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Softball Today Magazine is the nation's leading Softball Publication. Each issue of Softball Today is packed with Fast and Slow pitch coverage from across the nation
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MSMV1BUMV-1 Balanced
FEATURES• Multi-Layer Biaxial™ and MPa7™ Resin System maximize sweetspot andpush performance to the limits.
• InnerFlex Technology™ is triggered on impact, optimizing energy transferfrom handle to barrel for maximum distance and ball speed.
• 100 Comp™ - 100% Composite is engineered utilizing 100% premium aerospacegrade fiber to deliver Miken's legendary performance and durability.
• R900™ is proven to endure grueling play deliver unrivaled durabilityand maximize performance.
• Balanced for maximum bat speed.• Premium synthetic leather grip.• New X-Tack™ Plus provides extreme knob grip for even more control.• Made in the USA
Length/Weight:34/26, 34/27, 34/28, 34/3014 ½" barrel length2 ¼" barrel diameterUSSSA 1.20 certified,NSA and ISA approved.
MSLHBULongHaul Bomber
FEATURES• Multi-Layer Biaxial™ and MPa7™ Resin System maximize sweetspotand push performance to the limits.
• 100 Comp™ - 100% Composite is engineered utilizing 100% premium aerospacegrade fiber to deliver Miken's legendary performance and durability.
• R900™ is proven to endure grueling play deliver unrivaleddurability and maximize performance.
• Maxload for greater distance.• Premium synthetic leather grip.• New X-Tack™ Plus provides extreme knob grip for even more control.• Made in the USA.
Length/Weight:34/26, 34/27, 34/28, 34/3014 ½" barrel length2 ¼" barrel diameterUSSSA 1.20 certified,NSA and ISA approved.
Companyline
MS100CAVicious™
FEATURES• R900™ is proven to endure grueling play, deliver unrivaled durability and maximize performance.• The Ballistic Crosslinked System™ provides 300™ higher elongation for increasedresilience at impact, superior durability and unmatched barrel rebound.
• Dynamic Flex Ratio™ 250 provides greater stability for the power hitter,maximizing consistency and distance.
• 100 Comp™ is the revolutionary formula that changed the game and introduced Certified Miken¨High Performance Equipment. This product is engineered utilizing 100% premium aerospace gradefiber to deliver Miken's legendary performance and durability.
• Helix™ revolutionary "continuous inner weave" process utilizes 100% strength aerospacegrade carbon fiber for superior durability.
• X-Tack™ coating provides superior knob grip for added control.• Made in the USA.
Length/Weight:34/26, 34/27, 34/2814 ½" barrel length2 ¼" barrel diameterASA 2004 and USSSA1.20 Certified, NSA and ISA Approved
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MFEHT10 (DFR 250 STIFF)Epic™ -10
FEATURES• The Multi-Layer Biaxial™ Technology precisely aligns and bonds filaments ofpremium aerospace grade carbon fiber to produce unrivaled durability and performance.
• Hybrid Technology merges aerospace grade carbon fiber with high performancetempered alloy to deliver hot out of the wrapper performance.
• R900™ carbon fiber provides 38.8% higher tensile strength and 40% higher elongationthan industry standard carbon fiber. R900 is proven to endure grueling play, deliverunrivaled durability and maximize performance.
• The MPa7™ resin system is exclusively calibrated to optimize the performance andresilience of Miken's premium carbon fiber materials.
• Dynamic Flex Ratio™ 250 provides greater stability for the power hitter,maximizing consistency and distance.
• Premium synthetic leather grip.• New X-Tack™ Plus provides extreme knob grip for even more control.• Made in the USA.
Length/Weight:31/21, 32/22, 33/23, 34/242 ¼" Barrel DiameterASA 2004, USSSA 1.20Certified, NSA, ISA, NCAA®and NFHS® Approved
MSCA-1 (DFR 250 Stiff)Chaos™
FEATURES• Multi-Layer Biaxial™ and MPa7™ Resin System maximize sweetspot andpush performance to the limits.
• 100 Comp™ - 100% Composite is engineered utilizing 100% premium aerospacegrade fiber to deliver Miken's legendary performance and durability.
