454 LEGIT ASA - SB4LA • 454 USA - Worth's Made in USA patented 454 technology extends the sweetspot two inches in BOTH directions, giving the player the largest sweetspot in the industry. • BALANCED LOADING - Offers the most true-to-weight feel. Balanced bats are primarily used by those seeking maximum bat control and consistency at the plate. • 100% COMPOSITE - Barrel is made solely from composite materials • POWER GRIP - Provides ultra soft touch and maximum sting and vibration reduction to power through the ball. • 98 MPH W/ABI - Multi-layer composite core designed to provide exceptional rebound and maximum durability. • APPROVED BY - ASA, USSSA, NSA, ISA and all other associations • LENGTH / WEIGHT - 34"/26oz, 34"/27oz, 34"/28oz, 34"/30oz ASA, USSSA 1.20, NSA, ISF
Softball Today • August/September 2012
454 LEGIT USSSA - SB4LUS • 454 USA - Worth's Made in USA patented 454 technology extends the sweetspot two inches in BOTH directions, giving the player the largest sweetspot in the industry. • BALANCED LOADING - Offers the most true-to-weight feel. Balanced bats are primarily used by those seeking maximum bat control and consistency at the plate. • 100% COMPOSITE - Barrel is made solely from composite materials • POWER GRIP - Provides ultra soft touch and maximum sting and vibration reduction to power through the ball. • 1.20 BPF W/ ABI - Multi-layer composite core designed to provide exceptional rebound and maximum durability. • APPROVED BY - USSSA, NSA, ISA, ISF and all other associations using 1.20BPF w/ ABI standard. • LENGTH / WEIGHT - 34"/26oz, 34"/27oz, 34"/28oz, 34"/30oz USSSA 1.20, NSA, ISF
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454 MUTANT ASA - SB4MA • MUTANT - Two-piece construction of the 100% composite bat designed to provide more flex than one piece bats. • 454 USA - Worth's Made in USA patented 454 technology extends the sweetspot two inches in BOTH directions, giving the player the largest sweetspot in the industry. • BALANCED LOADING - Offers the most true-to-weight feel. Balanced bats are primarily used by those seeking maximum bat control and consistency at the plate. • 100% COMPOSITE - Barrel is made solely from composite materials • HYBRID GRIP - Provides ultra soft touch and maximum sting and vibration reduction to power through the ball. • 98 MPH W/ABI - Multi-layer composite core designed to provide exceptional rebound and maximum durability • APPROVED BY - ASA, USSSA, NSA, ISA, ISF and all other associations • LENGTH / WEIGHT - 34"/26oz, 34"/27oz, 34"/28oz, 34"/30oz ASA, USSSA 1.20, NSA, ISF
454 MUTANT USSSA - SB4MUS • MUTANT - Two-piece construction of the 100% composite bat designed to provide more flex than one piece bats. • 454 USA - Worth's Made in USA patented 454 technology extends the sweetspot two inches in BOTH directions, giving the player the largest sweetspot in the industry. • CENTER-LOAD - The center-load is typically preferred by players looking more than a balanced bat but don't want the full end load. Used by hitters seeking control and consistency with the slight feel of an end loaded bat. • 100% COMPOSITE - Barrel is made solely from composite materials • HYBRID GRIP - Provides ultra soft touch and maximum sting and vibration reduction to power through the ball. • 1.20 BPF W/ ABI - Multi-layer composite core designed to provide exceptional rebound and maximum durability. • APPROVED BY - USSSA, NSA, ISA, ISF and all other associations using 1.20BPF w/ ABI standard. • LENGTH / WEIGHT - 34"/26oz, 34"/27oz, 34"/28oz, 34"/30oz USSSA 1.20, NSA, ISF
454 RESMONDO LEGIT - SB4RUS • 454 LEGIT - Worth's Made in USA patented 454 technology extends the sweetspot two inches in BOTH directions, giving the player the largest sweetspot in the industry. • RESMONDO LOADING - Full-ounce, offers the maximum end-load allowed in any association, and provides the hitter with the most bat speed through the hitting zone of any one-piece bat. • 100% COMPOSITE - Barrel is made solely from composite materials • POWER GRIP - Provides ultra soft touch and maximum sting and vibration reduction to power through the ball. • 1.20 BPF W/ ABI - Multi-layer composite core designed to provide exceptional rebound and maximum durability. • APPROVED BY - USSSA, NSA, ISA and all other associations using1.20BPF w/ ABI standard. • LENGTH / WEIGHT - 34"/26oz, 34"/27oz, 34"/28oz, 34"/30oz USSSA 1.20, NSA, ISF
454 LEGIT COMP -10 - FPL410 • 454 USA - Worth's Made in USA patented 454 technology extends the sweetspot two inches in BOTH directions, giving the player the largest sweetspot in the industry. • BALANCED LOADING - Offers the most true-to-weight feel. Balanced bats are primarily used by those seeking maximum bat control and consistency at the plate. • 100% COMPOSITE - Barrel is made solely from composite materials • WORTH FPEX POWER GRIP - Provides ultra soft touch and maximum sting and vibration reduction for ultra performance. • 98 MPH W/ABI - Multi-layer composite core designed to provide exceptional rebound and maximum durability • APPROVED BY - ASA, USSSA, NSA, ISA, ISF and all other associations • LENGTH / WEIGHT - 31"/21oz, 32"/22oz, 33"/23oz, 34"/24oz ASA, USSSA 1.20, NSA, ISF
454 LEGIT COMP -8 - FP4L8 • 454 USA - Worth's Made in USA patented 454 technology extends the sweetspot two inches in BOTH directions, giving the player the largest sweetspot in the industry. • BALANCED LOADING - Offers the most true-to-weight feel. Balanced bats are primarily used by those seeking maximum bat control and consistency at the plate. • 100% COMPOSITE - Barrel is made solely from composite materials • WORTH FPEX POWER GRIP - Provides ultra soft touch and maximum sting and vibration reduction for ultra performance. • 98 MPH W/ABI - Multi-layer composite core designed to provide exceptional rebound and maximum durability • APPROVED BY - ASA, USSSA, NSA, ISA, ISF and all other associations • LENGTH / WEIGHT - 33"/25oz, 34"/26oz ASA, USSSA 1.20, NSA, ISF
LEGIT 454 COMP -10 - FPLGT • The two-piece construction of the 100% composite bat is designed to provide more flex, whip and forgiveness than one piece bats. • 454 USA - Worth's Made in USA patented 454 technology extends the sweetspot two inches in BOTH directions, giving the player the largest sweetspot in the industry. • BALANCED LOADING - Offers the most true-to-weight feel. Balanced bats are primarily used by those seeking maximum bat control and consistency at the plate. • 100% COMPOSITE - Barrel is made solely from composite materials • WORTH FPEX™ POWER GRIP - Provides ultra soft touch and maximum sting and vibration reduction for ultra performance. • 98 MPH W/ABI - Multi-layer composite core designed to provide exceptional rebound and maximum durability • APPROVED BY - ASA, USSSA, NSA, ISA, ISF and all other associations • LENGTH / WEIGHT - 31"/21oz, 32"/22oz, 33"/23oz, 34"/24oz ASA, USSSA 1.20, NSA, ISF
Please check out all Worth Equipment at www.worthsports.com
Softball Today • August/September 2012
454 LEGIT COMP -9 - FPL49 454 USA - Worth's Made in USA patented 454 technology extends the sweetspot two inches in BOTH directions, giving the player the largest sweetspot in the industry. • BALANCED LOADING - Offers the most true-to-weight feel. Balanced bats are primarily used by those seeking maximum bat control and consistency at the plate. • 100% COMPOSITE - Barrel is made solely from composite materials • WORTH FPEX POWER GRIP - Provides ultra soft touch and maximum sting and vibration reduction for ultra performance. • 98 MPH W/ABI - Multi-layer composite core designed to provide exceptional rebound and maximum durability • APPROVED BY - ASA, USSSA, NSA, ISA, ISF and all other associations • LENGTH / WEIGHT - 33"/24oz, 34"/25oz ASA, USSSA 1.20, NSA, ISF
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Left to right Terry Allvord, Ret CMDR, Executive Director, Russ Meyer, WWII Veteran, Sgt. Odin Ayala, Wounded Warrior, Veteran, Dr. Jeff Gray, Event Sponsor.
