EUGENE, Ore. – Northwest Christian University sophomore Megan Mazanec announced her intentions this week to accept an offer to play overseas this summer on a team set to play in Oldenzall, Holland.
Mazanec is one of 14 players than will play with USA Athletes International (USAAI) at the Run ’71 Oldenzall Invitational from June 13-22nd of this year. Coached by Natalia Ardagna, head softball coach at University of Massachussetts – Boston, the team will play upwards of five games against teams from throughout Europe, while also having the opportunity to tour Amsterdam and the Holland countryside.
“This event is an excellent opportunity for athletes to foster international goodwill and friendship among nations, while also promoting the game,” said William Edington, Executive Director of USAAI. “With the exception of the US Olympic program, there are few opportunities for athletes to experience the competition, history, and culture of other countries on an international level.”
Established in 1992, USA Athletes International is a nonprofit organization dedicated to giving amateur athletes such an opportunity. For Mazanec, it is not an opportunity that she is taking lightly. “I have never been more excited in my life,” said the sophomore. “This opportunity allows me to play the sport I love with women from all over the world. This whole experience is exciting and nerve racking, and I anticipate a great learning experience in a completely different world.”
Mazanec earned the Cascade Collegiate Conference Gold Glove award at Third Base during her freshman season after compiling a .990 fielding percentage, making just one error at the hot corner for the entire season. NCU Head Coach Tim Hood said, “Megan is a solid player and she will represent our program well in this tournament. She is a leader who leads by example and is an excellent choice for this opportunity.”
Mazanec will now begin the process of fundraising her portion of the trip expenses. “I know that if I keep working hard and sharing my story,” she said, “I will be able to raise enough money, and when June comes around, I will be on that plane, heading off on the journey of a lifetime.” Anyone interested in making a donation to USAAI in her name can contact the NCU athletic department to receive a donor form.