• R900™ is proven to endure grueling play deliver unrivaled durability andmaximize performance.
• Dynamic Flex Ratio™ 250 provides greater stability for the powerhitter, maximizing consistency and distance.
• Maxload for greater distance.• Premium synthetic leather grip.• New X-Tack™ Plus provides extreme knob grip for even more control.• Made in the USA.
Length/Weight:34/26, 34/27, 34/2814 ½" Barrel length2 ¼" Barrel diameterASA 2004 and USSSA 1.20 Certified,NSA and ISA Approved
MFRCA2Rain™ -10 100 Comp
FEATURES• Multi-Layer Biaxial™ and MPa7™ Resin System maximize sweetspot and pushperformance to the limits.
• 100 Comp™ - 100% Composite is engineered utilizing 100% premium aerospacegrade fiber to deliver Miken's legendary performance and durability.
• R900™ is proven to endure grueling play deliver unrivaled durability andmaximize performance.
• Dynamic Flex Ratio™ 250 provides greater stability for the power hitter,maximizing consistency and distance.
• Premium synthetic leather grip.• New X-Tack™ Plus provides extreme knob grip for even more control.• Made in the USA.
Length/Weight:34/24, 33/23, 32/22, 31/212 ¼" Barrel DiameterASA 2004, USSSA 1.20 certified, NSA,ISA, NCAA® and NFHS® approved
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GEARSP2Gear SupremacyThe new Gear Supremacy is a huge improvement on the original Gear Virus. Combat’s engineers utilizing Combat’s new patented Blended FiberTechnology have increased bending stiffness to fine tune the barrel trampoline response to achieve maximum allowable performance withCombat’s legendary Ultra Soft Feel. Combat’s patent pending Gear Technology combined with Combat’s Variable Stiffness Technology results in aSuper Sweetspot Size. Supremacy means total domination!
GEARSP3Gear AfflictedThe new Gear Afflicted utilizes Combat’s newly patented Blended Fiber Technology with increased bending stiffness while maintaining ourlegendary Ultra Soft Feel. Gear Technology Outside combined with our Variable Stiffness Technology results in a Super Sweetspot Size – all in agreat new design. Afflicted means the largest ASA sweetspot in the industry!
Maximum Allowable Performance (MAP)Ultra Soft Feel (USF)Super Sweetspot Size (SSS)Hot Out of the Wrapper (HOT)Blended Fiber Technology (VST)Gear Technology Outside (GT)Variable Stiffness Technology (VST)Triple Wall ConstructionBalanced for Finesse PlayersFully Loaded for Power PlayersMeets 1.20 BPF Standard
BALANCED - 34 ”Weight 30oz. 28oz. 27oz. 26oz.
FULLY LOADED - 34 ”Weight 30oz. 28oz. 27oz. 26oz.
Maximum Allowable Performance (MAP)Ultra Soft Feel (USF)Super Sweetspot Size (SSS)Hot Out of the Wrapper (HOT)Blended Fiber Technology (BFT)Gear Technology Outside (GT)Variable Stiffness Technology (VST)Multi-Wall ConstructionBalanced for Finesse PlayersFully Loaded for Power PlayersMeets 1.20 BPF Standard
BALANCED - 34 ”Weight 30oz. 28oz. 27oz. 26oz.
FULLY LOADED - 34 ”Weight 30oz. 28oz. 27oz. 26oz
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LFFP1Lisa FernandezThe new Lisa Fernandez Combat is the hottest bat allowed under the new 98 MPH ABI limit. With very long barrel lengths, our longest in anymulti-wall bat yet, this bat is sure to become a legend! Lisa’s bat has everyone talking, with Combat’s Blended Fiber Technology which includesan Aramid* reinforced handle for a lightweight balanced feel and maximum vibration dampening in the handle. This gives this bat the power,performance and feel that you are looking for. Swing like an Olympian—add a Lisa Fernandez bat to your arsenal!