Softball Today • August/September 2012
By Robert Campbell
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San Diego, CA. --- A weekend celebrating Wounded Warriors and assisting The Wounded Warrior Project of Southern California provided San Diego and national donors with a unique experience to participate with Hollywood Stars, Professionals from the Military, MLB Baseball, and Softball past and present. The Golf tournament and luncheon was a huge success. In the Baseball Classic the American League Celebrity Baseball All-Stars hoisted the CDR Lawrence S. Jackman Championship trophy presented by legendary Manager Roger Craig at Tony Gwynn Stadium on the campus of San Diego State University. The 8-4 victory capped a weekend of unique charity events to salute Wounded Warriors in Southern California. The event develops new sponsors, corporate partners and group sales to expand growth while delivering positive media coverage and superb community goodwill. Before the Baseball pre-game ceremony and festivities got underway, the Softball celebrities organized and led by Veteran Player and Multiple-World Champion, Chris Chaney, stepped to the plate. Chris Chaney is a donor and active member in Southern California’s Wounded Warrior programs and assists The US Military
Baseball All-Stars program. The Long Haul Bombers and friends really impressed the packed stadium with a homerun exhibition. What ensued was an incredible display of power: extra-large men hitting softballs nearly 500 feet routinely. The collective homerun distance was incredible with repeated shots averaging 410 feet by Easton Sports,' Brian Wegman, Brett Helmer, Dave Thompson John Bailey, Jason Kreider, Matt Suder, Chris Chaney, Major Armando Delsi, and Miken’s Denny Crine. The game itself was won by the National League players and the MVP went to actress Jennifer O’Dell, who delivered two hits for the National League while making a few exciting plays in the outfield. Although the MVP awards provided by TIFFANY were swept by a Hollywood star, there was no doubt that this inaugural event presented by Jeff Gray, DDS was a tribute to our Wounded Warriors. The event was hosted by the Major League Baseball Players Alumni Association and the U.S. Military All-Stars, who will depart on their 23rd annual “Red, White, & Blue Tour visiting 45 states and 3 countries later this month. With a reputation as the “Most Patriotic Tour in
America” the pre-game festivities were on par with a Hollywood production. MLB Alumni, Celebrities, 50 motorcycles from VFW District One, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol Honor Guard, Mounted Horse Patrol, Pipes & Drums, Flyover, Navy Band Southwest, VFW and Ladies Auxiliary Color Guards, Bugles Across America and 12 year-old singing sensation Eve DeVault all delivered superb performances. Two buglers played “Echo Taps” to honor our fallen soldiers during a moving passing of the Ground Zero Flag presentation to Afghanistan Wounded Warrior Sgt. Odin Ayala and WWII veteran Russ Meyer. Both delivered ceremonial pitches and received a free smile makeover from Dr.Gray and $10,000 donation on behalf of our Wounded Warriors from Veterans United Home Loans. "Unbelievable! We really enjoyed seeing a WWII veteran and Wounded Warrior honored side by side. It was a very moving experience. The game stopping at precisely 9:11 p.m. was also a surprise as the fans stood and sang Lee Greenwood's "God Bless the USA," said Jim Vankoski who traveled all the way from Philadelphia. The main Baseball event belonged to U.S. Military All-
Stars left-hander Thomas Solowynsky, which was also fitting for a Hollywood script since Solowynsky is deaf and his collegiate career ended in an instant. He struck out the first batter before the announcer could finish introducing him and tossed three strong innings of shutout baseball. AL teammate and Teen Wolf actor, Tyler Hoechlin delivered a tremendous performance, earning him coMVP honors with Solowynsky. Hoechlin who played at UC-Irvine, had such a great time at the event he plans on joining the tour again this summer. That would give the Military Baseball All-Stars quite a tandem up the middle, as Tyler would most likely play alongside former NFL quarterback Doug Flutie. It was quite an event for all in attendance and probably best captured by WWII veteran Russ Meyer who said, "As I was leaving a small boy maybe 8 or 10 years old came up and asked me for my autograph, I was kind of in shock and knew I couldn’t just sign my name, this popped into my mind and so I wrote: I was there so you could be here," said Russ Meyer. “We are thrilled to have a dentist as highly regarded as Dr. Gray representing the military event of the year,” said event director, Crash Allvord. “For 25 years he has served San Diego and been voted by his peers as one of the “Top Dentists in America” for 10 years straight. He serves as a Clinical Instructor at the Kois Center in Seattle, teaching the latest techniques in modern dentistry. If that’s not enough, he was nominated by Major League Baseball and People Magazine as a Community All-Star. We are proud to
have him working with us to change the lives of our heroes O One Smile at a Time!” Special recognition must be extended to Terry “Crash” Allvord, Ret Navy Commander, player, and architect of the organization since 1990 that honors and serves so many paying tributes to some of our nation's bravest and most determined heroes. "His efforts and passion are unmatched often overlooked but his many contributions
that aid so many families and dedicated military service members who proudly serve,” said Chris Chaney. Should you be compelled to donate or help this noble cause please visit www.usmilitaryallstars.us or write to U. S. M I L I T A R Y A L L - S T A R S L 461 Melbourne Glen L EscondidoL CA L 92026. All contributions are tax deductible and any information regarding your donations use is available upon request.
Easton Sports Player Staff Members 1ST ROW Left to Right John Bailey, Brett Helmer, Jennifer O’Dell 2nd ROW Left to Right Brian Wegman, Jason reider, Denny Crine, Chris Chaney, Dave Thompson, Ryan Thompson.
SBS/CSC/Combat sent 4TF/Easton home with a dominating 27-4 win. A game that showcased SBS’s pitching, defense, and offensive firepower.
Softball Today • August/September 2012
By Lance McCall
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Mira Loma, CA., --- The Battle of The West Conference Major hit Southern California with a showcase of national talent and the finest the west had to offer. The venue was the Big League Dreams Park in Riverside. This event featured 6 Conference USSSA teams and 29 teams in all fighting for western supremacy. This tournament was headlined by West Coast Doerflinger-Easton, Sonny’s/TPS, and SBS/CSC/Combat. The other teams of note were 4TF, OC Swats, West Coast Rage, Express/Easton/AOS, and So Cal Swagger/Elite. The early rounds were definitely predictable as the strong “A” Teams and “B” Teams advanced with solid wins. Sonnys/Louisville Slugger beat SBS/CSC/Combat 20-18 in very tough fought contest to advance to face West Coast Doerflinger-Easton. WC Doerflinger-Easton easily dispatched 4TF in a 15-0 rout as WC Doerflinger nearly nohit 4The Fallen/Easton in 5 innings to advance to the winner bracket finals. In the winner’s bracket finals WC Doerflinger/Easton continued its dominating play with a 23-8 victory over Sonny’s to advance to the finals. Doerflinger was lead by Tournament MVP Cal Ford and All Tournament selections Robert Senna (P), Elliseo Aguilar(OF), Chris Hansen (IF) and Steven Lopez (OF). They combined to provide superior defense and a consistent offense that stifled Sonny’s/Louisville Slugger offense the entire game sending them down to the loser’s bracket. The loser bracket saw some great runs by OC Swats/Easton, West Coast Rage, and So Cal Swagger/Elite. The showdown for a trip to the finals came down to SBS/CSC/Combat who sent 4TF/Easton home with a dominating 27-4 win. A game that showcased SBS’s superior pitching, defense, and offensive firepower. They would now face Sonny’s with a little revenge on their mind from an earlier loss. Sonny’s lead by Chris Greinert ( Offensive MVP), Nick Robertson(CF,USA Futures Team), and Jonathon Lenz ( SS, CO-MVP) had success on both sides of the ball throughout the game. The contest ended with Sonny’s riding to victory on a 25-13 score that was really never close.
The Championship Finals between Sonny’s/Louisville Slugger and West Coast Doerflinger/Easton was a shootout. The game had lead changes nearly every inning. Both teams were at the top of their games and hungry for a Conference USSSA win with the teams constantly oneupping each other especially on defense. The game went 9 innings to decide the outcome. In the top of the seventh Sonny’s Nick Robertson (CF and 9-10 on Sunday) hit a key 2-Run homer that put Sonny’s up 24-23 going into the bottom of the inning. Doerflinger with two
outs managed to tie the game at 24 on a key hit by Lee Bowles. The game remained knotted at 24 until the bottom of the ninth inning when Steven Lopez lined a single to right center. He was followed by Elliseo Aguilar who provided the game winning double to right field that gave West Coast Doerflinger-Easton the Championship title. This was their second conference tournament win in 2012 and catapults them into an impressive 8th in the overall Conference USSSA standings in 2012. “We have really stepped up our play to this point in the season and this was a true team win for our entire organization,” said Doerflinger Manager Strojan Kennison.
