Fans give Jen Pawol plenty of support as she makes MLB history as first female umpire
After working over 1,200 minor league games at every level over the past 10 seasons, Pawol was given the call to be part of the crews for the Marlins-Braves series in Atlanta.
She received plenty of support from fans at Truist Park for her debut in the first game of the doubleheader.
Several fans brought signs of encouragement.
One read: 'Welcome to The Show Jen.'
Another said: 'Thank You, Jen!'
'I'm aware of the gravity. I'm aware of the magnitude,' Pawol said shortly after her call-up.
'I believe that I'm going to be a very good steward and representative for young girls and women, and boys and men, that this is possible.'
4 This fan shows support for Jen Pawol.
@JomboyMedia/X
In 1988-89, Pam Postema umpired games in spring training, but was never called up during the regular season.
Christine Wren and Ria Cortesio both got as far as Double-A.
Those three have all served as mentors and sources of inspiration for Pawol.
'Umpiring is for me. It's in my DNA,' Pawol said. 'It's been a long, hard journey to the top here. But I just love the camaraderie with my crew, with the fellow umpires. I love the travel. I love working out.
4 Umpire Jen Pawol (95) on the field becoming the first female umpire in MLB history for the game between the Atlanta Braves against Marlins at Truist Park.
Dale Zanine-Imagn Images
4 Umpire Jen Pawol (95) shown in action on the field becoming the first female umpire in MLB history for the game between the Atlanta Braves against the Miami Marlins during the second inning at Truist Park.
IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
4 Umpire Jen Pawol (95) shown taking the field pregame to become there first female umpire in MLB history for the Atlanta Braves against the Miami Marlins at Truist Park.
IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect
'There's so many similarities being an athlete and an umpire, and I never have to leave the field when I'm umpiring. I'm just extremely focused on getting my calls right. And I'm so grateful to all those along the way who have helped me become a better umpire every day.'
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