Jenae' started playing softball at the age of five in Carmichael, California. (Sacramento, CA area). She had a passion for the sport from the beginning. Fortunately, Jenae' had fabulous youth coaches. From the time she first picked up a softball through the USA program; she has been blessed with outstanding, knowledgeable coaches. During her youth years she played for California Sting & NORCAL LITE. Several of Jenae's team mates played together from the age of 10 years through 18 GOLD.

After graduating from Rio Americano High School in Sacramento; Jenae' was recruited by Mike Candrea with the University of Arizona. Jenae's father, John also is an alumni from U of A. He played on the University's men's tennis team. Jenae' was originally recruited as a middle infielder. Coach Candrea saw a different position for her. With Coach Candrea's expertise, patience and guidance; Jenae' will go down as one of the best Collegiate Third Basemen. Jenae' had a most successful four years with Arizona. She walked away with 2 World Series Rings, a Pac 10 ring and even more passion for the game of softball.

Upon graduating, she was drafted by the NPF ROCKFORD THUNDER. Although her playing time was limited that year due to her making the USA NATIONAL TEAM; a Championship was won by the Thunder. Jenae' traveled with the National Team in 2009. It was an amazing experience for her. Playing on the same team as Jennie Finch, Cat Osterman, Natasha Watley & so many other softball icons was a childhood dream. Representing her country is an "experience of a lifetime". She has made life long friendships that will carry on with her.

Jenae' most currently worked in Tucson, AZ working under Mike Candrea as part of their new staff in the 2014-2015 softball seasons ( University of Arizona Staff). 

 

Lastly, for the past 10 years Jenae has been one of premier softball instructors in the Northern, Ca region. Players come from all over Sacramento Reno, Chico, Bakersfield, LA, Utah, Minnesota, Las Vegas & Hawaii to personally work with Jenae to learn from her experience and great coaching. 

​

​

FIRECRACKERS- LELES: 

Jenae Leles is the Director of Firecrackers- Leles in Sacramento, CA. She directs six teams ranging from 12u-18u. Jenae started coaching travel ball  8 years ago mentored many coaches though the years. She has been one most elite and prestige hitting/ fielding instructors in Sacramento for the past 10 years.  

​

Jenae was named to the Olympic Softball Committee in 2021.

​

​

Personal Life: Jenae is married to Thomas Neal and has two kids (Jada 6, Jacoby4). 

 

​