Its members are the group's greatest asset. And there is plenty of strength in numbers. These days, there are close to 4,200 around the world. The National Fastpitch Coaches Association is diverse and ever changing, having grown into an influential forum for education, skills training and recruiting since its inception in 1983. "The Association was built on strong values and continually instills within its members a deep sense of responsibility for developing programs that enrich the lives of all those involved," said Executive Director Lacy Lee Baker, who now oversees a diverse international club that began with 40 members nearly three decades ago. The proud mantra is that the group was founded by coaches for coaches. But the simple truth is that
they all care deeply for the future of softball. And that is why so much detail and effort has gone into shaping the organization, which now offers its services to coaches at the collegiate, high school and travel ball levels. "Over the years, we have expanded what we can provide to our members," Baker said. A new web site, for example, was launched in February. And there is substantial excitement surrounding the relocation of the national office to Louisville. The biggest advances over the years, however, have been in education. Sportsmanship and high standards of competition are a big deal with the NFCA. So is providing access to new and better coaching drills and techniques, which is why former Northwestern coach Sharon Drysdale wrote the curriculum for eight courses that became the foundation of the National Fastpitch
Coaches College. "The coaches college is very comprehensive," Baker said. "Over the years, we've refined the course and now have most of them on campuses of strong softball schools, using their players to demonstrate course elements." In 2012, classes will be held at Arizona State, University of Tennessee, Ohio State and Hofstra, in addition to three classes that will be held in conjunction with the NFCA Convention at Buena Vista Palace in Orlando, Florida. The coaches college, which includes courses such as The Art of Championship Coaching, Explosive Team Offense and Strategy, and Coaching Dynamic Team Practices, sort of brings the organization back to its original roots. It was ultimately founded out of conversations that took place during the National Collegiate Women's Softball Championships in the early
Softball Today • August/September 2012
By Dave Utnik
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Membership breakdown 2,000 college coaches from NCAA, NAIA, NJCAA and other junior colleges in California, Washington and Oregon 900 high school coaches from all 50 states 800 travel ball coaches from 46 states 500 umpires, parents, players and businesses that support the sport.
Membership Fees ACTIVE MEMBERS Head Coach NCAA Division I: $160.00 Head Coach NCAA Division II & III: $110.00 Head Coach NAIA, NJCAA/JC, Cal JC, High School: $70.00 Head Coach Travel Ball/Summer Team: $70.00 Asst. Coach: College, JC, HS, Travel/Summer: $70.00
1980s. Back then, the concept was to simply provide educational training, encourage sportsmanship, and develop the growth of the sport internationally. It has been expanded to include recruiting camps, tournaments, national rankings, and postseason awards for both coaches and players. The NFCA has partnered with USA Today in creating rankings for college and high school softball. For an annual fee -- ranging from $60 for former coaches and umpires to $160 for NCAA
Division I -- members now also receive 12 issues of the NFCA's newspaper, Fastpitch Delivery, and special access to a members-only area on the NFCA Web Site. Coaches may also vote for AllAmerican and Scholar-Athlete teams and there are discounts in the NFCA Web Store on videos, audios, books, softball equipment and apparel. "Our goals are to assist our coaches in being the best they can be by providing information and opportunities for education and growth," Baker said.
Please Note: If an institution pays for the membership, than membership stays with the school should the coach leave. If a individual pays for the membership, than they may take the membership with them, should they change schools.
Affiliate Members Former Coaches: $60.00 Business/Clubs: $60.00 Umpires: $60.00 Noncoaching Members: $60.00 International Members: $85.00 For more information please go to www.NFCA.org
By Lance McCall Irvine, CA., --- The Chicago Bulls won three consecutive NBA championships in 1996-1998 and the New York Yankees won three straight World Series championships from 1998 through 2000. The latest Three-Peat has just arrived as softball greats the So. Cal Athletics have now won three straight Premier Girls Fastpitch championships. "This third straight championship was accomplished in a much different fashion than the first two years in which we won coming out of the winner’s bracket," Said So. Cal Athletics coach Bruce Richardson. "This year we lost our 4th round winner’s game 4-3 on Thursday evening which meant we had to battle out of the loser’s bracket playing and winning 6 straight games." In game one against the Corona Angels Howard the A's started Delanie Gourley in the circle and the pitcher did not disappoint as she spread out 2 hits and earned 13K’s for a 8-0 victory. The Offensive stars of the game were KayLea Snear as she slammed two homeruns with 3 RBI's. Jessica Plaza added another homerun blast and 2 RBI and Danica Mercado had two hits and 2 RBI. In their following game it took 12 innings before the Athletics could earn a 8-4 victory over SGV Velocity. Pitcher Madi Schreyer started the game off
and teammate Delanie Gourley entered the game in relief. Gourley went on to ring up 11 strikeouts. Offensively Megan Geer had 3 hits including an HR and 3 RBI's while teammate Kaylea Snear slammed a home run with 2 RBI. In game three Madi Schreyer pitched a 2-1 victory over the IL. Chill. The big hit of the game came from Danica Mercado as she slammed a home run. In their next outing the A's suffered their only loss of the tournament as they lost 4-3 to Team North Florida. The A's Kaylea Snear slammed a HR and Darian Tautalafua had 2 hits as the A's fell short. In Game five the A's got back to their winning ways as they beat Lady Magic 6-0. Pitchers Delanie Gourley and Madi Schreyer combined for the victory. Offensively Darian Tautalafua, Taylor Koenig and Aubree Munro all had 2 hits for the victory. Against the WA. Ladyhawks, the A's pitchers Delanie Gourley and Jasmine Smiyhson combined for a 10-2 victory while giving up just 3 hits. On the scoring side Taylor Koenig and Aubree Munro both blasted homeruns while teammates Brooke Vines and Faith Canfield both had two hits. In game seven the A's scored a convincing 7-0 victory against the Beverly Bandits. A's pitcher Madi Schreyer pitched a shutout. Offensively Megan Geer got two 2 hits with a HR and 2 RBI's and Darian
Tautalafua slammed a HR and hit 3 RBI. In their next outing the A's downed the San Jose Sting 6-3 in 11 innings. Delanie Gourley pitched all 11 innings as she stuck out 12 Sting batters. Offensively Megan Geer had two hits with one HR and two RBI, while teammates Danica Mercado, Taylor Koenig, Aubree Munro and Jasmine Smithson all had 2 hits. Game nine was a rematch of the two teams however, the A's were on a mission as they lit up the scoreboard with a 11-0 victory. Madi Schreyer was the winning pitcher as she spread out two hits and 4 strikeouts. Offensively Kaylea Snaer slammed two HR’s with 4 RBI's while Megan Geer had two hits with one HR and 3 RBI and Aubree Munro, Jasmine Smithson and Danica Mercado all had two hits on the game. In the championship game against the Worth Firecrackers, the So. Cal Athletics could smell the blood in the water and they were poised to attack for the Three-Peat. A's pitchers Delanie Gourley and Madi Schreyer combined for the 54 victory. In the bottom of seventh inning with the game, the Premier 18U Championship and the Three Peat on the line, clutch hitter Megan Geer stepped up to the plate and hit a bases loaded double scoring two runs for the Championship and the three-peat.
Softball Today • August/September 2012
The 18U So. Cal Athletics captured their third straight Premier Girls Fastpitch Champions.
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16U Team Mizuno went 7-0 to win the Premier Girls Fastpitch National Championship in Irvine, CA. By Lance McCall Irvine, CA., --- Team Mizuno, from Anaheim, CA. made it a clean sweep summer by going 7-0 to win the Premier Girls Fastpitch National Championship in Irvine, CA. in front of a national television audience. "After winning our 16U division at the Louisville Slugger Independence Day Tournament we were confident and ready to compete at the Premier 16U Championship." Said Team Mizuno Coach Mike Stith. Team Mizuno's first bracket game came against Fury Softball of CA. Team Mizuno pitcher Kaley Winegarner started in the circle and was near perfect
as she gave up just one hit as Team Mizuno scored a 2-1 victory. On the offensive side of the ball Alyssa Palomino hit a towering 3rd inning home run that set the tone for their opening victory. Palomino, Amanda Lorenz, Brooke Marquez and Justine McLean each had two hits and Tannon Snow knocked in a couple runs to spark their team to victory. Against the Vienna Stars, Team Mizuno pitcher Kaylee Carlson delivered a one hit shutout. Offensively Amanda Lorenz was 3-3 and Sydney Romero was 2-3. Against the San Diego Renegades Team Mizuno's pitcher Andie Formby's delivered a perfect game effort as her team won 9-0. Offensively Janell Wheaton had 3 RBI and Morganne Flores was 2-3.
Against San Jose Sting, Team Mizuno's Andie Formby pitched another huge game as she gave up just 2 hits in the 8-0 shutout. Offensively Brooke Marquez was 2-2, Alyssa Palomino was 2-4. and Hannah Flippen was 1-2. Against Mizuno Impulse. Team Mizuno pitcher Kaylee Carlson tossed a 2 hit shutout. Offensively Sydney Romero was 3-3 while Brooke Marquez was 2-3 with 3 RBI in the 9-0 win. Mizuno Impulse returned out of the losers bracket however Team Mizuno's was up for the task as pitcher Kaley Winegarner threw a 4 hitter for a 8-2 victory. Amanda Lorenz was 2-3 for the win. The championship game turned out to be a rematch of the Boulder, CO. championship game as Team Mizuno was once again matched up against a talented Corona Angels Knighten team. Pitcher Kaley Winegarner started the championship game off for Team Mizuno. Winegarner did a outstanding job over the five innings for a 4-1 victory. Team Mizuno's offensive highlights came as Alyssa Palomino's hit a deep HR to right in the 3rd and in the 4th inning Janell Wheaton started the inning off with a base hit then Sydney Romero put down a sacrifice bunt that was defensively mishandled and that put runners at 2nd and 3rd with no outs. Hannah Flippen's sac fly made it 2-0. After a sac bunt by Brooke Marquez a walk was giving to Amanda Lorenz. Sashel Palacios smashed a ball off the glove of the first baseman and Team Mizuno had a 4-1 score. Team Mizuno would add another run in the top of the 7th to make it 5-1, and they went on to win the Premier 16U Championship. coach Mike Stith.
