Legacy & Legends

Elite Commit: Taylor Day (2026); OF/UTL; BSC Bengals 16R; (Purdue University)

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 14:32:19 GMT

Elite Commit: Taylor Day (2026); OF/UTL; BSC Bengals 16R; (Purdue University)

Name: Taylor Day
Nickname: TD, Day Day, Tay
Hometown: Lancaster, CA
Grad Year: 2026
GPA: 4.0
Travel Team: BSC Bengals 16R
High School: Paraclete HS (Lancaster, CA)
Positions: Outfield/Utility
Height : 5’9
Bat/Throw: R/R

Overhand Velocity: 70
Exit Velocity off Tee: 76
Home to First or 20 yds: 2.9
Intended Study Major: Business/Pre-law
Email: taylorday23softball@gmail.com
Twitter: @2026TaylorDay
Instagram: Taylor23Day

Who are you? I am a scholar and an athlete, but more importantly, I am a child of God, a daughter, a sister, a granddaughter, a niece, a cousin, and a friend. And for all those people who refer to me as any of those, they are the reason why I work hard. They are the reason I wake up early, work out, and get good grades. They are my drive.

How did your softball journey begin? I started playing when I was 11. I played soccer before softball, and my dad’s friend suggested I try it out. When I did, I knew I couldn’t go back.

What are your greatest strengths as a softball player? My greatest strength (and possibly a weakness) is my striving for perfection. I always want more and to do better than I did the day before.

What kind of hitter are you, and what are your most recent offensive stats? I’m the kind of hitter that gets a job done, whatever you need - I’ll get it done. Whether that be a bunt or a big-time hit, I’m always ready for the occasion. I love to hit and be in the batter's box. The most recent offensive stats for the HS season ‘25 are .606 avg./1.636 OPS/27 1B/7 2B/2 3B/5 HR/28 RBIs.

What is your favorite sports memory and greatest achievement? My favorite memory was winning the California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) high school championship with some of my best friends last spring. My greatest achievement so far is committing to Purdue University! Boiler Up Hammer Down!

How do you handle adversity and even failure?

I handle it by working harder and not dwelling on the failure, but learning from it. A great coach and man told me, “Failure isn’t real, you never fail, you either win or you learn.”

How would your teammates and friends describe you? I think they would describe me as funny and energetic. I’m always living on the field and getting excited for my teammates when they make plays.

Who is your role model and or idol, and why? I don’t have one specific role model, but I look up to many. All the coaches and players who have helped me (and whom I have looked up to) have all played a role in making me who I am. I am forever grateful to them.

If you could spend a day with any softball player, former or current, who would it be and why? That is a great question. I would want to spend a day with Jocelyn Alo. She is my favorite softball player and growing up watching her inspired me to become a great player. I would ask her about her work ethic and what she did in the box before an at-bat, and before games to prepare herself.

You're a Purdue commit, but what else is your softball dream/goal? I want to become a Gold Glove Winner and win a National Championship for my school.

Why did you choose Purdue to further your softball career? The coaches were honestly a big reason why I wanted to be a Boiler. Coach Maggie and the rest of the staff are so sweet, and they care so much about the players and the game that I couldn’t have asked for a better coaching staff.

What are the most memorable things you remember about your softball recruitment that led you to commit to Purdue? Purdue was one of the first D1 schools to reach out and they were recruiting me for a long time. After going on my visit and comparing it to other visits, I knew where I wanted to be for the next four years. They had that culture that we all hear about, and I got to see it on my visit.

What is your favorite jersey number, and why did you choose it? My favorite jersey number is #23 and I chose it because Michael Jordan wore that number and it’s my favorite. My dad played basketball and loved Michael Jordan, so we grew up hearing all about him and watching videos of him play and his greatness.

What other hobbies do you have to balance out softball and your personal life? I like to bake, listen to music, watch movies, and play other sports to have a balance.

Who would you like to thank for your softball achievements and support? I would like to thank my parents because they made this all happen for me and provided everything that I have today. Also, Coach Ramiro - my hitting coach, for all his time helping me and Coach Jackson & Mrs. Jada Jackson - my strength/agility coaches & mental coaches for working with me and developing me.

Additional Information About Taylor

Walk-up Song: "Summertime" by Will Smith
Favorite Food: Sushi or Tacos
Favorite Song: Any Frank Ocean song
Favorite Music Artist: Frank Ocean or Brent Faiyaz
Favorite Sports Team: Los Angeles Dodgers
Favorite Sports Celebrity: Mookie Betts or Michael Jordan
Favorite Movie: " The Devil Wears Prada" or "Good Will Hunting"
Favorite Sports Movie: Sandlot or Coach Carter
Favorite TV Show: Gossip Girl
Favorite Book: The Inheritance Games
Favorite Travel Spot: Hawaii
Favorite Quote: I have so many favorite ones I can’t pick one.

By: Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball, 29 April 2025

www.legacyandlegendssoftball.com

Elite Prospect: Lynnley "Leenay" Hajec (2031); RHP/CF; Cullman Heat Elite; 4.0 GPA

Mon, 28 Apr 2025 14:36:18 GMT

Elite Prospect: Lynnley "Leenay" Hajec (2031); RHP/CF; Cullman Heat Elite

Name: Lynnley Hajec

Nickname: Leenay

Hometown: West Point, GA

Grad Year: 2031

GPA: 4.0

Travel Team: Cullman Heat Elite

High School: Harris County High School

Positions: Right-Handed Pitcher / Centerfielder

Height: 5'

Bat/Throw: Right / Right

Pitching Velocity: 54mph

Exit Velocity off Tee: 55mph

Home to First or 20 yds: 3.5

Intended Study Major: Chiropractic

Email: lynnleyh0.0@gmail.com

Who are you?

My name is Lynnley Hajec and I am 11 years old. I'm a pitcher and an outfielder from Georgia. I have enjoyed playing softball since t-ball and it has become my passion. I would spend every weekend at the softball fields if my mom would let me. My dad is all for it.

How did your softball journey begin?

I started on the rec fields in my hometown of West Point, GA.

What are your greatest strengths as a softball player?

My ability to stay mentally tough in any situation, as well as my ability to always bring positive energy to any team I play for, no matter the scoreboard.

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What is your favorite sports memory and greatest achievement?

When I went 7 straight shutout innings against one of the best pitchers I have ever faced, Dakota Schiller from Athletics Gold. It was a thrill to see that competition.

How do you handle adversity and even failure?

I feel like any failure is a learning moment.

Who is your role model and or idol, and why?

Ava Brown is my role model because she is a pitcher and has a great bat even up to college. Also, she has a great number 00.

If you could spend a day with any softball player, former or current, who would it be and why?

Kelly Barnhill. I attended my first Gator softball game when I was 5. I remember seeing her pitch, and I thought, "That's what I want to do".

What are your softball dreams and goals?

To play for the University of Florida!! Go gators!

What do you want coaches to know about you?

I give everything I've got, every inning of every game.

How would your teammates and friends describe you?

The loudest cheerleader in the dugout.

Who would you like to thank for your softball achievements and support?

My father, Stanley Hajec. For pushing me when I needed it. Without him, I would not be the player I am today.

Additional Information About Lynnley

Walk up Song: It's Like That by Future

Favorite Food: Mac n Cheese

Favorite Song: California Girls by Katy Perry

Favorite Music Artist: Katy Perry

Favorite Sports Team: UF Softball Duh

Favorite Sports Celebrity: Kelly Barnhill

Favorite Book: Warrior Cats

Favorite Travel Spot: Anywhere that has a softball field

Favorite Quote: "Suck it up, buttercup."

Softball Ick: WHEN CATCHERS HAVE KNEE SAVERS

B y: Jeremiah Coates, Legacy & Legends Softball, 28 April 2025

www.legagyandlegendssoftball.com

Elite Pitching Prospect Spotlight: Ava Phillips (2027); RHP; Firecrackers Select Rico/Brashear 18U

Fri, 25 Apr 2025 14:47:18 GMT

Ava Phillips (2027); RHP; Firecrackers Select Rico/Brashear 18U

Name(s): Ava Phillips
Nickname: N/A
Hometown and State: Glendora, California
Grad Year: 2027
GPA: 3.86
Travel Team: Firecrackers Select Rico/Brashear 18U
High School: Rosary Academy, Fullerton, California
Positions: Right-Hand Pitcher
Height: 5’4”
Bat/Throw: Right/Right

Pitching Arsenal with Speeds:

- Fastball: 61-63

- Curve: 61-63

- Screw: 61-63

- Off-speed: 53

- Change-Up: 46

- Rise: 61-63

- Drop: 60-62
- Drop Curve: 61-63

Overhand Velocity: N/A
Exit Velocity off Tee: N/A
Home to First or 20 yds: N/A

Intended Study Major: Psychology – Emphasis on Criminal Profiling
Email: AvaPhillips2027@yahoo.com

Twitter: @AvaPhillips2027
Instagram: @AvaPhillips2027

LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/avaphillips2027

Sports Recruits: https://sportsrecruits.com/athlete/ava_phillips5

Who are you?
Hi! I’m Ava Phillips, a 16-year-old right-handed pitcher from Glendora, California. I attend Rosary Academy in Fullerton, California, where I’ve been the starting varsity pitcher since my freshman year. I also play travel ball for Firecrackers Select Rico/Brashear 18U, and this summer, I’m super excited to represent Team Spain in the TCS International Challenge!

Outside of competing, I work as a pitching instructor at The Range Pitching Academy in Anaheim, where I help mentor younger athletes and share what I’ve learned along the way. I’ve been in Girl Scouts for 11 years—earned my Silver Award and now I’m working on my Gold Award, which focuses on building a sustainable mental performance training program for young female athletes. It’s all about giving back and helping the next generation mentally and physically grow in this sport I love so much.

How did your softball journey begin?

I didn’t start playing softball until my second year of 8U! Before that, I trained and competed in Jiu Jitsu for about four years. But once I watched my little sister, Olivia, out on the field, I told my parents I wanted to give it a shot too. From the moment I stepped onto that field, I was hooked. Interestingly, our main pitcher got hurt near the end of the season, and my coach asked if anyone was willing to step in for her. I had never pitched before, but something in me said, “Go for it,” and I’ve never looked back since.

What are your greatest strengths as a softball player?
My biggest strengths are my work ethic, mental preparation, focus, and love and passion for the game. I train physically and mentally relentlessly every week, but I know it’s not just about me—it’s always about the team. I’ll do whatever it takes to help us win, whether that means starting a big game or picking up a teammate. I want to compete, improve, and strengthen the team. Team success is the most important thing to me!

What is your favorite sports memory and greatest achievement?
Definitely winning the 2024 PGF 14U Premier National Championship with Athletics Mercado Tidd 09. We beat Breakers Lab Keusch with a combined no-hitter, and I was credited with the win. But honestly, it was such a team effort, as everyone brought great energy and fought hard the entire tournament. I pitched 16.1 scoreless innings that week—going 5-0, striking out 18, and only allowing five hits total, all while limiting opposing hitters to a .091 batting average – all against very competitive teams, such as Birmingham Thunderbolts Alford/Rocky, Hotshots Nelson, Unity Amsler/Johnson, Atlanta Vipers Crenshaw, and Breakers Lab Keusch.

FUN FACT: Over the past two summers at PGF Nationals, I’ve tossed 47.1 innings without giving up a single earned run. During my 2nd year 14U season, I finished 29-1 with 14 saves, a .784 ERA, and a .177 BAA—against top national teams.

But honestly, it’s not just the big wins, the stats, or even the National Championship—I love all the friendships I’ve made along the way and being able to give back by mentoring younger players at The Range Pitching Academy. These connections and memories mean so much to me.

“Ava Phillips is truly one of a kind. She’s the type of athlete coaches are lucky to work with — someone I’d put in that top one percent. Her work ethic is unmatched, and I often find myself using her as an example of the kind of dedication and attitude I hope to see in every player, including my own kids. What makes Ava even more special is the way she brings joy to the game. She shows up with a smile, works incredibly hard, and finds that perfect balance between having fun and staying focused. Her commitment is starting to pay off in a big way, and I couldn’t be prouder of the player — and person — she’s becoming. The sky is truly the limit for Ava, and I can’t wait to see where the game takes her,”

- Dani Martinez, Pitching Coach

How do you handle adversity and even failure?

Softball is a game built on failure, so it’s all about perspective and how you respond; that’s what builds character. I’ve learned to focus on what I can control and let go of everything else. Failure isn’t the end—it’s just feedback. I view failure as an opportunity to learn, grow, and reflect on the processes I can control to put myself and my team in the best position to win.

Coach Tony Rico and Holly Pearce [Firecrackers Organization | The Range Pitching Academy] have instilled in me the importance of focusing on what I can control—my routine, my breathing, my preparation, and my competitiveness. They’ve helped me realize that the process matters much more than the outcome, which is often beyond my control. My mental performance coach, Coach AB, also taught me to always give 100% of what I have daily. Some days, I feel at 100%, and others, I may only feel at 80%, but I consistently give 100% of what I have. This mindset has made me a stronger player, person, and better teammate.

“Ava is a true student of the game. Her work ethic and commitment to development are on another level.

We are excited for what the future holds for her.”

-- Tony Rico, Firecrackers Organization Owner/Head Coach

“Ava is one of the hardest-working pitchers I’ve seen in my three decades of high school experience. She works on her physical and mental game every day; she is both a student and a fan of the sport. Ava is an amazing teammate; cheering every at-bat and every great play made behind her. She seems like a nice, friendly kid off the field, but she's deadly when you put her in the circle,”

-- Tom Tice, Rosary Academy Head Coach

How would your teammates and friends describe you?
My teammates and friends would describe me as an outgoing person who enjoys life and likes to have fun, both on and off the field. I can be goofy and loud in the dugout; however, they would also describe me as a fierce competitor. In the dugout or between innings, I love to laugh and have fun, but once I step into the circle, my competitive nature takes over, and I am all business—it's me against the batter!

Who is your role model and or idol, and why?
God is my biggest role model—He’s my foundation in everything I do. After Him, it’s definitely my parents. They’ve sacrificed so much to support me and my goals, from driving me everywhere to helping me stay on track, and they set the example of what an amazing work ethic looks like. I wouldn’t be where I am without them.

If you could spend a day with any softball player, former or current, who would it be and why?
That’s tough! But I’d have to say Jala Wright, Jordy Bahl, and NiJaree Canady. I look up to all three because they’re fierce competitors with fearless mindsets, especially in the biggest moments. I’d love to pick their brains about how they stay locked in and structure their daily routines for success.

NiJaree Canady (Photo Cred: Texas Tech Athletics Department)

What is important to you when deciding what college you want to attend and play for?
I want to play for a program that believes in me as a player and a person. Culture is huge to me—I’m looking for a team that’s mentally tough, pushes each other, and feels like family. I want to grow, compete at the highest level, and leave a legacy beyond my four years.

What is your softball dream/goal?
I want to play at a Power 4 school, win a National Championship, and be part of a team that makes history. I dream of pitching on the biggest stage at the Women’s College World Series. I want to be around teammates who are as driven as I am and coaches who challenge me to reach my full potential. That’s the dream.

What is your favorite jersey number, and why did you choose it?

My number is 31. I started wearing number 2 in travel ball, but when I switched teams for the first time, that number was taken. I chose 31 randomly—but it stuck, and now it feels like mine. I’ve worn it ever since.

What other hobbies do you have to balance out softball and your personal life?
Outside of softball, I love spending time with my family, hanging out at the beach, chilling by the pool, shopping with friends, and attending church. My faith and close circle of family and friends mean everything to me. But if I’m being honest, I’m happiest when I’ve got a softball in my hand and dirt under my cleats.

Who would you like to thank for your softball achievements and support?
There are so many people I’m thankful for. First, God—He’s the center of it all. Then my parents, who have supported me through everything. I’ve also had some amazing coaches and mentors: Johnny and Deanna from Fastpitch Professionals [@thefastpitchprofessionals] , my Firecrackers Select Rico/Brashear coaches—Tony Rico, Sean Brashear, and the whole staff—Holly Pearce from The Range, Coach Dani [@pitchwdani] , Coach AB from Fearless Fastpitch [@fearlessfastpitch] , Coach Greg Hernandez [@alpha_sports_performance] , and my Rosary Academy [@rosary_softball] coaches—Coach Tom, Coach Nicola, Coach Gerry, and Coach Sergio. They’ve all believed in me and helped shape me into the player and person I am today.

“Seeing Ava's success unfold is no surprise to her inner circle. She has worked relentlessly both physically and mentally to prepare for any situation. Her mentality is intentional, and it comes from years of implementing her mental skills to be ready when opportunities arise. She's calm, gritty, locked in out there, and you can see it. Her hard work is paying off, and she's shining as a leader on and off the field! Proud of her!!!”

-- Amanda Schaefer, Mental Performance Coach

Additional Information About Ava

Walk-up Song: N/A
Favorite Food: Pasta
Favorite Song: Someone New by Hozier
Favorite Music Artist: Zach Bryan
Favorite Sports Team: Los Angeles Dodgers
Favorite Sports Celebrity: Kobe Bryant
Favorite Movie: Hardball or A League of Their Own
Favorite Sports Movie: The Sandlot
Favorite TV Show: Grey’s Anatomy
Favorite Book: The Fault in Our Stars
Favorite Travel Spot: Hawaii
Favorite Bible Verse: Jeremiah 29:11 – For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Softball Ick: Wearing a fielder’s mask in the outfield

By: Emily Jackson, Legacy & Legends Softball, 25 April 2025

www.legacyandlegendssoftball.com

Elite Prospect Spotlight: Kyla Hamby (2027); MIF; TN Mojo - Sherrill

Wed, 23 Apr 2025 14:39:40 GMT

Elite Prospect Spotlight: Kyla Hamby (2027); MIF; TN Mojo - Sherrill

Name(s): Kyla Hamby
Nickname: N/A
Hometown: Stony Point, North Carolina
Grad Year: 2027
GPA: 4.25
Travel Team: TN Mojo - Sherrill
High School: Alexander Central High School
Positions: Middle Infielder/Utility
Height: 5’9
Bat/Throw: Left/Right

Overhand Velocity: 70
Exit Velocity off Tee: 69
Home to First or 20 yds: 3.09
Intended Study Major: Dental hygienist
Email: kylahamby2027@gmail.com
Twitter: @KylaHamby1
Instagram: hambys20

Who are you?

I am a Christian girl who values being friends and family.

How did your softball journey begin?

I started playing softball when I was 5 and playing outside with my family and I instantly fell in love with the game since.

What are your greatest strengths as a softball player?

My overhand throwing speed and my instincts while running the bases and knowing the game.

 What kind of hitter are you, and what are your most recent offensive stats?

I am a confident hitter with a plan at the plate. Last high school season I batted .600

What is your favorite sports memory and greatest achievement?

Playing with my best friends since I was 8 being Co- Player of the Year, last year for the state of North Carolina.

Best friend, Caroline Constable (Kentucky Commit)

"She is there through it all highs lows good days and the bad and I am so glad the lord placed her in my life to go on this softball journey with me."

How do you handle adversity and even failure?

Thinking about the next play or at bat instead of sulking about my failure.

How would your teammates and friends describe you?

Dedicated, honest, and encouraging.

"My teammates who make this journey worth it because they give me lots of memories and motivation."

Who is your role model and or idol, and why?

Vada Sherrill because she always came in clutch and was super-fast and a great teammate.

What is your softball dream/goal?

To play D1 college softball.

What is your favorite jersey number, and why did you choose it?

#20 as it was my Papa's number.

What other hobbies do you have to balance out softball and your personal life?

Going to the beach and doing devotions with my family and best friends and going shopping and spending time with my family.

Who would you like to thank for your softball achievements and support?

My coach Monte Sherrill and Johnny Meadows for all the time they take away from their family to help me grow in the sport I love.

Coach Johnny Meadows

"He’s always there to pick me up, has never left my side, and has been there with me through it all. He also teaches me to be a better ball player but not only that but also to be a better person and how to treat people."

Additional Information About Kyla Hamby

Walk up Song: N/A
Favorite Food: Pasta
Favorite Song: God is in this story
Favorite Music Artist: Elevation Worship
Favorite Sports Team: N/A
Favorite Sports Celebrity: Kobe Bryant
Favorite Movie: The Notebook
Favorite Sports Movie: Facing the Giants
Favorite TV Show: Outer Banks
Favorite Book: Bible
Favorite Travel Spot: Florida Beach
Favorite Quote: Success isn’t given it’s earned
Softball Ick: Kneavage

By: Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball, 23 April 2025

www.legacyandlegendssoftball.com

Elite Prospect Spotlight: Maylee Young (2032); C/UTL; TN Mojo 2013-Hunter

Mon, 21 Apr 2025 21:34:35 GMT

Elite Prospect Spotlight: Maylee Young (2032); C/UTL; TN Mojo 2013-Hunter

Name: Maylee Young

Nickname: M9

Hometown: White Plains, Alabama

Grad Year: 2032

GPA: 4.0

Travel Team: TN Mojo 2013-Hunter

High School: White Plains High School

Positions: C/UTL

Height: 5’3

Bat/Throw: Right/Right

Overhand Velocity: 54 mph

Exit Velocity off Tee: 63mph avg

Home to First or 20 yds: 3.5 seconds

Intended Study Major: Veterinarian

Email: maylee_2032@yahoo.com

Twitter: @Maylee2032

Instagram: maylee_2032

Who are you?
My name is Maylee Young I’m 11 years old. I’m a catcher/utility from Alabama and I play travel ball for TN Mojo 2013-Hunter.

I enjoy playing softball, volleyball, and basketball!!!

How did your softball journey begin?
I played T-Ball when I was 4/5 years old

What are your greatest strengths as a softball player?
My Defensive Catching.

What kind of hitter are you, and what are your most recent offensive stats?

Gap to Gap- I want to be a power hitter so bad!!!

What is your favorite sports memory and greatest achievement?

My team won the PGF Super Select Bandits Power 80 and I won the MVP at the Jen Schro Catching retreat and got to attend for free the next time and also received stellar achiever award!!!

How do you handle adversity and even failure?

FAITH. I know God has me!!! And trust in my training.

How would your teammates and friends describe you? Energetic, uplifting.

Who is your role model and or idol, and why?

Jessie Blaine and Kinzie Hansen are my favorite softball players.

If you could spend a day with any softball player, former or current, who would it be and why?

Jessie Blaine (Mississippi State catcher) Because she’s one of my favorites and her dad is a Marine and so was my dad!!! So, I think we would have a lot in common!!!

What are your softball dreams and goals?

I would love to play at Auburn University… War Eagle!!!

What do you want coaches to know about you?

I’m the umpire and my pitcher's best friend!!! I give it 110% every time I’m on the field!!! I’m the best teammate!!! I put God first!!!

What is your favorite jersey number, and why did you choose it?
#9, Kinzie Hansen - Oklahoma

What other hobbies do you have to balance out softball and your personal life?

Workout, and enjoy playing basketball and volleyball.

Who would you like to thank for your softball achievements and support?

My parents and Coaches!!!

Additional Information About Maylee

Walk up Song: Hall of fame- Young Dolph

Favorite Food: Chicken Nachos

Favorite Song: Stillwater’s - Leanna Crawford

Favorite Music Artist: Sabrina Carpentar

Favorite Sports Team: Auburn

Favorite Sports Celebrity: Kinzie Hansen/Jessie Blaine

Favorite Movie: Despicable Me

Favorite Sports Movie: Sandlot

Favorite TV Show: The Voice

Favorite Book: Babysitters Club

Favorite Travel Spot: The Beach

Favorite Quote: Phil 4:13

Softball Ick: K nee savers

QUOTES

“Maylee is the most energetic person in any room she’s in… she is the type of energy, the type of person, the type of leader who brings every single person up to her level. She does not allow anyone to be less than, and that is a characteristic that is going to carry her so far in life! Remember her name—you will be seeing her play at the WCWS one day. I firmly, firmly believe that!”

