Softball Today Magazine 17-3 December 2014

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Photos by Dina T. Kwit

Softball Today • December 2014

Monica Abbott is one of the best strikeout pitchers in softball. She set NCAA records for strikeouts per season and career strikeouts at the University of Tennessee. Having won a silver medal in the Beijing Olympics in 2008, she has become a role model for thousands of young softball players.

Monica was born in July 1985 to Bruce and Julie Abbott in Santa Cruz, California. She started playing tee-ball when she was five years old, and then switched to softball. She played with the Bobby-Sox program and later played ASA travel ball.

Monica had not originally planned on becoming a pitcher; she usually caught for her older sister Jessica. One day after Jessica’s pitching lesson when Monica was twelve years old, Jessica’s pitching coach suggested that Monica take up pitching as well, as Monica clearly did not like catching and her height and her being lefthanded would be good advantages for a pitcher.

Monica didn’t want to pitch when the coach suggested this, though, but a few weeks later, she decided to give it a try. She convinced her mother to catch for her in the backyard, and she has been pitching ever since.

Monica attended North Salinas High School, where she played both softball and basketball (the volleyball coaches also wanted her on their team, but she wasn’t interested in volleyball). Monica had set a goal for softball: she wanted to pitch in the Olympics. In order to have an opportunity to pitch at such a prestigious level, she needed to develop a pitch that was unhittable.

This pitch was her riseball, which, by the time she started playing at the collegiate level, she could throw anywhere inside (or outside) the strike zone. During high school, Monica played for the Salinas Storm, a local travel ball team.

Her success both on the Storm and on the high school team grabbed the attention of many college teams. Rather than choosing one of the traditional powerhouses, such as UCLA or Arizona, she decided to attend the University of Tennessee. “I had the opportunity at Tennessee to play for a school that loved female athletics as much as male athletics. They were an upcoming program and I knew if I went there I could be a difference maker... plus I love Orange,” Monica said.

Because Monica was a student-athlete, she had to make sure she kept her grades up. She discovered the difficulty of balancing softball and school. “I did a lot of homework in the car on the way to and from softball tournaments and practices. I studied a lot during the few free moments in class, and I believed in teamwork in the classroom—studying with friends!” While Monica, like most studentathletes, preferred sports to academics, she

knew how important school was. “I knew that I had to use softball to get to college, so that meant I had to do well in school.... They go hand in hand. I study softball just like I studied in school.” Monica did well in school and graduated from Tennessee with a degree in Communications and then a Masters degree in Sports Business.

She excelled at Tennessee. There, she had a career record of 189-32, with a .79 ERA. She set four different NCAA records, none of which have been broken since she graduated in 2007: career wins (189), career shutouts (112), single-season strikeouts (724), and career strikeouts (2440). She is one of the few pitchers in college softball history to have thrown 500 strikeouts or more in multiple seasons, but she is the only one to have exceeded 500 strikeouts in four consecutive seasons.

During and after her college career, Monica played for the US National Team. She competed in the World Cup from 2005 (the summer between her sophomore and junior years at Tennessee) to 2010, and the US won gold in all of those World Cups except for the 2005 one, where they took silver.

Monica pitched for the National Team in the ISF Women’s World Championship in 2006 in Beijing and again in 2010 in Caracas. They won both tournaments. She helped the US win the PanAmerican Games in Rio de Janeiro in 2007. She won a silver medal in the Canada Cup in 2005, and won gold medals in the Canada Cup from 2006 to 2009. In 2008, she finally achieved her goal of pitching in the Olympics.

In Beijing, Monica made her Olympic debut by

coming in for relief for Jennie Finch in the final inning of a five-inning no-hitter against Venezuela. A few days later, Monica pitched the first perfect game in US Olympic history: a five-inning game against the Netherlands, which the US won 8-0 (this was not the first Olympic perfect game; Japanese ace Yukiko Ueno pitched the first against China in Athens).

During the US’s first six games, they allowed only one hit. However, even with their success, Japan emerged victorious in the championship game, being the only softball team other than the US to win the Olympics.

After her Olympic career was over, Monica moved on to professional softball. She had been playing on the National Pro Fastpitch (NPF) team Washington Glory since 2007, but the team developed some financial problems and was bought in 2009 by the USSSA Pride.

Monica played with the Pride for a year, and was then traded to the Tennessee Diamonds.

A year after that, she was traded to the Chicago Bandits following the retirement of Jennie Finch. Monica has been playing with the Bandits since 2011.

She also plays professionally in Japan. This is her sixth year with Team Toyota. “The speed of the game is faster in Japan. Japan softball athletes’ work ethic and knowledge of the game is powerful. They are also very much into the team’s success. I think both American way and Japanese way of playing softball are very effective. I personally try to mesh them together in my game.”

Due to Monica’s success, she has become a role model to young athletes. “My advice to young softball players is don't worry so much about doing everything great, but do one thing incredible...so good that even when people are expecting it, you are still dominating with it. Make it so good, so great, so dominant that it can't be ignored....Then develop everything else and use it to make that one thing you do so well seem that much better!”

Monica says that part of her love for softball comes from the effect it has had on her and on her personality.

When she was young, she loved making friends through softball.

However, it also changed her personality in a way that she has found very helpful. “Being a shy kid, softball has taught me to be more outgoing and given me confidence in what I do and who I am. That's sports—it changes people's lives one pitch at a time.”

Softball Today • December 2014

By Julia Whelan

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Softball Today • December 2014

By Dave Utnik

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All the bases and outfield are covered this season. The Wilson Sporting Goods fastpitch softball glove line is built to make every play.

With revolutionary designs from glove master craftsman Shigeaki Aso and insight from Olympians Cat Osterman, Caitlin Lowe, and Lauren Lappin, the Fastpitch A2000 has been re-imagined to create an unrivaled fielding experience.

“There is a reason that many of the top programs in the country use Wilson A2000 ball gloves,” said Sara Lawhead, the Fastpitch Business Manager for Wilson, DeMarini and ATEC. Noteworthy collegiate teams including Oregon, Michigan and Auburn, take the field using Wilson gloves because they provide players with the necessary ingredients for success: long lasting materials that break in but don’t break down and a design optimized for fastpitch players and the sport.

The all-new Wilson Fastpitch A2000s are built for comfort as well as precision with Pro Stock leather. “Our Pro Stock leather is designed specifically for the highest end Wilson Pro Stock baseball and softball gloves. It is the highest quality of leather that is being used on gloves today. It breaks in quickly and has a long lasting shape so the glove stays formed to the way the player likes it for multiple seasons.” Lawhead said. For players who want a glove that is ready to use on day one, Wilson introduced the Onyx, which features Double Play™ leather that is already broken in and available in all the same patterns as the A2000.