Softball Today • August/September 2012
By Beth Armstrong
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Irvine, CA., --- The 14U Atlanta Vipers compiled a amazing 9-1 record on the way to capturing the Premier 14U Girls National Championship. The team was loaded with talent throughout their line-up however, it was inspiration that pushed them forward to win the Premier national championship. "These young ladies had a goal and a dream and they were determined to reach both," Said Atlanta Vipers manager Vic Loveless. "With inspirational words from our late great Coach Steve Lynch, they truly believed in themselves." The Vipers started pitcher Tessa Daniels in their first outing and she pitched a 1-0 shutout against the Lil Saints. Offensively in the seventh with a runner on Hannah Trombley drove in the winning run. Against American Pastime the Vipers pitchers Taylor DeCelles and Tessa Daniels earned a 5-2 win. In game three against in state rivals the GA. Elite the Vipers scored a 13-3 victory. Viper pitchers Jordan Watson and Taylor DeCelles combined for the win. Offensively Tessa Daniels was 2-2 with a HR and 5 RBIs. Taylor DeCelles went 3-4, Hannah Trombley and Brielle Grubbs had 2 hits, while Ebonee Echols and Cali Harrod each had a hit. The Vipers were defeated 4-3 against OC Batbusters (McNee). Once in losers bracket, the Vipers had to win their next five games in order to reach the championship game. They began their quest with a 3-0 victory over the Crown Point Bulldogs. In game six the Vipers beat OC Batbusters 4-3. Offensively Cali Harrod had two hits, while Katey Lynch, Madison Couch, Danielle Castleberry and Jordan Watson each got hits for the victory. In game seven the Vipers earned a rematch against the
The 14U Atlanta Vipers use inspiring words to win Premier 14U National Title. OC Batbusters. The Vipers made the best of their rematch by winning 4-2. Offensively Ebonee Echols, Harrod, DeCelles, Daniels, Trombley, and Brielle Grubbs had one hit. Against the San Jose Sting the Vipers offense lit up the scoreboard for a 18-2 win. Offensively Ebonee Echols had three hit and four RBIs, Taylor DeCelles had two hits, Tessa Daniels had one hit with three RBIs, and Madison Couch had one hit with two RBIs. Cali Harrod, Brittani Crawford and Bryanna Vazquez had one hit and one RBI. In game 9 the Vipers were again matched up against the Sting. The Vipers
pitcher Taylor DeCelles recorded 10 strikeouts. DeCelles struck out the first seven batters she faced on her way to pacing her team to a 5-0 victory. The Vipers had finally made it to the championship game and they were not about to be denied as they beat So. Cal Athletics 3-2. With the score tied 2-2 in the bottom of the six inning with Brielle Grubbs on third Brittani Crawford picked up her second RBI of the game with a sacrifice fly to left field, scoring Grubbs for the go ahead run for the win and for the Premier 14U National championship.
By Robert Campbell Johnson City, TN. --- The 18U Central Florida Sting Black were no strangers to success, after all they had already won every Florida ASA qualifier they had participating in and they went on to win the Florida State Championship as well. Winning breeds confidence and these athletes from Central Florida were eager to put their talents to the test at the 18U ASA National championship tournament held in Johnson City, TN. On their way to compiling a perfect 8-0 record the Central Florida Sting started the tournament off with an impressive 3-2 victory over American Athletics. Pitcher Paige Mathews took the circle for the Sting and she set the tone for the tournament with an outstanding performance which included 13 K’s. With the game tied at 2-2 in bottom of the 8th inning with the tie-breaker rule in affect Sting had runners Kayla Drury and Molly Shasteen on first and third base when teammate Jessica Griffin stepped up to the plate and slammed a 2 run HR for the impact hit of the game. In their next outing Sting pitcher Megan LaFon paced her team to a 6-5 victory over Explosive Black. LaFon
threw 10 K's for the win. The lead went back and forth until the bottom of the 7th inning, when Megan Tice hit a HR to tie the game. The game went into the 8th inning under tie-breaker rules. Sting hitter Rachel Minier started on 2nd base and Janet Snipe successfully bunted her over to third. Next batter Molly Shasteen, hit a grounder that resulted in an error and the Sting went on to win the game. Against the Clearwater Lady Bombers the Stings pitcher Paige Mathews took the mound and threw 13 K’s for the 10 victory. The Sting scored one run in the top of the 1st inning and that was all they needed for the victory. In game four the Stings pitcher Megan LaFon pitched her team to a 3-1 victory over Franklin Synergy. The big hit of the game came in the first inning when Morgan Hatch hit a two run HR. Against the Tennessee Fury the Sting scored three runs in the 1st inning with 3 hits, they added two more runs in the 5th inning with a 2-run HR from Morgan Hatch. Sting pitchers Megan LaFon, and Paige Mathews combine for 3-2 victory over Indy Shockwave. Their 3 runs on the game came on 5 hits. In Game 7 the Sting scored a 4-3 victory against the
Carolina Cardinals. Starting Pitcher Paige Mathews scored the victory with 9 K's. With the score tied 3-3 in the seventh the tie-breaker rule took effect and Sting batter Morgan Hatch stepped up to the plate and slamed a 2 run walk-off HR. This victory set up the championship game with the Sting playing against Carolina Cardinals for the ASA national title. The Stings pitcher Paige Mathews took the mound at the start of the game with Megan LaFon taking over after the 2nd inning. The duo pitched their team to a 1-0 victory and a 18U ASA National championship. Offensively Molly Shasteen got the game winning RBI when she hit a line drive to right field which scored her teammate for the game winning run. The Cardinals battled back hard with 2 hits in the top of the 7th, but the Stings defense held them to no runs. Central Florida Sting catcher Jessica Griffin kept her pitchers focused as she caught all 10 games. She led the team with 10 hits and 7 walks and had 1 HR. "This was truly a team victory with everyone contributing," Said Central Florida Sting coach Steven Hatch.
Softball Today • August/September 2012
The Central Florida Sting compiled a perfect 8-0 record on their way to winning the ASA 18U National Championship.
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Tulsa Elite compiled a 46-4 record over their last 50 games of the season. By Maria Garcia Montgomery, AL., --- The 16U Tulsa Elite team looks like a well oiled professional team, there is a reason for that appearance, Head Coach Steve Bevan, Asst. Coach Joe Gho and Asst. Coach Kelly Beason have groomed these athletes from day one. Of course great coaching is not enough, unless you have a great core of athletes such as Kaylor Battiest, Kaitlin Beason, Emily Bevan, Jessica Boone, Mallory Collins, Kelsey Goodwin, Kelsey Leach, Mikelynn Mantich, Taylor McElhaney, Maddi McGraw, Nicole Nease and Samantha Smith.
The tournament literally started off on the wrong foot for Tulsa Elite as Mallory Collins a major contributor on the mound injured her foot in the first game. Collins the 3 hole hitter gutted out the whole tournament dealing with the injured foot. Tulsa Elite turned to Kaitlin Beason to pitch in all 10 games with most of her appearances as the starter and three times as a reliever. Beason knew her entire team needed her to stand tall as she recorded 7 wins and 3 saves for the tournament. Beason pitched her team to a 6-3 win over Missouri Pride while teammate Kaylor Battiest tossed a 3-1 victory over the Michigan Lookouts and Kaylor Battiest pitched 5 strong innings to earn the 8-0 victory against PA. Stripes
and Strikes. Against PA. Stripes, Battiest did a marvelous job by keeping the opposing hitters off stride and off the score board. Offensively, Tulsa Elite scored one run in the 2nd inning when Kelsey Leach singled and Kelsey Goodwin hit a double to left center to score Leach. Base hitter Maddi McGraw had a two RBI single to highlight the 6 runs scored in sixth. Next up Tulsa Elite defeated their hometown rivals the Oklahoma Diamond Girls 3-1. Offensively Emily Bevan got things going by hitting a clutch double to right center to score one run in the second inning. Star offensive hitters Samantha Smith, Taylor McElhaney, Nicole Nease, Kelsey Goodwin, Mikelynn Mantich, Jessica Boone and Mallory Collins consistently lit up the scoreboard throughout the tournament. In their 8-2 victory against Team North FL. Mallory Collins had a clutch double in the third to bring in 2 runs to give the Tulsa Elite a lead they would never give up. Against the Miami Stingrays, Beason pitched a complete game and hit two 2-run home runs in the 1st and 3rd innings. In the Winner Bracket Finals against the Germantown Red Devils, Tulsa Elite clutch hitter Nicole Nease hit a solo HR. in the second to open up the scoring floodgates as they went on to win a 5-2 victory. The two teams met again in the championship game however Tulsa Elite would not be denied as their hitters had rallies going in every inning except for the seventh as they marched on to a 5-1 victory to win the ASA 16U National championship.
