In this episode of "After the Game," we're thrilled to welcome Jessica Saari, a multi-sport athlete with a fascinating background. Starting at the age of six, Jessica began riding horses, a passion that has remained a constant throughout her life. With over 30 years of riding experience and 23 years of competitive equestrian events, Jessica's journey is nothing short of remarkable.
But Jessica's athletic career extends beyond equestrian sports. She grew up playing softball from the age of four to 14, with her mother, a Softball Hall of Fame inductee and All World Player, serving as a significant source of inspiration. Watching her mother compete and win multiple gold and silver medals in the Senior Olympics, Jessica developed her own competitive edge early on.
Throughout high school, Jessica excelled in multiple sports, ranking nationally in track and field, and eventually turning to basketball. Her college career started with basketball, earning All-American honors, but after facing physical challenges, she made a bold move to the equestrian team. This transition earned her a new scholarship, allowing her to extend her NCAA eligibility and pursue a career in equestrian sports.
Today, Jessica resides in Wisconsin, where she trains and teaches at a barn with an eventing team. Despite the ups and downs, she continues to compete and has ambitious goals of reaching international competition either this fall or next year.
Tune in to hear Jessica's captivating story of resilience, adaptability, and determination. From her softball roots to her equestrian aspirations, discover how she navigated through various challenges and found success in her diverse athletic journey. This is an episode you won't want to miss, filled with inspiration and insights from an athlete who has truly experienced it all.
