NELSON, C.-B.-According to Baseball Canada, Amanda Asay, the oldest member of the Canadian women’s baseball team, died Friday after a skiing accident in Nelson, C.-B.
A native of Prince George, BC, was 33 years old.
A spokesman for Baseball Canada says the accident happened on Friday, and that more information – including committal arrangements – is likely to be provided soon.
The Federation did not provide any information about the cause of his passed away.
Asay, who joined the program, helped Canada win the silver medal at the Pan American Games in Toronto.
She has also helped the national team to win World Championship medals, ’08, ’12, ’16 and’ 18.
“Amanda was a unique teammate of her kind, the kind of player and person you wanted to compete with in every game,” said Ashley Stephenson, who played on the Canadian team with Asay and also coached her for two seasons. “In these circumstances, I cannot say how tragic this loss is for everyone who knew Amanda.
“My thoughts at this moment and my heart go out to his family.”
Asay recently participated in the women’s national team showcase last summer in Trois-Rivières, Quebec.
“This is really difficult news for our women’s national team program,” said André Lachance, who managed Asay in various national teams. “Amanda was an awesome person who meant a lot to our program. She was a competitor who possessed all the qualities you look for in a baseball player.
“She was versatile, intelligent and competitive, who always rose to the challenge. Most importantly, he was a great person who will leave a lasting impact on many people, not only with the program of the women’s national team, but all those who were lucky enough to meet her.”
Asay also played hockey and softball for Brown University before completing her studies at the University of British Columbia, where she earned a master’s degree in science and a doctorate in forestry.
She also played two seasons for the University Thunderbirds hockey team.
“Amanda’s loss is making itself felt in so many places that it’s hard to put into words,” added former baseball teammate Nicole Luchanski, who also worked with Asay in the forestry profession. “She was an athlete, a guide, a friend, a family member and a truly exceptional forestry professional.
“She improved everything that touched her, and the loss of such a positive, intelligent, hardworking and loyal person is unbearable.”
Asay was only 17 years old when she attracted the attention of the evaluators of the women’s national team. She made her World Cup debut in Taiwan the following year and won the honors of all tournaments at first base, winning the title of the MVP team.
She again won the MVP award, but this time as a pitcher. Asay played a full match in a victory in the semifinals against Chinese Taipei at the World Cup in South Korea.
Asay was known for his positive attitude, a commercial approach on the ground and setting an example for others with his game, the association said.
“On behalf of the Board of Directors and the National Bureau of Baseball Canada, I extend my deepest condolences to Amanda’s loved ones, including her parents Loris and George and her brother Brad,” said Jason Dickson, President and CEO of Baseball Canada.
“His contribution to women’s baseball and our national team will be remembered forever and will serve as an inspiration for future generations.”