Softball Today • August/September 2012
By Maria Garcia
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Sioux Falls, SD., --- TN. Fury coached by Randy Coppinger compiled a perfect 8-0 record on their way to capturing the ASA 14U National Championship in Sioux Falls, SD. TN. Fury from Chattanooga, TN. won the title with star pitchers Brianna Jones and Jordan Fortel as they combined for 10 wins and no losses. Catching for the Fury was DH Libby Sugg and Alexis Hull. The Fury started off by beating the So. Cal Breakers 9-0 in a run rule shutout. Pitcher Jordan Fortel pitched a dominating 5 inning. Offensive Baylee Cook, Alexis Hull, Jordan Spicer and Baylee Sutton all joined the hit parade. In game two they outscored PA. Newton Rock 3-0 with Brianna Jones pitching a complete game. Offensively, Alyssa Coppinger was 2-3 while teammate Hannah DeVault went 2-2 with 1 RBI and 2 doubles. Against the Ohio Buckeye Heat the Fury earned a 52 victory as Brianna Jones pitched a complete game. Jordan Spicer and Baylee Sutton led all batters by putting on a 3-3 hitting clinic. In game four against the Michigan Bulldogs the Fury scored a 2-1 victory. Fury pitchers Jordan Fortel and Brianna Jones combined for the win. The big hit of the game came in the fifth inning when Alyssa Coppinger slammed a 2 RBI double. Offensively Jordan Fortel led the team with a 3-4 performance and Aston Watkins went 1-3.
TN. Fury from Chattanooga, TN. won the ASA national title with star pitchers Brianna Jones and Jordan Fortel as the dual combined for 10 wins and no losses. Against the Diamond Dusters the TN. Fury was firing on all cylinders as they outscored the Dusters 4-0. Fury pitcher Brianna Jones pitched all seven innings and she earned 9 strikeouts. Hannah DeVault was 2-4 with a RBI and a home run. Alexis Hull went 1-3. In game six the Fury scored a 7-1 victory over Team PA. Pitcher Brianna Jones pitched a complete game with 9 strikeouts. Offensively Hallie Davis earned 4 RBI on a second inning Grand Slam. In the winners bracket final Fury outscored Team
Arizona 1-0. Baylee Sutton got a RBI single in the six inning to give the Fury their victory. Pitcher Brianna Jones pitched a complete game. The Championship game matched up the same teams. Down 2-1 in the bottom of the seventh inning Fury hitter Hannah DeVault hit a 2 RBI single to win the game and the ASA 14U National Championship by the score of 3-2. 'The girls trusted in each other to make the plays as they have all year playing together as a team," said fury coach Randy Coppinger.
San Diego Power Surge won their 2nd ASA National Title in the last four years. By Lance McCall Moline, IL. --- For the average spectator enjoying the action at this year's ASA 12U National Championship it may have been quite a shock to see the 12U Power Surge team from San Diego go undefeated to win the ASA National Championship. However 12U Power Surge has a habit of playing big at 'Big Time' tournaments. This was Power Surge's 2nd ASA National Title in the last four years. "Winning the first title was awesome and at that time we didn't know how hard it was to repeat," Said Power Surge coach Scott Berndes. Power Surge mounted a perfect 8-0 record which started off with an impressive 6-5 victory over
the Warriors from Chatanooga. Kelsey Munoz pitched 6 innings. Konner Dalhberg came in the 7th and struck out the last two batters to win the game. Alexis Morehouse had an incredible at bat taking a walk after 15 pitches to wear their pitcher down. This was a huge win for Power Surge as they were down 2 runs with two out in the last inning. Base hitter Elyse Morris hit a 2 run triple to tie the game and then scored on a wild pitch to put Power Surge ahead. In game two Power Surge scored a 9-1 victory over Texas Twist. Power Surge starting pitcher Konner Dahlberg had a great outing as she gave up just 1 hit for the win. Offensively Kelsy Munoz led the team with 2 RBI's.
In Game 3 Power Surge rang up a 6-4 win over the Quakes. Power surge pitchers Kelsey Munoz and Konner Dahlberg supplied the one-two punch on the mound as they got the win. This was a big victory for Power Surge as they were down by one run with two outs in the last inning. However Power Surge put the pressure on and the Quakes made two errors and Power surge was able to take advantage and scored three runs to go up 6-4 for the win. Against the North Gwinnett Blaze. Power Surge scored a 2-0 victory. Dalhberg threw a shutout and struck out 10. Elyse Morris sparked the team offensively. Erika Silva made several catches in left field to keep the game close. In game five Power Surge pitcher Kelsey Munoz earned a 4-2 victory against Edge Chaos, from IL. Munoz pitched the entire game. Offensively Summer Hargett had two doubles. In a 6-1 victory over Georgia Impact from Forest Park, Power Surge pitcher Konner Dalhberg gave up only one run and struck out 11. Offensively, Anna Silva led the way with a home run and a double. Hannah McEwen was on base the whole game scoring 2 runs. In the championship game Power Surge scored a 4-2 victory over the Texas Bombers from San Antonio. Power Surge pitcher Kelsey Munoz threw 4 solid innings. Pitcher Konner Dalhberg came in for the rest of the game and struck out 4 of the next 5 batters as Power Surge claimed its 2nd ASA National Title in the last four years. The play of the game was a full out diving catch and throw to first for a double play by Eva Gonzales. Hailey Demnianiuk was selected offensive player of the tournament as she hit over .400.
Bloomington, IN. --- "People say that peaking at the right time is very important, and I couldn’t agree with them more," Said 10U Firecrackers coach Roman Gallegos. "Coming into June, the girls started to really perform, winning the Father’s day Classic, ASA CA. State Championship, Triple Crown, and then the Nationals. What put us over the edge at Nationals was mental and physical conditioning courtesy of Velocity Sports Performance in Costa Mesa and of course our coaches Mark Thornburg, Richard Riboni and Carlos Villarreal." To say the 10U Firecrackers from Cerritos, CA. peaked at the right time would be an understatement as they won both of their pool games and then whipped off 6 straight bracket game victories to earn the ASA 10U National title. Against a tough hitting Texas Bombers team the Firecracker pitchers Alyssa Robles and Julia Jimenez combined to pitch a shutout. Catcher Katelyn Mangrello allowed no pass balls and no stolen bases. Offensively Melanie Thornburg had a 1 out push bunt, that lead to a 4 run inning which allowed the Firecrackers to earn the 4-3 victory. Against the Gamers 01, the Firecrackers won a 12-0 mercy victory in five innings. Pitcher Jaelyn Operana pitched a 3 hit shutout. While catcher Katelyn Mangrello threw out two runners on the base path. Offensively Madison Jacobus was 2 for 2 as a lead-off hitter and Julia Jimenez was 2 for 3 with 3 RBI's. Against Georgia Easton Elite Heat 01 the Firecrackers won 6-4. Pitcher Julia Jimenez started the game off and
10U Firecrackers from Cerritos, CA. peaked at the right time to win a 10U ASA National title. was relieved by teammate Hailee Riboni. Riboni came in and pitched four strong innings allowing only one run. In game four the Firecrackers won a 13-1 mercy victory over Mizuno. Pitcher Jaelyn Operana struck out 4 and was 3 for 4 at the plate. Myah Iakopo and Hailey Gallegos went 2 for 2. In the Semi final game against the Thunderbolts, the Firecrackers won 9-2. Firecrackers pitcher Hailee Riboni cooled off the Thunderbolts batters. Julia Jimenez came in to secure the victory. Hailey Gallegos and Hannah Kumiyama went 3-3. Catcher Katelyn Mangrello managed 4 outs by throwing runners out and fielding bunts.
In the championship game against Gamers 01 the Firecrackers out pitched and out played their opponents for a 12-0 mercy victory to win the ASA 10U Nationals. Firecracker Pitcher Jaelyn Operana pitched a 4 hit shutout. She kept their hitters off balance and took the power out of their sticks. Katelyn Mangrello was 3 for 3 at the plate and Hailee Riboni was 2 for 3 at the plate as the two combined for 5 RBI’s. Hannah Kumiyama also had 3 RBI’s. Left and right fielders Samantha Torre and Aysha Ramirez also continued to have another outstanding defensive game.
