Logan's Angie Jilek to Coach National Softball Team

Angie Jilek, assistant softball coach at John A. Logan College, has been selected by USA Athletes International (USAAI) to coach the U.S. team that will compete in the Chianti Softball Invitational in Italy on August 6-12. This will be the third year in a row that Jilek has coached in an international competition.

"I enjoy working with USAAI," Jilek said. "It's a great organization that offers players and coaches the opportunity to compete against athletes from other countries and to see different parts of the world. Softball isn't as popular in Europe as it is in America, but competitions like this help promote the sport, and interest has really started to grow."

Jilek has assembled a talented squad to compete in the 21-and-under tournament. She is unsure about the competition her team will face but expects it to have a good showing.

"I don't know which teams we will be playing in the tournament yet. We'll get the final schedule when we get to Italy," she said. "But our team has good pitching and defense along with solid, consistent offense so if we play up to our capabilities, we'll be in good shape."

Brittany Ashton, a senior at Carterville High School, was chosen to pitch for the team.

"I love softball. It's my favorite sport to play and watch," Ashton said. "I've never been to Europe before, and I'm thrilled to have this opportunity. I've been looking forward to the trip all summer."

Jilek views the tournament as not only an athletic competition but also a learning experience.

"Along with playing softball, our players will get a chance to sightsee and experience another culture firsthand. I'll also encourage them to interact with and get to know the athletes from other nations. They will be representing the U.S., and it's important that they are good ambassadors of our country."