The fastpitch line has been enhanced to better suit the female athlete. “We got feedback from many girls as to what we can do to improve the feel and fit of our fastpitch gloves and, based on their responses, we decided to do a complete redesign of the Velcro wrist closure to make it fit more comfortably on a woman’s hand,” Lawhead said. “Now the strap is anchored to the top of the glove instead of going under and through the wrist piece. It also features DriLex on the inside of the wrist piece, which is really soft and comfortable, and wicks sweat off of your wrist.”

One of the most exciting additions to the Fastpitch A2000s is the D-Fusion pad below the pocket to eliminate sting when catching hard hit balls. “The No Sting Catch Zone brings an added element of comfort and confidence for fastpitch players, as they are catching hard throws and line drives and fielding ground balls.”

“The gloves fit the hand of the female players better and give more room to be able to place two fingers in the pinky stall. Using two fingers in the pinky stall of the glove gives you more leverage to close the glove,” Lawhead said. “This is especially helpful during the break-in process.

Two fingers are stronger than one.”

Wilson’s most popular glove remains the A2000 CAT, which was developed by Aso and Osterman.

“Cat brought some great insights to the table when we were designing the glove with her. The knotless back design is ideal for pitchers who slap their legs during their delivery -- no more bruised thighs – and the closed web is great for pitchers and infielders,” Lawhead said. “Pitchers can confidently change their grip without tipping their pitch, and infielders like the solid pocket when fielding the ball. Bottom line, the glove feels great and works for multiple positions.”

“Dual Welting helps the glove keep its shape while adding strength to the tips for the fingers. Outfielders want that added strength as they are tracking down those hard to reach fly balls in the gap that you need every last inch of the glove to catch with,” Lawhead said.

The gloves were introduced to rave reviews at the Sparkler and Fireworks Tournament in June. “Players loved them. The colors are great.

The fit is great. And the performance is unmatched” Lawhead said.

With the Wilson A2000, the bases -- and outfield -- are well covered.

For all of your Softball needs please go to www.wilson.com

A2000 CAT

SKU: WTA20RF15CAT (RHT) WTA20LF15CAT (LHT) Size: 12” Web: Cat™ Web Material: Pro Stock Leather

A2000 CM 14 SKU: WTA20RF15CM14SS Size: 34” Web: Horizontal Hinge Web Material: Pro Stock Leather combined with Super Skin

A2000 FP 1175 SKU: WTA20RF15H1175 Size: 11.75” Web: H-Web Material: Pro Stock Leather

A2000 FP12 SS

A2000 V125 SS

SKU: WTA20RF15V125SS (RHT) WTA20LF15V125SS (LHT) Size: 12.5” Web: Victory Web Material: Pro Stock Leather combined with Super Skin

Softball Today • December 2014

SKU: WTA20RF15IF12SS (RHT) WTA20RF15IF12SS (LHT) Size: 12” Web: Dual Post Web Material: Pro Stock Leather combined with Super Skin

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Fastpitch Bats 2015 CF7 (-8)

$299.95

With the smallest length to weight ratio possible, the -8 is custom built for elite players who are looking for a balanced feel, but weighted for ultimate power. For those who are strong enough, the -8 allows you to feel the barrel all the way through the zone. Get a hold of one with this sucker and it's time to say 'goodbye ball'.

Sizes: 33' inch/25 oz., 33.5' inch/25.5 oz., 34' inch/26 oz.

2015 CF7 (-9)

$299.95

With a lower length to weight ratio, the -9 is built for elite players who aren't afraid to carry the big stick. A balanced feel, but weighted for extra power, the -9 will allow you to feel the barrel all the way through the zone. With our breakthrough D-Fusion technology now expanded to this model, this bat is more impressive than ever. Our thermofused taper reduces any unwanted vibrations while simultaneously redirecting energy back into the barrel to propel the ball on impact. Translation: the science is nasty; but it looks oh so sweet.

Sizes: 31' inch/23 oz., 32' inch/24 oz., 34' inch/25 oz.

2015 CF7 (-10) INSANE (End Load)

$299.95

Built for players looking for slightly more weight behind the ball than what you can get from a -10 to really drive it, this one's for you. With slightly more end load than the -10, the Insane brings crazy pop to the plate. Featuring D-Fusion technology, this bat is more impressive than ever. Our thermofused taper reduces any unwanted vibrations while simultaneously redirecting energy back into the barrel to propel the ball on impact. Translation: the science is nasty; but it looks oh so sweet.

Sizes: 31' inch/21 oz., 32' inch/22 oz., 33' inch/23 oz., 34' inch/24 oz.

Softball Today • December 2014

2015 CF7 (-10) (Balanced)

8

$299.95

The -10 is designed for the competitive player looking for a light swinging -10 weight drop and the ultimate in barrel performance. Hot right out of the wrapper, this paradox composite barrel has a giant, responsive sweet spot. Join that to our new groundbreaking D-Fusion handle and you've got the ultimate in performance and feel. With our breakthrough D-Fusion technology now expanded to this model, this bat is more impressive than ever. Our thermofused taper reduces any unwanted vibrations while simultaneously redirecting energy back into the barrel to propel the ball on impact. Translation: the science is nasty; but it looks oh so sweet.

Sizes: 30' inch/20 oz., 31' inch/21 oz., 32' inch/22 oz., 33' inch/23 oz., 34' inch/24 oz.

2015 CF7 (-10) Hope

$299.95

The -10 Hope packs the same punch, power and balance as the -10, however with this one, you're hitting for a good cause. A portion of the proceeds goes to helping fight breast cancer via a donation to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. With our breakthrough D-Fusion technology now expanded to this model, this bat is more impressive than ever. Our thermofused taper reduces any unwanted vibrations while simultaneously redirecting energy back into the barrel to propel the ball on impact. Translation: the science is nasty; but it looks oh so sweet.

Sizes: 31' inch/21 oz., 32' inch/22 oz., 33' inch/23 oz.

2015 CF7 (-11)

$299.95

Dominance has no age. The -11 is the lightest swinging performance bat on the market giving the ultimate in performance for younger players who take their game seriously. The Paradox Composite barrel brings a monster sweet spot to the little one's game. Join that to our new groundbreaking D-Fusion handle and you've got the ultimate in performance and feel. With our breakthrough D-Fusion technology now expanded to this model, this bat is more impressive than ever. Our thermofused taper reduces any unwanted vibrations while simultaneously redirecting energy back into the barrel to propel the ball on impact. Translation: the science is nasty; but it looks oh so sweet.

