Spencer Shines For the Diamonds

Spencer (R) chats with teammates

For pro softball player and college coach Chelsea Spencer, playing softball is almost second nature.

Spencer is the Diamonds' shortstop, key hitter and team leader. Now in her sixth season playing pro softball, Spencer keeps playing for many reasons, including her love for the game and her desire to be a role model for youngsters.

"I love the game of softball," she said before a recent game. "I have a passion for playing and coaching. And I think it's great for young women to have role models."

Spencer admits that this may be her last season playing pro ball. The rigors of the season and the game are very challenging- injuries, travelling and more.

Spencer grew up and still lives in the San Francisco Bay area. She is an assistant coach at Chabot College in San Fran, a school with over 14,000 students. Her goal is to be a Division I coach.

Spencer signs autographs for fans-
Diamonds 2, Pride 1 in background

Chelsea starred in college at Cal, a national powerhouse program in the most competitive state for baseball and softball. California natives fill up many slots on all the USA national teams.

Spencer was one of the leaders of the Cal Bears during their three straight appearances in the Women's College World Series finals in 2002, 2003 and 2004. They won it all in 2002. That is impressive indeed.

Growing up in San Francisco, her parents and her older sister and brother influenced her a lot throughout those years. She remembers watching her older sister intently during her sister's softball games.

"I love Nashville, and we as team are very happy here," she said. "The morale on the team is high. We just want to improve."