“When we were all younger, I remember we used to spend countless hours up at the diamond [softball pitch] playing through the summer,” said Mr Elmy.
“The thought of playing for Great Britain never crossed our minds back then. But it shows that if you work hard enough and you devote yourself to becoming the best you possibly can be, then you can open up opportunities for yourself and others around you.”
Pictured: Team GB Coach Kellie Whitaker speaks highly of the best softball players locally.
Team GB Coach Kellie Whitaker says Guernsey is a rich source of players for national teams.
“We have been so impressed with the talent we’ve seen coming from Guernsey over the past three to four years,” she said.
“Jake and Josh were noticed for their skill level and athleticism. They are both very powerful but also have a great deal of agility.
“We saw Macy and Kirstie play at a world series event and it was clear that both of the girls are absolutely fearless.
“All four Guernsey players are completely committed and dedicated to the sport. They are a credit to the exposure and experience that Guernsey has given them, which is clearly paying off.”
Pictured: Josh Smith has been selected for Team GB consistently in recent years.
Mr Smith has been selected for Team GB each year since 2019.
“Softball has always been a huge part of my life,” he said.
“My father, Jason Smith, and my mother, Justine Smith, have both played softball at a very high level, both locally and overseas, so it really is a family tradition.
“It is an honour to represent my country. I feel an enormous sense of pride every time I put on the shirt and walk onto the diamond with my teammates.
“It is also important for me to remember that the opportunities I have gained through [Team] GB would not have been possible without the coaches and opportunities I have been given by the Guernsey Softball Association.”
Pictured: Kirstie Marquis encouraged islanders not to underestimate their sporting abilities
Miss Marquis said she was surprised to have been selected for Team GB.
“I gave 110% on the trial day in January, but being surrounded by such talented athletes made me doubt that I would be successful,” she said.
“Sportspeople in Guernsey shouldn’t underestimate their ability. Set a goal and work towards it. I am so proud that I took the plunge and went for it.
“I wouldn’t have been able to make the team without the generous sponsorship from my employer, Channel Insurance Brokers, so I am very grateful for that.”
Pictured: Jake Elmy hopes younger sportspeople in Guernsey will be encouraged by the group’s success.
Mr Elmy has previously represented Guernsey in softball.
“When I played for Guernsey at 15, it was one of the proudest moments of my life,” he said.
“Now to be a part of the Great Britain slow-pitch programme is really exciting.
“It’s such a good opportunity to play at a really high level and hopefully will lead to more opportunities in the future.”
Pictured: Macy Cortez has previously represented Guernsey.
Miss Cortez coaches junior softball players in her spare time.
“I hope that seeing my achievement, and the other Guernsey players who made Team GB, will inspire the upcoming young players,” she said.
“I am extremely happy and proud to be playing for Great Britain but am also nervous because I know I need to be the best I can be to keep my place and prove that the coaches made a good choice putting me in the team.
“I honestly can’t wait to play with the other Guernsey members of the team.
“It’s a great opportunity for us all and I’m excited to see what the future will bring.”