Sizes: 28' inch/17 oz., 29' inch/18 oz., 30' inch/19 oz., 31' inch/20 oz., 32' inch/21 oz., 33' inch/22 oz.

slowpitch Bats 2014 Flipper Aftermath

$299.95

Leading the way in bat technology, the Flipper Aftermath crushes balls in an all-new way. Our Divergence Technology extends the sweet spot horizontally around the 13” barrel - changing the way the game is played. Combined with a stiff SC4 Alloy handle, this technology makes the bat diverse enough to give the best performance in any situation. Whether you're hitting a 52/300 or a 44/375 ball, the Flipper Aftermath is designed to destroy anything in its path.

Sizes: 34' inch/26 oz., 34' inch/27 oz., 34' inch/28 oz.

2014 Juggy ASA

$299.95

Before you can start dropping bombs, you've gotta have the right tool in your hands. The Juggy ASA brings mad pop to the plate with its stacked composite design. The end-loaded triple wall barrel provides a strong, lightweight hitting zone with a springboard surface and a twopiece feel. The Big D end cap tops off the 12” barrel, keeping energy focused on the sweet spot. With a TR3 F.L.O. handle, this bat is a force waiting to explode. As soon as you connect, you can feel the unbridled power of the Juggy ASA. Sizes: 34' inch/26 oz., 34' inch/27 oz., 34' inch/28 oz., 34' inch/30 oz.

2014 One

$299.95

This all new, all-association monster bat is meaner than ever. With a 13” 4.ONE barrel and a stiff SC4 Alloy handle, the ONE feels like a one-piece bat and delivers some crazy pop. You asked to get the ONE back in the dugout. We responded by bringing it back more responsive than you could've ever dreamed of.

2014 Mercy

$299.95

There's nothing merciful about this nasty stick. Specifically designed for women's slow pitch, this bat is hot right out of the wrapper. With a stiff one-piece feel, the 4.ONE composite barrel offers the perfect combination of balance and power. Super light swinging for blazing bat speed, the Mercy brings some serious, unapologetic firepower to the diamond.

Sizes: 34' inch/25 oz., Sizes: 34' inch/26 oz.

For all of your Softball needs please go to www.Demarini.com

Softball Today • December 2014

Sizes: 34' inch/26 oz., 34' inch/27 oz., 34' inch/28 oz., 34' inch/30 oz.

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Keilani Ricketts 12.5” Liberty Advanced Game Day Fastpitch Glove (Model: LA125KR) $169.95 • 12 ½” fastpitch pattern • Woven web • Custom-fit, adjustable, non-slip pull strap back • Keilani Ricketts game day glove

Liberty Advanced 11.75” Fastpitch (LA117WN) $169.95 • 11 ¾" fastpitch pattern • Pro H™ web • Custom-fit, adjustable, non-slip pull strap back

Liberty Advanced 12.5” Fastpitch Glove (Model: LA125FS) $169.95

Softball Today • December 2014

• Finger shift design for easier close and less ball impact to the hand • Double-tanned shell leather and USA-tanned pro lace provide unmatched durability • Full-grain cushioned finger back linings for added comfort • Custom-fitted pull straps for easy hand adjustments • Poron XRD palm and index finger pads significantly reduce ball impact for greater protection • 12 1/2" fastpitch pattern • "X" shaped modified six finger web

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Liberty Advanced 12.5” Glove (Model: LA125BL) $169.95

• Double-tanned shell leather and USA-tanned pro lace provide unmatched durability • Full-grain cushioned finger back linings for added comfort • Custom-fitted pull straps for easy hand adjustments • Poron XRD palm and index finger pads significantly reduce ball impact for greater protection • 12.5" fastpitch pattern • Woven Web For all of your Softball needs please go to www.WORTHSPORTS.com

Softball Today • December 2014

By Dave Utnik

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Montgomery, AL --- The 18U Tampa Mustangs are Softball Today's undeniable 18U ASA Team of the Year, here's how they did at the 18U ASA Nationals.

The hits kept on coming and nobody wanted to jinx it. All week long at the ASA/USA Girls’ Class A 18U National Championships, the Tampa Mustangs did the same things over and over again. They sat in the same seats, rode in the same cars and connected with every pitch in the strike zone.

"We didn't want to change what was working, and each game there was another big contributor to the victory” said Mustangs coach Jamie Boynton. “Up and down the line up, the contributions were endless.”

In 10 games, the Mustangs combined to hit .340 as a team -- scoring 55 runs on 85 hits to go undefeated through the 109-team field. “We knew we had great defense and pitching when we arrived and if our bats showed up we could make some noise this week” said Boynton. “Well they were here, just like they have been all season long.”

The Mustangs went 81-12 overall, including two 25 game win streaks along the way, and ending the travel season with 10 straight to clinch the program’s second 18U ASA/USA Championship. Megan Kugelmann batted .615 including the 2 run HR in the championship game, while Mercer Lindsay Boynton hit .500 and slugged .864 for the week with 2 home runs and 12 RBIs for the Mustangs, who defeated the Birmingham Vipers, 2-1 in the title game.

The Mustangs, Erica Serafini (Elon), Megan Lane (Mercer), Allison Carroll, Shannon Bell (Hillsborough), Maddy Hall, Taylor Bell (UCF), Kaitlyn Ridolph (Hillsborough), Megan Chaplow, Sara Bruno, Emily Gundrum (Hillsborough), Rachel Carlson (Maine), Jill McElderry (State College Florida), Lindsay Boynton (Mercer), Caylin DeLones, Megan Kugelmann, Jenna Brownell, and Grace Street (Rollins)-- are from 11 Tampa Bay area schools.

Together they won undefeated championships this year at the Dynamite Classic, becoming the first Florida team in 15 years to claim the Classic and Gold Star Elite Showcase.

The team ran through the Jacksonville Storm Showcase

and Atlanta Legacy prior to arriving in Alabama as well.

At the Nationals, The Mustangs recorded four shutouts and five one-run victories. Pitchers Jill McElderry and Kugelmann combined for nine wins and a 0.82 ERA. Opposing teams scored only 16 runs all week.

The offense was dominating. “We have played many close games this year and the team has always found a way to win,” coach Boynton said, “We executed our small ball game and our running game, and the power bats came through.” Outfielder Shannon Bell hit .407 and Erica Serafini, hit .344 and added 5 RBIs, including a grand slam home run early in the week to start the Mustang hitting barrage that carried through Sunday’s final.

The Vipers beat third-place finisher Worth Prospects, 191, to earn a spot in the title game. Meanwhile, the Mustangs won five games with a thrilling 1-0 win over the Bama Bombers and a 4-3 victory over the Tampa Young Guns. They advanced to the championship game with a 3-0 shutout of the Worth Prospects in the semifinals. “The team executed flawlessly this week,” coach Boynton said, “This is an amazing group of young ladies, I cannot be more proud of them.” Boynton added.

