Logan Softball Player Invited to Join Olympic Team

John A. Logan College freshman Nathalie "Dutch" Timmermans from Oldenzaal, Holland, has been asked to join the Netherland's national softball team that will compete in the Olympics in Beijing, China, in the summer of 2008. She plays third base and catcher and at 18 years old is the youngest player invited to the training camp.

"This is bittersweet for us," said Angie Jilek, assistant softball coach at Logan. "I first spotted Dutch when I was coaching a U.S. team in a tournament in Holland in 2005. Her talent was evident so I'm not surprised she was asked to be on the national team. She's a great person and a great player, and we hate to lose her for the spring season. We had a really successful fall season and she was a big part of it. But this is a great opportunity for her, and even though we'll miss her, we all wish her the best."

Timmermans grew up near a softball field in Holland and developed an interest in the sport as a young girl. She started playing at the age of eight and was soon selected to participate on the Netherland's national 10-and-under team. She has competed in several events for the junior national team and is excited about moving up to the senior level.

"I feel so honored to be asked to play on my national team and to possibly represent my country in the Olympics," Timmermans said. "At the same time, I'm sorry to be leaving Logan. I really like my teammates and coaches, and I enjoy going to school here. It was always a goal of mine to come to the U.S and play softball so next year when my big adventure is over, I plan on coming back."