Jessie Weststrate is the latest member of the powerhouse 2001 Delta Heat to commit to a university softball program for the 2019-20 season.
The talented shortstop is among three players to sign their National Letter of Intent with Simon Fraser University. She helped the Heat win the U16 national title in 2017 and also was a major force at this summer’s U19 Canadian Championships where she helped the underage Delta team earn bronze.
In 11 games, she picked up 10 hits, including two doubles, had four RBIs, scored eight runs and finished with a .345 batting average. Defensively, Weststrate tallied 21 assists and 17 putouts. The productive tournament helped paved the way for her to be among 28 players invited to the final selection camp in January for the 2019 Canadian Junior National Team.
“I have had the privilege of working with Jessie over the years and have seen her up close and personal,” said SFU head coach Michelle Peters. “She is a born leader and the heartbeat of a team at the shortstop position, carrying with her poise, fun, confidence, game IQ and passion.
“Jessie is an athlete that stands out, as her high level skills and infectious character shine through her ability. I am very excited to have Jessie come in and make an immediate impact for our team both defensively and offensively.”
Weststrate will graduate from Sands Secondary next June, where she is a multi-sport athlete and is active in the school community.
She has received community service awards, was a Grade 8 mentor and took part in the Best Buddies and other leadership programs.
In addition, she is a coach for the Learn to Play program that introduces softball to kids, volunteers at a soup kitchen and a food bank, and works with Special Olympics. Weststrate plans on majoring in Education or Communication at SFU next fall.
“I decided to commit to SFU because it Is close to home so I can visit my parents whenever and they can also come visit me,” said Westrate. “Additionally, I love the atmosphere, the team and the coaches.”
Her decision coincided with teammates Kianna Jones (University of Minnesota), Veronica Sawatzky (York College, Nebraska), Aimee Godmaire (Lynn College, Florida) and Stephanie Schina (Douglas College) also signing with schools.
Earlier four more players — Hanna Hansen, Megan Hendrickson, Emily Horne and Olivia Maleksu — committed to UBC.