Salem, VA. --- The 16U Ohio Lasers are Softball Today's 16U ASA Team of the Year, here's how they did at the 16U ASA Nationals.

They are arguably the best that Ohio has to offer with players who hail from every corner of the state.They travel for hours just to practice.

Wearing a Lasers softball jersey is sort of a big deal these days. Of course, that was true long before the 16U Ohio Lasers Blue squad captured the 2014 ASA/USA National Championship.

The cool factor actually dates back several years now.

There was a Pony National Championship in 2007 and an ASA title for the 14U squad in 2011 -- the first for a team from Ohio in any age division.

This summer, the 16's added to the Lasers’

legacy with a 5-2 victory over the gifted Tampa Mustangs to conclude a 10-0 week in Salem. “I knew this group was special as soon as the roster was set,” said Lasers coach JP Flaherty.

The Lasers -- Andi Farrah, outfield; Deanna Cole, Outfield; Emily Clark, infield; Brittany Knight, pitcher; Hannah Girlie: Middle infield; Lilli Piper, infield; Gabby Fredericks, catcher/ 1st base; Jordan Sullivan, outfield; Hunter Brancifort, infield; Tess Corley, infield; Taylor Rahach, pitcher; Avery Wakefield, outfield; Katie Lew, pitcher -- went 40-4 with first-place finishes at the Fireworks, Stingrays and Lasernation invitational's.

But it was a come-from-behind victory in their final game of the travel season that elevated the 16U Lasers Blue to an elite level. “The way they came together was amazing,” said coach Flaherty.

The Lasers scored 59 runs at ASA Nationals, while allowing only 11. But they had to rally from an early 2-0 deficit against the Mustangs in the finals.

The comeback came all in the fourth inning when Emily Clark and Brittany Knight started things off with base hits. Lilli Piper and Gabby Fredericks each walked and Jordan Sullivan tied the game with an infield single.

Andi Farrah’s bases-loaded double put the Lasers up 5-2 and pitcher Taylor Rahach held the Mustangs at bay to complete the victory.

“Winning the ASA Nationals has been a dream for these girls since they first picked up a softball,” coach Flaherty said. “Their joy and the looks on their faces after winning the championship game was priceless.”

Softball Today • December 2014

By Todd Brantley

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By Dave Utnik

Bloomington, IN -- The 12U Arkansas Team Worth 01 are Softball Today's 12U ASA Team of the Year, here's how they did at the 12U ASA Nationals.

They experienced victory for the first time as 10-year-olds. And nobody was calling it beginner’s luck three years ago.

The girls of Arkansas Team Worth 01 were assembled to succeed at the highest levels of fastpitch softball.

They are closing in on 12 and 13 now and they are still winning -- not just games but championships.

“We have had a few players move on to other sports or teams, but this year’s Arkansas Team Worth 01 consists of a core group of the original girls from 2011 with a few additions to the team,” said coach Jeff Lee. That original team is still famous for capturing the 10U Class A USSSA World Series.

This past summer, Arkansas Team Worth 01 made even more history: Becoming the first team in the state to win the 12U ASA/USA Class A National Championship.

Arkansas Team Worth 01 -- Meagan Chism, Catcher; Hannah Gammill, Catcher; Gracie Hartle, Pitcher; Hope Hartle, Second Base, Aricka Henson, Second Base; Gianni Hulett, Pitcher; Aubrey Lee, Outfielder; Alex McManus, Pitcher; Joley Mitchell, Shortstop; Mackenzie Rodgers, Third Base; Emma Taylor, Outfielder; Riley Walthall; Grace Neal -- went 11-1 in Bloomington and climbed out of the losers’ bracket to reach the finals against the Franklin Flames.

The offense combined for 61 runs in 10 games, while the pitching staff yielded only 25 as Arkansas Team Worth 01 topped the Flames 5-3 and 7-3 to clinch the

Softball Today • December 2014

By Maria Garcia

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Johnson City, TN --- The 10U Tennessee Mojo are Softball Today's 10U ASA Team of the Year, here's how they did at the 10U ASA Nationals.

It was all about making them swing and miss. Savannah Jones, Ashby Murt and Elana Escobar had the same approach each time they stepped into the pitcher’s circle at the ASA/USA 10U National Championships.

They were facing some of the best hitters in the country, but there’s one thing Tennessee Mojo could count on from their pitching rotation: First-pitch strikes.

“We did a good job all week of getting ahead of batters and staying ahead and letting our defense work with good counts,” Mojo coach Brooks Cherry said. “All three of our pitchers were outstanding.”

And they were outstanding against some very good teams. Jones and Escobar allowed two total hits in a pair of shutout victories against the OC Batbusters -- a 10 win in the winner’s bracket finals and a 3-0 triumph in the championship game.

“I knew all year we had a complete team and if we could peak at the right time we would have a shot,” coach Cherry said.

Tennessee Mojo definitely peaked at the right time as they won the 10U A USFA World Series and the ASA Nationals all in the same month.

The Mojo began as a 7-and-under team and has been playing together since 2011. Last summer, in their first season as a 10U team, they finished third in the USFA World Series and that carried over to a 70-win season in 2014, “I am very proud of these young ladies and how mature they play,” coach Brooks said. “They really do not even understand the magnitude of what they have been able to accomplish this year.”

The Mojo -- Blake Cherry OF, Savannah Jones P/OF, Jaycee Goodwin C/3B, Elana Escobar P/OF, Lauren Hosford OF, Ashby Murt P, Jordan Key 1B, Cayden Baker SS,

program’s first ASA national championship.

“The team set a goal at the beginning of the year to qualify and get to the ASA/USA Nationals,” coach Lee said. “We knew based on the talent and the passion of all the girls on this team that the sky was the limit with this group together.”

Competing all season against the top 12U teams, Arkansas Team Worth 01 won the ASA Class A 12U State Championship, FASA Class A 12U State Championship, FASA Border Battles Championship and USSSA Top Gun Championship en route to a 90-10 record.

"We take them one at a time, we never look beyond the next opponent”, coach Lee said. “No one player makes a team, everyone has their role that must be played in order to be successful."

Keri Munn P, Shelby Radford, Aubrey Barnhart 3B/ C, Lauren Hall OF and Presley Morris OF -- won eight consecutive games to finish atop a 44-team field and become the first team from Tennessee to win an ASA 10U national title.

And while pitching led the way, the offense had some big moments as well.

Aubrey Barnhart batted .478 with seven RBI and five runs scored to lead the team, while Jordan Key had the game-winning single in the winner’s bracket final.

