Principia’s Softball Coach Helps Canada Win Gold
Principia softball coach Ken Leavoy helped lead the Canadian National Softball Team to the gold medal at the Pan American Games in a 4–2 win over the United States in July. As an assistant coach for the Canadian National Team, Leavoy helped with the tryouts, coached during training sessions, scouted during tournaments, and edited video for analysis with each player.
By winning the gold medal, the Canadians broke the United States' streak of seven consecutive championship wins at the Pan American Games. Earlier in the summer, the Canadian team placed fourth at the U.S. World Cup of Softball and took the bronze medal at the Canadian Open Fastpitch International Championship.
Commenting on the Pan American championship game, Leavoy says, “I'm just so proud of the team. They played so well when it really mattered in a high-pressure situation. This was the best all-around game this year—a perfect day for the team. It was exciting for the coaches to see them put it on the line like that.”
“Being with a group of completely dedicated individuals—athletes, coaches and support staff—striving to be the best is a humbling experience,” Leavoy continues. “To see the team handle the ups and downs of a season, to be relentless in pursuit of achieving excellence, was wonderful. They are so worthy of the gold medal, and I am grateful to have been along for the ride. It was priceless!”