Softball Today • August/September 2012
By Beth Armstrong
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By Lance McCall
Softball Today • August/September 2012
Forney, TX., --- 16U North Texas Zoom Sutton compiled an impressive 10-2 overall record to capture the IFA/VTD 16U World Series. The tournament was loaded with impact plays and sensational pitching and North Texas Zoom exemplified this with a come from behind 9-7 "if" game victory against Groove Fastpitch. North Texas Zoom Sutton was loaded with great coaching and a outstanding core group of players from North Texas and Southern Oklahoma such as Lindsey Wallace, Sydney Beuthien, Tucker Caraway, Caroline O'Neal, Melissa Livermore, Ashton Sutton, Cheyenne Wicker, Allison Foster, Bailey Woodard, Destiny Crumpley and Macy Madewell. North Texas Zoom Sutton started the tournament off on the right foot as they whipped off three straight bracket wins. They opened the tournament up with an impressive 14-1 win over the Dallas Tigers. In game two they continued their winning ways as they earned a 8-5 victory over Texas Glory Adkins-Holinworth. In game three they put on a hitting clinic as they scored an impressive 14-0 win over Lady Texans. However their luck would drastically change in game four as North Texas Zoom came out flat in a 13-5 loss to Groove Fastpitch. In game five North Texas Zoom Sutton got back
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North Texas Zoom Sutton was loaded with great coaching and a outstanding core group of players from North Texas and Southern Oklahoma. on track with a huge 7-2 win over Centex Buzz Maldonado. They continued their winning ways with a 53 defeat over Team Mizuno. In game seven North Texas Zoom Sutton's offense was firing on all cylinders as they lit up the scoreboard with a 11-0 win over Team TFS Texas- Smith. North Texas Zoom pitching kept Team TFS hitters off stride the entire game. Game eight was a rematch against the only team to beat North Texas Zoom as they got a revenge 5-0 victory over Groove Fastpitch. This victory was crucial as it set the two teams up in a winner take all "if" game. After the first few innings North
14U Texas Blaze 98 went 6-0 to capture the 14U IFA/VTD World Series. By Maria Garcia Forney, TX., --- The 14U Texas Blaze 98 team unleashed their own wolf pack, as in pitchers Hanna Wolf, Jordaine Bishop and Emily Womble against the tough competition at this year's 14U IFA/VTD World Series. These pitchers sunk their teeth into opposing hitters as they combined for a perfect 6-0 record. They started the tournament off with a impressive 4-3 win over Centex Buzz Leighty. Pitcher Emily Womble scattered 7 hits over 6 innings, she struck out 5 hitters and allowed no walks. The offense came from the bottom of the order with Desney
McDonald, Haylee Silves, and Hailley Falloon accounting for all 4 runs on 3 hits and a hit batter. Against their next opponent Texas Blaze pitcher Jordaine Bishop kept opposing hitters off stride. Defensively third baseman Haylee Silves was involved in 6 outs and short stop Malory Schattle participated in 4 outs during the 6 inning game. Avery Kelly proved to be the undoing of the Elite pitchers with a triple, a homerun, 2 runs, and 4 RBI. In game three Texas Blaze lit up the scoreboard with a impressive 13-2 victory over Thunderstix. After scoring six runs in the first inning and six more in the second, Texas blaze was in full control of the game. Offensively the team
Texas Zoom Sutton found themselves behind against a very tough opponent in Groove Fastpitch. However the team that battled all season long against several adversities continued to battle back in the "if" game. After tying the score they mounted a rally that would give them the lead that they would not relinquish as they went on win the game and the IFA/VTD World Series Championship 9-7 over Groove Fastpitch. "The girls had a very hot, long weekend but they truly played their hearts out," Said North Texas Zoom Sutton manager Steven Sutton. "These young ladies were not going to go home without a Championship."
was led by Emily Womble, Breanna Wright, and Malory Schattle who combined for 6 hits, 6 RBI, and 7 runs scored. Hanna Wolf pitched three innings allowing only 3 hits, 0 walks, and 2 runs while recording 3 strike outs. Against Fully Loaded, Texas Blaze pitcher Hanna Wolf used a wicked floating change-up to earn a tough 1-0 victory. Avery Kelly reached first base on an error, then moved to third on 2 more errors on balls hit by Desney McDonald and Haylee Silves. Haylee Falloon then fought off an inside fastball into left field to send Avery home for the only run of the game. In game five Texas Blaze scored a 1-0 victory over Texas Stix. Texas Blaze pitcher Jordaine Bishop kept the ball off the plate as an aggressive Stix team chased their way to 12 fly balls, 6 strikeouts and only 2 hits. Megan McDonald led off the game with a double, then scored on a single by Breanna Wright for the only score of the game. The stage was set for an exciting match-up between the Texas Blaze and the Stix 98. Hanna Wolf took to the circle for Texas Blaze in the Championship game. Texas Stix scored one run in the first inning, but Blaze followed with 3 of their own when Breanna Wright hit a 3 run inside the park home run to score Jazmyn Foster (walk) and Malory Schattle (single). Blaze kept scoring in the second when Haylee Silves (walk) and Megan McDonald (single) scored on a hit by Emily Womble. Breanna Wright then knocked Emily in on a single to make it 6-1. The Stix scored 3 runs in the fifth but it was not enough as pitcher Hanna Wolf handed the ball to Jordaine Bishop to record the final out of the Championship. "This was a wonderful group of dedicated girls," Said Manager Kevin Womble. "I could not be more proud of what they have accomplished."
The 12U Austin Stars went 9-0 on the tournament as they outscored their opponents 58-4 to win the IFA/VTD World Series. By Maria Garcia Dallas, TX., --- To win a World Series you need talented players and knowledgeable coaches as well as dedication and other such attributes. In short you need all the right stuff. That's exactly what the 12U Austin Stars had at this year's 12U IFA/VTD World Series. The Stars went 9-0 on the tournament as they outscored their opponents 58-4 to win the series. Against Team Mizuno Frenzy, Stars pitcher Brianna Fulgencio used change ups and accuracy to mow down opposing hitters. Offensively, Genisa Carter and Brooke Vestal were in
scoring position, when Stars hitter Tara Oltmann had a RBI single, followed by Ayanna Williams RBI double to left. Bella Garcia then hit another RBI single to score Williams for 5-0 lead. They added six in the second with key hits by Bella Garcia and Mikayla Kowalik for a 12-0 victory. In game two the Stars beat Team Solis 7-0. Stars pitcher Brooke Vestal got her team fired up with three strikeouts in the first. They scored five runs in the first and two more in the third for the win. Key hits came from Genisa Carter, Bella Garcia, Kaley Brown and Jasmine Creek. In game three Gabrielle Kowalik pitched the Stars to a 13-0 win over the Jawbreakers. In games four and five Stars Brianna
Fulgencio pitched her team to a 9-1 win over Abilene Blue Force and a 5-0 win over AF Kellum. Up 3-0 the offense would come back with two runs by hits from Brooke Vestal, Tara Oltmann, Gabby Garcia and Gabrielle Kowalik. In game six the Stars earned a 3-0 win over Texas Slam. Pitcher Brooke Vestal threw three straight strikeouts in the first two innings. The Stars would push their first run across the plate after Tara Oltmann singled, she moved to third on a passed ball and a sacrifice bunt, she then scored on a passed ball making the score 1-0. The Stars scored two more in the fifth when Ayanna Williams would come to the plate and hit a two RBI triple to left center field. In a 5-3 victory over Fusion, pitchers Brooke Vestal and Jasmine Creek pitched a bulk of the innings until pitcher Brianna Fulgencio came in to earn the victory. Game eight was a battle of the unbeatens between the Stars and Texas Glory Blue. This was a showcase of top notch softball with great pitching and sound defense and hitting. The Stars would go on to make just enough plays to beat Texas Glory Blue 2-0. Texas Glory Blue went on to beat the Texas Slam to earn the right to face the Stars for the tournament championship. The game exhibited stellar pitching and strong defense. The Stars MVP pitcher Brooke Vestal induced ground balls and fly balls that Kaley Brown, Jasmine Creek and Ayanna Williams would turn into outs as the Austin Stars went on to win 2-0 to claim the World Series title.
