In an inspiring testament to resilience and trailblazing spirit, 102-year-old Jerry Fiorello of Woodland Hills remains a vibrant force in the world of sports and women’s empowerment. A former U.S. Marine Corps member and a pioneer in women’s athletics, Fiorello’s remarkable journey has captivated the community and beyond.

Fiorello’s legacy is rich with groundbreaking achievements. After serving in the Marine Corps, she made history by joining the Chicago Cardinals in the National Girls Baseball League, a platform for women athletes that emerged in the 1940s. “It was absolutely wonderful,” she recalls, highlighting the camaraderie and respect her team received during a time when women’s sports were often overlooked.

After her baseball career, Fiorello turned her passion into purpose at Pierce College, where she not only taught but also championed the establishment of women’s sports programs. “I wanted to give something back,” she asserts, embodying the spirit of a true educator and advocate. From coaching basketball to driving her team to games in her own car, her dedication to creating opportunities for female athletes was unwavering.

Fiorello, a self-taught golfer, has been a member of the Woodland Hills Country Club since 1982. In a heartwarming tribute, the club dedicated a bench in her honor for her 100th birthday, a nod to her enduring impact on the community.

As she celebrates her 102nd year, Fiorello’s wisdom resonates deeply: “I tell it like it is. I do what I think is right.” Her story is not just about sports; it’s about breaking barriers and inspiring generations. In a world that often forgets its pioneers, Jerry Fiorello stands as a living legend, reminding us all of the power of passion, grit, and a little bit of sass.