Jenna Rapp Named Softball Player of the Year

Jenna Rapp, a sophomore shortstop for the Lady Dragons, has been named BLITZ Player of the Year, marking a historic achievement as the first Jefferson player to win this award. Rapp's impressive stats include a .489 batting average, 12 home runs, and a .975 fielding percentage, earning her 10 out of 19 first-place votes from a diverse panel. In the world of pickleball, Sarah Howell triumphed at the Pre-European Pickleball Championships, winning gold in women's doubles alongside partner Clare McKnight. Meanwhile, Eugenie Bouchard's growing interest in pickleball highlights the sport's rising popularity, with nearly 10% of U.S. tennis courts converted for pickleball use. The Professional Pickleball Association's CIBC Tour Finals are set to showcase top players in a unique round-robin format, enhancing the competitive landscape of the sport. Additionally, notable female pickleball players like Catherine Parenteau and Simone Jardim are gaining recognition for their achievements and appeal.