- Jen Schro , UCLA Catcher (2005-2008)

“Maylee is a true leader on and off the field. Her motto is GOD, FAMILY, SCHOOL, SOFTBALL—in that order. You never have to worry about her doing the right thing when you’re not looking. She is always going to give you 110%.”

- Head Coach Landon Hunter

By: Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball, 21 April 2025

www.legacyandlegendssoftball.com

L&LS Softball Weekly Recap: SEC Battles Heat Up, Tragedy at FSU, and Pro League Expansion

Fri, 18 Apr 2025 17:25:28 GMT

Softball Weekly Recap: SEC Battles Heat Up, Tragedy at FSU, and Pro League Expansion

By: Jeremiah Coates

Date: April 18, 2025

College Softball: Alabama Charges into Gainesville for High-Stakes Series

As the NCAA softball regular season hits its final stretch, high-stakes matchups are beginning to define the postseason landscape. One of the most anticipated series this week features the Alabama Crimson Tide traveling to face the No. 8-ranked Florida Gators in Gainesville.

Alabama enters the matchup with growing momentum, boasting a 30–16 record. Freshman standout Audrey Vandagriff has turned heads across the conference, earning SEC Freshman of the Week honors after a dominant offensive stretch. Meanwhile, pitcher Catelyn Riley was recognized as SEC Pitcher of the Week, tightening up Alabama’s defensive core.

Florida, sitting at 37–9, has shown flashes of dominance this season but has recently struggled with consistency on the mound and uncharacteristic defensive lapses. The Gators will look to bounce back at home in what could be a series with major postseason seeding implications.

Florida State Tragedy Leads to Cancellations

In somber news, Florida State University canceled its scheduled softball series against Georgia Tech following a campus shooting that left the campus in lockdown. The university has paused all athletic events through April 20 out of respect for the victims and ongoing investigations.

This marks the third campus shooting at FSU in a decade, reigniting discussions about student safety and the role of athletics in crisis response. No makeup date for the series has been announced.

Pro Softball Evolution: Athletes Unlimited Unveils Team-Based League

In a groundbreaking shift for professional softball, Athletes Unlimited announced the creation of a traditional team-based league launching later this year. Slated to begin in late May, the league will feature four permanent teams playing a 30-game season, with ESPN on board as a founding broadcast partner.

Unlike AU’s original player-driven point system, the new league format embraces city identities, team rivalries, and a travel-based schedule that will bring games to up to eight different cities before anchoring into fixed locations in 2026.

This move could be a pivotal moment in professionalizing women’s softball, offering fans a more familiar team-based experience and giving players new long-term opportunities.

Looking Ahead: HBCUAC Softball Championship Comes to Alabama

The HBCU Athletic Conference (HBCUAC) Softball Championship is set to take place April 25–28 in Decatur, Alabama, marking the first time the city has hosted the event. Programs from institutions including Stillman College, Dillard University, and Talladega College will compete in what promises to be a showcase of rising talent in collegiate softball.

Organizers hope this championship can serve as a spotlight for underrepresented programs and further the growth of the sport at the HBCU level.

Final Word

With the regular season winding down and postseason seeds at stake, the softball world is heating up across all levels—from SEC showdowns to professional expansions. But amid the competition, real-world events remind us of the larger context in which sports exist. As the community rallies around both triumphs and tragedies, softball continues to grow—not just as a sport, but as a reflection of resilience and unity.

www.legacyandlegendssoftball.com

Elite Prospect: Macy Seidel; 3B/1B/OF (2027) Hotshots Naudin Olguin-Valtier

mudbug1042@gmail.com (Allen Goodwin) — Fri, 18 Apr 2025 16:22:10 GMT

Elite Prospect: Macy Seidel; 3B/1B/OF (2027) Hotshots Naudin Olguin-Valtier

Name: Macy Seidel

Hometown: Flower Mound, Tx

Grad Year: 2027

GPA: 4.5

Travel Team: Hotshots Naudin Olguin-Valtier

High School: Flower Mound HS

Positions: Corners/OF

Height: 5’10"

Bat/Throw: Right/Right

Overhand Velocity: 63 mph

Exit Velocity off Tee: 72 mph

Home to First or 20 yds: 3.1

Intended Study Major: Nursing (BSN)

Email: macyseidel@gmail.com

Twitter: @Macy_Seidel2027

Instagram: macy_seidel

Additional Highlight Links:

https://collegiatesportsadvocate.com/athletes/macySeidel8c

https://my.sportsrecruits.com/athlete/macy_seidel

Who are you?

My name is Macy Seidel, a sophomore at Flower Mound High School (Flower Mound, Texas) graduating in the class of 2027. Softball is a major part of my life and has shaped me into who I am today.

How did your softball journey begin?

I first started playing softball in 1st grade because my best friend wanted me to come play with her for fun, and from there the game became so much more to me.

What are your greatest strengths as a softball player?

My greatest strengths as a softball player are my mental toughness and competitiveness. Mental toughness has gotten me through the bad games, bad seasons, and hard days. It is something I have learned over time, and it has allowed me to not let people and circumstances change what I believe about myself and my team. My competitiveness keeps me going because failing is not an option, and I will do anything to succeed, even if that means my role on the team needs to change.

What kind of hitter are you, and what are your most recent offensive stats?

I am a power hitter. Currently in my high school season, I'm batting .470, while in my fall 2024 travel season, I finished batting .381, leading my team in homeruns and RBIs.

What is your favorite sports memory and greatest achievement?

My favorite sports memory is when I was in a frustrating slump for a few weeks during my freshman high school season, and in my first game back in the lineup, I went 2-2 with 2 homeruns. This is my greatest achievement because it taught me that

hard work behind the scenes will always speak for itself.

How do you handle adversity and even failure?

In games, I handle failure by cracking my knuckles once, and after that, I have to move on. Although the long-term adversity and failure, I work harder because I know hard work will never fail me.

How would your teammates and friends describe you?

My teammates would describe me as a leader with a bubbly personality.

Who is your role model and or idol, and why?

My softball role model is my hitting coach because she has a very hardworking attitude and doesn’t let outside factors determine her day and what she does with it.

 If you could spend a day with any softball player, former or current, who would it be and why?

I would spend a day with Jayda Coleman because I admire her life on and off the field, always keeping God as the center.

What are your softball dreams and goals?

My softball goal is to play at the next level outside of Texas!

What is your favorite jersey number, and why did you choose it?

My favorite jersey number is 95. I first chose it because I wanted a number that very few other people had, and I’ve stuck with 95 ever since.

What other hobbies do you have to balance out softball and your personal life?

I enjoy hanging out with my friends as much as I can, and when I have a free Sunday, I enjoy going to church. Whenever I get the time, I also enjoy hunting and fishing.

Who would you like to thank for your softball achievements and support?

I would like to thank my family for their unconditional support and for working hard to give me the opportunities I have. I would especially like to thank my dad because he spends countless hours with me traveling and at the ballpark. I would also like to thank all my coaches, past and current, because they have made me the player I am today.

Additional Information about Macy

Walk-up Song: Where Have You Been (Rihanna)

Favorite Food: Pasta

Favorite Song: Angela (The Lumineers)

Favorite Music Artist: The Lumineers

Favorite Sports Team: Dallas Stars

Favorite Sports Celebrity: Deion Sanders

Favorite Movie: The Devil Wears Prada

Favorite Sports Movie: Overcomer

Favorite TV Show: This is Us

Favorite Book: Every Summer After

Favorite Travel Spot: Port Aransas

Favorite Quote: “Talent is God given. Be Humble. Fame is man-given. Be Grateful. Conceit is self-given. Be careful.”

Softball Ick: Long Pants and Unshapen Visors

By: Allen Goodwin, Legacy & Legends Softball, 18 April 2025

www.legacyandlegendssoftball.com

Elite Prospect: Jaeden Antonelli (2027); SS/OF; Team Pennsylvania-Augustus 18U

mudbug1042@gmail.com (Allen Goodwin) — Wed, 16 Apr 2025 16:15:03 GMT

Name: Jaeden Antonelli

Nickname: Jay

Hometown: Whippany, New Jersey (NJ)

Grad Year: 2027

GPA: 4.0

Travel Team: Team Pennsylvania-Augustus 18U

High School: Whippany Park High School

Positions: Shortstop (SS), Outfield (OF)

Height: 5’7’

Bat/Throw: Right/Right

Overhand Velocity: 64 mph

Exit Velocity off Tee: 75 mph

Home to First or 20 yds: 2.795 Laser Timed

Intended Study Major: Computer Science

Email: jaeden.antonelli.2027@gmail.com

Twitter: @Jaeden_2027

Who are you? I am a 16-year-old sophomore from Northern New Jersey playing for

Whippany Park High School. I am hard-working and ambitious, I love the outdoors, and am

into health and fitness.

How did your softball journey begin? The first days of hitting a ball with a bat began at the

age of 7 in September of 2016, playing wiffle ball with my dad. One year later at 8, I signed

up for recreation softball.

What are your greatest strengths as a softball player? I am hard working and dedicated in

becoming the best me that I can be. I think I am good on both, defense and offense, but, I

have to give the edge to hitting.

What kind of hitter are you and what are your most recent offensive stats? When I do well, I

am a line drive, gap to gap hitter that hits for power, as well as average. This past Fall, in 87

plate appearances and 76 at bats, I had 32 hits, 49 total bases, 28 RBI’s with 26 runs

scored. I batted .421, .477 on base %, .645 slugging, 1.121 OPS, .433 BA on balls in play,

and was 12/12 in stolen bases.

What is your favorite sports memory and greatest achievement? My greatest experience

was being selected to represent Team New Jersey for the 12U USA 2022 USA All-American

team. Playing at OGE Energy Field in Oklahoma, the same field where the NCAA College

World Series takes place will always be remembered because there are great D1 softball

players who never get that chance. Makes it very special to me, especially now.

How do you handle adversity and even failure? If it’s a mistake on the field, I take a deep

breath and try to move on and get past it. Anything else that involves people, I am taught to

put and leave any negativity aside and behind me.

How would your teammates and friends describe you? Most will tell you that I am hard

working, focused and ambitious.

Who is your role-model and or idol and why? Mom and dad are my role-models for what

they do and teach every single day. They have taught me good morals and good work ethics

which is helping to shape the person I am now and who I will become in the future.

If you could spend a day with any softball player, former or current, who would it be and

why? Maya Brady for sure because we have some things in common. Like myself, she is of

mixed race and she played travel ball for the Batbusters as a Shortstop. There was an episode on

YouTube,called, ”Game Ready”, if I remember correctly, where she had tears in her eyes

talking about some of her struggles coming up. Would love to talk to her more about that

and more!

What is your softball dream/goal? My goal is to work hard getting to the D1 level while

getting a great education.

When deciding on what college team to play for, what are the most important things you’re

looking for? Is it location, academics, conference, championship-winning history, school

reputation, coaching staff, team chemistry, weather, school colors etc.? I do not want to go

where it's cold and snowy a lot. Some coaches are not so nice, so the

coaching staff is important to me. Academics are an important factor as well.

What is your favorite jersey number and why did you choose it? I have always like #2

because Derek Jeter was a favorite. I never seem to get that number because someone

always has it…lol

What other hobbies do you have to balance out softball and your personal life? I like track,

swimming, gymnastics and anything outdoors. Every year that goes by though, I seem to

focus more and more on softball. I do it by choice, but, you have to if you are serious about

playing at a high level because as you move up in age, the girls get better and are really

dedicated to the game.

Who would you like to thank for your softball achievements and support? My mom and dad

are an easy first for all they sacrifice in getting me everywhere. The time, the equipment,

their moral and mental support, and much more. I appreciate all the good coaches who

believed and supported me.

Additional Information About Jaeden

Walk up Song: None at this time

Favorite Food: Steak

Favorite Song: Hotel California

Favorite Music Artist: Drake

Favorite Sports Team: Yankees

Favorite Sports Celebrity: None

Favorite Movie: None

Favorite Sports Movie: None

Favorite TV Show: Gossip Girl

Favorite Book: One of Us Is Lying

Favorite Travel Spot: Jamaica

Favorite Quote: “You don’t decide your future. You decide your habits and your habits decide your future.”

Additional Quotes About You:

1)Former Coach said, "She plays like a silent assassin.”

2)Former Coach said, "She can hit the ball as hard as girls that have 40 pounds on her.”

By: Allen Goodwin, Legacy & Legends Softball, 16 April 2025

www.legacyandlegendssoftball.com

Challenging the Odds: The Implications of Playing for a Low-Performing High School Softball Team on College Recruitment

mudbug1042@gmail.com (Allen Goodwin) — Fri, 04 Apr 2025 15:21:30 GMT

This is a subtitle for your new post

Challenging the Odds: The Implications of Playing for a Low-Performing High School Softball Team on College Recruitment

At Legacy & Legends Softball, we receive numerous emails daily with many being questions about the recruiting process. One of the most popular questions is regarding how important is a high school softball program when it comes to a player's recruitment. Depending on who you ask, the responses will vary on this sensitive topic. Many travel ball programs will state it is the travel ball team that gets a player recruited and many high school programs will claim their programs set the foundation for a player's academic advancement to college towards being a student-athlete. Nonetheless, a high school program who is afforded so much time with a player can either help develop and foster good habits or unfortunately, possibly allow bad habits to form.

From my experience as both a high school and travel ball coach, I see that both play a significant part in the recruitment process, especially when considering if a player wants to play for a Division I or Division II or a Division III program or even a junior college team. If you actually count the hours spent on softball at a high school and hours spent with coaches in travel ball, you will see that a player spends a significant amount of time with their high school softball program and in many if not most cases, they spend less time with their travel ball program. From preseason preparation, to in-season competition, to off-season sessions ... many if not most players will spend more time with their high school program if that program is actively promoting a competitive softball environment. Albeit high school may take more time, it is ultimately the travel ball team that typically will dictate whether a player moves on to play at the collegiate level and on what type of program.

Since a majority of time is spent may be spent with high school coaches (almost daily during the school year in locations where high school softball is deemed very important) the program can either help or hurt the player's growth and development. This will be a factor in many facets including, strength and conditioning, on the field and game skillsets, character traits and conduct, game IQ, and overall mental and physical development.

Playing for a low performance high school softball team can significantly affect the recruitment perspectives of the university, mainly due to three interconnected factors: exhibition, level of competence and personal development. These factors interact in a complex way, ultimately influencing the visibility and attraction of a player towards university programs.

Exposure is often promoted as a critical element in the recruitment process for any sport, including softball. Athletes who play in high performance teams (both travel and high school) generally receive more attention from university scouts and coaches simply because they participate in competitive tournaments and show events that attract the largest public and the coverage of the media. On the contrary, low performance team players may not have the same level of visibility, particularly if the team does not participate in high level competitions or attend showcases where university recruiters are present. Without correct exposure, even talented athletes could have difficulty gaining the necessary attention to ensure university sports opportunities.

The level of competition facing athletes is another significant factor that affects recruitment. High performance teams (both high school and travel ball) generally play against equally skilled opponents (typically playoffs for high school), creating an environment in which players can improve their skills and adapt to the challenging game. This level of competition can help athletes develop better skills and consciousness of the game, traits that university coaches actively seek. In contrast, players in low performance teams or playing in considered weak leagues or conferences, may not have the same opportunity to overcome their limits or face regularly formidable opponents. This lack of competition could lead to stagnation in skills development, which potentially makes them less attractive to university programs that prioritize athletes that can prosper in high pressure scenarios.

In addition, personal development through coaching, teamwork and individual training can affect recruitment. Coaches in high performance programs, both high school and travel ball, often have more experience and resources to help players improve, both technically and mentally. They can provide constructive criticisms that are essential for growth, while the dynamics of a competitive team environment encourages players to raise their performance and fight for excellence. On the contrary, low performance teams can have difficulty providing this type of support, potentially delaying the development of players that could otherwise excel in different circumstances. The use of less qualified training or lack of access to specialized training facilities can hinder the progression of a player and, by extension, her recruitment perspectives.

Despite these challenges, it is crucial to recognize that playing in a low performance team is not entirely harmful to the recruitment perspectives of a player. Personal determination, work ethics and the ability to show improvement can significantly mitigate the disadvantages of playing at a lower level. Many athletes have successfully gone from programs less visible to higher levels of competition by participating in complementary "private lessons" training, attending exhibitions independently or participating in travel leagues that offer a better exposure. Personal ambition can promote an athlete to develop skills and build a recruiting profile that captivates recruiters, regardless of the success of their high school.

In conclusion, while playing for a low performance high school softball team, it presents clear disadvantages related to exposure, competition and personal development, it is not irrevocably to athletes that recruitment opportunities are lost. Personal initiative, the effective use of independent training resources/private coaching lessons, and adaptability can help athletes to position themselves for success, even in the absence of a prestigious team. As such, the impact of low performance team is a multifaceted topic that covers challenges and opportunities, underlining the importance of inherent talent and proactive effort in the search for collegiate athletic opportunities.

Simply put, grow and blossom where you are planted. Always seek opportunities to challenge yourself to make yourself better and all those around better because of your presence and efforts. Leave the team and the team environment a better place when you leave because of your efforts and impact. It is because of your actions at both your high school and travel ball that will shape and play a key factor in where you end up playing in college should you so choose to do so. Attitude is everything ... both positive and negative.

Fortune favors the bold.

By Allen Goodwin, Legacy & Legends Softball, 4 April 2025

Chasing the Dream: How Softball Players Pursue College Scholarships

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 23:37:54 GMT

Chasing the Dream: How Softball Players Pursue College Scholarships

For countless high school softball players across the United States, the dream of playing college softball comes with a tantalizing bonus: the chance to earn a scholarship that offsets the steep cost of higher education. With tuition prices soaring and athletic scholarships offering a lifeline, the pursuit of a college roster spot has become a fiercely competitive journey. As of March 29, 2025, the landscape of college softball recruiting is evolving, presenting both new opportunities and persistent challenges for aspiring athletes.

The Stakes Are High

Softball scholarships are a golden ticket for many families. The average cost of attendance at a four-year college can range from $25,000 to $50,000 per year, depending on whether the school is public or private, in-state or out-of-state. For a standout high school softball player, an athletic scholarship could cover a significant portion—or in rare cases, all—of those expenses. But the reality is stark: only about 7.8% of high school softball players make it to the collegiate level, and an even slimmer 1.6% reach NCAA Division I, where the most lucrative scholarships are often found.

The numbers tell a tough story. In NCAA Division I, each team is currently limited to 12 scholarships, though a proposed settlement could raise that cap to 25 starting in the 2025-2026 academic year. Even then, softball is an “equivalency sport,” meaning coaches can divide those scholarships among multiple players, often resulting in partial awards rather than full rides. Division II offers 7.2 scholarships per team, while NAIA programs provide 10, and junior colleges (NJCAA) lead with 24. Division III, however, offers no athletic scholarships, relying instead on academic and need-based aid. With millions of girls playing high school and travel ball each year, the competition for these limited slots is intense.

The Recruiting Gauntlet

For players like Mia Torres, a junior pitcher from California, the road to a scholarship began long before her first high school varsity game. “I started playing travel ball at 10,” she says. “My parents told me if I wanted to play in college, I had to get serious early.” Mia’s story is typical of the modern softball recruit. Travel ball—competitive club teams that crisscross the country for tournaments and showcases—has become the backbone of the recruiting process. These events draw college coaches scouting for talent, and a single standout performance can put a player on their radar.

But talent alone isn’t enough. Coaches look for a complete package: athletic skill, academic performance, and character. A strong highlight video showcasing hitting, fielding, or pitching prowess is a must, often uploaded to platforms like NCSA or SportsRecruits for coaches to review. “I spent hours editing my video,” says Mia. “You have to show your best stuff—coaches don’t have time to guess what you can do.” Attending college camps and showcases adds another layer, giving players face-to-face exposure with recruiters.

Academics play a critical role, too. A solid GPA and standardized test scores can make a player eligible for academic scholarships, freeing up more athletic funds. “Coaches love it when you bring good grades to the table,” says Sarah Jensen, a former Division II coach turned recruiting consultant. “It’s less money they have to pull from their budget.”

Position Matters

Not all positions are equal in the scholarship hunt. Pitchers and catchers often top the list for bigger awards, given their pivotal roles in games. “A dominant pitcher can change a program,” Jensen explains. “Coaches will stretch their budget for an ace.” Middle infielders, like shortstops with strong bats, and power-hitting third basemen also draw attention. Outfielders and first basemen, however, face stiffer competition, with fewer scholarships typically allocated unless they bring exceptional offensive stats or unique skills, like left-handed slapping.

Take Emily Carter, a speedy outfielder from Texas. “I thought my batting average would get me noticed, but I didn’t get the offers I expected,” she says. After months of outreach, she landed a partial scholarship at a Division II school—a reminder that persistence and flexibility can pay off, even if it means adjusting expectations.

The Changing Game

The NCAA’s proposed settlement for 2025-2026 could shake up this dynamic. If approved, Division I programs might fully fund rosters up to 25 players, potentially increasing scholarship opportunities. But not all schools—especially mid-majors outside the Power 5 conferences—can afford to max out funding, which could widen the gap between the haves and have-nots. “The big schools will benefit most,” Jensen predicts. “Smaller programs might still split scholarships thin.”

The rise of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals adds another twist. While softball doesn’t yet rival football or basketball in NIL earnings, top players can supplement scholarships with endorsement money, easing financial pressure. “It’s not huge yet, but it’s growing,” says Mia, who’s already eyeing local sponsorships.

Tips from the Trenches

So, how do players tilt the odds in their favor? Experts and athletes agree on a few key strategies:

• Start Early: Contact coaches as soon as NCAA rules allow (typically September 1 of junior year) with personalized emails and follow-ups.

• Showcase Skills: Attend high-profile tournaments and camps where coaches scout, and always have an updated recruiting profile online.

• Be Realistic: Consider all divisions—D1 isn’t the only path. Junior colleges, for instance, offer a stepping stone with generous scholarships.

• Negotiate: If an offer comes, don’t be afraid to discuss terms. Coaches respect recruits who advocate for themselves.

• Stay Balanced: Injuries or burnout can derail plans, so maintain academics as a fallback.

The Heart of the Hustle

For every success story—like the Sanger High senior who signed a full ride to Fresno State in 2017—there are countless players grinding through rejection and uncertainty. “It’s stressful,” admits Emily. “You’re putting yourself out there, and sometimes it feels like it’s all for nothing.” Yet the drive to play at the next level, coupled with the hope of a scholarship, keeps them swinging.

As Mia puts it, “It’s not just about the money—it’s about proving I belong.” For these athletes, the pursuit of a college softball scholarship is as much about passion as it is about practicality. In a sport where every pitch counts, they’re betting on themselves to make it to the big leagues of higher education.

By Emily Jackson, Legacy & Legends Softball, 31 March 2025

What Parents Need to Consider When Transitioning from Recreation to Travel Ball

mudbug1042@gmail.com (Allen Goodwin) — Thu, 20 Mar 2025 18:07:39 GMT

Travel softball teams have become very popular in recent years. Many families are enthusiastic about the possibility that their children play at a higher level and compete against other talented players. However, being part of a travel team has serious commitments that parents and players must understand before jumping.

One of the biggest things to think about is the commitment of time. Travel teams often have an intense program, with practices, games and tournaments almost every weekend. This can take a long time even during the week, as players must attend regularly to improve their skills. Parents should consider if their child can manage this level of commitment while keeping with school, friends and family responsibilities.

