Many Americans first saw Michele for the first time in 1996 when she played in all 14 games on the US Women's Olympic Softball team. Pitching 23 strikeouts during the games, she found herself standing with her teammates on the Gold Medal podium. In 2000 we once again saw Michele and her teammates on the Gold Medal podium. Michele's hard work and dedication to her sport has paid off beyond the Olympics. A career in Japan garnered her even more awards and recognition, including being the Japanese Softball League MVP 8 times.
Michele currently keeps busy with clinics and camps for young softball players. She also makes time for the cause that is important to her, Athletes For Hearts.
Athletes for Hearts, Inc. was created to provide financial assistance
to families with children in need of medical treatment specific to a
heart condition and to fund advancements in medical technology for the
treatment of heart disease, with a special emphasis on heart conditions
affecting children. To read more about this organization, click
here
When asked about Athletes for Hearts, Michele replied "
The families and kids need so much help...it is heart breaking-and that's seriously no pun intended!" AFH has several ways that you can join Michele in supporting this much needed resource:
Donate: To find out how you can make a tax deductible donation, click here
Attend an event or bid: You can find information on past events and look for upcoming events here
(Content courtesy of Michele Smith, michelesmith.com and athletesforhearts.com)