“Tennessee fast pitch is getting stronger and stronger every year and to be the first team from Tennessee to win the 10U Nationals is something they will always be able to be proud of,” coach Cherry said. “I love the fact that every time they step between the lines, they think they are suppose to win every game.”

San Diego, CA --- The 18U Fresno Force is Softball Today's unanimous 18U Triple Crown Team of the Year, here's how they did at the Triple Crown World Series.

Teddi Diedrich waited four innings to make an impact. And with her team trailing by a run, she didn’t want to waste a swing. Every at-bat is meaningful and Diedrich knew all the Fresno Force needed was one more big hit. So she waited for the perfect offering and took matters into her own hands.

On a squad filled with college-bound stars, Diedrich entered the last game of the 18U Triple Crown World Series as a pinch hitter and delivered the big blast, a two-run homer that earned a 6-3 win over the San Diego Renegades. “We came into bracket play knowing we have a pretty good club,” said Fresno Force coach Jeff Jennings. “We felt like we were in a good position to make a little run and it just kept building after

each win.”

The Force had experience as well as talent as the U16 squad won a Triple Crown World Series title last year. The program has achieved tremendous success over the past 20 years with 162 players moving on to play college ball.Seven players on the 18U roster have accepted scholarship offers, including Haylee Tracy (Evansville), Megan Marcy (Oregon State), infielder Emily Escobar (Friends University), catcher Rylee Pierce (Missouri), outfielder Brooke Coates (Fresno State), infielder Caitlyn Emberson (Charleston Southern) and infielder Deidra See (Liberty).

No one else in the 212-team field could match that talent as the Force went 9-0-1 -winning seven straight. The San Diego Renegades went 9-3 in tournament play and had to overcome an early loss to TeamsmithCarlson to work their way back to the championship game. The Renegades took an early two-run lead in the title game. But Force pitcher Arizona Pilgrim shut the Renegades down when it mattered most to earn a

complete-game victory. “Our pitching got better as the games went on and we got more efficient and were throwing strikes,” coach Jennings said.

In 2012, the Force has qualified for the ASA Gold National Championships and they played in the 2013 Premier Girls Fastpitch Nationals.

This summer, they earned the program’s most significant accomplishment behind contributions from every player on the roster, including infielder Jyllian Ahart, outfielder Kayla Lock, second baseman Kaycee Olson, infielder Alisha Marshall, outfielder Sara Specht, pitcher Samantha Escobar, outfielder Isabella Gonzalez, infielder Priscilla Garcia and infielder Maricela Romero.

“This is a really big win for our four seniors who are going on to play college softball.

Those four have really been our leaders and carried us through,” said coach Jennings.

“Ultimately it was a team effort and there wasn’t a single player on this team that didn’t make a contribution the entire week. I am really proud of our girls.”

Softball Today • December 2014

By Dave Utnik

15

By Todd Brantley

Salem, VA., --- The 16U Dirtdogs are Softball Today's undisputed 16U Triple Crown Team of the Year, here's how they did at the 16U Triple Crown World Series.

When they trailed by three runs in the bottom of the seventh inning, the Central Cal Dirtdogs could have easily settled for second place. That would have still been quite an achievement.But they’ve played all summer with a grind-it-out, enjoy-every-moment style and nobody was quite ready to concede.

If there is one thing the Dirtdogs learned during the travel campaign it’s that they never quit, not when they lost several key players to injury or when they were down to their final three outs at the 16U Triple Crown World Series. “This is a group of girls who bought into the idea that having fun together and pulling for your teammates will lead to victories,” Dirtdogs assistant coach Carrie Santa Cruz said. “There was no ‘me’ attitude.

Everyone played for the good of the team.”So after the San Diego Renegades built a seemingly insurmountable 3-0 lead in the championship game, the Dirtdogs trusted each other again and rallied for four runs in their final at-bat to pull out a 4-3 victory.

“We played the top teams in the tournaments we were in. We lost a lot of close games to those top teams. As coaches, we kept telling the girls to

Softball Today • December 2014

By Lance McCall

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Park City, Utah --- The 14U Artesia Punisher’s are Softball Today's undisputed 16U Triple Crown Team of the Year, here's how they did at the 14U Triple Crown World Series.

Samantha Mancillas wasn’t leaving without a championship trophy. That’s all there was to it. And the Artesia Punishers’ cleanup hitter made it clear to everyone.

Her team had just lost for the first time at the 14U Triple Crown World Series and Mancillas wanted nothing to do with that feeling again.

The Punishers are champions and she reminded her teammates of that very important fact as they huddled together in the outfield grass.

They still had one game to play -- one game to determine whether a fun-filled week in Utah would end the way it began: With a victory.

The Punishers were pretty much just that from the moment they arrived for the Triple Crown World Series. They won a skills competition prior to the start of pool play and then reeled off nine consecutive victories.

It was all good -- until the Evolution, from Riverton, Utah, emerged out of the losers’ bracket to beat the Punishers, 4-1, to set up a winner-take-all finale.

keep their heads up, that our record was not indicative of the caliber of team we are,” coach Santa Cruz said. “The girls took that to heart, learned from our losses, and never gave up on each other.”

So nobody was really surprised when the Dirtdogs batted around or when Jayde Darpli, the team’s clean-up hitter, drove in the winning run.

“Our success can be credited to a total team effort,” said coach Santa Cruz. Darpli batted .600 and made 51 plays at third without an error as they went 10-1. Cassidy Santa Cruz hit .500, while Dani Humphrey (.467), Renee Ortega (.462), Baylee Avina (.368) and Summer Mendoza (.333) all contributed big hits.

The Dirtdogs -- Baylee Avina, Alex Cervantes, Jayde Darpli, Carli Duke, Lisette Gonzalez, Ana Hayes, Dani Humphrey, Sierra Ipsen, Katie January, Jackie Mendez, Summer Mendoza, Renee Ortega, Haley Perez, Cassidy Santa Cruz, Sienna Swain and Alicia Torres -- scored 57 runs in 11 games and allowed 19. That was as much a credit to the offense as it was the pitching rotation, which featured Baylee Avina, Sierra Ipsen, Cassidy Santa Cruz and Katie January.

“We believe we have four pitchers that can win any game for us. We don't have an ace. We platooned them during the tournament so they could all stay fresh,” coach Santa Cruz said. “Our pitchers focused on keeping hitters off balance and letting our excellent defense do the work for them."

The loss stung. But Mancillas kept her teammates focused and the Punishers rallied for a 3-2 win in the championship game.

“It was a great weekend in Utah,” said Punisher coach Vicente Vasquez. “We had fun.”

The fun began with the skills contest and ended with Mancillas and her teammates leaving with the trophy they all wanted.