Another important part to think about is the financial commitment. Travel teams can be expensive. Parents must be foreseen not only for team taxes, which often cover uniforms, coaching and other expenses, but also for travel expenses such as gas, hotel stays and food during tournaments. The tournament commissions can add quickly and these costs may vary significantly from one team to another. According to Mireie et al. (2021), families should have a clear understanding of all the costs involved before making a decision.

It is essential for parents to evaluate the readiness of their children for this commitment. Some children thrive in competitive sports, while others may feel overwhelmed by pressure and time requests. Parents should have open conversations with their children on their interests and goals. It is essential to determine if the child really wants to pursue travel softball or if they feel they get along with what others expect.

When examining the travel teams, parents should also consider the priorities of their family. Each family has different resources, which can affect the fact that they can afford the costs and times necessary for travel softball. It is important that parents evaluate these factors against their daily commitments. In this way, families can guarantee that being part of a travel team adapts to their general plan without causing stress or conflicts.

The choice of a travel team is a great decision and involves a thought attentive to several factors. Parents must think about their child's ability to manage the occupied program that is provided with travel softball considering also what will cost. The key is to make sure that this commitment is in line with the lifestyle of the family and the financial situation, without sacrificing the happiness or well-being of the child.

Regarding softball teams, the quality of coaches and the development of players are very important factors to consider in parents. A good coach can make a big difference in player skills development and character development as a person. Coaches not only need to know the game well, but they should also be able to teach these skills in a way that helps players learn effectively. According to Lehman et al. (2019), having qualified coaches can have a considerable impact on the growth of a player, on and off the field.

The coaches are more than simply teaching softball; They also play a key role in building a positive team environment. When coaches provide constructive comments, players learn to improve their performance while strengthening self-confidence and resilience. This type of atmosphere of support allows young athletes to learn from their mistakes without feeling discouraged. In addition, major coaches encourage teamwork and sports spirit, which are essential for the personal development of a player.

Choosing a travel softball team with experienced and competent coaches is crucial. Parents should seek teams that prioritize player growth and development and keep their coaches responsible for their teaching methods. An environment led by effective coaches helps players to develop not only their sporting skills but also important life skills. A coach will create and foster the environment a player will be in. Therefore, it is very important to find a coach who can create and foster a healthy learning and training environment to ensure the best opportunities for your child to grow, develop, and enjoy travel ball.

It should also be noted that there are important differences between the competitive game and the recreational leagues. Competitive leagues often require a higher level of engagement and skills, focusing on victory and performance. Although it can be exciting, it can also cause pressure for young players. On the other hand, the recreational leagues tend to focus on the participation and pleasure of the game. They offer a more relaxed framework, allowing young athletes to learn sport at their own pace without the intense pressure of the competition.

Whatever the type of league, it is important for parents to choose a team culture that promotes healthy comments and positive interactions between players and coaches (Trussell, 2016). A good coach will promote open communication, making sure that players feel safe to share their thoughts and concerns. Creating a culture of respect and encouragement leads to stronger links within the team, allowing young athletes to prosper as players and peers.

The quality of coaching and the environment in which players develop are key factors that can strongly influence a child's experience in travel softball. Ensure that a team has qualified coaches who prioritize individual growth and team dynamics can make all the difference in the journey of a young athlete, enrich their experience and their level of competence in sport. Parents should actively look for these qualities when placing travel softball teams for their children., When you consider the travel softball teams, parents must think about the impact of the competitive game on the general well-being of their child. While many young athletes like the excitement of competitions, high-level performance pressures can lead to stress and anxiety. This stress can affect them both emotionally and physically.

High level competition often means more practices, games and travel. As competition increases, the pressure to succeed too. Young athletes may think that they must be perfectly performed or risk dropping their team. This feeling can create a lot of anxiety and fear of failure. This can also lead to professional exhaustion, where the athlete can lose interest in the sport they once loved.

Parents should prioritize the mental health of their child and make sure that playing travel softball remains pleasant. It is essential to keep the emphasis on pleasure and learning instead of simply winning. Encourage children to set personal goals, to celebrate small achievements and to enjoy their time with teammates can help to create a positive experience. When victory becomes the only objective, the pleasure of playing can decrease, which means that sport feels like a chore rather than a joy.

Each child is different and they will manage competition in their own way. Some may thrive under pressure, while others may feel overwhelmed. Parents must monitor signs of stress, such as behavioral changes, increased anxiety or loss of motivation. Open communication is essential; Parents should encourage their children to express what they think of their participation in sport.

Another important aspect is the commitment required for travel softball. The large travel schedule can lead to fatigue, lack family activities or time with friends. Parents should help their children balance sports with other life activities, such as academics, social events and downtime. When children feel well balanced and are not too committed, they are often happier and more successful in their activities, including sports.

In addition, parents should be involved in discussions on the quality of coaching. Good coaches not only teach skills but also promote a healthy team environment. They prioritize the well-being of players and encourage a positive attitude towards competition. Understanding coach styles and their impact on young athletes can help parents choose the right team.

Overall, the objective of participating in travel softball should be to develop skills, promote teamwork and take advantage of the game. Parents play a crucial role to ensure that sport remains a source of happiness and growth for their children. Supporting their mental health, keeping communication open and encouraging a balanced lifestyle can help protect young athletes from the negative effects of high competition. By focusing on these aspects, parents can ensure that their child's experience in travel softball is enriching and fulfilling.

By: Allen Goodwin, Legacy & Legends Softball, 20 March 2025

www.legacyandlegendssoftball.com

Citations:

Lehman, Sharon M., Christopher R. Schmidt, and Jennifer L. Livingston. THE YOUTH SPORT SEXPERIENCES OF COLLEGIATE SOFTBALL ATHLETES. Journal of Behavioral & Social Sciences 6.4 (2019).

Mirehie, Mona, et al. Towards an understanding of family travel decision-making processes in the context of youth sport tourism. Journal of Destination Marketing & Management 21 (2021): 100644.

Trussell, Dawn E. Young people's perspectives of parent volunteerism in community youth sport. Sport Management Review 19.3 (2016): 332-342.

Elite Top 100 Prospects (2030 Grad Class): Ellie Fleming Named Overall Top Prospect

mudbug1042@gmail.com (Allen Goodwin) — Tue, 18 Mar 2025 00:14:06 GMT

Ellie Fleming of TN Mojo-Brown garnered the top overall recruit/prospect honors, leading a very talented group of players from the 2030 graduation class. Even at a young age, Ellie has caught the attention of countless college coaches and has become "that player" opposing teams focus on.

A legitimate 5-Tool phenom from Alabama, Ellie is an elite athlete who impacts games at the plate, in the circle, on the field, and in the dugout with her positive attitude and leadership. Ellie already has the build of a college player standing at 5'10" and always displaying incredible athleticism. At the plate, she can do it all. She can hit for power and average, be a Triple Threat Slapper or flawlessly execute any type of bunt based on the situation and still have a high chance of reaching base. If you ask any of the top coaches in the country about Ellie, they will tell you she's one of the toughest outs in her age group.

The stats speak for themself with Ellie being one of the top leadoff batters in the 2030 class, batting .593 with 129 runs and 102 stolen bases last year against some of the nation's best teams. In the circle, she's just coming into her own and last fall with she went 3-0 giving up 4 hits, 3 runs with a 1.167 ERA. She's a lefty with a 63 MPH fastball and great movement that keeps hitters guessing. Ellie is expected to make a big step forward in the circle moving forward which will cause opposing coaches some sleepless nights before big games. In the outfield with her athleticism, she can cover incredible amounts of ground and takes away hits from opposing teams on a regular basis. On the basepath her elite speed creates chaos and manufactures runs. Ellie is already performing at a high level, and she still has a very high ceiling. She can do it all.

Ellie is coached by Brandon Brown, and this is what he had to say about his blue-chip elite player ...

"As far as a person, Ellie is an excellent teammate that puts her teammates before herself. She never looks for the spotlight (though she naturally gets it) and wants to lift her teammates up and do what's best for the TEAM. Our team believes fully in a WE>ME mentality and Ellie exemplifies that. She's one of the sweetest kids you'll find."

--- Brandon Brown, Head Coach, TN Mojo-Brown

We look forward to watching Ellie's growth and development as well as celebrating her countless achievements ahead.

Congratulations to Ellie Fleming and to all those who were named to the L&LS Elite Top 100 Centurion Club - 2030. An elite select group with an extremely bright future ahead.

Below is the list of the Top 100 Elite Prospects.

The Final List of Top 125 (maybe 150) will be published and added to our website at the end of this week.

Legacy & Legends Softball Elite Top 100 Prospects (2030 Grad Class)

#1.) Ellie Fleming - LHP - TN Mojo-Brown

Overall National Player Ranking: 1

Overall National Position Ranking: 1

State Player Ranking (AL): 1

State Position Ranking (AL): 1

#2.) Daniella Neve - MIF - Texas Bombers Gold Futures 14u

Overall National Player Ranking: 2

Overall National Position Ranking: 1

State Player Ranking (PA): 1

State Position Ranking (PA): 1

#3.) Taylor "Tay" Goodwin - RHP - OC Batbusters-Stith/Byrd

Overall National Player Ranking: 3

Overall National Position Ranking: 1

State Player Ranking (CA): 1

State Position Ranking (CA): 1

#4.) Caylee "Larry" Cowan - RHP - Alabama Sparks Elite 14u

Overall National Player Ranking: 4

Overall National Position Ranking: 2

State Player Ranking (AL): 2

State Position Ranking (AL): 1

#5.) Zoe Velazquez - RHP - Atlanta Vipers - Murphy 2011

Overall National Player Ranking: 5

Overall National Position Ranking: 3

State Player Ranking (FL): 1

State Position Ranking (FL): 1

#6.) Kate Flanagan - RHP - Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier-Whitaker

Overall National Player Ranking: 6

Overall National Position Ranking: 4

State Player Ranking (AL): 3

State Position Ranking (AL): 2

#7.) Berkley Ward - C - Impact Gold National-Holmes

Overall National Player Ranking: 7

Overall National Position Ranking: 1

State Player Ranking (TX): 1

State Position Ranking (TX): 1

#8.) Bailee Texada - OF - Lady Dukes 2028

Overall National Player Ranking: 8

Overall National Position Ranking: 1

State Player Ranking (LA): 1

State Position Ranking (LA): 1

#9.) Aubree Kitterman - RHP - Impact Gold National-Holmes

Overall National Player Ranking: 9

Overall National Position Ranking: 5

State Player Ranking (LA): 2

State Position Ranking (LA): 1

#10.) Emily Stuman - RHP - TN Mojo-Brown

Overall National Player Ranking: 10

Overall National Position Ranking: 6

State Player Ranking (AL): 4

State Position Ranking (AL): 3

#11.) Malloree Harr - RHP - Frost Falcons-Harr

Overall National Player Ranking: 11

Overall National Position Ranking: 7

State Player Ranking (TN): 1

State Position Ranking (TN): 1

#12.) Ellis Daniels - 3B - Texas Bombers Gold Futures 14u

Overall National Player Ranking: 12

Overall National Position Ranking: 1

State Player Ranking (TX): 2

State Position Ranking (TX): 1

#13.) Avery Thomas - C - Fury Platinum X - Helton/Carr

Overall National Player Ranking: 13

Overall National Position Ranking: 2

State Player Ranking (NC): 1

State Position Ranking (NC): 1

#14.) Kyla Paul - C - Top Gun 14u National

Overall National Player Ranking: 14

Overall National Position Ranking: 3

State Player Ranking (FL): 2

State Position Ranking (FL): 1

#15.) Peyton White - C - Athletics Gold - Tamborra/Vallery

Overall National Player Ranking: 15

Overall National Position Ranking: 4

State Player Ranking (GA): 1

State Position Ranking (GA): 1

#16.) Hayden Smith - OF - Athletics Gold-Tamborra/Olson

Overall National Player Ranking: 16

Overall National Position Ranking: 2

State Player Ranking (GA): 2

State Position Ranking (GA): 1

#17.) Paisley "Pip" Wright - C - Impact Gold National Holmes

Overall National Player Ranking: 17

Overall National Position Ranking: 5

State Player Ranking (IL): 1

State Position Ranking (IL): 1

#18.) Mollie Anglin - OF - Georgia Impact-Cleghorn

Overall National Player Ranking: 18

Overall National Position Ranking: 3

State Player Ranking (GA): 2

State Position Ranking (GA): 1

#19.) Catalina Cooper - LHP - Strykers National-Williams 2030

Overall National Player Ranking: 19

Overall National Position Ranking: 2

State Player Ranking (TX): 3

State Position Ranking (TX): 1

#20.) Dae Sun Mcgaughy - RHP - Beverly Bandits Premier 2012 - Ault/Otte

Overall National Player Ranking: 20

Overall National Position Ranking: 8

State Player Ranking (OH): 1

State Position Ranking (OH): 1

#21.) Bella Smith - C - Power Softball-Smith

Overall National Player Ranking: 21

Overall National Position Ranking: 6

State Player Ranking (FL): 3

State Position Ranking (FL): 2

#22.) Delilah Bui - OF - Athletics Mercado-Romero

Overall National Player Ranking: 22

Overall National Position Ranking: 4

State Player Ranking (CA): 2

State Position Ranking (CA): 1

#23.) Jazmyn Kaesbauer - C - OC Batbusters-Stith

Overall National Player Ranking: 23

Overall National Position Ranking: 7

State Player Ranking (CA): 3

State Position Ranking (CA): 1

#24.) Ella Christiansen - RHP - 14U Texas Glory

Overall National Player Ranking: 24

Overall National Position Ranking: 9

State Player Ranking (TX): 4

State Position Ranking (TX): 1

#25.) Emma Wilson - MIF - Stars National- Hannigan

Overall National Player Ranking: 25

Overall National Position Ranking: 2

State Player Ranking (AR): 1

State Position Ranking (AR): 1

#26.) Layla Werner - RHP - Texas Bombers Gold Futures 14u

Overall National Player Ranking: 26

Overall National Position Ranking: 10

State Player Ranking (TX): 5

State Position Ranking (TX): 2

#27.) Lola Braun - RHP - OC Batbusters-Stith

Overall National Player Ranking: 27

Overall National Position Ranking: 11

State Player Ranking (CA): 4

State Position Ranking (CA): 2

#28.) Malia Johnson - OF - LTG Lions Buck 2029

Overall National Player Ranking: 28

Overall National Position Ranking: 5

State Player Ranking (CA): 5

State Position Ranking (CA): 2

#29.) Cheyanne Martinez - C - Impact Caymol-Martinez

Overall National Player Ranking: 29

Overall National Position Ranking: 8

State Player Ranking (GA): 3

State Position Ranking (GA): 2

#30.) Aaliyah Hayes - RHP- Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier 2030

Overall National Player Ranking: 30

Overall National Position Ranking: 12

State Player Ranking (AL): 5

State Position Ranking (AL): 4

#31.) Annabelle Graham - OF - Athletics Mercado-Romero

Overall National Player Ranking: 31

Overall National Position Ranking: 6

State Player Ranking (CA): 6

State Position Ranking (CA): 3

#32.) Ally Halstead - RHP - Georgia Impact Premier-Cleghorn

Overall National Player Ranking: 32

Overall National Position Ranking: 13

State Player Ranking (GA): 4

State Position Ranking (GA): 1

#33.) Chloe Saldana - UTL - Beverly Bandits Premier-Ault

Overall National Player Ranking: 33

Overall National Position Ranking: 1

State Player Ranking (IL): 2

State Position Ranking (IL): 1

#34.) Sophie Dannenbring - MIF - Beverly Bandits Premier-Ault

Overall National Player Ranking: 34

Overall National Position Ranking: 3

State Player Ranking (IA): 1

State Position Ranking (IA): 1

#35.) Abby McCarty - RHP - TN Mojo 2030-West

Overall National Player Ranking: 35

Overall National Position Ranking: 14

State Player Ranking (IN): 1

State Position Ranking (IN): 1

#36.) Stevie Wolfe - RHP - Deschutes Defenders 14u

Overall National Player Ranking: 36

Overall National Position Ranking: 15

State Player Ranking (OR): 1

State Position Ranking (OR): 1

#37.) Norah Box - C - TN Mojo-Brown

Overall National Player Ranking: 37

Overall National Position Ranking: 9

State Player Ranking (TN): 2

State Position Ranking (TN): 1

#38.) McKenzie Flowers - UTL - Corona Angels-Tyson 12u

Overall National Player Ranking: 38

Overall National Position Ranking: 2

State Player Ranking (CA): 7

State Position Ranking (CA): 1

#39.) Garrison Aiken - MIF - Impact Caymol-Premier

Overall National Player Ranking: 39

Overall National Position Ranking: 4

State Player Ranking (SC): 1

State Position Ranking (SC): 1

#40.) Gianna Alejandro - RHP - OC Batbusters-Gann

Overall National Player Ranking: 40

Overall National Position Ranking: 16

State Player Ranking (CA): 8

State Position Ranking (CA): 3

#41.) Ella Rackley - MIF - GA Impact Premier-Cleghorn

Overall National Player Ranking: 41

Overall National Position Ranking: 5

State Player Ranking (GA): 5

State Position Ranking (GA): 1

#42.) Giuliana Baronci - C - Georgia Unity 16u

Overall National Player Ranking: 42

Overall National Position Ranking: 10

State Player Ranking (FL): 4

State Position Ranking (FL): 3

#43.) Aubree Peak - RHP - Southern Force-Palmer

Overall National Player Ranking: 43

Overall National Position Ranking: 17

State Player Ranking (AL): 6

State Position Ranking (AL): 5

#44.) Kaila Johnson - MIF - Iowa Premier 14u National

Overall National Player Ranking: 44

Overall National Position Ranking: 6

State Player Ranking (IA): 2

State Position Ranking (IA): 2

#45.) Riley Rucker - UTL - TN Mojo-Olgetree 2011

Overall National Player Ranking: 45

Overall National Position Ranking: 3

State Player Ranking (GA): 6

State Position Ranking (GA): 1

#46.) Addison Estes - RHP - Bombers Gold NTX

Overall National Player Ranking: 46

Overall National Position Ranking: 18

State Player Ranking (TX): 6

State Position Ranking (TX): 3

#47.) Ruby Rice - MIF - Rhode Island Thunder

Overall National Player Ranking: 47

Overall National Position Ranking: 7

State Player Ranking (RI): 1

State Position Ranking (RI): 1

#48.) Peyton O'Neil - MIF - Firecracker GA-Wooley

Overall National Player Ranking: 48

Overall National Position Ranking: 8

State Player Ranking (GA): 7

State Position Ranking (GA): 2

#49.) Jaylen Cooper - RHP - Outlaws Outlaws 2k11-Murnahan

Overall National Player Ranking: 49

Overall National Position Ranking: 19

State Player Ranking (KY): 1

State Position Ranking (KY): 1

#50.) Camilla English - C - Atlanta Vipers 12-Patterson

Overall National Player Ranking: 50

Overall National Position Ranking: 11

State Player Ranking (FL): 5

State Position Ranking (FL): 4

#51.) Kennidi "Golden Boots" Evans - OF - Hustle 14u

Overall National Player Ranking: 51

Overall National Position Ranking: 7

State Player Ranking (TX): 7

State Position Ranking (TX): 1

#52.) Peyton Everett - OF - Texas Bombers Gold Futures 14u

Overall National Player Ranking: 52

Overall National Position Ranking: 8

State Player Ranking (TX): 8

State Position Ranking (TX): 2

#53.) Autumn Adkins - RHP - Starz Gold 2029 National

Overall National Player Ranking: 53

Overall National Position Ranking: 20

State Player Ranking (VA): 1

State Position Ranking (VA): 1

#54.) Liv Schaack - RHP - BSC Bengals-Haldorsen 2012

Overall National Player Ranking: 54

Overall National Position Ranking: 21

State Player Ranking (CA): 9

State Position Ranking (CA): 4

#55.) Ella Tweed - RHP - TN Mojo-Griebe 12U

Overall National Player Ranking: 55

Overall National Position Ranking: 22

State Player Ranking (SC): 2

State Position Ranking (SC): 1

#56.) Emersyn Haney - OF - TN Mojo-Brown

Overall National Player Ranking: 56

Overall National Position Ranking: 9

State Player Ranking (AL): 7

State Position Ranking (AL): 1

#57.) Amarylis Arizmendi - UTL - Texas Bombers Gold Futures 14u

Overall National Player Ranking: 57

Overall National Position Ranking: 4

State Player Ranking (TX): 9

State Position Ranking (TX): 1

#58.) Abigail Parr - MIF - Lady Dukes-Rooney

Overall National Player Ranking: 58

Overall National Position Ranking: 9

State Player Ranking (MI): 1

State Position Ranking (MI): 1

#59.) Brenna Whitten -RHP - Aces National 13u

Overall National Player Ranking: 59

Overall National Position Ranking: 23

State Player Ranking (NE): 1

State Position Ranking (NE): 1

#60.) Kayleigh Steel - RHP - BC Fastpitch 14u Premier

Overall National Player Ranking: 60

Overall National Position Ranking: 24

State Player Ranking (TX): 10

State Position Ranking (TX): 4

#61.) Jazlynn Skanes - 3B - Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier 2030

Overall National Player Ranking: 61

Overall National Position Ranking: 2

State Player Ranking (AL): 8

State Position Ranking (AL): 1

#62.) Sophie Keller - 3B - Firecrackers-Piconke 13u

Overall National Player Ranking: 62

Overall National Position Ranking: 3

State Player Ranking (OH): 2

State Position Ranking (OH): 1

#63.) Ella Birchwood - MIF - LLG Uprising NC

Overall National Player Ranking: 63

Overall National Position Ranking: 10

State Player Ranking (NC): 2

State Position Ranking (NC): 1

#64.) Carlei Whitted - 3B - LLG Prospects 14u

Overall National Player Ranking: 64

Overall National Position Ranking: 4

State Player Ranking (NC): 3

State Position Ranking (NC): 1

#65.) Cali Garrett - OF - Hustle Nation-Ramon

Overall National Player Ranking: 65

Overall National Position Ranking: 10

State Player Ranking (TX): 11

State Position Ranking (TX): 3

#66.) Avery Murphy - C - Atlanta Vipers Gold-Murphy

Overall National Player Ranking: 66

Overall National Position Ranking: 12

State Player Ranking (FL): 6

State Position Ranking (FL): 5

#67.) Kyndall Jones - C - Firecrackers GA-Wooley

Overall National Player Ranking: 67

Overall National Position Ranking: 13

State Player Ranking (GA): 8

State Position Ranking (GA): 3

#68.) Ansley Wilkerson - MIF - Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier 2030

Overall National Player Ranking: 68

Overall National Position Ranking: 11

State Player Ranking (AL): 9

State Position Ranking (AL): 1

#69.) Maggie Whitaker - 1B - Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier 2030

