The Augusta Sports Council and the Augusta Chronicle are pleased to announce that retired softball pitching legend and two-time Olympic medalist Jennie Finch will be the keynote speaker at the 26th annual GAMES Awards Banquet on Tuesday, May 16, 2017 at the Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center.

A dedicated wife, mother and coach, Finch also currently holds the NCAA record for most consecutive wins at 60, has won two Olympic medals and has pitched two perfect games. As a professional athlete, she pitched for the Chicago Bandits of the National Pro Fastpitch softball league. She also became an integral member of the US Women's Olympic Softball Team who medaled in 2004 and 2008. Since announcing her retirement in 2010, she now runs various softball camps around the country that culminates in the annual Jennie Finch World Series. “The GAMES Awards are a fun way to recognize the dedicated student athletes in our community. Jennie’s attendance will add a layer of prestige to this annual event. We are excited that she is coming,” says Stephen Wade, Augusta Chronicle and Chronicle Media President.

Created in 1992, the GAMES Awards program highlights the outstanding amateur athletes that represent a broad spectrum of sports disciplines in Augusta's River Region. This year's award platform has been revised from previous years and will recognize the "First Teams" in the sports of football, basketball, softball, baseball, golf, tennis, volleyball, track & field, soccer, and swimming. Additionally, four selected graduating honorees will receive college scholarships based on academic and civic duty achievements.
 
The GAMES Awards banquet is presented by the Augusta Sports Council and the Augusta Chronicle.  The dinner and program will begin at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $50 for general admission and tables can be reserved for $450.  For information on reserved sponsor tables, please call Michelle Naval at 706.722.8326 x35 for more information.