Aug. 21, 2008

CLEVELAND, Tenn. -- Johana Gomez is scheduled to arrive on the Lee (Tenn.) University campus on Aug. 30 and softball coach Emily Russell can’t wait to see the right-handed hurler in action.

Russell, like millions of others around the world, watched on TV as the Venezuelan toed the rubber in softball Olympic competition against the powerful United States, Taiwan, Japan and Australia teams. All totaled, Gomez, who is transferring to Lee from Iowa Southeastern Community College, pitched in 13.1 innings during the Beijing, China action. She was used as the starting pitcher against the multi-talented American squad, and like most other teams, did not fare well. In four Olympic outings, Gomez allowed 12 earned runs and finished with a 6.30 ERA.  She gave up 19 hits, struck out five and walked five.

It was the first appearance in Olympic competition for the Venezuelan team. Gomez was one of three hurlers used by Venezuela and she enjoyed the lead against a very good Japan team when she was lifted for another pitcher. Venezuela did go on to whip Canada, a club which reached the medal round in the rugged competition.

Gomez will join Venezuelan shortstop Hernanza Ruiz on Russell’s squad for the upcoming season. Ruiz was a key member of the Lee’s 2008 team and was named all-conference and all-region.

“I think the Olympic games were very important experience for Johana,” said the Lee coach. “She has challenged the best in the world and now she will get to play the final two years in college. That should give her a mental edge as we are going through the season.

“I have seen from Hernanza (Ruiz) a unique perspective on the game and I am excited to see how Johana’s joining our team will add to that intensity and competitiveness.  I think it is a huge maturation process to train and play the way Johana and Hernanza have been since they were young.  They play with poise and confidence beyond their years,” Russell added.

“I know they both will be a huge strength for our team,” she noted. “We have three freshmen pitchers that will be joining the staff as well. They are talented and she’ll be a help to all three. I think it is amazing that Johana has gotten to take part in the Olympic experience,” said Russell.

Russell admits she will be disappointed if Gomez doesn’t turnout to be something special. “I am so thrilled that she will be here with us and that we don't have to face her somewhere down the road. Seriously, she is a dynamic player that is fun to watch.  She truly enjoys playing softball and it shows in her attitude and intensity.  Even though she will only be here for two seasons, I think she will find her place in the record book,” stressed Russell, who set a number of records during her pitching days for the Lady Flames.

While Gomez was playing in the Olympics, Ruiz was a member of her state team. She was cut from the Olympic selection process late in the spring.