LFFP2Lisa Fernandez Lite FPWith its very long barrels and single wall construction, this popular –10 drop has unmatched durability and the performance of a double wallconstruction. The -12 drop has Blended Fiber Technology which includes Aramid* construction to maximize barrel length and dampen vibrations.This bat has a lightweight balanced feel with ultimate power and performance. We have added extremely long barrels for the -12 drop.
Maximum Performance (MAP)Ultra Soft Feel (USF)Super Sweetspot Size (SSS)Hot Out of the Wrapper (HOT)Variable Stiffness Technology (VST)Blended Fiber Technology (BFT)Long BarrelMulti-Wall ConstructionMeets Latest ASA Standard
-8 DROPLength 33” 34”Weight 25oz. 26oz.Barrel Lgt. 14” 14.5”
-9 DROPLength 32” 33” 34”Weight 23oz. 24oz. 25oz.Barrel Lgt. 12” 12.5” 13.5”
Great PerformanceSoft FeelSuper Sweetspot Size (SSS)Hot out of the Wrapper (HOT)Variable Stiffness Technology (VST)Blended Fiber Technology (BFT)Extra Long Barrel (-12)Ultra Long Barrel (-10)Single Wall ConstructionSpecifically Designed for Smaller PlayersMeets Latest ASA Standard
-10 DROPLength 30” 31” 32” 33” 34”Weight 20oz. 21oz. 22oz. 23oz. 24oz.Barrel Lgt. 9” 10” 11” 11.5” 12.5”
-10 DROP (LFFP2)Length 27” 28” 29” 30” 31” 32”Weight 17oz. 18oz. 19oz. 20oz. 21oz. 22oz.Barrel Lgt. 8.5” 10” 11” 12.5” 13.5” 14.5”
-12 DROP (LFFP3)Length 27” 28” 29” 30” 31” 32”Weight 15oz. 16oz. 17oz. 18oz. 19oz. 20oz.Barrel Lgt. 7.5” 8.5” 9.5” 10.5” 12” 13”
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WTDXNT2-10The Fly Swatter• Triple wall barrel design 5-5-5(two carbons, two glasses, one carbon).)
• Patented DeMarini Half & Halftwo piece construction
• 3.5 handle flex index for a softerfell at ball contact
• Composite handle material• Barrel length 12”
WTDXONU-10The One 1.20• Double Wall barrel design (7-7) 4 carbon& 3 glass on each wall = 4-1 comp
• Patented DeMarini Half & Half twopiece construction
• 4.1 handle flex index for a stifferone piece feel at ball contact
• Composite handle material• Barrel length 13”• Clutch end cap design
WTDXONE-10 AKA-MLCThe One “Misery Loves Company”• Double wall barrel design(2-3-2 Carbon glass carbon on each wall)
• Patented DeMarini Half & Half twopiece construction
• 4.1 handle flex index for a stifferone piece feel at ball contact
• Aluminum handle material• Barrel length 13”
WTDXONE-10
WTDXNT2-10
WTDXONU-10
• Balanced weight distribution• Approved for USSSA, NSA & ISA(not approved for ASA play)
• Meets 1.20 BPF test• 2.25 diameter barrel• 12 month limited warranty• 26, 27, 28 & 30oz• Available in 34” length only
• Clutch Cap• Slight end-load weight distribution• Approved for all associations• Meets 1.20 BPF test• 2.25 diameter barrel• 12 month limited warranty• 26, 27, 28oz weights only• Available in 34” length only
• Clutch Cap• Balanced weight distribution• Approved for all associations• Meets 1.20 BPF test• 2.25 diameter barrel• 12 month limited warranty• 26, 27, 28oz weights only• Available in 34” length only
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Cf4 -8Forget Playing NiceThe new CF4 Black featuring Stacked Pitchblack PlusComposite and Silver Trace Technology adds rebar-like strengthto create a bigger sweet sport and the tightest and strongestcomposite weave ever made by DeMarini. So what does it allmean? One huge sweet spot.
CF4 -9The Next Generation of PowerThe new CF4 Black featuring Stacked Pitchblack Plus Compositeand Silver Trace Technology adds rebar-like strength to create abigger sweet sport and the tightest and strongest compositeweave ever made by DeMarini. So what does it all mean? Onehuge sweet spot.