Overall National Player Ranking: 69

Overall National Position Ranking: 1

State Player Ranking (AL): 10

State Position Ranking (AL): 1

#70.) Julia Ripley - RHP - Team Pennsylvania-Madison 2029

Overall National Player Ranking: 70

Overall National Position Ranking: 25

State Player Ranking (PA): 2

State Position Ranking (PA): 1

#71.) Braelyn Allsbrooks - OF - Atlanta Vipers-Murphy

Overall National Player Ranking: 71

Overall National Position Ranking: 11

State Player Ranking (GA): 9

State Position Ranking (GA): 2

#72.) Alexis Henry - OF - Bombers Gold NTX

Overall National Player Ranking: 72

Overall National Position Ranking: 10

State Player Ranking (TX): 12

State Position Ranking (TX): 4

#73.) Hailey Mann - RHP - Lazershow Fastpitch

Overall National Player Ranking: 73

Overall National Position Ranking: 26

State Player Ranking (CA): 10

State Position Ranking (CA): 5

#74.) Charlotte Schrand - MIF - TN Mojo 2030-West

Overall National Player Ranking: 74

Overall National Position Ranking: 12

State Player Ranking (KY): 2

State Position Ranking (KY): 1

#75.) Emma Kerr - OF - Indiana Bombers Gold 2012

Overall National Player Ranking: 75

Overall National Position Ranking: 11

State Player Ranking (IN): 2

State Position Ranking (IN): 1

#76.) Evie Sanders - C - TN Mojo 2030-West

Overall National Player Ranking: 76

Overall National Position Ranking: 14

State Player Ranking (TN): 3

State Position Ranking (TN) 2

#77.) Blakely Wimmer - RHP - PA Chaos 12u Parker

Overall National Player Ranking: 77

Overall National Position Ranking: 27

State Player Ranking (PA): 3

State Position Ranking (PA) 2

#78.) Harper Lowe - 1B - Beverly Bandits Premier-Ault

Overall National Player Ranking: 78

Overall National Position Ranking: 2

State Player Ranking (MI): 2

State Position Ranking (MI) 1

#79.) Harper Pardue - C - TN Mojo 2030 West

Overall National Player Ranking: 80

Overall National Position Ranking: 15

State Player Ranking (TN): 4

State Position Ranking (TN): 3

#80.) Carleigh Mattox - UTL - Lady Stix 2012

Overall National Player Ranking: 80

Overall National Position Ranking: 5

State Player Ranking (AL): 11

State Position Ranking (AL): 1

#81.) Chloe Taynor - RHP - Indiana Magic Gold 2012 Futures

Overall National Player Ranking: 81

Overall National Position Ranking: 28

State Player Ranking (OH): 3

State Position Ranking (OH) 2

#82.) Evangeline Pham - C - LLG Uprising

Overall National Player Ranking: 82

Overall National Position Ranking: 13

State Player Ranking (NC): 4

State Position Ranking (NC) 2

#83.) Madison Farr - 1B - St. Louis Chaos

Overall National Player Ranking: 83

Overall National Position Ranking: 3

State Player Ranking (MO): 1

State Position Ranking (MO) 1

#84.) Ella Giambrone - C - NJ Unity-Delhoyo

Overall National Player Ranking: 84

Overall National Position Ranking: 14

State Player Ranking (NJ): 1

State Position Ranking (NJ): 1

#85.) Mia Miller - RHP - Wisconsin Lightning 13U 2029/30

Overall National Player Ranking: 85

Overall National Position Ranking: 29

State Player Ranking (WI): 1

State Position Ranking (WI): 1

#86.) Kardin Putman - LHP - TN Mojo 2030-West

Overall National Player Ranking: 86

Overall National Position Ranking: 3

State Player Ranking (TN): 5

State Position Ranking (TN): 1

#87.) Channing West - MIF - TN Mojo 2030-West

Overall National Player Ranking: 87

Overall National Position Ranking: 13

State Player Ranking (TN): 6

State Position Ranking (TN): 1

#88.) Eva Murnahan - 1B - Ohio Outlaws Premier 2K11

Overall National Player Ranking: 88

Overall National Position Ranking: 4

State Player Ranking (OH): 4

State Position Ranking (OH): 1

#89.) Lexi Sauceda - MIF - Texas Blaze Gold 14-Kuhlmann

Overall National Player Ranking: 89

Overall National Position Ranking: 14

State Player Ranking (TX): 13

State Position Ranking (TX): 1

#90.) Jocelyn Cabral - UTL - MA Stars-Espinoza 14u

Overall National Player Ranking: 90

Overall National Position Ranking: 6

State Player Ranking (MA): 1

State Position Ranking (MA): 1

#91.) Zoe Weakley - 3B - TN Mojo 2030-West

Overall National Player Ranking: 91

Overall National Position Ranking: 5

State Player Ranking (TN): 7

State Position Ranking (TN): 1

#92.) Kyndall Savage - OF - TN Mojo 2030-West

Overall National Player Ranking: 92

Overall National Position Ranking: 12

State Player Ranking (TN): 8

State Position Ranking (TN): 1

#93.) Bre Lazzara - OF - Iowa Premier National 14u

Overall National Player Ranking: 93

Overall National Position Ranking: 13

State Player Ranking (CO): 1

State Position Ranking (CO): 1

#94.) Grayce Clark - OF - Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier 2030

Overall National Player Ranking: 94

Overall National Position Ranking: 14

State Player Ranking (NC): 5

State Position Ranking (NC): 1

#95.) Ava Dangott - 3B - CO Stars 14U Mikelson/Wagner

Overall National Player Ranking: 95

Overall National Position Ranking: 6

State Player Ranking (CO): 2

State Position Ranking (CO): 1

#96.) Bryer Thompson - OF - AL Thunderbolts 2012-Thompson

Overall National Player Ranking: 96

Overall National Position Ranking: 15

State Player Ranking (AL): 12

State Position Ranking (AL): 2

#97.) Cali Yates - C - Strykers National-Williams 2030

Overall National Player Ranking: 97

Overall National Position Ranking: 15

State Player Ranking (TX): 14

State Position Ranking (TX): 2

#98.) Paisley Kennedy - MIF - AL Thunderbolts 2012-Thompson

Overall National Player Ranking: 98

Overall National Position Ranking: 15

State Player Ranking (AL): 13

State Position Ranking (AL) 2

#99.) Kinley Krieg - OF - Texas Blaze 14 Gold-Kuhlmann

Overall National Player Ranking: 99

Overall National Position Ranking: 16

State Player Ranking (TX): 15

State Position Ranking (TX): 5

#100.) Avery McCurry - UTL - Texas Crush

Overall National Player Ranking: 100

Overall National Position Ranking: 7

State Player Ranking (TX): 16

State Position Ranking (TX): 2

Allen Goodwin, Legacy & Legends Softball, 17 March 2025

www.legacyandlegendssoftball.com

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Lalia "Cheese" Mejia: A Top 2029 Softball Prospect

Tue, 04 Mar 2025 18:55:36 GMT

Lalia "Cheese" Mejia: A Top 2029 Softball Prospect Lalia "Cheese" Mejia is a top prospect from Centerville, OH, in the class of 2029. L&L recently did a spotlight story on her, and we were fortunate enough to catch up with her again.

•What's new since the spotlight article?

The biggest news is that I attended the PGF Metrics camp preceding the Bandits Not So Friendly tournament in Crown Point, Indiana, in November 2024. At the camp, I recorded my personal best pop time of 1.59 seconds, certified by PGF! This was the fastest pop time of the day, across all ages, and it remains the number one pop time on the PGF certified metrics website for any age. I also achieved a 70+ mph exit velocity and mid-60s mph throwing velocity.

•That's impressive! Were there any coaches in attendance at the camp?

Yes, it was super exciting to see Mike White from Texas, along with coaches from Notre Dame, Louisville, Michigan, and Indiana, to name a few.

• Wow, that's an impressive list of coaches! Did you receive any camp invites as a result?

That was the most exciting part! I was invited to the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Louisville, and the University of Northern Iowa following the camp! It feels like everything is becoming real!

•What’s next in terms of camps or tournaments for you and your team?

We'll be attending the Blue Magic Event from May 30 to June 1, the Top Gun Invitational from June 10 to June 15, the Colorado Sparkler from June 27 to July 5, the Atlanta Legacy from June 10 to June 13, and PGF Nationals from July 25 to August 3. I'm also signed up for the Connect camp at Top Gun for FSU, Oklahoma State, UCLA, and LSU. Additionally, at the Sparkler, I'm signed up for a combined camp with the University of Florida, Oklahoma State, Auburn, and several others.

• I see you're not with the Bandits anymore?

Yes, the team is amazing, and I was with them for about three years. We had some scheduling conflicts from winter through spring, and it wasn't fair to ask them to play with one less player. I miss them and wish them the best. Fortunately, I found a home with the Lady Dukes '28 Premier Burden/Lamar, whose schedule worked out perfectly! I'm excited to take the field with this group of exceptionally talented athletes.

•That roster looks extremely talented! Congratulations on your new team, and it's unfortunate that the schedule didn't work out with the Bandits. Best of luck this season with the Lady Dukes!

Introduction:

1. Hi Lalia, can you introduce yourself and share a bit about your journey in softball? What inspired you to start playing?

Well, as you know, I’m Lalia Mejia. I go by “Cheese” (a nickname I’ve had since I was seven years old). I’ve been playing softball for about nine years, starting when I was four, and I’m a catcher. My journey through softball has had its highs and lows, just like everyone else’s. I moved a lot when I was younger and attended eight elementary schools because my dad was an active-duty Army pilot. I remember the first time I felt truly inspired and knew I wanted to play competitively was during my first travel ball tryout. I was about six years old and attended the second day of the tryout. I didn’t make the team, but that experience uncovered my passion for the game. That point of failure marked the beginning of much hard work that fueled my success!

2. You play both catcher and middle infield. Which position do you feel most passionate about, and why?

Between the two positions, I’d consider myself more passionate about catching, but I’m more than willing to play or learn to master any position my team needs. Catching has been my primary position for years now, and I’ve really created a connection with it. I feel most comfortable and confident behind the plate. I’ve logged over 1,000 innings there, which has significantly built my confidence.

Achievements and Skills:

3. What achievements are you most proud of so far in your softball career?

The achievement I’m most proud of is my 1.59 pop time. It truly reflects all the hard work I’ve put in and continues to motivate me. I strive to lower it even further. This accomplishment showed me that with enough dedication, I can achieve anything.

Competitive Edge:

4. What do you believe sets you apart from other players in the 2029 class, especially as a catcher?

What really sets me apart from other players is my relentless work ethic and effort. My softball IQ, competitiveness, and desire to win are also significant differentiators. A strong understanding of the game is crucial as a catcher—knowing situations, making pitch calls, and deciding what plays to call on the field. I take pride in my “softball IQ” and continuously work to improve it. I treat every game seriously and feel a strong need to win. Nobody cheers louder than I do or hates the thought of losing more. I’ll do everything I can to help our team win and keep all my teammates engaged.

5. How do you handle pressure during crucial moments in games? Can you share a specific instance where you thrived under pressure?

When I find myself in a pressure situation, I take a deep breath to calm myself. Then, I think about past situations where I successfully executed what I needed to do, such as clutch hits or plays. A good example was during an elimination game when we were tied in extra innings with the bases loaded. I was behind the plate, and the batter had reached base in her last at-bat. I knew I needed to execute any chance I had to get her out. I recalled a previous game where I successfully prevented a runner from scoring, which boosted my confidence. The next pitch was a popped-up bunt that I dove for and caught to end the game!

6. Are there any particular skills or areas of your game that you’re currently working on to become even better?

The biggest area I’m currently focusing on is my mindset. I want to improve my ability to bounce back and maintain positive thoughts in pressure situations. Having the right mindset is crucial in softball; it doesn’t matter how skilled you are if you can’t recover from mistakes. This game is filled with failures, and the players who understand and embrace that while continuously working hard are the ones who succeed.

Team Dynamics and Leadership:

7. How do you contribute to your team atmosphere both on and off the field as a leader?

On the field, I strive to be vocal, whether it’s communicating situations or keeping energy and positivity high. I also check in on my teammates and offer support whenever they’re feeling down, whether on or off the field. I make an effort to keep the team united and positive, regardless of the circumstances.

Vision and Goals:

8. What are your immediate goals for the upcoming season with the Lady Dukes, and what long-term aspirations do you have in softball? An immediate goal for my upcoming season is to win PGF Nationals. I plan to contribute to my team in every way possible to achieve that goal. I want to be the catcher in the championship game, the one who catches the last pitch to win it all. I’m going to work hard to reach that goal and help my team get there. My long-term aspiration is to be the starting catcher for a program that values great leadership, culture, and team atmosphere. That has been my long-term goal since I began playing travel ball, and all my efforts are dedicated to achieving it.

Influence and Inspiration:

9. Who are your role models in softball or sports, and what qualities do they possess that you admire?

My role models include Morgan Zerkle and Marissa Young. I admire Coach Zerkle for being an amazing leader, always working hard and setting a great example for her players. Coach Young inspires me by leading the way for women of color and creating a successful softball program in such a short time, all while being there for her family. In baseball, I look up to Bryce Harper and J.T. Realmuto. Bryce Harper’s journey and dedication to his career fascinate me; his hard work and sacrifices inspire me. As for J.T. Realmuto, many consider him one of the best catchers in baseball. His receiving skills and throwing mechanics are nearly perfect, and I strive to use them as a standard or goal.

10. What message do you hope to convey to other athletes who aspire to play at a high level?

I hope that any player understands that anything is possible with enough hard work. No dream or goal is unrealistic or unreachable if you have genuine passion and are willing to put in the effort to achieve it. There may be sacrifices along the way, but just like I do, believe that it will all be worth it in the end. Anyone can reach the top with the right drive, work ethic, and attitude.

Public Perception and Rankings:

11. How do you feel about the current rankings in your class? What do you think should be considered when evaluating a player’s potential?

I believe rankings are generally fair, but one thing people might not consider is that rankings don’t determine your exact future or potential. Additionally, not every great softball player focuses on rankings. Just because you may not like your current ranking doesn’t mean you can’t work hard to improve it in the future. At this moment, I think the rankings are doing well, considering all the relevant statistics.

12. What would you like to say to the softball community regarding your skills and why you believe you deserve to be ranked in the 2029 class?

I want everyone to know that I work incredibly hard. Nothing is handed to me; I earn and accomplish everything through dedication. My metrics have significantly improved, both in-game and in terms of numbers. I wake up early, stay up late, and do whatever it takes to get better. I give my best effort in everything I do. I’m a leader on the field and strive to motivate my teammates. There are many aspects that set me apart as a catcher: my pop time, blocking defense, and ability to receive and win strikes for my pitcher. Offensively, I focus on my plate vision, discipline, and power. Ultimately, anyone can be ranked number one if they put in the necessary work and effort, along with passion, a good attitude, and being coachable. There are many talented players out there, and I’m honored to be considered among them.

Closing Thoughts:

13. If there’s one thing you want people to remember about you as a player, what would that be? I want to be remembered for my tireless effort. I work hard and do whatever I can to achieve my goals. Along with my passion, I want anyone who knows me or comes to know me to recognize my strong love for this game, as it drives me. Sometimes things can be tough, but that passion keeps me going. The desire to play for a top D1 program motivates me through challenging times.

Wrap-Up:

14. How can your fans and supporters follow your journey as you continue to excel in softball? For anyone who’d like to follow my softball journey, please follow my Twitter and Instagram @CheezeMejia (same for both)

15. Thank you so much for your time, Lalia! Is there anyone you would like to thank or acknowledge for supporting you in your softball career?

There are so many people! My dad, my catching coaches Jackie Cornelius and Brian MacNamee, the P413 facility and all the coaches there who train me, REB Baseball for the throwing program, Erik Jung and Brian Whatley from the Padres for catching and throwing instruction, 5 Tool Connection and Danny Rodriguez from Orion Sport for strength training, Gradum Gswing and Scott Bray for hitting instruction, and my first travel ball coach, Jim Miller, for giving me a chance to start my career with the Canes. I also want to thank Alesha Perry and Tina Madison for the opportunity to earn my spot with the Bandits, and of course, Coaches Burden, Meadows, and Lamar for the opportunity with the Lady Dukes.

LS Top 200 Nationally Ranked Recruits (5-Stars); 2024 Grad Class

Tue, 02 Jul 2024 20:19:00 GMT

Congratulations to the Legacy & Legends Softball Top 200 Nationally Ranked Recruits from the 2024 graduation class. Those listed are truly the most elite of the elite softball players in the United States and Canada within their year group. We will be releasing the final Blue-Chip Recruits (5-Stars & 4-Stars) list this week. Then followed by the Yellow Chip Recruits (3-Stars & 2-Stars) after. To make this final ranking list and to have any Star Ranking (2-Stars to 5-Stars) whatsoever places the prospect/recruit in the Top 1% of all competitive players in their year group. As with all rankings, we will conduct a supplemental ranking board after the final list is released to correct any oversight. Again, congratulations on a very remarkable and prestigious achievement. Be safe and always continue to improve in all facets of your life.

Please click the link below to view the Elite Top Prospects for Calendar Year 2024, Top 200 List.

V/r Ron Jackson Director of L&LS

Ja'Leiyah Johnson 2029 - Futures Elite Rising Star!

Wed, 26 Jun 2024 19:24:00 GMT

Story by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball

Name: Ja’Leiyah Johnson

Nickname: Lele

Hometown: Huntsville, Alabama

Graduation Year: 2029

Grade Point Average: 3.5

Travel Team: D1Vision 14u Premier

Projected High School: Athens High School, Alabama

Positions: First Base, Third Base, Middle Infield

Height: 5’4"

Bat/Throw: Right/Right

Pitching Arsenal: Fastball, Curve, Screw, Rise, Drop, Change-up

Overhand Velocity: 57 mph

Exit Velocity Off Tee: 69 mph

Home to First Base Time: 3.0

Planned Academic Major: Social Work

Email: Specialjcj2011@gmail.com

Twitter: @ja_leiyahJ

Instagram: Ja_johnson2029

Who are you?

I am Ja’leiyah Johnson a kind/shy person. I love Top Golf, softball, and making music.

New team new look!! Playing up this season

How did your softball journey begin?

My dad was asked to coach when I was 5 years old. He signed me up and said I did things a typical 5-year-old wouldn’t do for the first time playing. I’ve been playing and training since then.

5 yrs old where it first started

What are your greatest softball strengths?

My greatest strengths are my pitching and my hitting.

Where it all began ...

What kind of pitcher are you?

I’m a pitcher who embraces the moment, nothing too big or small. I learned at an early age how to deal with any pressure/adversity.

At age 9, pitching in her first All-American tournament and garnering two awards

What kind of hitter are you?

People/coaches say I’m a power hitter.

Recent stats are:

Batting Avg: .558

OBP: 563

SLG: .905

HR: 1

RBI: 25

What is your favorite sports moment?

My favorite sports moment is winning a basketball championship in 7th grade. My greatest achievement going to the All-American tournament winning the Ace & MVP award.

"Power Pitcher and Power Hitter"

How do you handle adversity?

I handle adversity and failure easily. My dad has always prepared me for that. The best thing I can do is focus on the things that I can control.

How would your friends and teammates describe you?

My friends and teammates would describe me as a hard worker, great athlete but very quiet.

Who is your role model?

My dad is my role model. This man works hard, helps thousands of people, don’t care what people think about him and very strong minded.

What softball personality would you like to spend the day with?

Odicci Alexander played at James Madison University (JMU) when I was 10 yrs old. She had the eye of the tiger when watching her play. When I watch her play, I see myself. My dad had drove me 8hrs away to meet/train with her but she had to cancel so I never got to meet her.

What is your overall softball goal/dream?

My overall softball goal/dream is to play at a high level and to play in the college world series. Then I want to help other players.

Photo Cred: KXAN

What is your favorite jersey number?

My favorite jersey number is 7 but I’m number 44 on my travel team. I’ve had number 7 since I was 6 years old. A number is what you make it, so I am embracing 44.

What other sports do you play?

I play SG in basketball. I’m good at basketball but softball is a sport that comes to me. I will be choosing another sport for a hobby like wrestling or tennis.

Monrovia Basketball

What are your hobbies and interests?

My hobbies are doing art or making music and hanging out with friends.

Friends at a game

Who would you like to thank for helping and supporting you in your softball journey?

My dad is who I will thank a million times for supporting the way he does. I don’t know how he does it, but I appreciate him to the fullest. I don’t always show it, but nothing compares to his support.

Bucket Dad

Additional Information About Lele

Walk Up Song: What You know About Ja’Leiyah

Favorite food: Taco Salad

Favorite Song: N/A

Favorite Music Artist: Lacrae

Favorite Sports Team: Philadelphia Eagles

Favorite Sports Celebrity: Ja Morant

Favorite Movie: Matilda

Favorite Tv Show: My Wife & Kids

Favorite Book: The Hate You Give

Favorite Travel Spot: Florida

Favorite Quote: " Be ready for the unexpected, instead of letting the unexpected be ready for you." --- Dad

Story by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball, 26 June 2024

www.legacyandlegendssoftball.com

Please follow us on Twitter and Facebook.

Tatum Kreinus (2026): Recovery Journey from Torn ACL Surgery

Tue, 25 Jun 2024 18:47:00 GMT

Story by Tatum Kreinus, Published by Jeremiah Coates, L&LS:

Tatum's First Over the Fence (OTF) Homerun since surgery! Brick by Brick (June 2024)

Tatum Kreinus

On December 8th, 2023, my life turned upside down at our first high school basketball game of the season. I took a shuffle backwards and immediately felt a pop in my left knee. The injury came out of nowhere. When I tried to walk around, I knew something was very wrong. I got a magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI) scan around a week after and it came back as a fully torn anterior cruciate ligament (ACL).

Presurgery appointment

This was my first big injury, and I was absolutely devastated hearing I would miss two sports seasons and had to make a 9-month recovery. I immediately started prehab for a month after the MRI and had surgery on January 18th, 2024, at Andrews Orthopedic Institute.

Surgery day

After surgery is when I really began to realize that I need to trust God’s plan. I am a huge believer that this injury happened for a reason and that really motivated me after surgery to want to come back stronger. I started physical therapy again 2 weeks after surgery and really fell in love with it. I went into physical therapy (PT) with the goal of trying to get my knee better at something every session.

4 months post op strength training

My physical therapists have been some of my biggest supporters and through PT I have been able to get my knee to about 85% strength from where it was before in just 4 months after surgery. My confidence has been a huge part of this injury and keeping me focused on the end goal.

3 months post op = 1st time jumping!! So thankful for my physical therapists

It’s been hard for me to get back into things, but because I stayed confident in my hard work at recovery, I have hit some large milestones. I learned that throughout this, even the smallest achievements are worth celebrating. For instance, getting to hit for the first time again after my injury felt like winning the lottery. I even tried a sprint through 1st base at 75% speed and got a 3.25 time!

Awesome to come home from a great weekend with my team to some mail from

@BadgerSoftball

While it is still far off from the goals I have for myself at 100%, I feel stronger and faster than I was before surgery! I know that the hard work I am putting in is all going to pay off! I am thankful every day that even though this injury happened God has still given me the opportunity to be able to play again. I couldn’t get through any of this without the support he has blessed me with either. My family has been amazing through this, helping me stay positive and trusting the process.

Father and Coach Joe Kreinus https://x.com/Joe_Kreinus

I was heartbroken knowing that I would not get to play travel softball this summer, but my EC Bullets team has been so supporting. Just getting little check-ins from Coach Jess and Coach Ally and catching up with my teammates during this has been so helpful for me. Even though I can’t play, I am so excited to watch my girls this Summer every chance I can and be the best supporters for them as they were to me!

EC Bullets 16U - Schnute/Bilz

This injury has been life-changing, and one of the toughest things to go through, but God has a plan. I know that I already have made it through the worst and the best is yet to come! I can’t wait for the day I step onto the softball field again!

