is one the most depressing things for tall girls. I have found a few stores...Tall Girl Store, Long Elegant Legs, and I have found some online shops that have carried long pants. One is based out of British Columbia, and you can order pants up to a 40 inch inseam. I recently have found some Seven Jeans that have been long enough, they made my day, I found them at Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom's. I hope this helps. Take care.
-Jennie

September

Hi Jennie

I HAVE TWO QUESTIONS. IS IT ALWAYS FUN TO TRAVEL AROUND OR DO YOU GET BORED Sometimes? MY OTHER Question is WHAT IS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE MOMENT in YOUR CAREER AT Arizona? THE Olympic TEAM?

Traveling all around the world has been such a thrill and experience for me. I love going to different places and being surrounded in different cultures. I have been blessed to have traveled all over the world. Although traveling can take a toll on your body. it is tough getting off the plane and preparing to play, especially dealing with different time zones.

My most memorable moment at the U of A was winning the national championship in 2001. We had 8 seniors,  most of them I had known growing up. There were so many other great moments too...great roommates and all the relationships that I built with my team, other teams, the faculty and all the many great Tusconians!!!

My greatest USA moment...well first of all playing with all the great players and more importantly great people, has been amazing. Winning the World Championships in 2002 was a highlight. Every time you take the field with USA across your chest is an incredible feeling and honor!

Jennie- Have you ever comeback from a an injury and felt tentative on the mound because you are worried you might hurt it again? How do you overcome that fear? Thank you for your time.

Yes, I have came back from injury and did feel tentative on the mound. The only way to work through it is go slow and don't rush your body. Your body will tell you if you're ready or not. Get comfortable and feeling good in practice before entering a game. Good Luck.
Jennie

Jennie, I don't even know where to start. You are my role model. I am 14 years old and I have been playing softball since I was 4 years old. This summer my softball team went to the NSA World Series, and the second day I saw you signing autographs, and I made my mom get one for me. I don't know if you remember but my oldest brother took a picture with you and so did I. But, my brother was a real big guy. I try to watch every show that you are on, whether it be this week in baseball, or the late night show with Craig Kilborn. I just want you to know that you are my idol and that I would love to be in your position one day in my life. Anyways, to get to my question, do you ever regret choosing softball over basketball? Do you think that if you had the chance right now to switch to be in the WNBA, would you? Thanks for everything and good luck.

No, I don't regret choosing softball. Softball is my love, there is something about pitching that drives me to do what I do and work so hard. I have met so many amazing people and have built so many friendships through softball. I feel that God gave me this talent and this is his plan for me. He has opened so many doors and enabled me to be who and where I am. Plus... I don't know how far I would of made it in basketball, maybe not even to the WNBA and especially not able to represent my country.

October (check back later)

November (check back later)