Two-time Olympic softball pitcher and gold medalist Jennie Finch is coming to Columbus. Columbus State University announced today that Finch will be the keynote speaker at CSU Athletics’ 5th Annual Girls In The Game Luncheon, scheduled for March 26, 2020, at CSU’s Frank G. Lumpkin Center.  Following the luncheon, Finch will host a youth softball clinic at Cougar Field.
 
Launched in 2015, the mission of Girls in The Game is to advance and support Columbus State University’s female student-athletes allowing them to reach their full potential academically and athletically, while empowering them to become leaders in life. The Girls In The Game Luncheon brings together those who are passionate about supporting sports programs for female student-athletes. In 2019, eight female student-athletes were recognized as the first Girls In The Game scholar athletes and received scholarship support from proceeds. Past speakers include tennis legend Tracy Austin, FIFA Women’s World Cup Champion Brandi Chastain, and World Golf Hall of Famer Annika Sörenstam.
 
This year’s speaker, Jennie Finch, was a member of the 2004 Olympic Gold Medal USA Softball Team, as well as a silver medalist at the 2008 Olympic Games. In 2009, she was named USA Softball Player of the Year. Today she serves as an ambassador for the game of softball and for female athletes.
 
"We are thrilled to welcome Jennie Finch as the keynote speaker for the 5th Annual Girls In The Game.  Her visible and vocal leadership for the importance of developing female leaders through sports, will allow us to continue to grow this marquee event" said Todd Reeser, Director of Athletics