Story by Tatum Keinus, Published by Jeremiah Coates, Legacy & Legends Softball, 25 June 2024

www.legacyandlegendssoftball.com

LS Elite Top 100 Prospects (2024 Grad Class): Jayden Heavener Named Overall Top Recruit

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 22:52:00 GMT

Story by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball:

Louisiana State University (LSU) signee Jayden Heavener garnered the top overall recruit/prospect honors, leading a very talented group of players from the 2024 graduation class. Legacy & Legends Softball (L&LS) awarded this honor to Heavener for the third year in a row, as she completes the "Threepeat" as being recognized as the L&LS Top Overall Recruit/Prospect for her class. Heavener who is a nationally recognized standout in the softball community, has achieved success in both travel ball (Impact Caymol) and high school varsity softball. Most recently, Heavener finished her highly decorated high school career, leading Pace High School (FL) to winning the 6A State Championship. Pace finished as the 4th ranked team in the nation and as the overall top team in the state of Florida, while playing the 21st ranked strength of schedule in the nation ( MaxPreps.com ). Notably, Florida's 6A Class is considered one of the most talented and most difficult in the nation to win a championship. Heavener's pitching arsenal consists of a smoking hot fastball that cruises in the high 60s touching 69 mph. She compliments the heater with a standard curve, back door curve, rise, a knee buckling changeup, and if opposing players weren't worried enough, she just recently added a D1 quality drop ball this year. With an arsenal filled with various weapons, it will be difficult to predict what pitch is coming even with analytics.

The 2024 class is considered one of the best in history with an abundance of elite pitchers and middle infielders. The differences in skillsets and potential are very slim between all players in the Elite Top 100. This group of elite 5-Stars will have most players starting or having significant playing time as true freshmen for their respective colleges. When it comes to Heavener, what sets her apart from others is that not only is she a phenomenal pitcher (Left Handed Pitcher at that), she is also an amazing hitter (Left Handed Batter). She has a beautiful swing which gets overlooked because of her dominating pitching performances. Heavener has been rated as a legitimate 5-Tool by not only L&LS but other respected scouting and evaluation sites. Heavener is a legitimate offensive threat that consistently produces and she can play pretty much anywhere on the field if needed. When it came to selecting the top overall prospect/recruit, the board finally narrowed it down to three players.

Ultimately, the board could not overlook Heavener's elite pitching results and that she also contributes offensively as an elite hitter. Even if Heavener were to not be evaluated as a pitcher, she would have made the Elite Top 100 as a Utility for her defensive skills and offensive production. LSU is getting two elite players in one ... similar to a Rachel Garcia type of player. Don't be surprised to see Heavener getting additional playing time at LSU in non-pitching duties.

Closing out the the Top 10 on the list are: 2. Addisen Fisher a Right Handed Pitcher from Oregon who is a UCLA signee, playing for NW Bullets PNW and attended Bend HS. 3. Ella McDowell a Middle Infielder from Texas who is a Arkansas signee, playing for Impact Gold - Jackson and attended Foster HS. 4. Audrey Lowry a Left Handed Pitcher from Indiana who is an Oklahoma signee, playing for TN Mojo - Ramsey/Fisher and attended Tri-West Hendricks HS.

5. Morgan Reimer a Right Handed Pitcher from Canada who is a Washington signee, playing for Georgia Impact - Sampson and attended Walnut Grove Secondary School.

6. Kaylie Avvisato a Middle Infielder from Virginia who is a Northwestern signee, playing for VA Glory - Willemssen and attended Riverside HS

7. Erin Nuwer a Right Handed Pitcher from New York who is a Tennessee signee, playing for Impact Caymol and attended Nardin Academy.

8. Townsen Thomas an Outfielder from Texas who is a Florida signee, playing for Blaze United and attended Episcopal HS.

9. Shelby McKenzie a First Baseman from Florida who is a Florida State signee, playing for Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier and attended Pace HS.

10. Haley Ferguson a Right Handed Pitcher from Ohio who is a Michigan signee, playing for TN Mojo - Ramsey/Fisher and attended Beaver Creek HS.

Congratulations to all those who were named to the L&LS Elite Top 100 Centurion Club - 2024. An elite select group filled with stars.

Please click this link to see the 2024 Elite Top 100 Prospects list for Calendar Year 2024 in excel. We will be adding to the list as we publish the entire list in segments.

Story by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball, 17 June 2024 www.legacyandlegendssoftball.com

2027 Elite Rising Star: Rachel Godoy; SoCal 62+ mph Pitcher #38; Power Hitter! Mercado Athletics

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 19:07:00 GMT

Story by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball

Name: Rachel Godoy

Nickname: Rach / Ray / G5

Hometown: Oxnard, California

Grad Year: 2027

GPA: 3.8

Travel Team: Athletics Mercado - Godoy

High School: St. Bonaventure High School, California

Positions: Pitcher (RHP) & Corners

Height: 5’2”

Bat/Throw: Left Handed Batter/Right Handed Thrower

Pitching Arsenal and Speeds:

Overhand Velocity: 57

Exit Velocity off Tee: 70

Home to First or 20 yds: 3.226

Intended Study Major: Pediatric Speech Pathologist

Email: rjgodoy.09@gmail.com

Twitter: @Rachel_Godoy09

Instagram: rjgodoy_5

Who is Rachel Godoy?

I’m a student pitcher athlete who loves working on her craft. I’m determined in what I do and when I see something I want, I work to get there.

How did your softball journey begin?

It began when I was 3 at Sunset Little League and I’ve been playing ever since.

"That’s Jessica Mendoza. My dad took a picture of us and my mom made it bigger. We went back to the game just to get Jessica to sign my picture."

What are your greatest strengths as a softball player?

My greatest strengths as a softball player is, my mindset and my knowledge.

What kind of pitcher are you?

I’m a pitcher who likes keeping batters off balance. I utilize my spin and change my speeds to keep them guessing.

What kind of hitter are you and what are your most recent offensive stats?

I finished my high school season with a .524 batting average. As a hitter my goal is to get on base. Whether it’s a walk, a Hit By Pitch (HBP), a hit, or even a drop third strike.

What is your favorite sports memory and greatest achievement?

My favorite sports memory and greatest achievement is winning Premier Girls Fastpitch (PGF) Platinum 12u National.

How do you handle adversity and even failure?

I like taking in the information I’ve gathered and learn from them. During the next practices, I will practice what I failed on, growing every moment.

How would your teammates and friends describe you?

My teammates would describe me as a leader, hardworking, and caring.

Who is your role-model and or idol and why?

My role model is Jordy Balh because she’s hardworking and determined. Despite the setbacks she encountered, she never let up and always pushed through.

If you could spend a day with any softball player, former or current, who would it be and why?

I’d spend my day with Monica Abbott because I want to know how she dealt with pressure on and off the field.

What is your softball dream/goal?

My softball goal is to create an impact for players the way players made an impact on me.

When deciding on what college team to play for what are the most important things you’re looking for? Is it location, academics, conference, championship winning history, school reputation, coaching staff, team chemistry, weather, school colors etc?

I’d choose UCLA because it’s an all around win. The softball program is very strong and it’s academically strong as well. Not to mention it’s in a major city which I’m a fan of.

What is your favorite jersey number and why did you choose it?

My favorite jersey number is 5 because it’s been my family number for multiple generations. It’s been passed down from my great-great-grandmother whom played softball as well. To me it’s considered a ‘lucky’ number.

What other hobbies do you have to balance out softball and your personal life?

I enjoy helping out with my dad’s softball teams and clinics. They teach me how to be a better person, keep my softball IQ fresh, multitask, and much more. I also enjoy spending quality time with my family. They’re always a joy to be around and always make me smile.

Who would you like to thank for your softball achievements and support?

I’d like to thank my family first off for all my softball achievements. They’ve been the biggest supporters for me and always let me know how proud they are of me. My parents don’t ever let me get any idea I can’t do something. And my siblings are always there to make me smile even when I don’t want to. I’d also like to thank all my coaches who have invested their time into me and push me to my full potential.

Do you have any team pics to share?

What do coaches say about Rachel?

“God give his hardest battles to his strongest players Rachel alway works hard focus on every situation that is hand to her Coach Kat expect lots of success for Rachel”

- Kathy Slaten-Ayala (Pitching Coach)

Team Accomplishments:

2021 PGF National Champions

2023 Overall Fall Record 48-6-2 against 14U, 16U and 18U competition

2023 PGF National Fall Qualifier - Premier Berth Earned

2023 TCS Fireworks NIT Sparkler Showcase Road to the Rockies - Finalist

2023 TCS Arizona Fall Showcase Road to the Rockies - Champions (Paid Colorado Sparkler Power Pool Berth Earned)

2023 TCS AM Players Classic - 5-0-1 Record

2023 Don Battles On Road to the Rockies - Finalist

2023 TCS BLD Christmas - 5th

2024 USSSA Frozen Ropes 18U Tournament - Champions

Additional Info About Rachel

Walk up Song: Soak City (do it)

Favorite Food: Sushi

Favorite Song: Meet the Grahams

Favorite Music Artist: Tyler the Creator

Favorite Sports Team: UCLA

Favorite Sports Celebrity: Jordy Bahl

Favorite Movie: Tangled

Favorite Sports Movie: The Sandlot

Favorite TV Show: Gilmore Girls

Favorite Book: Romeo and Juliet

Favorite Travel Spot: Mexico

Favorite Quote: “A true champion is someone who wants to make a difference, who never gives up, and who gives everything she has no matter what the circumstances are. A true champion works hard and never loses sight of her dreams.” - Dot Richardson

Story by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball, June 4th, 2024

Please Follow us on FaceBook and Twitter: @LegacyLegendsS1

Meet 2025 Elite Top 100 Prospect Ava Calciano, 5-Tool UConn Commit Lockdown Shortstop

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 19:39:00 GMT

Story by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball

Name: Ava Calciano

Nickname: AC

Hometown: Lewes, Delaware

Grad Year: 2025

GPA: 4.1

Travel Team: Newtown Rock Gold-Garvey

High School: Cape Henlopen, Delaware

Positions: Shortstop

Height: 5’ 5"

Bat/Throw: Left/Right

Overhand Velocity: 63

Exit Velocity off Tee: 73

Home to First or 20 yds: 2.7

Intended Study Major: Undecided

Email: ava.calciano6@yahoo.com

Twitter: @AvaCalciano6

Instagram: ava.calciano

Who are you?

I’m Ava Calciano. I’m a competitive and firey player. I’m passionate about softball, but I also value God, my family, friends, teammates and coaches. I pride myself in honesty and hard work, and I love to smile!

How did your softball journey begin?

When I was young I watched Major League Baseball (MLB) players like David Ortiz, Mookie Betts, and Dustin Pedroia. I wanted to be just like them, so I made my dad pitch to me in the backyard as I tried to launch balls over our house.

What are your greatest strengths as a softball player?

I have a disciplined approach at the plate, and have gap-to-gap power but I’m also speedy and aggressive on the base paths. I have quick feet and hands, with good range in the infield.

What kind of hitter are you and what are your most recent offensive stats?

I have a patient, gap-to-gap approach with quick bat speed. Mentally, I’m the kind of hitter who wants to be in high pressure at-bats in the game, I’m not afraid to come up to the plate when my team needs me.

Here are my offensive stats from high school regular season- 17 games played

AVG- .472

OBP- .588

OPS- 1.550

SLG- .962

SB- 17

Runs- 24

What is your favorite sports memory and greatest achievement?

My favorite memory is when I was rounding third after I hit a homerun to put my Cape Henlopen High School team up against a team we hadn’t beaten in many years. As I was coming home, seeing my whole team at the plate cheering and smiling is a memory that I will never forget. Those are the moments that truly give you the best feeling.

How do you handle adversity and even failure?

In times of adversity and even failure, I remind myself that the world keeps spinning. When I feel like I’m going through a rough patch, I like to talk about it with teammates or coaches. Sometimes sharing what’s going on, and getting opinions or advice from people who care about you really makes a difference. Mistakes don’t define you, it’s how you pick yourself up and respond that does.

How would your teammates and friends describe you?

My teammates and friends know that I always have their backs. Any time they need reassurance or someone to talk to, I’m always in their corner, offering a smile. But, I also offer them a challenge as I push everyone around me to be better.

Who is your role-model and or idol and why?

My idol is Coach Donna J. Papa, the former head coach at the University of North Carolina (UNC). I’ve met her a few times and have been coached by her at camps, and I admire the knowledge and kindness she possesses. I only hope to be as distinguished of a coach that she is in the future.

If you could spend a day with any softball player, former or current, who would it be and why?

If I could spend a day with any softball player, I would spend it with Sis Bates so we could work on infield and I could learn from her.

What is your softball dream/goal?

Ever since I was twelve, it’s been my dream to play in the Olympics for softball. I was selected to the USA JWNT player pool through the USA Softball HPP program last year, but was unfortunately unable to attend the event this year. Hopefully I’m moving in the right direction to get to the highest level. Beside that, I want to coach Division 1 softball.

When deciding on playing for the University of Connecticut, what was the most important things you were looking for? Is it location, academics, conference, championship winning history, school reputation, coaching staff, team chemistry, weather, school colors etc?

UConn checked every single box for me. I wanted to be relatively close to my family, go to a competitive winning program, a place with strong academics, and be surrounded by good people. Deciding on UConn was the easiest decision I’ve made, and I’m super excited for this opportunity at the next level.

What is your favorite jersey number and why did you choose it?

For as long as I can remember I’ve been number 6 . My dad was number 16 from when he played little league through when he played in the minors and coached. Number 6 is so similar to 16, that the number is a tribute to my dad but I also have my own individualism with it.

What other hobbies do you have to balance out softball and your personal life?

I play volleyball for my school team, I love to shop, hang out with friends and family, and go to the beach with my dachshund named Milo.

Who would you like to thank for your softball achievements and support?

I would like to thank my parents for their love and support, Coach Dan and Coach Joe from Rock for the player they have helped make me and the trust they’ve had in me since day one, and Coach V, Coach Nikki, and Coach Mac at UConn for the amazing opportunity they are providing me with.

Additional Info About Ava

Walk up Song: Halle Berry-Hurricane Chris

Favorite Food: Chicken

Favorite Song: Better Together-Jack Johnson

Favorite Music Artist: Jack Johnson

Favorite Sports Team: Boston Red Sox

Favorite Sports Celebrity: Jarren Duran

Favorite Movie: 10 Thing I Hate About You

Favorite Sports Movie: Field of Dreams

Favorite TV Show: Suits

Favorite Book: Soul Surfer-Bethany Hamilton

Favorite Travel Spot: Florida

Favorite Quote: “Be humble. Be hungry. And always be the hardest worker in the room.” -Dwayne Johnson

Story by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball, June 3rd, 2024

Please Follow us on FaceBook and Twitter: @LegacyLegendsS1

Elite 2029 Prospect Spotlight: Laila "Cheeze" Mejia: C/UTL; Beverly Bandits - Perry; 1.7 Pop Time

Sat, 01 Jun 2024 19:17:00 GMT

Interview by Ronald Jackson, Legacy & Legends Softball, VP

Name: Lalia O. Mejia

Nickname: Cheeze

Hometown: Centerville, OH

Grad Year: 2029

GPA: 4.00

Travel Team: Beverly Bandits Perry

High School: Centerville High School

Positions: Catcher/Utility

Height: 5' 3"

Bat/Throw: Right/Right

Pop Times: 1.77 (In Game)

Overhand Velocity: 62 mph

Exit Velocity off Tee: 73.6 mph

Home to First or 20 yds: 3.1

Intended Study Major: Medicine/Sports Law

Email: Lalia.Mejia2029@Gmail

Twitter: @LaliaMejia08

Instagram: LaliaMejia08

Who are you?

I'm an Army brat who grew up always on the move with my dad and grandma, as well as a dedicated high level softball student athlete. I'm an athletic and coachable player who always wants to win. I try to be a leader on and off the field, leading by example and choosing the hard right over the easy wrong (my dad says that saying). Outside of softball I love to hang out with family and watch movies & tv shows.

2024 USSSA S30 Championship Battery; Pitcher Cami Diaz (64+ mph Fastball)

How did your softball journey begin?

I started off with tee ball at Fort Rucker, AL where I wore catcher's gear for the first time. I Moved on to coach pitch with the Enterprise Sweeties, where I made it to the All-Star team and the state championship. After the All-Star team I fell in love with the sport and knew I wanted to keep going. I asked my dad about playing more and he found an 8u tryout where I tried out but didn't make the team. It was heartbreaking but motivated me to work even harder.

First T-Ball game and first time I put on the catcher's gear. Love at first catch!

What are your greatest strengths as a softball player?

In my opinion my greatest strengths would be my work ethic and softball IQ. Since I work hard I have a strong arm and swing, as well as exceptional catching skills. As for my softball IQ I have all my coaches to thank, especially my coach Alesha Perry who has spent a huge amount of time on teaching my teammates and I about the game.

Homerun Number 4 playing in a local league near Dayton, OH

What kind of hitter are you and what are your most recent offensive stats?

I feel like I'm a mix of a contact and a power hitter, I'm dependable on a two strike count and usually put the ball in play when the team needs it. During our last PGF tournament I batted a .438 average, seven hits, 1 HR, 2 triples, 1 double, and 8 RBIs.

Homerun Number 3 vs Batbusters team against a solid pitcher with a killer change up!

What is your favorite sports memory and greatest achievement?

If I had to choose, my favorite sports memory would probably be when I got the call from Coach Madison that I made the Beverly Bandits. For my greatest achievement I'd have to say it's my selection at the HPP identifier to attend the National Selection Event.

PGF Northern Super Select Champions (2nd PGF win in a row)

How do you handle adversity and even failure?

When I'm faced with adversity, I make sure to remind myself of all my training just so I know I'm able to get through it and am confident in myself. When failure comes along since it always does in this sport, I usually recognize my mistake and know what to work on or how to fix it for next time. I like to listen to The Bulletproof Hitter before games which gets me in the right mindset.

1.7 Pop Time

How would your teammates and friends describe you?

I think my teammates would describe me as passionate for the game, a hard worker, a good teammate, and maybe a little nuts for my pregame warm up routine.

Who is your role-model and or idol and why?

My role-model would have to be Keagan Rothrock. She used to be my pitching coach when I still pitched. I admire all of her hard work and determination and I hope to follow in her footsteps. Everything she does and has done is the exact path I hope to take.

Homerun number 2; launched 220+ feet to LF vs a top ranked pitcher (#22 Line D media)

If you could spend a day with any softball player, former or current, who would it be and why?

If I could spend a day with any softball player former or current it'd be Aubree Munro. I chose her because she's also a catcher and has an incredible pop time. I’d want to hear all about her techniques and how her catching came to be so awesome.

PGF Midwest Super Select Champions

What is your softball dream/goal?

My overall dream would be to make it to the Olympics for Team USA Softball team and play at the University of Florida.

Most recent of 3 in a row PGF wins

Oooh that's a hard one. I've always wanted to go to the University of Florida because Keagan Rothrock and my dad were/are Gators. I was also born in Florida so it reminds me of home. I did hear they have a great academic program for tons of different majors.

Showing off the wheels

What is your favorite jersey number and why did you choose it?

My favorite number is number 8. Number 8 is just my number, I was born the 8th month, at 8 o'clock at night, I weighed 8 lbs. My best friends' numbers add up to 8, so many 8s it has to mean something!

What other hobbies do you have to balance out softball and your personal life?

I recently tried track and loved it! Track helps me improve my athleticism, I get to spend time with friends, and makes me a better softball player. I also like to read and watch baseball with my dad.

Gold medal/1st place in the Girls Middle School discus

Who would you like to thank for your softball achievements and support?

Oooh so many people. First off, my dad for making softball possible, pushing me, and believing in me. Coach Jim Miller (my 9U-10U coach) and my Canes teammates for supporting and giving me an opportunity to play on the Canes which helped develop the foundation of my success today. Alesha Perry and Tina Madison for giving me a chance to play with the best, the Beverly Bandits as well as helping take my skills to the next level. My Bandit teammates and families for cheering me on, supporting me through my ups and downs, and for being my family!

Cheeze with her dad as he attends US Army aviation flight school in Fort Rucker, Alabama to be a Blackhawk pilot. He always came home and played/practiced with Cheeze no matter how much he had to study and he sang her to sleep every night.

Additional Information About Cheeze

Walk up Song: Imperial March (Darth Vader Song)

Favorite Food: poke bowls

Favorite Song: Romeo and Juliet

Favorite Music Artist: Killers

Favorite Sports Team: The Marlins

Favorite Sports Celebrity: JT Realmuto (catcher for the Phillies)

Favorite Movie: Hardball

Favorite Sports Movie: Rookie of the Year

Favorite TV Show: Young Sheldon

Favorite Book: Miscalculations of Lightening Girl

Favorite Travel Spot: Savannah, Georgia

Favorite Quote: "Death to the opposition" (it's a motivational thing from Star Trek my dad showed me to help me compete)

Coach Alicia Perry: "Everybody here knows you can hit, you just need to believe it."

Coach Alicia's mom on starting a rally: "You're the fire starter for the team!"

Story by Ronald Jackson, VP, Legacy & Legends Softball, June 1st, 2024

Please Follow us on FaceBook and Twitter: @LegacyLegendsS1

Jamie Sencion (FDU Signee) and Paraclete HS Dominating in CIF Playoffs; Sencion No-Hits Orange Vista to Reach Championship Game

Thu, 16 May 2024 17:00:00 GMT

Story by Danielle Carbajal, Legacy & Legends Softball

In countless interviews and newspaper articles this season, Jamie Sencion (Legacy & Legends Softball 4-Star Recruit) has stressed “staying humble.” The soft-spoken senior pitcher from softball powerhouse Paraclete High School in Lancaster, CA, is bespectacled and unassuming with her mantra of humility and grace. What makes her extraordinary is that she remains so grounded while she has savagely bulldozed her way through the California Interscholastic Federation ( CIF) Southern Section Playoffs with a dangerous ferocity that belies that deferential demeanor – her pitching is anything but humble.

Sencion has been a career softball player since youth and has played year-round with travel ball for Redemption Red and Empire in Southern California during her tenure at Paraclete for high school. Sencion is also a power hitter and historically earned the first homerun (HR) on her school’s newly constructed softball field this year during their inaugural game. As a captain for her team, she has led the Spirits with an impressive senior season that has enjoyed great success and glorious high points such as garnering 21 strikeouts –yes, 21! – every out - against Serrano for a 6-0 win in February.

Sencion’s talent was recognized early in high school as she earned First Team All-League for pitching every year since her freshman year. Coach Christopher Foye from D1 Fairleigh Dickinson University in New Jersey recognized that talent as well and signed Jamie this last fall to play for the Knights next year. Coach Foye is a masterful scout and coach for his team. He has an eye for finding diamonds – as Foye secured one of the best D1 Freshmen pitchers this season– it’s unsurprising he snatched up Sencion to broaden his arsenal.

The Paraclete playoff run began after 17 consecutive wins and a dominating 10-2 regular season, which included a first-place championship finish in their Del Rey League. Sencion’s locked-in pitching earned her the starting spot in the circle all throughout playoffs and she has led her team to battle in the circle with a laser focus and a ruthless presence of quiet destruction.

In the first round of the CIF Southern Section playoffs, Sencion succinctly pitched 5 innings, as the Spirits mercy-ruled the Burbank Bulldogs 12-2, with Sencion earning 11 strikeouts. Sencion then went on to shut out San Marcos in the second round of playoffs with another 11 strikeouts and a 3-0 win. Third-round, Sencion’s savagery continued by not only racking up 12 strikeouts and 4 RBIs for the 9-3 win against La Quinta, but again demonstrating her formidable swing with a HR. Sencion solidified a spot in the CIF Div 4 Championships for Paraclete after defeating Orange Vista 2-0 in the Semifinals pitching a no-hitter with 11 strikeouts, effectively utilizing her arsenal of pitches.

Photo Cred: City of Lancaster, CA Government Office

This will be the first return for the Paraclete Spirits to the championship game since 2016 as they face JW North on Friday, May 17, 2024 in their quest for a CIF Southern Section Division 4 championship. With her talent, skill, and focus, Paraclete and Sencion’s chances of humbly earning a CIF championship ring are high.

