Women’s National Softball Team: Ambassadors for Israel, Connections for life.
Twenty-nine women, ages 16 to 26, are currently working hard mentally and physically to represent Israel at the European Softball Championships this summer. JNF-USA provides the fields and facilities in Israel where these women can practice. This is part of JNF’s goal of improving quality of life and building a sense of community in towns across Israel. Then, it’s up to the women to rely on family and friends to raise the funds needed to realize their dreams of competing in the European Championships, and maybe the World Championship!
Behind these dreams are their desires to build stronger connections with their Jewish heritage and deeper bonds with Israel by competing at the highest levels of international competition. The Israeli Women’s National Softball Team offers a unique opportunity for these young women to use their skills and love of the game to become “ambassadors”, promoting a positive image of Israel around the world. Along the way, they make life-changing friendships and form an enriched picture of Israel and its people.
No matter the outcome of the competitions, these women come back energized by their experiences and bursting with stories to share with others in their communities and schools. Olivia Gott, former catcher/utility player and graduate of the University of Virginia, returned to be on this year’s team: “This team is here to qualify for the 2024 Olympics, but it’s about putting Israel softball on the map. It is such a great honor and a privilege to represent the country of Israel.” Current infielder Arizona Ritchie says: “The opportunity to play for Israel has a lot of layers. When I put on the jersey, I’m not only representing Israel – I’m representing the Jewish community, my family, those that came before me and the softball community.”
Success in the European Championships will help increase visibility for the game and the status of women’s softball in Israel and bring the team that much closer to entering the 2024 Olympics. B’Hatzlaha! (Good luck!) Click here to help the women reach their fundraising goals.
Written by Penny Bustin, Chair of Women for Israel of Greater Washington DC Area and Roni Wolk, Assistant VP National Women for Israel Executive Board