Cf4 -10Less sweet. More Sweet SpotThe new CF4 Black featuring Stacked Pitchblack Plus Compositeand Silver Trace Technology adds rebar-like strength to create abigger sweet sport and the tightest and strongest compositeweave ever made by DeMarini. So what does it all mean? Onehuge sweet spot.
Cf4
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Cf4
-9
Cf4
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3N2 Buddy BagCustomizable Bat BagThe ultimate bat bag. The 37x12x12-inch 3N2 Buddy Bag is constructedfrom 600 Denier polyester for unprecedented durability and featuresexterior compartments that hold two bats apiece (holds six bats total). Zip-off exterior side panels allow you to customize your bag with a silkscreenof your team’s logo or alternate color panel.
The tri-level interior shelving system intelligently divides the main storagearea, which also features a side wing pocket for storing valuables and atop exterior zip compartment. The bag’s versatility and functionality aresecond to none: It features four lightweight clasps, a rugged nylon hang-handle, heavy-duty zippers and a shoulder harness for transport.
Additional colored pockets sold separately.
KZONE RBI Pro FleeceStay on top of your game during warm-ups, in between bats or whenthe thermometer drops in the 3N2 KZONE RBI Pro Fleece. Featuresribbed Polyzone™ micro fiber construction with KZONE breathabilityzones in the shoulder and arm vents to enable rapid evaporation ofskin moisture, keeping you dry and warm when the action heats upand the weather cools down.
3N2 CUSTOMIZABLE BACK PAKHit the road with the rugged, customizable 3N2 Back Pak. Constructedfrom heavy-duty 600-denier polyester, it features a huge maincompartment with a mesh pocket, large liner pocket with Velcro fastener,two pockets for valuables and an MP3 player pocket with interior-to-exterior port for headphone wires. Backpack exterior holds 2 bats, features2 mesh beverage holders and has a double-reinforced metal clasp hookfor easy hanging in lockers or on ballpark fences.
A large 12x12 removable exterior pocket allows you to customize your bagwith your team color or a silkscreen or embroidery of your team logo.
Additional colored pockets sold separately.
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TEC HOODIE & PANTSStyle and performance. The wear-anywhere 3N2TEC HOODIE and TEC PANTS feature adrawstring and thick Polyzone™ micro fiberconstruction for durability and lightweightperformance.
BOUNCESTEP TRAINERThe streamlined BOUNCESTEP is a wear-anywhere, do-anything trainerthat looks as good as it performs. Features a lightweight, loose-weavemesh and leather upper for maximum flexibility and breathability andthe BOUNCEBACK midsole for unprecedented sprint and support.
MOMENTUM TRAINER LOThe high-performance evolution of the legendary 3N2 Pro TurfTrainer. The feather-light MOMENTUM features a custom designed,injection-molded LEVItT8 midsole and genuine leather upperreinforced with CORDURA® – “The Tough Stuff” – a revolutionarymaterial that is 3x more durable than polyester, 2x more durable thannylon, and as breathable as conventional mesh. Fitted with aremovable leather tongue flap, 3N2 Speed Lacing System andmolded heel counter to ensure superior fit and stability.
ACCELERATE PT (PITCHING TOE)The sleek, lightweight women’s Accelerate PT is purpose-built to boostthe in-game performance of the professional fastpitch athlete. Theinsanely tough Pitching Toe protects the cleat from premature wear, isdesigned and engineered for highly fluid toe drag and is made from arevolutionary rubber compound that is lighter and more durable thantraditional pitching toes. A genuine leather upper with METAMESHventing and double-stitched reinforcement in high-wear areas ensuresoptimum durability, flexibility and comfort and a compression-moldedEVA midsole provides lightweight, highly responsive cushioning. Worn bythe fastpitch elite, including Olympians and NPF All Stars.
