Johana Gomez is traveling with the Venezuelan National team this summer as they prepare for the Olympic Games

Lee softball coach Emily Russell believes her latest signee, Johana Gomez, could be the key to helping the Lady Flames return to the NAIA National Tournament next May and be a legitimate contender for the coveted crown. From Venezuela, Gomez will join friend and current Lady Flame standout Hernanza Ruiz. Both are current members of the Venezuelan National team. The hurler is also an infielder and possible outfielder. She played at Iowa Southeastern Community College. Gomez was the slugging-percent leader in Southwestern's region (1,128) and owned a 0.581 on-base percentage. As a pitcher, she struck out 102 hitters in 25 games. 'Johana is a very special athlete,' said Russell. 'She can pitch, play the field, and hit with power. She is also a great student and will qualify for an academic scholarship. She is traveling with the Venezuelan National team this summer as they prepare for the Olympic Games.