From February through April, more than 300 college softball teams come to Clermont to kickstart their season.
The Spring Games were founded in 2008 by Dr. Dot Richardson, who earned Olympic gold as part of the USA’s women’s softball team. The games are now under the direction of Richardson’s niece, Alison Strange, president of PFX Athletics.The games are hosted by PFX Athletics at the Legends Way Ballfields at the National Training Center in Clermont.
Strange estimates that the Spring Games will bring more than $11 million in revenue to the Clermont area.
Clermont City Council Member Diane Travis threw the first ceremonial pitch Friday to kick off the beginning of the 2018 Spring Games. She welcomed the teams from Augustana College, Rock Island, Ill. and Oakland Community College, Bloomfield Hills, Mich., wishing both good luck.
Travis understands the dedication required for the college athletes. She is one of the top female athletes in the world for her age group, having won a gold medal in the USA Duathlon and a silver medal in the World Duathlon Championship. Her nephew, Sam Travis, plays first base for the Boston Red Sox.
The Spring Games are open to the public and also are streamed live. Go to www.pfxathletics.com for details about the games and viewing online.
