Charge Sign Australian National Chelsea Forkin

November 4, 2015

November 4, 2015 - McKinney, TX — The Dallas Charge of the National Pro Fastpitch (NPF) league are excited to announce the signing of Australian National Team Player Chelsea Forkin for the 2016 and 2017 seasons. Forkin joins her Australian teammate Vanessa Stokes on the Charge roster. The 5’10” right-hander plays a variety of positions including catcher and middle infield. Her signing adds a seasoned presence with years of international experience.

“We are excited to have Forkin join our team for its second season. She is a decorated international competitor and will bring valuable experience to the Charge. Her signing demonstrates our commitment to building a champion and finding the best available players on the planet. Forkin brings added versatility, lineup flexibility and more power at the plate,” said Charge General Manager Kevin Shelton.

Forkin began her playing career at a young age as a baseball player. The Western Australian native competed at the 2003 U14 Australian National Baseball Championships, one of only two girls to compete. She was Western Australia’s first girl ever to be named to the boy’s team. She also represented Australia at the 2004 World Cup of Baseball.

At age 16 Forkin switched to softball and in 2007 she earned a spot of the Australian Junior National Team. She helped her country earn a bronze medal at the 2007 ISF Junior Women’s World Championships.

Forkin made her first appearance on the Australian Women’s National Team late in 2007, eventually helping her squad earn a bronze medal in the 2011 Canada Cup.

In 2012 Forkin was named Softball Australia Women’s Player of the Year after being part of the National Team that won bronze at the ISF Women’s World Championships.

In 2013 she was part of a Canada Cup Silver Medal squad. She continues to compete for her country at the international level capturing 2014 World Championships and 2015 Japan Cup bronze medals.

She has competed in over 150 games with the Australian Women’s National Team.

“I’m very thankful and excited for the opportunity to play for the Dallas Charge this season,” said Forkin. “I’m looking forward to being a part of such a strong competition and to play with and against some of the best players in the world.”

About Dallas Charge:

The Dallas Charge, headquartered in McKinney, TX began competition in the National Pro Fastpitch league in 2015. The Charge provide elite softball players the opportunity to pursue a professional career and inspire the next generation of professionals. Located in the Dallas/Fort Worth area, the Charge organization and its players are committed to demonstrating leadership in community involvement, entertainment, and professionalism. Follow the Dallas Charge at www.dallascharge.com.

About National Pro Fastpitch:

National Pro Fastpitch is headquartered in Nashville, TN. The league, created to give elite female fast pitch players the opportunity to pursue a professional career in their chosen sport, has operated since 1997 under the names of Women’s Pro Fastpitch (WPF) and Women’s Pro Softball League (WPSL). NPF is the official Development Partner of Major League Baseball in the category of women’s fast pitch softball since 2002. www.profastpitch.com