Born: September 3, 1980 (La Mirada, California)
Jennie Lynn Finch Daigle (born September 3, 1980) is an American former softball player who made significant contributions to the sport. Known for her exceptional pitching skills and dominant presence on the field, Finch has left an indelible mark on women’s softball history. From her impressive collegiate career to her successful stints in international competitions, she has become one of the most revered and influential figures in the sport.
Born in La Mirada, California, Jennie Finch was introduced to softball at a young age. Under the guidance of her father, who served as her first pitching coach, she quickly developed a natural talent for the sport. At the age of five, Finch began playing softball, and by the time she turned eight, she had already started pitching. Her passion and dedication for the game would soon propel her towards greatness.
Finch attended La Mirada High School, where she showcased her athletic prowess in three different sports: softball, basketball, and volleyball. As a senior, she was named captain of all three teams, demonstrating her strong leadership abilities. Finch excelled in softball, earning All-California Interscholastic Federation Division II honors and All-Suburban League selections. In recognition of her outstanding achievements, La Mirada High School retired her jersey number, making her the first softball player in school history to receive such an honor.
After graduating from high school, Finch enrolled at the University of Arizona, where she continued to shine on the softball field. As a freshman in 1999, she made an immediate impact, winning her first game against the UIC Flames. Throughout the season, Finch displayed her versatility and skill, achieving a career-high in doubles and throwing her first no-hitter during the NCAA tournament. Although her team reached the College World Series, they were ultimately eliminated by the DePaul Blue Demons.
During her sophomore year, Finch’s talent continued to flourish. Named a 2000 National Fastpitch Coaches Association First Team All-American and First Team All-Pac-10, she solidified her position as one of the top players in the nation. Finch recorded three no-hitters, led the Wildcats in home runs and slugging percentage, and achieved career bests in hits and batting average. Her contributions played a crucial role in Arizona’s success, and she emerged as a key figure in their journey to prominence.
The highlight of Finch’s collegiate career came in 2001 when she led the Arizona Wildcats to victory in the Women’s College World Series. Her exceptional on-field performance earned her recognition as a collegiate All-American and further solidified her status as one of the greatest players in college softball history. Finch’s impact extended beyond her individual achievements, as she inspired and motivated future generations of softball players.
Following her successful collegiate career, Finch joined the United States women’s national softball team. Her remarkable pitching skills contributed significantly to the team’s success, leading them to a gold medal at the 2004 Summer Olympics and a silver medal at the 2008 Summer Olympics. Finch’s dominance on the international stage further solidified her position as one of the most accomplished and influential athletes in the history of the sport.
Finch’s achievements were not limited to the international stage. From 2005 to 2010, she played for the Chicago Bandits of the National Pro Fastpitch (NPF). During her time with the Bandits, Finch continued to showcase her exceptional pitching abilities, solidifying her reputation as one of the sport’s all-time greats. By the time she retired from softball in 2010, Finch had left an indelible mark on the NPF, becoming the career leader in WHIP and earning a well-deserved place in the National Softball Hall of Fame.
Beyond her accomplishments as a player, Jennie Finch has also served as an inspiration to countless young athletes, especially young women. Her dedication, work ethic, and passion have motivated aspiring softball players to pursue their dreams relentlessly. Finch’s influence transcends the athletic field, as she has become a symbol of strength, determination, and perseverance.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the sport, Finch has received numerous awards and accolades throughout her career. She has been ranked in several categories for both the Arizona Wildcats in the Pac-12 Conference and the NCAA Division I, where she was named the #2 Greatest College Softball Player. Additionally, she has been named the #1 Best Arizona Wildcats Softball Player by Tucson, Arizona sportswriters and was chosen by the Pac-12 for the All-Century Team as a pitcher. Time magazine even described her as the most famous softball player in history.
Jennie Finch continues to be a prominent figure in the world of softball even after retiring from the sport in 2010. She has played an active role in promoting and developing the sport, both through her involvement as a color commentator for ESPN and her work to inspire and empower young athletes. Finch’s impact on women’s softball is immeasurable, and her legacy will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.