Story by Danielle Carbajal, Legacy & Legends Softball, May 16, 2024

Please Follow us on FaceBook and Twitter: @LegacyLegendsS1

Catching Up with LLS 2024 5-Star Pitcher Aubrey Wurst (Maryland Signee)

Wed, 15 May 2024 15:23:00 GMT

Story by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball

Catching up with Legacy & Legends Softball 2024 Grad Class, 5-Star pitcher Aubrey Wurst on what’s new with her, and what her suggestions are for kids after they commit / sign.

First Aubrey, tell us what led to your decision to flip your commitment to Maryland?

Oh geeze, that’s a good question. I guess it started when I got the call that Coach Papa retired and UNC (University of North Carolina) was hiring a coach from outside the program. At that point I just wanted to meet the new staff and be 100% sure of my decision on where I was going to call home for the next 4 years. I want to thank Coach Smith (UNC Head Coach Megan Smith Lyon) for respecting my timeline and my decision to explore all of my options before making a final decision on my commitment.

It all happened very quickly. I visited 7 schools in the span of 6 weeks, and had a bunch of calls with various coaches. When I was right at the end of that timeframe, I got a call from Coach Lauren Karn at Maryland. I was on a visit at another school and we took the call in the hotel room that night. I had always been very interested in Maryland because I have a lot of family there, they are close to Baltimore and Washington DC, it’s a great academic school, and they have a lot of opportunities for what I want to study (Broadcast Journalism). I had been to several camps there and Maryland was definitely one of my top choices for schools when the recruiting process started my junior year of high school.

When I got the call my parents and I made arrangements to get to campus later that week, and I’m SO happy I did! After spending a day on campus and talking to Coach Karn and her staff, I knew that Maryland was going to be my new home. I can’t explain it, but it was just a feeling of “this is where I’m supposed to be.”

A few days later, I called Coach Karn and told her I was going to be a Terp! I couldn’t be happier with my decision and I’m so excited to study and play at Maryland!

Tell us about your approach to softball post commitment and post signing that you think younger kids can benefit from:

Well, I had a crazy recruiting process, one that most kids will definitely not experience! With everything that happened, I basically went through the process twice and I would be lying if I said I loved all of it.

Being recruited and going through the process is really tough at times, and managing that process along with your responsibilities with school, training, competing, and all of life’s other events can be challenging. But I also think it prepares you really well for what managing your schedule in college will be like. Kids who are going through the recruiting process will probably hear “enjoy it” a lot, but don’t get discouraged if you aren’t at times. The

process is filled with constant ups and downs!

I think one thing I see sometimes is that when some kids commit or sign they think that they have reached their goal, and maybe there is a tendency to take your foot off the gas pedal a little bit. I’ve seen some kids decide to take a step back with travel ball and play more locally as opposed to nationally, which in my opinion isn’t the best decision if your goal is the start at the next level.

Committing to play college softball at any level means you now have to work that much harder. I think some people forget that when you get to college, every player on the field was a star on their high school team! Everyone can play the game at an elite level. So, when you commit or sign you are now faced with the reality that in the time between committing and when you arrive on campus, you should be dedicated to preparing yourself to compete at the college level.

Team NC - Hinde

For me, my focus after committing and after signing was to work even harder than I already had been. I want to get to Maryland and I want to compete, be a great teammate, and work my butt off to earn playing time and to help my team win any way I can. To do that, I have to be as prepared as possible when I step foot on campus. I’ve spent a ton of time in the gym over the last few years working with my trainers to get stronger. I had an umpire that I had not seen in a while recently tell me “you look so much stronger than the last time I saw you.” I love hearing that because it’s great feedback that my hard work is paying off.

College softball is a true grind. You play 50+ games in a season and then hopefully you get to play in the postseason. As a pitcher, I have to make sure my body is ready physically to throw 7 inning games multiple times in a week or weekend. So I make sure that I’m throwing not only in games, but also throwing bullpens multiple times a week in between games. I’m making sure to take care of my body as well. I’m eating a lot healthier now than maybe I was in the past. I’m not skipping that ice bath because I’m tired and want to get to bed. I’m making sure to get good sleep. I’m listening to what my doctor/treatment specialist Tatum Buckley (who played softball at Florida Atlantic University) tells me to do daily so that I’m maximizing my recovery time after games. There are things that I have to do to make sure my body is ready for the workload I’m putting on it, and I’ve learned that you cannot skip those things.

I’ve also really worked hard on my command and my approach to pitching with my pitching coach JoAnn Ferrieri, and I’ve learned so much from my travel ball pitching coaches as well Lauren Haeger and Brittany Pickett). All three of them pitched in college at a very high level and they all have given me such great feedback on what to expect as I head off to Maryland.

One thing I know for sure is no matter how I’m throwing, there is always room for improvement. When I get to the Big Ten, it’s filled with amazing hitters. Coaches do their homework, and they scout you, and hitters are smart, they know what you are going to throw. I was watching the Big Ten Tournament and the announcer said, “one sign of a great pitcher is that she can basically tell you what she’s throwing, and she still gets you out.” I think that was a great comment and it just shows how much work goes into being successful at the next level. I can’t wait to get to campus in August and start working with the girls and with Coach Karn in the bullpen, because I know that I’m going to learn so much more about pitching when I get there.

American Heritage High School (Florida)

You just finished up a pretty awesome high school career. Can you tell anyone anything about

your experience and give any advice to younger kids?

My experience playing high school softball was probably a little different than a lot of kids. This year we only had 4 healthy high school age kids come out for the softball team, but we did have a bunch of middle school kids who were interested in playing middle school ball. Since we are a K-12 school, we were able to field a varsity team with a lot of young kids who really didn’t know much about softball.

I didn’t have a team filled with future college softball players or kids who even really prioritized softball, but I wanted to play my senior year and I didn’t want to leave my school to do it. I definitely acted as more of a coach this year, and to be honest I really enjoyed the season. I learned a lot about being a good leader and a role model for some of the younger kids, and about being patient, when at times it was tough to do that. All my teammates worked really hard, and that’s all that mattered to me. Personally, I grew as a player because I called my own games this year. That experience made me a better pitcher as I continued to learn what to throw in situations and I could work on specific pitches when the situation allowed. This was a rare opportunity and I used it to my advantage. We ended up having a pretty successful season which I’m not sure anyone expected when the season began.

I have a point in all of this I promise!! As I’ve mentioned I want to get into the broadcasting field and would like to be a sideline reporter or news reporter. One thing that drove me to picking my high school (American Heritage) is that it has a phenomenal media program. I actually would come to school early and take a period zero every day, because we have a media room/building where we would broadcast the morning announcements live to the entire school. My school gave me the chance to do live morning announcements as the news anchor, to travel to national competitions, to attend and work at the local Emmy awards, and to do special media pieces on our school’s athletes.

I was nominated for a national award for a piece I did on our football kicker Jake Weinberg (Florida State signee), and I got to learn so much as a high school student about the broadcasting and news industry, which would not have been available to me

at other schools.

Aubrey's Senior season ended after a 12 inning, 100 strike, 24K, 0 BB, no earned runs outing

I definitely could have transferred to try to win a State Championship, but when I really gave it some thought I decided that my education and what I could learn at American Heritage was going to do so much more for my future. Much more than winning high school softball games.

So, for the kids out there who worry that your high school team may not be super strong, or that you won’t get recruited because of it, don’t be. If you have a chance to go to a school where you can put yourself in a better place for your future academically, don’t hesitate to do it. As I’ve said before, play competitive travel ball and go to camps, and GET GOOD GRADES!!!

That’s the key. I would never tell someone to leave a great high school situation just for softball.

Thanks so much for checking in on me and for always supporting me! And most importantly thanks for all you are doing to continue to promote softball and all the kids who love playing this beautiful and magical game.

Story by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball, May 15, 2024

Elite Player Spotlight: Chloe "Wolfey" Wolfenbarger; Right-Handed Pitcher; 62mph FB; 74 Tee EVO; 2027; LLS Top 100

Tue, 14 May 2024 17:43:00 GMT

Story by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball

Name: Chloe Wolfenbarger

Nickname: Wolfey

Hometown: Cataula, Georgia (GA)

GPA: 4.00

Travel Team: Athletics Gold 09 - Tamborra/ Hamilton

High School: Harris County High School, GA

Position: Pitcher/ First Baseman

Height: 5’ 8"

Bat/Throw: Right/Right

Pitching Arsenal:

Overhand Velocity: 59

Exit Velocity of Tee: 74

Home to First or 20 yards: 3.31

Intended Study Major: Nursing

Email: Chloe.wolfenbarger2027@gmail.com

Twitter: @Chloe_Wolfey77

Instagram: chloewolfenbarger_

Who are you?

My name is Chloe Wolfenbarger, I am 14-years old, and a freshman at Harris County High School graduating class of 2027, located in Harris County, Georgia.

Atlanta Vipers 09 Hamilton (former team)

How did your softball journey begin?

I started playing softball when I was 6 years old. Before I started playing I did ballet and soccer. As soon as I started playing softball I knew that was the sport for me and I have loved it ever since.

First Travel ball team at 8 years of age. Nickname was "Sparkles"

First game ball in Little League, 7 years old

What are your greatest strengths as a softball player?

I am a very talented pitcher with a lot of speed and movement, and also a good power hitter.

Florida Fastpitch Classic 2024

What kind of hitter are you and what have your most recent offensive stats?

I am a very strong power hitter, during my high school season I had a batting average of .419, with 26 Hits, 24 Runs Batted In (RBI), and 2 Homeruns (HR).

Pitchers can hit too with an AVG of .750 for the weekend. PGF Georgia State Championship

USA All-American Games Oklahoma City (OKC) 2022

What is your favorite sports memory and greatest achievement?

My favorite sports memory is when my travel ball team was down by 7 runs against an older and better team and we came all the way back and beat them 8-7. My greatest achievement so far is getting 3rd place in State as a freshman.

Chloe is one of numerous Tincher Pitching successful protégés

How do you handle adversity and even failure?

The way I handle adversity is by acknowledging that when something bad happens in a game it probably has happened before, or it will probably happen again in the future. Sometimes it can be pretty emotional, but I try my best not to show any emotions until I am by myself and not on the field.

Class of 2027 Harris County High School

How would your teammates and friends describe you?

A few of my teammates have described me as very funny and hard-working player, and that they can rely on me to get the job done.

Triple Crown OKC Gold Bracket Champions 2022

Who is your role-model and or idol and why? My role-model is Keagan Rothrock, she is a pitcher for the Florida Gators. Me and Keagan both have a lot in common as we are both Tincher pitchers and both had a goal growing up to be on the Florida Gators and she was able to fulfill her goal and I want to do the same.

Dinger Queen Harris County High School

If you could spend a day with any softball player, former or current, who would it be and why? I would like to spend my day with Jordy Bahl, one of the reasons is because she is a really good pitcher but I feel like she could help me get closer with God and learn how to play through him.

Focused on getting that out at First Base

What is your softball dream/ goal?

My softball goal is to play for any Southeastern Conference (SEC) college softball team.

Freshman Varsity selected All-Region Team 2; selected All-Chattahoochee Valley Team 2

When deciding on what college team to play for what are the most important things you are looking for?

I feel like the most important things I am looking for in a college is mostly the location, team chemistry, and the team colors.

USA All-American Games OKC Team Georgia 2022

What is your favorite jersey number and why did you choose it?

My favorite jersey number is number 77. I always hear that the lucky number was 7, so I thought maybe I could do double sevens for double amount of luck.

Meeting Montana Fouts from Team USA

Meeting Charla Echols from Team USA

What other hobbies do you have to balance out softball and your personal life?

I like to go to church, hang out with my friends, and listen to music when I am not playing softball.

Freshman Homecoming with "Besties"

Who would like to thank four your softball achievements and support? I would love to support my parents, and my head coach, Coach Pete.

Chloe with her mom Kristin in Colorado for the 2023 Independence Day Tournament (IDT)

Chloe with her dad Joseph, heading to practice

Additional Information About Chloe

Walk up Song: Run This Town

Favorite Food: Baked potato

Favorite Song: Godspeed by Zach Bryan

Favorite Music Artist: Zach Bryan

Favorite Sports Team: Atlanta Braves

Favorite Sports Celebrity: Dansby Swanson

Favorite Movie: 10 things I hate About You

Favorite Sports Movie: The Sandlot

Favorite TV Show: Grey’s Anatomy

Favorite Book: The Summer I Turned Pretty

Favorite Travel Spot: Panama City Beach

Favorite Quote: “You Miss 100% Of the Shots You Don’t Take” --- Wayne Gretzky (and Michael Scott)

Story by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball, May 14, 2024

Elite Player Spotlight: Alaina Diehl; 2027 RHP/UTL Dual-Threat; 60mph FB; LLS Top 150 Watch List

Fri, 03 May 2024 17:40:00 GMT

Athletics Mercado Fastpitch Organization:

Name: Alaina Diehl

Hometown: Palmdale, CA

Grad Year: 2027

GPA: 4.0

Travel Team: Athletics Mercado - Godoy

High School: Highland High School (Palmdale, CA)

Positions: Right-Handed Pitcher (RHP) & Utility

Height: 5’ 9"

Bat/Throw: R/R

Pitching Arsenal w/Speeds: (Verified by L&LS - 2024)

Overhand Velocity: 62 mph (Verified by L&LS - 2024)

Exit Velocity off Tee: 71 mph (Verified by L&LS - 2024)

Intended Study Major: Medicine

Email: AlainaDiehl2027@gmail.com

Twitter: @alainadiehl2027

Instagram: alainadiehl_2027

Please tell us a little about yourself .

My name is Alaina, I’m 15-years-old from Palmdale, CA, born and raised. I’m a freshman (soon to be sophomore) at Highland High School, graduating class of 2027.

How did your softball journey begin?

My softball journey began in 2018 when I was 9 years old. After watching my cousin Ava play in a Little League softball game, I wanted to give playing a try. Since then, I kept playing and never looked back.

Alaina starting her softball journey in Little League

Alaina and her cousin, Ava whose Little League game inspired Alaina to play softball

What is your greatest strength as a softball player?

My greatest strength as a softball player is the ability to remain composed and level-headed during high-pressure situations, whether in the circle or at the plate. Being able to lock into the moment and ignore distractions has been significant to my approach.

"Alaina is a coach's dream type of player. Hardworking, respectful, extremely coachable and willingly accepts constructive feedback. A true team player that brings team focus and positive vibes to the dugout. A leader that is one of the most humble and hardworking players anyone will ever meet. She continuously strives to make herself better and it shows in the product of not only herself but her teammates. A wonderful player and has so much potential she has yet tapped. A very high ceiling and no doubt will be playing for a highly successful program at the next level. It was an absolute blessing to have coached Alaina on a championship travel ball team and I am excited to see where her journey takes her."

--- Coach Buffy Goodwin, Redemption - Goodwin 14U

What kind of hitter are you?

I consider myself a quality producer when it comes to hitting. I tend to hit for power and average. During the high school season my batting average was .474, with 21 Hits, 18 RBI, 26 Runs and a HR. OBP 630. SLG. 868.

Focus ... Mamba Mentality

What is your favorite sports memory?

My most recent favorite sports memory was hitting a homerun during an intense game against a rival high school team. It was a tough game, with both teams battling for the top spot. The moment felt surreal and special. Being able to help my team in any way is what I always strive for.

What is your greatest achievement?

My greatest achievements aside from academics is reaching 129K’s in 66.1 innings during my freshman year in high school. I was fortunate to be given the opportunity to have as much time as I did in the circle. It was definitely a season of growth and improvement for me.

"Alaina is a SoCal under the radar elite prospect; should and will get more attention."

--- Coach Jeremiah Coates, L&LS, Mid-Atlantic Evaluator/Journalist

How do you handle adversity and even failure?

As hard as it can be for me to fail at anything, I’ve come to understand and accept that softball is a game of failure. I’ve succeeded many times, but have failed even more times. Letting myself down is one thing, but feeling like a let my team down is gut-wrenching. Instead of allowing adversity and failure to consume me, I process it, own it, and learn to improve upon it.

"Superb base running and live play situational awareness". --- L&LS Report Card

How would your teammates and friends describe you?

My teammates and friends have described me as easy-going, fun-loving, friendly, determined, goal driven, cooperative, patient, and funny.

Highland HS (Palmdale, CA) Softball (Rachel Garcia's HS Alma Mata)

Hanging out with friends ...

Who is your role model and why?

Without a doubt, my dad is my role model. Without his love, support, commitment, and dedication, I wouldn’t be the athlete I am today. The time, patience, grace, and sacrifices he makes for me and my siblings in order to succeed is amazing. He continues to give so much of himself for his family and that’s why I love and respect him so much.

Alaina with her dad, Coach Patrick Diehl (HS & Travel Ball coaching experience)

"One of the best coaches I've seen. Alaina's high softball IQ comes from Patrick."

--- Coach Al, L&LS Chief of Evaluations & Rankings

If you could spend the day with any softball player or coach, who would it be?

If I had the opportunity to spend the day with any softball player it would most definitely be Rachel Garcia. This isn’t just because we come from the same hometown and high school, but because she’s the epitome of an extraordinary student-athlete. I’ve followed Rachel Garcia’s softball career since I began playing softball. I’ve also met her a few times during her local camps and at games she’s attended. Her work ethic, self-discipline, and performance in the circle and at the plate has always fascinated me. The contributions she’s made to women’s softball, while remaining down to earth, humble, and kind makes her even more of a role-model.

Young Alaina with Rachel Garcia

What is your softball dream and college goals?

My ultimate softball dream is to continue to grow, improve, and compete at a collegiate level. Education and academic reputation is absolutely very important and a huge factor in my decision. Finding a college team with strong positive chemistry where coaches and players foster a family environment and want to win championships as badly as I do. Attitude is contagious, both positive and negative and I want to be on a team where we play for love of the game and love for winning.

Being raised by a father coach, I understand a lot about why coaches do things that many may not fully understand. At the end of the day, I believe most coaches want to do what is best for their players and program. I would be honored to play for a coach that is respected/respectful, promotes a positive team environment, proven, and dedicated to pursuing championships. When I graduate from college and walk across the stage to receive my diploma, I want to be wearing two rings. My college graduate ring and a college softball championship ring. That is my dream.

What is your favorite jersey number?

My favorite jersey number is number 7. It’s the softball number that I started with and kept until I reached high school. I made some of my best memories wearing that number. My teammates shouting “Lucky 7” chants was the best form of hype for me. In high school that number belongs to another teammate, so I currently wear number 20.

Lucky Number 7

What are your other hobbies and interests away from softball?

Outside of softball, I really enjoy camping, hiking, biking, boogie boarding, snow tubing, shopping, and going to the movies. At home, I usually like to read, listen to music, play Roblox with my brothers and friends, play with my two cats, and play wiffle ball with my brothers.

Hanging out with the squad ...

Is there or are there any others who have been very instrumental to your high-level of success and achievements?

There are so many people who have been supportive and important to my success as a student-athlete. Then there are a selected few who have guided and believed in me from the start. My parents have been the biggest and best support system I can ask for. They love and support me unconditionally.

Alaina with her mom, Elizabeth enjoying the mountains of California

Another person I credit my growth to is Coach Ralph Rodriguez (Founder/Owner of Redemption Fastpitch Softball). He was my very first travel softball coach and has been a part of my progression from the age of 9. For the past 6 years, he never stopped believing and encouraged me to keep pushing forward. I will always be thankful for his faith in me.

Coach Ralph Rodriguez has very impressively built a powerhouse travel ball program based out of the Antelope Valley (Palmdale, CA) and has numerous quality championship teams throughout SoCal. His flagship team (pic above) Redemption - Memory/Rodriguez has taken their elite talents to top tournaments throughout the nation and continues to impress. Redemption's dominance continues to spread throughout the region.

Last but not least, Coach Allen Goodwin. He saw my potential from the first day I trained with him. He opened my eyes to a higher level of training, competition, and the path I needed to take to get further ahead. His mentorship and knowledge of the game has been invaluable to me.

Family

Additional Information About Alaina Diehl

Walk up Song: Who’s The Girl - Eve

Favorite Food: Pasta

Favorite Song: Espresso - Sabrina Carpenter

Favorite Music Artist: Olivia Rodrigo

Favorite Sports Team: Los Angeles Dodgers

Favorite Celebrity: Ryan Reynolds

Favorite Movie: 10 Things I Hate About You

Favorite Sports Movie: A League of Their Own

Favorite TV Show: Who is Erin Carter

Favorite Book: Wonder by R.J. Palacio

Favorite Travel Spot: Zion National Park

Favorite Quote: “Breakthroughs begin when excuses end”

Additional Quotes: “ITB” (I’m the Best) -Nate Trosky

Published by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball, May 3, 2024

www.legacyandlegendssoftball.com

Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier 2027: PGF Nationals Runner-up 2-Years Standing; Platinum Division

Fri, 11 Aug 2023 13:27:00 GMT

Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier 2027 was so close once again to garnering the highly prestigious Premier Girls Fastpitch (PGF) National Championship however for the second year in a row, they fell short after leaving it all on the field, earning Finalist Nationals Runner-up.

Head Coach Fredrick Alford’s Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier 2027 team made another huge run this past weekend at PGF Nationals in the 14u Platinum Division. In the summer of 2022, they finished runner-up and were hoping to make another great run. Ultimately, they fell just shy of their goal losing 2-3.

Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier 2027 with Owner Richard Shea

Alford’s superbly coached team came out on fire with on-point pitching, stellar defense, and timely hits. They held teams to 3 or less runs each game. They had 3 shutouts, 1 no-hitter and 4 run ruled games.

The championship game was a battle and timely hits just weren’t made and did not end the way this hardened and extremely talented team had hoped. They had big hits, solid defense, and great pitching only giving up 6 hits to their 11 but just not at the exact moment when needed.

Bolts coaching staff including Richard Shea, Rock Thompson, Shane Cahalan, Giselle “G” Juarez, Fredrick Alford, Joe McHenry, Amy Sevier

"Every Kid on the team played their part this tournament and truly fought for each other. I hate that we made it this far and were unable to finish but I am super proud of this group of girls and this growth over the past few months. It is difficult coming into a jam-packed schedule straight out of school ball and not much time to prepare. There are moments when we showed our lack of preparation but ultimately we were able to put all the pieces together and compete at one of the most prestigious tournaments in the country. I believe that it really says a lot about this team and this organization being able to come out here 2 years in a row and advancing to the championship game undefeated. Rock trains and prepares us for these moments, but it is up to the girls to capitalize on the opportunities that they make for themselves."

--- Head Coach Fredrick Alford

Everyone played a huge role at PGF Nationals and this team was very enjoyable to watch. The future is extremely bright for their prep days and beyond into college.

Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier 2027

#14 Ansley “Gator” Brown who hit an impressive .500 AVG with a .576 OBP and turned 3 double plays.

#7 Asher Thompson SS/C with an impressive .567 AVG and .629 OBP with 2 homeruns. This nationally elite short stop locked down her position the entire tournament!

#44 Paige Welch UTL hit .484 AVG and .543 OBP. Leading the team with 6 stolen bases.

#15 Ellie Mitchell a catcher/utility went .370 AVG .485 OBP with 5 stolen bases. Going 3 for 3 in the championship game! Not allowing a passed ball in 18 innings of work.

#12 “KC” Kennedy Cuthbert 3B/1B batting .345 and on base of .457. Making huge plays at third the entire game.

#2 Madison McHenry 1B/3B Batting .375 on base of .459 leading the team with 5 extra base hits.

#22 Madison Kokoska: UTL making a huge diving catch in the championship game in right field. Throwing a no hitter and only giving up 2 earned runs the entire tournament.

#3 Abbigail “Bear” Raciborski: C- catching 45 innings with only 2 passed balls allowed!

