June 25, 2013
San Jose, Calif. - Chelsea Jenner, a native of Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada who will attend San José State and compete for its softball team beginning in the 2013-14 school year, is one of 17 athletes named to Team Canada for the 2013 International Softball Federation (ISF) Junior Women's World Championship.
"I remember when I was little," Jenner said, "I would look up to the Team Canada girls in awe and thought they were so big and talented. I can't believe that I'm now on Team Canada and admired by young girls. It's pretty special to represent your country. Not many people are given that opportunity in life."
Jenner, a power-hitting outfielder, competed for Canada's Senior Women's Team at the Canadian Open last year. She has also played for Team BC, a provincial team, but the World Championship, contested July 1-7 in Brampton, Ontario, Canada, will be the largest stage she has appeared on so far.
"Competing at this level will help me greatly as I head to SJSU," Jenner said. "It'll give me experience performing under high pressure, during important games. I'll face top-notch pitchers; the kind I'll be facing playing with SJSU. This experience will make me a better softball player."
Jenner sees Team USA, one of 16 countries competing, as a favorite mainly due to its' pitching, but recognizes Team Canada is also strong in that area.
"(Our) strength is probably our pitching, as well," Jenner said. "Our team is made up of players who have competed with and against each other for a long time. We know each other well. We communicate and really works well together."
Jenner is one of two future Spartans representing their countries at the World Championship. Jessie Meyer, captain of Team Australia, will also be in Brampton and will then join Jenner in wearing the blue and gold of Sparta for their college careers.
"We couldn't happier for Chelsea's selection to Team Canada and can't wait for our fans to see what a special athlete she is," head coach Peter Turner said. "Our program (San José State softball) is on the rise and by competing in the NCAA Regional we have taken a step onto the national stage. Top players see that and want to be a part of what we are doing. Chelsea is one of those athletes; the kind that will continue to make this program better."