Forney, TX., --- First year team 10U SA TapOut, was missing Experience. That happens when you are in your first season together. However, while they lacked that ingredient they more than made up for this with other ingredients such as team chemistry and the flat out desire to win. These key ingredients were enough for TapOut from San Antonio, TX. to go undefeated to capture the IFA/VTD 10U World Series championship. With a core group of players such as Aaliyah Ortiz, Dani Garza, Baylee Stautzenberger, Arianna “Pecan” Villa, Isabella “Bella” Saldivar, Genesis “G-Ro” Rodriguez, Jaylyn McGuffin, Carissa Vasquez, Daniella Garza, Alesandra “Ale” Garcia, SA TapOut was poised to make a run at the title. TapOut's road to a World Series championship started off with two impressive bracket game victories, as Starting pitcher Daniella Garza led her team to a 11-2 win over Texas Glory ’02 and a 11-1 victory over Axe ’01. With two impressive victories under their belt the team earned a 2-1 win over the Dallas Texans. Speedy base runners such as Arianna “Pecan” Villa and Jaylyn McGuffin gave their opponents fits as they would grab the next base with ease. Defensively, TapOut's Alesandra “Ale” Garcia made a huge contribution. With the tying run on 2nd and no outs, she caught a hard line drive and doubled up the runner at second base to help secure the victory. In game four TapOut pitcher Daniella Garza threw an outstanding game as her team downed the Texas Stix 5-1. Garza had plenty of help from teammates Baylee
With a 3-1 victory in the championship game, SA TapOut was crowned IFA/VTD 10U World Series Championships. Stautzenberger, Genesis “G-Ro” Rodriguez, Jaylyn McGuffin, Carissa Vasquez, and Alesandra “Ale” Garcia all contributed both defensively and offensively for the victory. In game five against Texas Elite. TapOut head coach Nathan Rodriguez had his team fired up as he knew if team could get a victory they would advance to the championship game. TapOut pitchers Baylee Stautzenberger and closer, Daniella Garza gave their team a one two punch for a 8-5 victory. Offensively Aaliyah Ortiz, Arianna “Pecan” Villa, Isabella “Bella” Saldivar and Aaliyah Ortiz all performed well and contributed to the victory. In the championship game against the Texas Stix. SA TapOut started pitcher Daniella Garza. TapOut pitching
coach Ray Garza had her throw fast and curve balls to keep the Stix hitters off balance for a 3-1 win. TapOut scored all of their runs in the top of the seventh. The Stix pushed one run in the bottom of the inning. With a Stix runner on third base and the winning run on deck, SA TapOut was one strike away from winning it all. At that point TapOut pitcher Daniella Garza threw a Fast ball down the middle and the Stix batter took a huge cut and missed the pitch. SA TapOut won the game and the IFA/VTD 10U World Series championship. "With the final out all the girls and their parents stormed the field," Said TapOut head coach Nathan Rodriguez. "I could not be prouder of these girls."
Softball Today • August/September 2012
By Maria Garcia
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By Lance McCall
Softball Today • August/September 2012
Forney, TX., --- With a overall season record of 54-3 the 8U Dirt Devils marched into the 8U IFA/VTD World Series with the experience of veteran ball club. The Dirt Devils opened the tournament up with a impressive 12-0 victory against Coppell Lightning. The Offensive star of the game was Austin Woodville as she slammed a home run. In game two against the Mansfield All-Stars the Dirt Devils were on fire on offense as they outscored the All- Stars 18-0. Austin Woodville had another home run and Emma Mcjunkins added two more HR's. Defensively their first baseman Aubree Goodnight put on a defensive clinic. Against Showtime the Dirt Devils scored a convincing 13-1 victory. Showtime managed to get their share of runners on base however, their efforts were to no avail as they were ether thrown out by Dirt Devil catchers or several times they were thrown out by outfielder Britni Murphree fielding a grounder and making a quick throw that got relayed to their catcher Laykin Hartsfield for a great tag play at the plate. Clutch hitter Arys Hart hit a HR to secure the victory. Game four would prove to be the biggest challenge for the Dirt Devils as they found themselves down 6-1 to Texas Rip in the bottom of the third inning. The athletes on the Dirt Devil squad scored 4 runs in the bottom of the fourth inning making it 6-5. Texas Rip loaded the bases in
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The 8U Dirt Devils compiled a 54-3 record that was culminated by winning the 8U IFA/VTD World Series. the six inning with no outs. However, the Dirt Devil's stingy defense would not be denied as they strategically moved their infield in. A Texas Rip batter then drilled a rocket grounder to the pitcher Kynzi Powell, she threw the ball to her catcher Laykin Hartsfield and without hesitation she turned and threw to first base to execute a lighting fast 1-2-3 double play. After the next batter grounded out to third base the Dirt Devils offense was ready to end the game. Dirt Devils base hitter Kassie Rhodes got on base and positioned herself as the winning run. Clutch hitter Britni Murphree stepped up to the plate and knocked in the winning run in the finals of the winners bracket.
The Next Level went undefeated to capture the 18U Champions Cup. By Lance McCall Forney, TX., --- TNL (Jerry) Pitchers Rachel Nasland and Noelle Johnson did not know what teams they would be facing or what pitchers they would match up against at this year's Champions Cup held in Irvine, CA. However, one thing the pitching duo knew for sure is that their entire team was counting on them to pitch the best tournament of the season if they were to have any chance of becoming the 2012 18U Champions Cup Champions.
The two exceptional pitchers led their team to victory as they combined for a perfect 6-0 record to earn their teammates a 18U Champions Cup title. TNL pitcher Noelle Johnson started the tournament off by throwing a complete game one hitter in a 9-0 win over So. Cal Wicked. Johnson also contributed offensively as she joined teammates Madison Labshere and Chase Snell by going 2for-3 at the plate, and Molly Hucthison led the charge offensively with a perfect 2-for-2 performance. Against the Corona Angels (Kim), TNL (Jerry) scored a 6-
The Championship game matched the Dirt Devils against Texas Glory. Texas Glory was the visiting team and they jumped out to a 5-0 lead in the first inning. However, the Dirt Devils would not be denied as they buckled down and focused and slammed base hit after base hit to take the lead in the second inning and they never looked back. Once the last out was finally called the Dirt Devils stood victorious as 10U IFA/VTD World Series Champions. "I am very blessed to be their coach," Said Dirt Devils Manager Christopher Murphree. "However, I couldn't do it without my assistant coach Justin Woodville, my wife Jennifer, and all the great parents."
1 victory as Madison Labshere went 1-for-3 at the plate with a triple and 3 RBI's to spark her team to victory. Pitcher Rachel Nasland kept opposing hitters off stride. TNL went on to score a close 3-1 victory against LV Rage as TNL (Jerry) pitcher Noelle Johnson threw a complete 3 hitter game. Sunday morning's quarterfinal game against the Washington Ladyhawks would prove to be TNL's toughest of the tournament. However, TNL's pitcher Rachel Nasland was up for the task as she threw a complete game with 10 strikeouts. Samantha Camello paced her team to a 2-1 victory by hitting 2-for-3 at the plate. Sunday afternoon's Semi-final game against Firecrackers (Snyder) ended up as a 2-1 international tie breaker as Maddie Lerma hit the game winning (ITB) hit. For the victory, duo pitchers Noelle Johnson and Rachel Nasland combined for the victory. In the winner take all championship game, TNL (Jerry) battled themselves into a second straight international tie breaker against the Lakewood Firecrackers (BW). Clutch base hitter Celinna Cosio hit a game winning sac fly in the bottom of the 8th inning and pitcher Rachel Nasland threw a complete game 4 hitter to seal a 1-0 victory and earn the 18U Champions Cup title. "I can't tell you how proud I am of this entire team," said TNL manager Jerry Delamater. "These girls have worked extremely hard all year and their commitment has truly paid off."
The Worth Fireworks, coached by Tony Rico started the tournament off with a convincing 9-0 victory over Texas Kaos. Fireworks pitcher Sammy Cordova did an outstanding job to keep Kaos off the scoreboard. Leading the Fireworks offensive charge was Missy Takeiaho as she belted another homerun for her team. Defensively shortstop Taylor Vanzee stopped several rallies with numerous spectacular dives and double plays. In Friday night's action, Fireworks Trisha Parks pitched a stellar game to defeat Minors Gold 4-0. The Fireworks are
loaded with quality pitchers and Tera Blanco mixed her outstanding repertoire of pitches to down the Gold Coast Hurricanes 4-2. Blanco had plenty of help offensively as hitters Nicole Dewitt and Karley Wester both had a multiple hit game to pace the team victory. In their next outing Missy Takeiaho, Tera Blanco, and Janelle Lindvall all slammed back to back to back home runs to give the Fireworks a 11-1 victory against Texas Impact. In the Championship game against Phoenix Storm Tera Blanco sealed the deal for the Firecrackers as she threw a exceptional three hitter to win the game. On the offensive side Missy Takeiaho and Nicole Dewitt continued to hit the cover off the ball as the two sluggers both slammed home runs to secure the victory. "Catcher Janelle Lindvall did a phenomenal job for us," Said coach Tony Rico. "Janelle had a outstanding tournament and she kept our pitchers on track throughout the tournament." The Fireworks have had another outstanding season as they also won a championship at the Canadian Fastpitch Open. "For multiple years now we dedicated our trophy to Harry Runtzel, who is a WWII veteran residing in Colorado Springs." Said Rico. "Harry has become a great friend to us, and he shares important history with our team every year. We wear "Play with Honor" on our apparel proudly as a thank you to veterans like Harry."