#33 Autymn Hollon: OF showing off her power at the plate with 2 timely triples.

#00 Brooke McGowin: OF – had a good eye at the plate buying a lot of walks and hit by pitches getting runners on base and made no errors in the field.

#24 Sasha Campbell: utilized her speed on the base path and at the plate.

#6 Savannah Sevier: OF had no strikeouts on the week.

#10 Brynlee Alford: RHP - Only allowed 4 hits in championship game and 1 extra base hit the entire tournament in 28 innings of work. Only allowed 3 earned runs in 28 IP.

#42 Bryanna Williams RHP- unfortunately, had a knee injury in one of the semifinal games were she was unable to finish playing the next two games. She is getting her knee evaluated and will continue to rest and be back stronger! She threw 16 innings with 17 Ks!

Throughout the interview, it was very evident that Alford is a very grateful gentleman coach and is appreciative of the hardwork, dedication, commitment, and support his players, parents, and coaching staff gave during this successful season. A very humble coach that consistently praises and boasts about his players.

Alford stated, "Lastly, I am very grateful for the support of the Shea family, Rock and his staff for the opportunity and we will be back ready to compete once again next year. I feel that this organization offers the absolute best opportunity for kids in the southeast to be successful at the highest level and am proud to be a small part of it."

Alford is now preparing his fall roster and will be playing in top showcase tournaments. Then plans to make another impressive run at PGF Nationals again next year!

Contact Information:

Email: bolts09fba@gmail.com

Phone: 256-397-4401

Recruiting Link: https://t.co/U9HkzF57qV

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Published by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball, August 11, 2023

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Must See Elite 2026 Prospect Ava Tapia; Power Hitting C/OF; Tier 1 Firecrackers Premier - TJ; 72 OHV

Thu, 10 Aug 2023 13:20:00 GMT

Firecrackers Fastpitch Organization:

Name: Ava Tapia

Hometown: Upland, CA

Grad Year: 2026

GPA: 4.17

Travel Team:

- Firecrackers Premier - TJ 2026

- Mexico National Olympic Team

High School: Upland High School, CA

Positions: Catcher / OF

Height: 5’ 6”

Bat/Throw: Right/Right

Pop Times: 1.6 - 1.7 (Verified)

Overhand Velocity: 72 mph (Verified)

Intended Study Major: Elementary Education

Email: avajtapia@gmail.com

Twitter: @avajamestapia

Instagram: @avajamestapia

Who are you?

I’m Ava James Tapia. I’m a 2026 catcher/outfielder from Upland, California and I love softball more than anything. Softball has been my life ever since I was a little girl and it has molded me and shaped me into the person I am today. This sport has taught me so much more than how to be an athlete. It has taught me how to stay focused and dedicated to what’s important to me, how to never give up even when things seem to reach an all time low, and has blessed me with so many amazing friendships.

All around softball has taught me so many valuable life lessons that I wouldn’t trade for anything. It has helped me become the hard worker I am today and taught me that nothing is handed to anyone because if you stop your grind your spot can be taken like that, same with how things are in real life. I often take the way I approach softball and apply it in my everyday life too, for instance when it comes to school or friends because everything good is worth working for.

How did your softball journey begin?

I started playing softball just before my eighth birthday when one of my friends at the time asked me to sign up with her. I didn’t know anything about softball and really only signed up to hang out with my friend more, but I ended up loving it and showing some raw talent so I stuck with it.

What are your greatest strengths as a softball player?

I’d say my greatest strengths as a softball player are being a great teammate, my competitiveness and my no give up attitude. I support all my teammates and genuinely want them to all succeed. My competitive drive pushes me to continue to work and be successful and help my team however I can. On those tough days where I maybe didn’t play my best and want to give up I allow myself to be in that space for a minute then tell myself it’s time to get back to work and obtain those goals I’ve set for myself.

What kind of hitter are you and what are your most recent stats?

I would say I’m a contact hitter that focuses on hitting line drives. In 2022 I batted .302 with a team leading 12 home runs and 68 RBI’s in travel with a schedule comprised of mostly nationally ranked teams. In high school I batted .342 with 5 home runs.

Final stats for Colorado Sparkler and the Alliance Super Cup

Batted .642, going 9-14

4 HR’s

4 singles

1 double

3 walks

11 RBI’s

NOTE: Defensively caught 27 innings; gave up 1 stolen base threw out 2 picked off 1.

NOTE: Team finished 5th overall at PGF (Premier) out of 76 teams

What is your favorite sports memory and greatest achievement?

My favorite sports memory would be competing at the U15 Pan American games in Peru this past April. It was an amazing experience and I met so many great people that I made so many unforgettable memories with.

My greatest achievement would definitely be making the Mexico Junior National Team. It had been one of my goals the past year or so, so to find out that I had made the team was an amazing moment for me.

How do you handle adversity and even failure?

In this sport adversity and failure are inevitable and I’ve experienced plenty, but it’s important to stay positive, go back to the drawing board when necessary, work hard and continue going after your own personal goals.

How would your teammates and friends describe you?

My teammates would probably describe me as more quiet and focused whereas my friends would probably describe me as caring, someone who would do anything for them and more goofy.

Who is your role-model and or idol and why?

I’d have to say my role-model is my grandpa because he’s shown me first hand what it means to be hard working. He’s worked so hard his entire life and it just really inspires me. He’s also always been so selfless and puts other people’s needs before his own. He has such a big heart and has always been there to support me through anything.

If you could spend a day with any softball player, former or current, who would it be and why?

I’d say it’s a toss up between UCLA assistant coach, Lisa Fernandez, or Florida State catcher, Michaela Edenfield. I’ve had the honor of interviewing Lisa Fernandez for a school project when I was younger and she gave such great advice and she’s so knowledgeable, so I feel a day with her could be beneficial in so many ways.

Spending the day with Michaela Edenfield would be pretty cool too. Watching her catch during the College World Series I just loved her confidence, but how she also seemed so relaxed behind the plate. In an interview she did after one of the games she talked about doing anything she could for her team, whether on offense, defense or both and I really related to that. Plus her makeup is always fun and it makes her stand out.

(Brett Rojo-USA TODAY Sports)

What is your softball dream/goal?

My two biggest softball goals are to play for a Division 1 college and to compete in the Olympic Games.

When deciding on what college team to play for what are the most important things you’re looking for?

When deciding on a college I definitely have some favorites, but ultimately I want to play for a D1 program with an atmosphere on campus that is strong in school spirit. Playing for a coaching staff that believes in me and what I can bring to the program would be amazing too.

What is your favorite jersey number and why did you choose it?

My favorite jersey number is definitely #7. I used to wear 11 but when I joined a team in 10u 11 was already taken so I picked #7 because of Ivan “Pudge” Rodriguez and it’s just stuck with me ever since.

What other hobbies do you have to balance out softball and your personal life?

When I’m not doing something softball related I love hanging out with friends and family. I also love baking and going to the beach.

Who would you like to thank for your softball achievements and support?

My family will probably always come first because they’ve been so supportive and continue to push and encourage me.

I also owe so much to two of my coaches, Coach TJ and Coach Randy Yuge. I’m so appreciative of all they do for me and I know they believe in me and that just makes me want to work that much harder to make not only them proud, but my family as well.

What do coaches say about Ava?

"As a person and young lady: very nice soul, willing to do whatever for anyone! On the field: very fierce competitor, GREAT arm and has hit many a homerun when we needed a big hit which shows me pressure doesn't bother her! Overall a very good player, but a better teammate and person."

--- Head Coach TJ Houshmandzadeh, Firecrackers Premier - TJ 2026

Coach TJ and Ava

"Ava Tapia performs very well as a catcher, she is agile in her blocking movements and gets rid of the ball very fast on her throws to the bases. She makes strong throws with good accuracy and displays good guidance on pop-up foul balls. Offensively she has good batting technique and quick hands. She is fast and knows how to run bases. If she continues with good work ethic and guidance, she'll have an opportunity to advance further with Team Mexico."

--- Co-Head Coach Nancy Prieto Garcia, Mexico National Olympic Team

Additional Information About Ava

Walk up Song: A Lot by 21 Savage

Favorite Food: Pasta

Favorite Song: She by Harry Styles

Favorite Sports Team: Dodgers

Favorite Sports Celebrity: Freddie Freeman

Favorite Movie: The Notebook

Favorite Sports Movie: The Sandlot

Favorite TV Show: Outer Banks

Favorite Book: Don’t have one but I like a good love story

Favorite Travel Spot: Mexico

Favorite Quote: “Don’t let the praise go to your head and don’t let the criticism go to your heart.”

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Published by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball, August 10, 2023

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Elite Prospect Spotlight: Erin McDaid; 2025; RHP/1B; 62 mph; LI Surge; NY

Wed, 09 Aug 2023 14:14:00 GMT

LI Surge Fastpitch:

Name: Erin McDaid

Hometown: Smithtown, New York

Grad Year: 2025

GPA: 4.1

Travel Team: LI Surge

High School: Smithtown High School West, New York

Positions: RHP/1B

Height: 5’ 9"

Bat/Throw: Right/Right

Pitching Arsenal w/Speeds

Fastball: 59-62

Screwball: 59

Curve: 59

Rise: 58

Drop: 58

Change: 45

*NOTE: This past varsity season Erin set the school record with 18 strikeouts in a 7 inning game against the later ranked #2 seeded playoff team and finished the varsity season with 209 Strikeouts in 120.2 innings.*

Intended Study Major: Undecided

Email: erinmcdaid2025@Gmail.com

Twitter: @ erinmcdaid2025

Instagram: erinmcdaid2025

Who are you?

I am a kind and caring person who loves making people laugh.

How did your softball journey begin?

I played t-ball when I was younger but when I moved to Smithtown from Farmingdale I wanted to play softball and as time went on I became more and more interested and competitive to the point where so am now.

What are your greatest strengths as a softball player?

My greatest strength is that I am able to adapt in pressure situations.

What kind of hitter are you and what are your most recent offensive stats?

I am a patient power hitter who is confident in my hitting abilities no matter what the count is. This past season I led my Varsity team in all hitting and pitching areas including Batting .520, OBP .652, hit 3 Home Runs regular season and 1 playoff Home Run.

What is your favorite sports memory and greatest achievement?

My greatest achievement is pitching an 18 strikeout game against the later #2 seed Commack in the regular season. Then later in playoffs we upset the number 2 seed, Commack 4-1. We were an underdog to make the playoffs and then to beat the #2 seed was amazing.

How do you handle adversity and even failure?

I try to stay calm and composed to rely on my abilities and teammates to help pick me up.

How would your teammates and friends describe you?

I think my teammates would describe me as someone they can rely on and have fun with.

Who is your role-model and or idol and why?

I would say one of my biggest role models is my dad because he always pushes me to be the best I can and helps me whenever he can.

If you could spend a day with any softball player, former or current, who would it be and why?

I think I would choose Montana Fouts because overcame so much adversity and pushed herself to become the amazing softball player she is.

Photo Credit: University of Alabama Athletics Department

What is your softball dream/goal?

My softball goal is to win Counties for my high school team and to play for a good college team that best fits me.

When deciding on what college team to play for what are the most important things you’re looking for?

When choosing a college, I look for location, education, good coaching and playing time.

What is your favorite jersey number and why did you choose it?

My favorite jersey number is 16 because my birthday is July 16th.

What other hobbies do you have to balance out softball and your personal life?

Other than softball I like to hang out with my friends a lot. I also play field hockey in the fall and do track in the winter both for my school team. I really enjoy traveling going to concerts with my friends too.

Who would you like to thank for your softball achievements and support?

I would like to thank my parents for all of my softball achievements for being my biggest supporters and helping me through it all. Whether it is waking up at 4 am to drive to a game or working in the backyard, they always make sure that I have the best opportunity to play to my full potential.

Additional Information About Erin

Walk up Song: Run this Town - Rihanna

Favorite Food: Chick-fil-A

Favorite Song: Long Live- Taylor Swift

Favorite Music Artist: Taylor Swift

Favorite Sports Team: Yankees

Favorite Sports Celebrity: Derek Jeter

Favorite Movie: Mama Mia

Favorite Sports Movie: A League of Their Own

Favorite TV Show: Grey’s Anatomy

Favorite Book: The Summer I Turned Pretty

Favorite Travel Spot: Jamaica

Favorite Quote: “I love when people doubt me. It makes me work harder to prove them wrong!”-Derek Jeter

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Published by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball, August 9, 2023

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Behind the Plate with Umpire Robert "Bob" Bennett: Perspective on Prep & College Softball

Wed, 02 Aug 2023 17:31:00 GMT

Tell us about yourself and umpiring experience.

I have been umpiring on and off for many years. I got back into it about 2005 when my stepdaughter was playing Little League. I was watching her game and could not believe how the game was called or ran.

It was then I said I can do a lot better and started back doing Little League for District 51 here in California. I went to all the clinics and training I could find. I became a District Certified Umpire in 2012. I set my goal at that time to umpire at the Western Region Championships.

I started doing high school baseball and softball about 2013, and still do high school softball to this day.

In 2019 I was selected to do the Little League Softball Western Region Championship. I spent 10 days at Western Region in San Bernardino, CA. During that time along with 9 other umpires we were evaluated and 4 were chosen to do the final game. I was one of the four and was assigned First Base.

After my regional I got into doing travel baseball and softball because that is a year-round gig and I can work almost every weekend.

Granted the money is good, but umpiring is my hobby and keeps me feeling younger. I was even able to do the underground travel games during the COVID times. Teams were not told the locations of games until day prior to prevent us from being shut down.

I started working some National Softball Association (NSA) tournaments and was put in touch with a couple of guy who assign Premier Girls Fastpitch (PGF) and Triple Crown Series (TSC) games.

I was approached one weekend while doing a tournament by a guy who said he was a D1 Softball umpire and wanted my contact info to recommend me to do college softball. I was contacted in the Fall of 2022 to come and do some evaluation games and with the start of the 2023 college softball season I got to do 45 college games.

What are the biggest challenges in umpiring today?

The biggest challenges today are our numbers. There are not enough umpires to go around.

During the 2023 high school season there were games that did not happen due to no umpires to cover them. We even had to do Varsity Level games single man which takes away from the accuracy of potential calls on the field.

How do you handle inappropriate conduct and blatant rules violations?

Just as all my training has taught me. Warn, Restrict, Eject. Sometimes it doesn’t happen in that order, but we will try to keep a coach in the game until he/she decides he/she doesn’t want to be there anymore, so we help him/her along his/her way.

You meet and converse with countless college coaches attending games. You hear a lot of the tea from the coaches. What can players do to help their overall perception as a prospect while on the field?

Be Coachable. Point Blank. A coach doesn’t want a player who can’t be coached to get better. Coaches are watching everything you do from the time you are stepping out of your car, how you treat your parents, the mood on your face, the way you carry your gear, how you meet and greet your coaches and teammates, how you warm-up, your conduct in the dugout, and of course how you perform on the field, both physically and mentally. They see things most people never think about. Recruiting a player is an investment and coaches want to make safe and highly productive investments.

What can parents do to not hurt their child’s recruitment value in front of college coaches watching games?

I know a lot of parents enjoying coaching their kids, but for many there comes a time (16u) when they need to get away from the Daddy or Mommy ball mentality. Most parents can only take their child so far and they need to back off and let someone with more experience and knowledge take over.

You have to ask yourself ... Is this kid attached to only her Dad/Mom coach ... can they be coached by another person that isn't their Dad/Mom ... are they independent and mature enough ...

Whether it’s a high school or travel coach, parents need to know when its time to be a parent again. Be the emotional support your kids need. Stress academic grades and being part of the overall TEAM.

Also, the way parents act/behave in the stands sends a very loud and clear message to the college coaches. Parents get recruited just as hard as the player and no reputable college coach wants to bring a toxic parent into their organization. Many parents show their true colors when showing disrespect to the umpiring crew. It is a bad look and will cause many college coaches concerns.

What are the biggest peeves you experience as an umpire?

Coaches who don’t take the time to learn the rule book. There are some great coaches out there, but there are also some outstanding coaches who take the time to learn and understand the rules.

What teams or overall organizations standout most as being most disciplined, professional, courtesies, etc and why?

OC Batbusters and Corona Angels for travel ball and all of the high school teams in the Antelope Valley.

What coaches have impressed you the most and why?

The college coaches I got to work for this past year have made a lasting impression on me.

They were hard on me during the games and made me think and get my nose back in the

rulebook. And I respect everyone of them. They will also be the first ones to admit they were

wrong or apologize for a comment they made during a game. After my college season I

personally Thanked each of them.

What major tournaments have you done and which one had the best overall atmosphere and vibes?

Got to do a 3 game playoff series for college this year. I have done 2 NSA Western World Series and USA Preps World Series. Just Finished PGF Nationals for 16u and 18u.

I think the PGF Nationals I just finished had the best vibe. Teams, coaches, and parents were

awesome!

NOTE: Umpire Bob Bennett served over 21 years in the United States Air Force, retiring as a Senior Non-Commissioned Officer. Thank you for your service.

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Published by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball, August 2, 2023

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Team Spotlight: Team San Diego 16u National; PGF 16u Platinum 3rd Place

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 14:36:00 GMT

Team San Diego Fastpitch:

Team San Diego has year after year produced D1 talent. Many blue chippers leave America’s finest cities to play for big name branded organizations. “Team San Diego 16u National squad” has been able to develop and keep its local players. They are making lots of noise in the top tier travel ball world.

Fresh off of their 3rd Place finish at Premier Girls Fastpitch (PGF) 16 Platinum Nationals, this team is returning 10 players and is poised for a big year on the national stage in 2023 - 2024.

A core team of girls that have played together for up to 6 years. They compiled an impressive 67-20 record last year against Tier 1 talent. This includes winning their supplement power pool in Colorado and earning a spot in the National Power Pool. They placed 3rd in the Champions Cup prior to PGF, finishing with an impressive 8-1 record. Additionally, they placed 3rd in USA Preps West Coast World Series and were a Finalist in 18’s Division of SoCal Finest (rained out).

Team San Diego 16u National possesses several nationally ranked players with lots of recruiting traction. They play all facets of the game including having some of the stingiest pitchers with a stout defense that shows tons of chemistry. They have quietly become an offensive machine with deceptive power throughout their lineup, with a high softball IQ, understanding how to play team offense.

As you watch this team, it is very clear quickly that this team is fundamentally sound. They do lots of the little things well.

The team is managed by Eddie Debus. They train weekly with organization owner A.J. Robinson, who gives valuable college level instruction including D1 experience. Assistant Coach Corey Lee has been with this group since 10’s while Assistant Coach Frank Contreras works with the hitters.

College coaches, be sure to mark this team as one to follow. They will continue to surprise many while making an immediate impact with their newly branded team.

Team San Diego 16u National will be playing in the Team New Jersey Showcase in October with the entire team excited about displaying their skills to the college coaches in that region. These SoCal girls are willing to play out of state and excited for the opportunities ahead of them.

Introducing Team San Diego 16u National:

Natalye Debus

Twitter: natdebus2025

Instagram: natalyedebus2025

A 2025 that commands the circle. A true “Big Game” pitcher. She backs down from no one. Effective movement with several pitches. Not just a pitcher only. She hits in the middle of the lineup in a dangerous lineup. She hits for average and tremendous power. When “Nat” is clicking the long ball comes in bunches.

Na’khia Lee

Twitter: @Nakhialee2025

A 2025 ball hawk in centerfield. Defensively a fun player to watch as she takes away would be gap shots. “Khia” is a triple threat from the left side of the plate. A sweet lefty swing that will slap and put pressure on the defense. A lethal offensive weapon that has many options in her offensive tool kit.

Cayla Contreras

Twitter: @caylac2025

Instagram: caylacsoftball2025

A 2025 Pure Hitter. She hits for power and uses the whole field. She also hits in the middle of a very dangerous lineup. When Cayla is clicking she can carry the team offensively. Defensively she tracks the ball very well as a well rounded outfielder with a good arm and quick reactions.

Brooklyn Clark

Twitter: Brookeclark2025

Instagram: brooklynnclarkk

A 2025 2nd baseman. She is a smart player with excellent glove work. She is an energetic player that sets the atmosphere. Brooklyn is a very good hitter. Reliable and consistent. She is a very good situational hitter. A very tough out.

Sarah Mather

Twitter: sarahmather2025

Instagram:sarahmather_2025

A 2025 third baseman. Very solid defensive corner. A strong arm needed to play 3rd. Sarah carry’s a very loud bat. An imposing presence in the lineup. A threat for the long ball every time she’s at the plate.

Hal’e Martin

Twitter: Halemartin2025

Instagram: Hale.2025

A 2025 Catcher. She is a true wall behind the dish. Her arm is incredible. One of the most fundamentally sound catchers around. Tough and gritty!!!

Vanessa Ryan

A 2026 defensive stud. Playing shortstop on this talented 2025 team. She is as sure handed as they come. Vanessa has a quick release keeping fast paced teams off the bases.

Ellery Houssand

Twitter: ehousand2026

Instagram: ellery.housand

A 2026 outfielder. One of the most dynamic players in the country. She hit 27 homers and stole 80 bags in the last year. We believe she will be a household name in the top tier softball world.

For recruiting matters, information about joining Team San Diego, and all other matters please feel free to contact:

Coach Eddie Debus

619-933-5069

edebus20@gmail.com

Coach Frank Contreras

760-207-9097

fjcontreras775@gmail.com

Follow on Instagram: @teamsd16unational

If you have a team you would like spotlighted, please feel free to contact us via Direct Message on Twitter.

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Published by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball, August 1, 2023

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Meet Extremely Elite 2027 Blue Chip Prospect Morgan Maxwell; LHP/1B; TN Mojo 2027 - Palmer

Thu, 27 Jul 2023 15:57:00 GMT

TN Mojo Fastpitch:

Name: Morgan Maxwell

Nickname: Mo

Hometown: Newark, DE

Grad Year: 2027

Travel Team: TN Mojo 2027 - Palmer

High School: Caravel Academy

Positions: LHP/1B

Height: 5' 8"

Bat/Throw: Right/Left

Pitching Arsenal w/Speeds

Fastball: 61 – 64 MPH

Curve: 60 – 63 MPH

Backdoor Curve: 60 – 63 MPH

Drop: 61 – 64 MPH

Change: 46 - 49 MPH

Overhand Velocity: 64 MPH

Exit Velocity off Tee: 74 MPH

Home to First: 2.8

Intended Study Major: Pre-Med

Email: 2027msm@gmail.com

Twitter: @MorganMaxwell72

Instagram: morgan_fastpitch72

You’re an elite blue-chip prospect. The top overall prospect in your class. What else can you tell us about yourself?

I come from a very supportive close-knit family currently residing in Newark, Delaware and attending Caravel Academy. I’m a student–athlete with a 3.96 GPA and a member of the National Jr. Honor Society. My hobbies include gardening, cooking and community service.

Recognized as a member of the National Honors Society.

Grades comes first.

How did your softball journey begin?

My softball journey started with playing Tee–Ball at 5 years old. At age 7 my parents started me with Coach Rob for batting lessons. Then when I was 8 years old, I unknowingly went to a travel softball team practice and found out it was really a tryout. This is how I made the transition to my 1st travel softball team.

Where it all started 8 years old playing 10U Travel Ball with Orange Crush!

What are your greatest strengths as a softball player?

My greatest strength as a softball player is my ability to handle failure and stay composed. I flush the bad plays and focus on the next play. After the game, I review what I can control and learn what I can improve on next time.

Lady Dukes 13U Elite won USSSA East National Championship.

"My team had my back helping me achieve Most Outstanding Pitcher."

What kind of Pitcher are you?

A pitcher that completes and attacks on every pitch. From throwing change-ups on 3-2 counts or pitching inside to big hitters whatever helps my team to win.