Pitcher Breanna Vasquez struck out 76 batters in 10 games and the Punishers avenged their lone loss to the Evolution by scoring three runs in the fourth inning of the title game behind a two-run, bases-loaded single from Erica Guerrero.

Mancillas did her part, too, driving in a pair of runs in a 5-1 victory over the California Thunder and dropped down a bunt single during the championship game rally.

The Punishers -- Breanna Vasquez, Miranda Gallardo, Nicole Hay, Samantha Mancillas, Rhyen Aguilar, Fiona Mutu, Chelsea Laufer, Erica Guerrero, Alexandra Loomis, Madison Denton, Megan Soto, Marissa Garza, Jesse Alvarado, Jordan DeMille, Gracie Rose, Maya Mardesich -- shut out four teams and held two others to just one run, including a 4-1 semifinal victory over the Southern California Pumas.

Reno, NV --- The 12U Nevada Stealth is Softball Today's unanimous 12U Triple Crown Team of the Year, here's how they did at the Triple Crown World Series.

The last thing they wanted was another international tiebreaker inning. The Nevada Stealth from Reno, NV. were so done with that.

When Kailee Lushar came to bat with two outs and the bases loaded in the fifth

By Dave Utnik

Reno, NV --- The 10U Firecrackers-Grisley is Softball Today's undisputed 10U Triple Crown Team of the Year, here's how they did at the Triple Crown World Series.

The rally started with a walk. Kaylie Williams took four pitches out of the strike zone to lead off the bottom of the sixth inning.

That lit the fuse and the Firecrackers were about to pop.

Six batters later, a two-run deficit was gone and Williams stood in the dugout cheering wildly with her teammates.

Shortstop Bella Flexen capped a final-inning comeback with a two-run single and the Firecrackers from Chino, Calif. celebrated a 9-6 victory over the OC Batbusters to capture the 10U Triple Crown World Series.

“This will be a great memory for these girls for a long time,” said Firecrackers coach John Grisley, after his team went 8-1 in tournament play.

Natalie Moussa tripled in a run, Kerryington Schutt tied the game with an infield hit and then Flexen, who hit .480 with a team-high 12 hits out of the leadoff spot, knocked in the game-winning runs with a single up the middle to highlight a five-run rally.

Moussa and Schutt each drove in eight runs in nine games, while Ashlee Annett had six RBI for the Firecrackers, who won a pair of onerun games against the NorCal Smackers and RGV Trouble to reach the finals. Miranda Lista went 7 for 21, while Kaylie Williams and Peyton Kelly had four RBI each.

The Firecrackers -- Kaylie Williams, Kerryington Schutt, Natalie Moussa, Bianca Arteaga, Payton Kelly, Tiger Cervantes, Madison Gonzalez, Charlotte Forniss, Ashlee Annett, Bella Flexen, Jules Ronquillo, Paige Grisley, Miranda Lista and Bridgitte Trujillo -- went 3-1

in pool play and then reeled off five straight wins.

They avenged their only loss by beating RGV Trouble, 5-4, in the semifinals.

Forniss went 5-0 in the pitcher’s circle with 29 strikeouts in 27 innings, while Moussa went 4-1 with 31 strikeouts in 20 innings.

“It has been fun watching these girls grow as softball players from day one,” coach Grisley said. “They played hard, played smart, and played together and it showed all week”

Softball Today • December 2014

By Dave Utnik

inning, she wanted to make sure it didn’t happen again.

Two tiebreaker wins was enough for one tournament as far as Lushar was concerned.

After needing extra innings to defeat Norcal Bownet and the Southern Cal Fire en route to the finals, the Stealth completed an amazing run to the 12U Triple Crown World Series championship by winning a rematch against the Fire the old fashioned way.

Lushar hit a line drive into the left field corner for an inside-the-park grand slam to clinch a 5-2 victory.

"I know it seems cliché, but our team did get hot at the right time,” Stealth coach Brad Dolan said. “The competition was fantastic, and we really didn't expect a lot coming into the tournament.”

The expectations may have changed a bit after the girls from Reno, NV went 10-0 behind near-perfect pitching from the undefeated duo of Elora Collins and Deztiny Vaughan.

The Stealth allowed only 14 runs in 10 games, including four shutout performances, while the offense produced 67 runs.

“Our pitchers were solid all weekend, the defense held up, and we seemed to hit at just the right time,” coach Dolan said.

The Stealth -- Elora Collins, Deztiny Vaughan, Baelynn Van Hooser, Morgan Clark, Lauryn Osendorf, Klarice Perkins, Ramsi Dolan, Kailee Lushar, Jenna Sammons, Rylie Miller, Hunter Travers and Ellie Jackson -- led the Fire 1-0 until Lushar’s game-changing hit.

Collins earned the victory in the pitcher’s circle with a complete-game performance, while Osendorf knocked in the first run.

“I have to give our girls credit,” coach Dolan said. “They never gave up when it counted.”

The Stealth's coaches Brad Dolan, Terry Miller, and Don Clark installed this winning attitude from day one.

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By Maria Garcia

Softball Today • December 2014

Frisco, TX., --- The 16U South Texas Kaos is Softball Today's 16U IFA/VTD Team of the Year, here's how they did at the IFA/VTD World Series.

"Puro KAOS" was how 16U South Texas Kaos coach Lino Luna best described his team. We have some great hitters throughout the line-up, and when they

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get on base they create pure chaos for the competition.

That competition is not always against just fellow 16U teams either, as South TX Kaos usually matches talent for talent against the higher up 18U teams. "We knew we had a talented group of players on our team," said Coach Luna. At the tournaments we participated in, we always came up short with either a hit or a play away from winning but at the same time all the tournaments we played in were against 18U competition. This gave us added confidence and we knew we could dominate the 16U division.

Kaos is loaded with talent from top to bottom as their players---- Desiree R Marmolejo - Pitcher, Vanessa Garces - CF, Mariah Contreras - C, Anngela Y Salinas 3rd, Amber C Reyes - 2nd, Monica Garcia - C, Alexandria Alaniz - RF, Lori Ann Doria - Pitcher, Karina Abrego Pitcher, Naomi Reyes - Pitcher, Rebecca Delgado - LF, Brianna Sanchez - 1st--- out pitched and outscored the competition 40-9 for an IFA/VTD World Series.

Kaos steam rolled their first two opponents as they downed the Titans 11-0 and TX Glory 10-2. Game three against the Black Widows would turn out to be their toughest game of the tournament as they narrowly prevailed 5-4 against a talented team.

Against their next opponent, Kaos was once again dominating in all phases of the game as they beat the OK Rebels 9-2. This victory earned them the right to play

against Black Widows with the 16U IFA/VTD World Series championship on the line.