East Cobb Bullets 16-4, Oklahoma Diamond Girls 3-2, and in the championship game she paced her team to a 8-4 win over the CA Firecrackers. In the championship game by the third inning Tulsa Elite fell behind 0-3 with the Firecrackers scoring 1 run in each of the first 3 innings. However, by the top of the 4th inning Tulsa Elite lit up the scoreboard as they tied the game with Mikelynn Mantich leading off the inning with a single to left field. Mallory Collins was hit by a pitch and on a 0-2 count Kaitlin Beason hit a 3 run HR. Jessica Boone got the 5th inning started off by being hit by a pitch and the Tulsa Elite went on to score 5 runs highlighted by 3 consecutive HR’s (back to back to back) by Katlin Beason, Kelsey Leach, and Samantha Smith.
Tulsa Elite's pitcher Kaitlin Beason hit 2 HR’s in each of the last two games with a total of 9 RBI’s in both games combined. Beason also hit a solo HR and a 2 run HR in the semifinal win against the Diamond Girls. She hit two 3 run HR’s in the finals against the CA Firecrackers. After Kaitlin's second 3 run HR in the finals, Kelsey Leach and Samantha Smith each hit one (back to back to back). Mikelynn Mantich hit a walk-off grand slam in the 4-1 win against the Texas Glory and she had a total of 25 RBI’s for the tournament. Mallory Collins led the team with a .475 average, Samantha Smith hit .459 average, Kelsey Leach hit .436, Kaitlin Beason hit .425. Tulsa Elite “95” outscored their opponents 104-26.
By Lance McCall Aurora, CO., --- They say a true mark of a champion is consistency, whether it's Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps or football greats the New England Patriots or the New York Giants, winning consistently is what defines them. The same argument softball wise, could be made for the 18U Worth Firecrackers from Huntington Beach, CA. as they have now won the prestigious Colorado Fireworks five years straight.
By Maria Garcia Aurora, CO., --- Just one weekend after going 6-0 to win the prestigious 16U Hall OF Fame National Tournament in Oklahoma City, the 16U Tulsa Elite (95) managed by Steven Bevan went on to win the Colorado Fireworks 16U division. After cruising through the tournament pool play, Tulsa Elite found that tournament play against the nation's toughest competition would be anything but a cake walk. In bracket play, Tulsa Elite pitcher Kaitlin Beason got her team rolling with a 9-1 victory over Georgia Impact and a 6-1 win over the Louisville Lady Sluggers. However, in game three Tulsa Elite would suffer their only defeat of the tournament, as they were outscored 7-2 by the CA Firecrackers. "That loss hit us hard," said Tulsa Elite manager Steven Bevan. "However these girls are competitive and they were determined to bounce back." Bounce back was an understatement, as Tulsa Elite grand slammed, homered, and out pitched their way to the championship game. With a 4-1 win over Texas Glory RWB won by pitcher Kaitlin Beason, a 7-6 victory over the Louisville Lady Sluggers pitched by Tulsa Elite's Kaylor Battiest, and a 8-0 win over Arizona Storm also pitched by Beason, the girls from Tulsa Oklahoma were back on track. The single elimination championship bracket was dominated by Tulsa Elite's Kaitlin Beason's phenomenal pitching and the teams overall pounding offense and stingy defense, especially up the middle, with shortstop Taylor McElhaney and catcher Nicole Nease behind the plate, both making several key game changing plays. Tulsa Elite pitcher Kaitlin Beason was on a mission throughout the championship bracket as she out pitched
Softball Today • August/September 2012
The 18U Worth Firecrackers from Huntington Beach, CA. as they have now won the prestigious Colorado Fireworks five years straight.
The 16U Tulsa Elite (95) managed by Steven Bevan went on to win the Colorado Fireworks 16U division.
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CA. SGV Velocity from San Gabriel Valley posted a perfect 5-0 record at the Louisville Slugger Independence Day Tournament. By Lance McCall Louisville, CO., --- "Our pitching dominated, giving up only 21 runs in 11 tournament games at the Louisville Slugger Independence Day tournament," Said a proud SGV Velocity coach Mark Shuster. "Our pitchers really set the tone for our entire team in Colorado." With a rich pitching staff composed of Meagan Lively, Lauren Cox, Sydney Gouvela and Maxine Rodriguez it's no wonder CA. SGV Velocity from San Gabriel
Softball Today • August/September 2012
By Lance McCall
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Longmont, CO, --- This year's Louisville Slugger Independence Day Tournament drew an amazing total of 160 teams. Of that group 48 teams competed at the Garden Acres Complex and Clark Centennial Park in Longmont. When the final out was called 16U CA. Team Mizuno, coached by Mike Stith stood victorious with a undefeated 5-0 tournament record. Team Mizuno set the tone in pool play as they outscored their opponents 58-3. In their first tournament game Team Mizuno's Andie Formby pitched a gem of a game by pitching a brilliant one hitter to spark her team to a 13-0 victory against Louisiana VooDoo. Offensively Team Mizuno was led by Amanda Lorenz's lead off HR and 3 total RBI's for the game. Janell Wheaton followed up with a perfect 2-2 plate performance with 3 RBI, Sashel Palacios went 1-2 with 2 RBI and Alyssa Palomino went 1-1 with 3 RBI. Against the CA. Cruisers, Team Mizuno's pitchers Kaylee Carlson and Kaley Winegarner combined for a 102 victory. Offensively the dual got plenty of run support as teammates Brooke Marquez's smacked a clutch 2 run double, Sydney Romero was 2-3 with 2 RBI, Amanda Lorenz went 1-2 with a HR and 3 RBI, and Tannon Snow went 1-2 with 2 RBI, this hitters supplied the bulk of offensive fire power to secure the victory. In game three against OC Batbusters, pitcher Kaley Winegarner picked up her 2nd win of the night in a 2 hit shut out to give her team a 6-0 victory. Team Mizuno's offense was led by Amanda Lorenz 2-4, Janell Wheaton 2-3, and clutch RBI's were scored by Brooke Marquez and Tannon Snow.
Valley played so well and posted a perfect 5-0 record in tournament play. Velocity started the tournament off with an impressive 6-0 victory against FL. Sarasota Heat as Velocity pitcher Lauren Cox pitched a perfect game with 7 strikeouts. On the offensive side Nicole Schroeder went 2-3 with a homer and 4 RBI's while teammate Alyssa Villalpando went 1-2 with a home run and 2 RBI's. Velocity pitcher Meagan Lively pitched a one hitter in game two against the CO. Stars. Lively had plenty of run support as
Team Mizuno was on a rolled as they drummed up another 6-0 victory against the Atlanta Vipers. Pitchers Kaylee Carlson and Andie Formby combined for the shutout victory. Offensive stars Amanda Lorenz, Sashel Palacios and Hannah Flippen each homered and Janell Wheaton added 2 hits. In the championship game against the Corona Angels, Team Mizuno called upon star pitchers Andie Formby and Kaley Winegarner to win a championship. Formby started the game off by pitching the first two innings and Winegarner came in to complete the game and secure the victory.
her teammate Alexis Watanabe was perfect at the plate with 3-3 performance and 2 runs while fellow hitter Stefanni LaJeunesse was perfect by going 2-2. Against New Jersey Nightmare Velocity lit up the scoreboard with a impressive 13-3 victory. Colleen McWilliams was on fire at the plate with a 3-3 performance and Maxine Rodriguez went 2-2 with a home run slam, a double and 5 RBI. Against Nebraska Gold SVG was simply golden as pitcher Meagan Lively scored the win and offensively Tatum Schultz and Alexis Watanabe both went 1-2 at the plate to spark their team to victory. In the Championship game against DeMarini Zephyrs, Velocity would have no let down as clutch hitters Alexis Watanabe and Stefanni LaJeunesse would both go 2-3 at the plate with LaJeunesse slamming a home run and scoring 4 RBI's. "These girls are very competitive and they showed that throughout the tournament," Said SGV Velocity coach Mark Shuster. "The entire team played exceptionally well against some top notch national competition." "All 20 of our players are signed and committed," Said SGV Velocity coach Mark Shuster. "Eighteen to Division I schools and two to Division II schools. Four of our players, Sydney Gouveia, Lauren Cox, Alyssa Villalpando and Nicole Schroeder were named in the ESPN Top 100 High School Recruits in the country."
On offense Team Mizuno batter Tannon Snow smacked a 2 RBI single in 5th inning followed up by Amanda Lorenz's double and Justine Mcleans infield single to give Winegarner all she needed to close out a great Tournament. The championship game exhibited several clutch defensive plays by Brooke Marquez, Sydney Romero, Janell Wheaton and Tannon Snow as they helped keep the Angel's offense from scoring after the first inning."I could not be prouder of this team," Said coach Mike Stith. "These girls gave all they had each inning and each game."
16U CA. Team Mizuno, coached by Mike Stith stood victorious at the Louisville Slugger Independence Day Tournament.