What kind of hitter are you and what are your most recent offensive stats?

I would describe myself as a contact hitter with power to all fields. My goal per bat is to have a plan when I first step into the batter’s box and make adjustments per pitch if needed once I see how the pitcher is pitching to me.

Summer Batting Stats (Limited play in the Fall – Injured): AB: 82, AVG: .402, BA/RISP: .438, SLG: .732, OBP: .480, HR: 5, SO: 10

Summer Pitching Stats: W-L: 12-0, IP: 90.2, SO: 102, BB: 15, ERA: .463, WHIP: .596, BAA: .125

Describe your leadership style and what characteristics do you find in outstanding leaders?

I lead by example by always being prepared to play and supporting my teammates. I find good leaders are those players that are able to perform in big moments and support teammates while in the dugout.

Leading her Varsity High School team reach their third consecutive State Championship Game

You’re obviously very busy with so many activities and events in your life. How do you balance your life and manage your time so effectively?

I work with my parents weekly to develop a schedule for both school and softball needs. School is always first. So during school hours, I get as much homework completed as I can during my free time or study periods. Then after school, I can dedicate my time to softball and hobbies. Time management is something I work on every day.

Selected to participate in the (9U) USSSA All American Games

Describe your game day mental preparation and your thought process and mindset in the circle and/or the batter’s box.

Game day preparation starts the day before the game making sure I get a good night’s sleep. Since most of my tournaments are a minimum of 10-hour drive, we make sure to arrive a day before the games start. Once we arrive I make sure to get some rest and start my pregame warm-ups.

In the Circle (Pitching) – Discuss with coaches the game plan if I am pitching. Warm-up with my bands, stretching and my pitching sequence. Then Game Time!

Batter’s Box (Batting) – I get 75 – 100 swings before my first game between tee work and front toss. Watch the pitcher warm up and talk to the batters up before me. This info, helps me have a plan when I get into the batter’s box. Make adjustments per pitch if needed and learn from each at bat.

What is your favorite sports memory and greatest achievement?

Pitching a No-Hitter and hitting 2-Home Runs in the same game during PGF Nationals.

Honored to receive mail from Alabama

How do you handle adversity and even failure?

I flush it and move on to the next play.

How would your teammates and friends describe you?

They would say I’m selfless and encouraging. Also, I lead by example and always have positive words with good body language during tough times. (I asked past and current teammates).

"Winning State Championship Title! What a great group of Players/Coaches!"

Who is your role model and or idol and why?

Mom and Dad would be my role models based on how they support me with everything I do. My mom teaches life lessons through school activities and how important it is to do community service. My dad always talks about how the game of softball teaches life lessons and how to handle failure, but keep trying.

Selected to the All-American All-Stars Game

If you could spend a day with any softball player, former or current, whom would it be and why?

Rachel Garcia (UCLA) – She was a 2-way player that performed as a Number One Pitcher and Number 4 Hitter at a high level. I would want to learn how she accomplished this achievement at such a high level consistently.

Photo Cred: UCLA Athletics

What is your softball dream/goal?

To play softball at the highest level possible.

On another flight to play in highly competitive National Tournament

Describe your perfect softball team.

The perfect softball team is the one I’m currently on (TN Mojo 2027 - Palmer). The reason I say this is because of the culture, everyone has to compete and earn their spot in the lineup every game and every season. All my teammates have goals of playing D1 at the highest level and our coaches will prepare us for this journey. (Easy Doesn’t Create Greatness!)

TN Mojo 2027 - Palmer

When deciding on what college team to play for what are the most important things you’re looking for ?

In this order: Academics, Coaching Staff, Championship Culture, Team Chemistry, and Location.

Attended UCLA, Florida, and Oklahoma Prospect Camps!

What are your favorite college softball teams?

Any Power 5 or D1 Program that will value what I bring to the classroom and softball field.

"Awesome to receive mail from @OU_Softball

Thank you! Excited to keep working & improving."

What gets you hyped or ready before a game or tournament?

The type of practice I have before any tournament puts me in the right frame of mind to compete. I practice 4 – 6 times per week focusing on aspects of the game I need to improve on. Reviewing videos from previous games gets me locked in for upcoming games or tournaments.

Honored to throw out the (1st Pitch) at the USA All American Games! Thank you Coaches

What is your favorite jersey number and why did you choose it?

My first travel ball number was 12, when I moved to a more competitive team #12 was taken. Then one of my coaches stated my personality was not too hot and not too cold like 72 degrees. So she thought 72 represented me well because of my composure during the games. So after that, any team I play for I requested #72 and I’m pretty sure no player will have this number!

Great experience at Florida!

What other hobbies do you have to balance out softball and your personal life?

I’m someone that loves to hang out at the beach with friends. Also, I love to travel, shop, and garden. I enjoy cooking and making pasta dishes as well.

Vacating in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Development never stops!

Whom would you like to thank for your softball achievements and support?

First of all, I would like to thank my parents and grandmother for all their guidance and late-night conversations. Secondly, all the batting, pitching, and strength coaches that train me and challenge me to be great. This is just the start of my journey and I will continue to work towards my goals.

Additional Information About Morgan

Walk up Song: Lose Yourself - Eminem

Favorite Food: Pasta/Chinese Food

Favorite Song: All I Do Is Win – DJ Khaled

Favorite Music Artist: Beyonce/The Weekend/SZA

Favorite Sports Team: Philadelphia Eagles/LA Dodgers/Golden State Warriors

Favorite Sports Celebrity : Rachel Garcia/Shohei Ohtani

Favorite Movie: Wonder Woman

F avorite Sports Movie: A League of Their Own

Published by Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball, July 27, 2023

www.legacyandlegendssoftball.com

Meet Elite Prospect Jillian Torres (2025) #30 Overall/#4 Outfielder; Tier-1 BSC Bengals - Briggs 16u

Fri, 16 Jun 2023 16:57:00 GMT

Name: Jillian Torres

Nickname: JET

Hometown: Coto de Caza, CA

Grad Year: 2025

GPA: 4.19

Travel Team: BSC Bengals – Briggs 16U

High School: Santa Margarita Catholic High School, CA

Positions: Primary position is CF but can play all outfield positions

Height: 5’ 9”

Bat/Throw: Right/Right

Overhand Velocity: 68 mph. Goal is 70+

Exit Velocity off Tee: 76 mph

Home to First/60 feet: 2.9 sec

Intended Study Major: Business or a business-related major such as Economics.

Email: jillian.torres2025@gmail.com

Twitter: @JETTorres2025

Instagram: jilliann.torress

Who are you?

I am a very goal oriented, focused person and I am always my biggest critic. I am constantly trying to improve. I love my family, my faith and my friends.

How did your softball journey begin?

I started playing softball when I was 6 years old. I was pretty good and loved playing with my friends and making new ones.

6u Softball - where it all started

10u - In love with the game!

What are your greatest strengths as a softball player?

On offense, one of my strengths is being patient at the plate and waiting for the right pitch. My

quality at bat percentage is pretty high. This has helped me to be more selective on pitches. I also am proud that I can hit to all fields with pretty good power.

On defense, one of my strengths is reading the ball well off the bat which allows me to get a good jump on balls hit to the gaps in the outfield. I also have a good and accurate throwing arm.

What kind of hitter are you and what are your most recent offensive stats?

I am a contact hitter who is not afraid to be in a two-strike count. I really work at hitting the ball hard to all fields.

BSC Bengals homerun

My 2023 high school season stats were the following: BA (.575); OBP (.620); SLG (.925); OPS (1.545); 46 Hits including 15 Doubles; 2 Triples; 3 HR’s.

Solid contact to any part of the field

What is your favorite sports memory and greatest achievement?

My favorite sports memory was hitting a home run against Team USA last year in the TCS

International Challenge while playing for Team Mexico. We had two outs in our last at bat and I hit the game tying 2 run HR. What made it so memorable was the deafening noise from the Team Mexico fans. It was really special.

Team Mexico homerun swing

Team Mexico HR vs Team USA

How do you handle adversity and even failure?

I handle it well. I really try to look ahead rather than dwell on the past. I choose to use adversity and failure as a learning opportunity to do better next time. This has helped me with softball and in life.

How would your teammates and friends describe you?

They would describe me as kind, funny, athletic, good teammate and supportive.

Fun with 2025 high school teammates

Who is your role-model and or idol and why?

My role-models are my parents. They have shown me that no matter how tough life may get, there is always something to be grateful for or look up to. They’ve taught me what hard work and dedication can bring, and they have inspired me to be the best version of myself.

Torres family on vacation

If you could spend a day with any softball player, former or current, who would it be and why?

I would love to spend a day with Montana Fouts. I have watched her play, have seen her interviewed and have read her social media posts. To me, Montana Fouts is the perfect role model. She is a great competitor. She is a great teammate. She always gives credit to others before herself. She is loyal and she is an incredible person. I would love to soak in all that I could by spending a day with her.

www.montanafouts14.com

and

University of Alabama Athletics Department (photo credit)

What is your softball dream/goal?

My short-term goal would be to win Premier Girls Fastpitch (PGF) Nationals with my BSC Bengals team.

BSC Bengals Homerun Bomb Squad

My longer-term softball dream would be to play in college and maybe some day play in a Womens College World Series (WCWS).

Loving the game

When deciding on what college team to play for what are the most important things you’re looking for?

I am looking for a college team that supports academic achievement. A good team chemistry is also very important to me. You need to have it to be successful and it is driven by having a great coaching staff that teaches what good chemistry can do for a team.

What is your favorite jersey number and why did you choose it?

My favorite number is 10. I was 10 years old when I chose this number and that year our rec All-Star Team almost won Nationals so it has stuck ever since.

What other hobbies do you have to balance out softball and your personal life?

I love hanging out with my friends. Riding bikes. Going to the beach. Playing ping pong and doing crafts.

Hanging out with friends watching college softball

Who would you like to thank for your softball achievements and support?

I would like to thank my dad for my softball achievements because he has believed in me since I was just a little girl. Without his loving support and guidance, I would not be the player I am today.

Additional Information About Jillian

Walk up Song: “Yeah!” Artist is Usher

Favorite Food: Mexican Food

Favorite Song: “All the Stars” by Kendrick Lamar

Favorite Music Artist: Taylor Swift

Favorite Sports Team: Los Angeles Dodgers

Favorite Sports: Softball, Baseball, Basketball & Volleyball

Favorite Celebrity: Ryan Reynolds

Favorite Movie: Murder Mystery

Favorite Sports Movie: A League of Their Own

Favorite TV Show: Friends

Favorite Book: Hunger Games

Favorite Travel Spot: Hawaii

Favorite Quote: “Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” --- Benjamin Franklin

By: Elizabeth Perez, Legacy & Legends Softball, June 16, 2023

www.legacyandlegendssoftball.com

Sophia Bordi: Legacy #38; Legends Softball - Top Prospect for the 2025 Class

Wed, 24 May 2023 16:19:00 GMT

2025 Nationally Ranked Top 500 (Projected 3, 4 & 5-Stars):

Photo Credit: Lo'Renzo Lagual

Sophia Bordi

Overall #1 Top Prospect

Right Handed Pitcher

Haddon Heights High School, New Jersey

OC Batbusters - Stith 18u

Today we are honored to announce the Legacy & Legends Softball Top Players for the 2025 Class for the 2023 Calendar Year. We congratulate all nominees and those selected as the nationally elite and "best of the best" on their outstanding achievements. Unfortunately, we can't add everyone to our list that was nominated or referred for ranking. We hope those will use this as motivation to continue trying and come back next year and join this group.

This year group is easily one of the most deeply talented year groups ever, especially with catchers and right-handed pitchers. From an evaluation and ranking standpoint, this has been the most challenging year group for our board to evaluate and rank due to the amount of elite skilled talent.

Furthermore, we only award Star rankings to the Junior and Senior classes. However, this list is an excellent indicator of the projection the prospect is headed when they are eligible for Star rankings. 1 - 150 = 5-Stars; 151 - 300 = 4-Stars, and onward ...

Any player who is on the final list (concludes within this week) of stellar 2025 prospects has proven through their skills, performance, and achievements that they are indeed an elite college prospect, regardless of where they are ranked.

According to several reports and articles, over 75,000 per year group play competitive softball. To simply be nominated is an honor in itself. To have laudatory and praiseworthy information available for review indicates a high level of value placed upon player by those who care.

Please understand that rankings are not an exact math or a pure science. Any product involving human interaction will never be perfect. Therefore, all rankings list will differ from person to person. Our rankings are no different and simply a product of our best effort based on research, available data/information, observations, subject matter expert testimony, group discussions, and voting.

Countless hours are spent researching each player and collaboration with softball coaches across the United States and Canada. As with all of our ranking boards, we always ask/offer for reputable coaches (prep and/or college experience) to volunteer to be on the ranking discussion panel. This method has been invaluable in sharing knowledge of players throughout the softball community.

Player performance in major national tournaments in the elite brackets and certain top-tier showcases is a huge factor in our scoring as it is verified proof of how well a prospect performed against other Tier 1 teams with elite college prospects. These players are justifiably rewarded for their performances and achievements in such events. Players are not penalized for not playing in major tournaments or their team not going deep into the elite brackets, it simply just doesn't allow us the opportunity to assess how they perform against other elite teams and elite players.

Other primary factors besides the nomination narratives submitted by coaches ... are verified performance scores and measurements as well as their high school performance related to the competition level and team results.

It is unbelievable how the best prospects are well-known across the softball community. From Texas to Canada. Washington to Florida. California to Maine and everywhere in between. There will always be standout players and hidden diamond players that simply need more exposure to shine.

As with all of our previous rankings lists, we will inadvertently miss a player(s) package that was submitted/coach referred or a coach simply wasn't aware of the nomination board being conducted. This is why we always welcome communications with coaches/managers to respectfully discuss players for the supplemental board conducted after the list is published. No supplemental player ranking will affect those players that are currently ranked. Please have the player's statistics and accolades, especially from major national tournaments readily available and if referencing any of the several other ranking sites, please actually count the number of players listed ahead of the player and not the assigned numerical ranking.

Again, we extend our sincerest and heartfelt congratulations to all who were honored as the Top prospects for the 2025 Class for the 2023 calendar year. Outstanding job!

Please click this link to see the 2025 Top Prospects list for Calendar Year 2023 in excel.

Adelyn Matthews, An Elite 2025 Highly Ranked Speedy OF/C Prospect

Fri, 21 Apr 2023 16:10:00 GMT

Virginia Unity - Meadows/Spinogatti:

Name: Adelyn Matthews

Nickname: Addie

Hometown: Tallahassee, FL

Grad Year: 2025

GPA: 4.3 weighted

Travel Team: Virginia Unity - Meadows/Spinogatti

High School: Lawton Chiles

Positions: OF/C

Height: 5’ 8"

Bat/Throw: R/R

Overhand Velocity: 64

Exit Velocity off Tee: 71

Home to First: 2.65

Home to Home: 11

Intended Study Major: Science

Email: AdelynGMatthews07@gmail.com

Twitter: @MatthewsAdelyn

Instagram: adelyngmatthews

Who are you?

I’m ultra competitive whether it’s on the ball field, in the classroom, or in life...I always want to be the best in what I'm doing. I love softball, reading, and hanging with friends.

"Addy has all the tools to become a force at the next level...size, speed, aggression, power and determination. She is a quiet assassin who fills up the stat sheet in multiple categories. She is poised to have a breakout summer and will be on the radar of numerous Power 5's real fast. More importantly, Addy is a great kid, student and teammate. She goes hard in practice and challenges herself to be better than the day before. Not only will Addy be successful on the field but ultimately she will be successful in life."

--- Coach Dean Spinogatti, Unity Meadows/Spinogatti

How did your softball journey begin?

It all started with the Pink Tigers when I was 8 years old. I quickly realized that I love competing and winning.

What are your greatest strengths as a softball player?

My biggest strengths are my speed, my intense focus, and my ability to get on base.

What kind of hitter are you and what are your most recent offensive HS stats?

I am mostly a contact hitter but can also hit for power. My goal is to get on base and steal my way around. My current HS stats are BA% is .667, OB% .707, SLG% .937 and OPS% of 1.644. I am currently 30/31 in stolen bases this season.

Describe your leadership style and what characteristics do you find in outstanding leaders?

I lead by example and try to keep the mood light. I like a leader that is confident and gives clear instructions.

You’re obviously very busy with so many activities and events in your life. How do you balance your life and manage your time so effectively?

I try to get 8-9 hours of sleep every night so I am at my best. I sit down on Sunday night and plan a schedule for the week. The key is to plan ahead. I still try to find down time to read and spend time with my family.

Describe your gameday mental preparation and your thought process and mindset in the batter's box:

I try to remember it’s a game and I always remember the words of my hitting coach, “Just put a good swing on it.”

What is your favorite sports memory and greatest achievement?

My favorite memories are from when my current travel team was having a blast while playing, we were singing, dancing, and just having fun. Oh and some of the amazing walk-off wins we had over the past year. I would say my greatest achievement is learning how to be a good teammate by supporting others' success when I may be down.

How do you handle adversity and even failure?

It is tough, I am a perfectionist but tomorrow is a new day and I know I will have more chances.

How would your teammates and friends describe you?

Quiet, confident, hard-working, focused, fast, smart, and funny.

Who is your role-model and/or idol and why?

My mom because she is always pushing through her adversities, giving it her all, and never gives up

If you could spend a day with any softball player, former or current, who would it be and why?

I would spend a day with the FSU outfielder, Kaley Mudge. She is a super sweet person and an outstanding player. She has always been kind to me at camps.

What is your softball dream/goal?

To be recruited to a college team and play at an elite level.

Describe your perfect softball team.

A team full of kind, talented, funny, and determined girls. My current travel team is pretty close to that.

When deciding on what college team to play for what are the most important things you’re looking for? Is it location, academics, conference, school reputation, coaching staff, team chemistry, weather, and school colors .

The two most important factors to me are the coaching staff and location. I want a good feeling from the current players when I go to camps.

What gets you hyped or ready before a game?

Upbeat music and a Starbucks Pink drink. I blast music in the car and whoever rides with me has to deal with it!!

What is your favorite jersey number and why did you choose it?

#16, it was my dad’s number all through his life and one day I decided to use it and it just stuck.

What other hobbies do you have to balance out softball and your personal life?

I love to read, swim, and hang out with friends or family.

Who would you like to thank for your softball achievements and support?

I would love to thank my hitting coach, Howard Stuart. He has been more than a hitting coach. He is more like family.

I would also like to thank my parents for always supporting me and all of their time and money they have spent to help me play.

Additional Information About Addy

Walk up Song: Knife Talk at 0:32(clean)

Favorite Food: Ice cream

Favorite Song: Too Many Nights by Metro

Favorite Music Artist: Rihanna

Favorite Sports Team: Atlanta Braves

Favorite Sports Celebrity: Trea Turner

Favorite Movie: How to Lose a Guy in 10 days

Favorite Sports Movie: Sandlot

Favorite TV Show: Outer Banks

Favorite Book: The Inheritance Games

Favorite Travel Spot: Rosemary beach

Favorite Quote: “A strong women is a women determined to do something others are determined not to be done”- Marge Piercy

By Johnny Rivers, Legacy & Legends Softball, April 21, 2023

www.legacyandlegendssoftball.com

Legacy & Legends

Elite Commit: Taylor Day (2026); OF/UTL; BSC Bengals 16R; (Purdue University)

Elite Commit: Taylor Day (2026); OF/UTL; BSC Bengals 16R; (Purdue University)

Elite Prospect: Lynnley "Leenay" Hajec (2031); RHP/CF; Cullman Heat Elite; 4.0 GPA

Elite Prospect: Lynnley "Leenay" Hajec (2031); RHP/CF; Cullman Heat Elite

Elite Pitching Prospect Spotlight: Ava Phillips (2027); RHP; Firecrackers Select Rico/Brashear 18U

Ava Phillips (2027); RHP; Firecrackers Select Rico/Brashear 18U

NiJaree Canady (Photo Cred: Texas Tech Athletics Department)

﻿

Elite Prospect Spotlight: Kyla Hamby (2027); MIF; TN Mojo - Sherrill

Elite Prospect Spotlight: Kyla Hamby (2027); MIF; TN Mojo - Sherrill

Elite Prospect Spotlight: Maylee Young (2032); C/UTL; TN Mojo 2013-Hunter

Elite Prospect Spotlight: Maylee Young (2032); C/UTL; TN Mojo 2013-Hunter

L&LS Softball Weekly Recap: SEC Battles Heat Up, Tragedy at FSU, and Pro League Expansion

Elite Prospect: Macy Seidel; 3B/1B/OF (2027) Hotshots Naudin Olguin-Valtier

Elite Prospect: Macy Seidel; 3B/1B/OF (2027) Hotshots Naudin Olguin-Valtier

Elite Prospect: Jaeden Antonelli (2027); SS/OF; Team Pennsylvania-Augustus 18U

Challenging the Odds: The Implications of Playing for a Low-Performing High School Softball Team on College Recruitment

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Chasing the Dream: How Softball Players Pursue College Scholarships

Chasing the Dream: How Softball Players Pursue College Scholarships

What Parents Need to Consider When Transitioning from Recreation to Travel Ball

Elite Top 100 Prospects (2030 Grad Class): Ellie Fleming Named Overall Top Prospect

Lalia "Cheese" Mejia: A Top 2029 Softball Prospect

LS Top 200 Nationally Ranked Recruits (5-Stars); 2024 Grad Class

Ja'Leiyah Johnson 2029 - Futures Elite Rising Star!

Tatum Kreinus (2026): Recovery Journey from Torn ACL Surgery

LS Elite Top 100 Prospects (2024 Grad Class): Jayden Heavener Named Overall Top Recruit

2027 Elite Rising Star: Rachel Godoy; SoCal 62+ mph Pitcher #38; Power Hitter! Mercado Athletics

Meet 2025 Elite Top 100 Prospect Ava Calciano, 5-Tool UConn Commit Lockdown Shortstop

Elite 2029 Prospect Spotlight: Laila "Cheeze" Mejia: C/UTL; Beverly Bandits - Perry; 1.7 Pop Time

Jamie Sencion (FDU Signee) and Paraclete HS Dominating in CIF Playoffs; Sencion No-Hits Orange Vista to Reach Championship Game

Catching Up with LLS 2024 5-Star Pitcher Aubrey Wurst (Maryland Signee)

Elite Player Spotlight: Chloe "Wolfey" Wolfenbarger; Right-Handed Pitcher; 62mph FB; 74 Tee EVO; 2027; LLS Top 100

Elite Player Spotlight: Alaina Diehl; 2027 RHP/UTL Dual-Threat; 60mph FB; LLS Top 150 Watch List

Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier 2027: PGF Nationals Runner-up 2-Years Standing; Platinum Division

Must See Elite 2026 Prospect Ava Tapia; Power Hitting C/OF; Tier 1 Firecrackers Premier - TJ; 72 OHV

Elite Prospect Spotlight: Erin McDaid; 2025; RHP/1B; 62 mph; LI Surge; NY

Behind the Plate with Umpire Robert "Bob" Bennett: Perspective on Prep & College Softball

Team Spotlight: Team San Diego 16u National; PGF 16u Platinum 3rd Place

Meet Extremely Elite 2027 Blue Chip Prospect Morgan Maxwell; LHP/1B; TN Mojo 2027 - Palmer

Meet Elite Prospect Jillian Torres (2025) #30 Overall/#4 Outfielder; Tier-1 BSC Bengals - Briggs 16u

Sophia Bordi: Legacy #38; Legends Softball - Top Prospect for the 2025 Class

Adelyn Matthews, An Elite 2025 Highly Ranked Speedy OF/C Prospect