The Black Widows scored one run in the first and this score held until the third inning when Kaos batter, Rebecca Delgado, hit a hard shot to 3rd base followed by singles by Desiree Marmolejo, Vanessa Garces, Mariah Contreras, and Anngela Salinas allowing them to score 2 runs.

In the 4th inning, Lori Ann Doria slammed a triple; 3 batters later Desiree Marmolejo hit a double to bring in Kaos 3rd run. In the 5th and final inning, Mariah Contreras hit a single while Anngie Salinas hit a sacrifice fly to left field moving Mariah Contreras over.

Amber Reyes followed up with a double and Mariah Contreras reached home safely adding another run to the score. Monica Garcia bunted and was out at first base and Amber Reyes got caught in a pickle between 2nd and 3rd base. Reyes is called safe at 2nd with an over throw, Reyes steals to 3rd and again another over throw allowed her to come home and score the 5th and final run. The game ended due to time.

The game finished with Kaos defeating the Black Widows 5-1 for the win and for the entire 16U IFA/VTD World Series championship.

"I can't say enough good things about the entire team, they all came together when it really counted, I am so proud of these girls" said Coach Luna.

Denton, TX., --- The 12U South Texas Fully Loaded is Softball Today's 12U IFA/VTD Team of the Year, here's how they did at the IFA/VTD World Series.

To say they dominated the competition would be an understatement, as 12U South Texas Fully Loaded

earned a perfect 9-0 record, which included three pool play victories and six straight bracket victories at this year's 12U IFA/VTD World Series Competition.

Offensively, first baseman Delisa Enriquez (.566), utility player Alina Jasso (.526), pitchers Erica Cortez (.444), Carla Arellano (.438) and shortstop Maya Zavala (.409) hit the cover off the ball during the World Series.

Big time players like center fielder Kristy Alanis, second baseman Kameryn Casares, third baseman Taylor Chavez, pitcher Eliana Carrizales and catcher Victoria Maldonado provided timely hitting and stingy defense to smother the competition and hold their opponents to just 6 runs over a span of nine games.

"Solid defense in combination with powerful batting helped the team remain undefeated in the Crimson Bracket," Said Fully Loaded coach Andrew Casares.

"Earning us an opportunity to play against the Royal Bracket champion TX Glory 02 (who also remained undefeated in their bracket). The winner would be crowned the 2014 IFA-VTD 12U champion."

The Championship game was intense from the very beginning. Fully Loaded pitchers Erica Cortez

and Eliana Carrizales pitched a outstanding game.

TX Glory scored their first run (top of 1st inning) on an error.

Neither team managed to score again until the top of the fifth, after Fully Loaded produced the momentum changing play-of- the-tournament, as a TX Glory02 player sharply hit a ball to Fully Loaded center fielder Kristy Alanis. Alanis fired it home to catcher Victoria Maldonado who braced herself on one knee to block home plate, as she waited for a collision with the runner sprinting home from 3rd base for the third out. The game changing play preventing TX Glory from scoring a 2nd run and firedup Fully Loaded.

In the top of the fifth Kristy Alanis doubled to center, Maya Zavala bunted and was safe at first as she moved Alanis to third. Power hitter Erica Cortez drove the ball over the left fielder's head, and brought in Alanis and Zavala. A bunt by Kameryn Casares brought in Cortez making the score 3-1. Fully Loaded's stellar pitching and stingy defense held the lead as they went on to capture the 2014 IFA-VTD 12U National Championship.

Softball Today • December 2014

By Maria Garcia

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Softball Today • December 2014

By Todd Brantley

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Frisco, TX,.--- The 8U Centex Buzz is Softball Today's 8U IFA/VTD Team of the Year, here's how they did at the IFA/VTD World Series.

If you watch the 8U Centex Buzz-Garcia players long enough, and then you close your eyes, you can envision their players perhaps a decade or so from now turning into great NCAA or even famous National Pro Fastpitch players, but dreams like this are sometimes hard to fulfill.

Perhaps it's not so hard to imagine such high expectations for the 8U Centex Buzz team after they double dipped their nemesis Zebra Crush on their way to being crowned the 8U IFA/VTD World Series Champions.

This group of young stars such as Harley Drouillard and Kaylee Rodriguez held down the infield on defense during the entire World Series tournament, and of course stars like Pitcher Lexi Dudeczka whom was later named tournament MVP all did their part.

However, this victory belonged to a team of allstars, as Centex Buzz-Garcia players Lily Wiser-3rd

base, Isabella Garcia- utility player, Kaylee Rodriguez-1st base, Raenah Smith- right field, Liliana Garcia-catcher & outfield, Angelina DeLeon- left field, Lexi Dudeczkapitcher, Malorie Holman- outfield & catcher, Zakayia Fredrick-2nd base, Marianna Calvillo-utility player, London Minnix-left center field, Harley Drouillard-short stop, Katy Stancil- outfield-- all played crucial roles in their teams overall championship success.

In bracket play Centex Buzz suffered their only loss of the tournament to Zebra Crush 14-5. The resilient Centex Buzz team from Belton, TX fought their way back to earn the right to battle Zebra Crush with the IFA/VTD World Series championship on the line.

The Centex Buzz players battled the heat and the competition as they out played and outscored Zebra Crush 16-7 to set up the winner takes all championship game. They say great players play big when it counts and Centex Buzz stars shined at the right time.

"Our big hitters, Zakayia Fredrick and Isabella Garcia were bringing runs in and the rest of the lineup was consistent with base hits," Said Centex Buzz coach Joseph Garcia. "London Minnix had just learned to slap that weekend and she got on

almost every at bat using her newly obtained skill and speed."

Centex Buzz, coached by Joseph Garcia, Tony Garcia, Curtis Rodriguez and Mauro Villanueva proved that with hard work dreams do come true.

Kissimmee, FL., --- The Nationwide Conference USSSA Championships were played in Kissimmee, Florida at the Osceola County Stadium and surrounding baseball fields at Heritage. The tournament began on Friday night where it poured rain just as games on 6 fields were about to start at 5 PM eastern time.

The tournament was played in its entirety on Saturday and Sunday including the Conference Awards Banquet at the Mystic Dunes country club on Saturday night.

So at 8 AM Saturday morning the actual game play started with the top 16 teams in the Conference playing the Big East basketball style elimination bracket. Losers from the first two rounds dropped into a bracket of their own called the "Open" bracket.

In the 4 first round games (seeds 9-16) B&B Drywall used a grand slam by newcomer and former ASPNation slugger Stuart Snell to beat OI Livingston 23-22. TG Brand jumped out to a lead on Red's Astros and never relented in a 23-15 win that could have been worse.

3rd Street upset Team Combat on the stadium field 26-19 in a game where 3rd Street jumped out to an 18-6 lead. And Taylormade powered by big Stacy Mizelle who broke an 11-11 tie beat a skeleton crew Classic Glass team 25-18. Each of the 4 winners advanced to the second round to play the 5-8 seeds right away.

B&B Drywall took a lead in the top of the 6th on Line Drive Sportz but Line Drive came back and won 17-16 holding off B&B in the top of the 7th.

Backman/Shoppe exploded on TG Brand and used all 12 of their homers over on Field #2 and won 2012. Buzini in the Stadium jumped out to a 7-2 lead on 3rd Street and trounced them 21-6. And Taylormade advanced to the round of 8 again this year with a 10-8 win over Precision.

6th to make it 21-17, his 3rd homer of the game and Resmondo won 22-17.

In the final game, where the winner would get the 1st seed and home team advantage for the upcoming Major World Series, Laservision again jumped out to a lead and a cramping and tired Resmondo found a way, dug very deep, and pulled out a 26-18 win with Laservision rolling over in the bottom of the 7th and putting up a zero, conceding a year long battle between the two giants.

In the "Open" bracket Team Combat/Softball.com squeaked out two wins over TG Brand 10-2 and Classic Glass 20-19.

Then on Sunday morning Precision never showed up for the winners final (dehydration) and Team Combat awaited Reds Astros in the championship.

Red's knocked off B&B Drywall and then advanced to the championship with forfeit wins over Classic Glass (early flights) and Precision and beat Combat handily in the first championship game 30-16 before Combat returned the favor and won the "Open" Championship 13-8 in the "if" game. Combats first tournament win of the season.

Finally there was one more tournament.

Over at Fortune Road there was a Conference Qualifier where the winner of the 10 team event gets a berth as the #17 seed to the Major World Series. The 3 game guarantee bracket was hard fought and in the end it was Above All Landscaping/GWS going undefeated 4-0 to win the berth in the finals over Xtreme/Miken 8-4.

Pitcher Russ Banasiak was the tournament MVP!

Softball Today • December 2014

By DW at SoftballCenter.com

In the round of 8 the lucky winners took on the top 4 seeds who earned two byes with their strong play during the regular season. #1 Resmondo trailed Line Drive Sportz by 8 runs in the bottom of the 5th and scored 9 to take the lead and the win 26-20.

The higher seed in this tournament was home team automatically and that really did affect many of the outcomes. #4 Baugh Ford destroyed Backman/Shoppe 22-7. #2 Laservision led Buzini 16-6 after 3 innings and held on to win in a good one on the Stadium 15-14. And #3 Team Albicocco beat Taylormade who was playing their 3rd game in a row 19-18 on a Dirty Sanchez walk off homer after Taylormade had made an incredible late game comeback to take the lead!

In the final 4 Resmondo quickly run ruled Baugh Ford 27-12 and Laservision squeaked by a strong Team Albicocco 15-14 to advance to the Sunday morning winners finals. In the loser's bracket Backman knocked off Line Drive 25-22, Taylormade sent home Buzini 33-30, and Baugh sent home Taylormade 26-19 with Backman and Baugh advancing to Sunday.

On Sunday at 9 AM the winner's bracket final was played with Laservision taking an early 9-2 lead on Resmondo and keeping the lead the entire game winning 18-15. Earlier at 7:30 AM Team Albicocco in the loser's bracket scored 5 runs in the first with the sun facing the batter right in the face and beat Backman 17-6.

Then Team Albicocco sent home Baugh Ford 144 in a game where Baugh just didn't seem to have their usual fire. Then Team Albicocco moved to the stadium to play the loser's bracket finals against Resmondo and carried a 7 run lead (14-7) into the bottom of the 7th!

Resmondo in true champions fashion scored 8 runs with no one out in the bottom of the 7th to win 15-14 on a Nick Santana walk off double down the right field line set up by a single by BJ Fulk.

Resmondo would have the big innings the rest of the day as they fought through the heat and humidity and "double dipped" a Laservision team that just couldn't get the offense going. Resmondo scored 13 runs in the 4th inning of the first championship game after being down 16-5.

Bubba Mack hit a 3 run homer in the bottom of the

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Softball Today • December 2014

By Todd Brantley

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Kissimmee, FL., --- Line Drive Sportz/R&M Metals/Easton based out of Warren, Michigan would not settle for anything less than a USSSA Men's 'A' World title, however to win such a prestigious title they would have to beat the best 'A' division teams in the nation.

Line Drive started the tournament off with a fantastic offensive display as the lit up the scoreboard with an impressive 27-6 victory over API Plumbing.

In game two Line Drive narrowly defeated Buzini/BWW/Miken 26-25. In game three Line drive pull out a 18-12 victory against team Albicocco/Scene/Easton/Elite.

Just when it appeared that Line Drive might go undefeated they ran into a tough and determined Precision/Easton team based out of Chicago, Illinois. The two powerhouses squared off in the winner's bracket final and when the last out was called it was Precision outscoring Line Drive 16-10.

Precision, led by Offensive Tournament MVP

Christopher Geron, was up 13-3 going into the seventh inning when it appeared Line Drive was going to mount the comeback of the tournament as they rallied for 7 straight runs, however Precision stood tall defensively as they closed down Line Drive for 16-10 victory.

In the losers bracket Line Drive battled Red's Astros/Louisville Slugger. The score changed hands until Line Drive took a 19-16 lead into the bottom of the seventh. Red's would not go down easy as they loaded the bases. However Line Drive would not be denied as they went on to grab the victory and earn the right to play Precision.

A re-energized Line Drive would have to double dip Precision in order to be crowned USSSA 'A'

World Champions and that is exactly what they did.

The two titans battled it out in a marathon game which featured some long distance home runs and some stellar defensive plays. In the seventh inning with the entire game on the line, Line Drives batter Joel Ramos stepped up to the plate and hit a clutch rbi single to centerfield to break a 19-19 tie and give Line Drive a chance to play for the World championship in the "if" game.

In the winner take all 'If' game Line Drive used the long ball to jump out to a 8-0 lead. Precision never seemed to truly recover from their previous loss as they reluctantly lost the final game 21-14.

When the dust finally cleared Line Drive stood victorious as USSSA Men's 'A' World champions.

Final Standings: Line Drive Sportz/R&M Metals/Easton 6-1 Precision/Easton 4-2 Red's Astros/Louisville Slugger 4-2 Baugh Doerflinger Nat-Pawn/Easton 3-2 Combat/Blocker/PTDesign/Bat Brigade 3-2