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By C. Schwartz
Orlando, FL – The USSSA Major World Seriesfeatured its strongest field in many years. This isthe 9th season for “The Showcase of Softball” atDisney and it did not disappoint. The top 16 teamsranked by Conference USSSA year long pointsystem determined who will vie for the title. Thetournament featured a melting pot of the bestathlete’s the game has to offer.
The top programs in this 2009 edition towatch were Resmondo/Specialty Tank-Worth, DanSmith/Menosse/Benfield/Combat, LongHaul/Miken/Phonemasters, T&R Stucco/Worth andJean Shoppe/Chaneys/Easton.
The tournament began with games onWednesday and Thursday completing the firstround. The ranked teams all advanced to Friday’ssemi-final winner bracket games. The top of thebracket featured Resmondo’s squaring off with T&RStucco/Worth. The lower bracket featured LongHaul/Miken and Dan Smith/Combat.
Resmondo’s powered their way through the
Mike Browne (Dan Smith) and Mike Rose (T&R)worked the action to their respective defenses.T&R had great infield play from Tim Mattox andMitch Mabe. Rich Gulash provided the offensivemight. T&R Stucco/Worth held off Dan Smithwith a 17-13 victory and trip to the Major WorldSeries Championship.
Resmondo/Worth and T&R Stucco/Worthbegan the Championship game and the contest wasclose in the early innings. However Resmondo’sprime time players opened the game up bycombining base hits with some mammoth homeruns over the following innings as they went on toscore a 23-7 victory.
“Our organization prides itself on winning andwe could not be happy with these results,” saidManager, Frank Webb. “We worked very hard to beWorld Champions and I am very pleased to see howwell our players performed.” The Major World SeriesCO-MVP was Resmondo’s Dennis Rulli and AndyPurcell. Brian Rainwater of Resmondo was theOffensive MVP. T&R Stucco-Worth’s Tim Mattox wasthe Major World Series Defensive MVP.
winner bracket finals as they downed T&R Stuccowith a 27-12 victory. Resmondo was lead by DennisRulli, Don DeDonatis Jr. and Andy Purcell. T&R waslead by veteran Rich Gulash and defensive standoutTimothy Mattox.
Long Haul/Miken and Dan Smith/Combatplayed a very competitive battle as well. The gamechanged leads multiple times until Long Hauloutlasted Dan Smith 23-20 to join Resmondo in thewinner bracket final. Dan Smith/Combat was led bystars Brian Wegman and Brett Helmer. Long Haul-Miken was lead by JD Genter, Ryan Robbins, andJeremy Isenhower.
The winner’s bracket final was set betweenResmondo/Worth and Long Haul/Miken.Resmondo/Worth was eventually declared thewinner with a 7-0 score. They advanced to the finalsof the 2009 Major World Series.
The game between Dan Smith/Combat andT&R Stucco/Worth was to determine who wouldmove onto face Resmondo. The game featured avery tightly fought contest. The ball was certainlynot flying out of the stadium and both pitchers
USSSA
Resmondo/Specialty Tank/Worth beat the best in the nation to be crowned USSSA Major World Series champions.
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USSSA
By C. Schwartz
Orlando, FL. -- The 2009 USSSA “A” WorldSeries brought together the best collection of thenation’s top “A“ programs. The weather was veryhumid and the on field temperature was at 100degrees for most of the weekend. It made thechallenge for the 19 competitor’s that much moredifficult to compete for the “A” World title.
A strong Conference USSSA season for the “A”program’s saw incredible future talents’ who week inand week out proved themselves with consistentwins over the Major powerhouse teams. The earlyfavorites for the 2009 “A” World title included 2009USSSA “A” Conference Champions JeanShoppe/Chaney’s/Easton-TN, T&R Stucco/Worth-FL,Taylormade/Titan/Mizuno-VA, Budlight/TPS-MI, andGTL Cartel/Stucco/Worth/Elite-WA.
The tournament began with all teams playingon Friday and the early bracket games went as mostwould have expected. The exception was amonumental 27-26 upset of Back-to-Back “A” WorldChampions Jean Shoppe by 18th ranked Offregularly/Miken from Cassellberry, FL. The Disneystadium crowd was elated as the cheers resonatedwith the upset.
In the upper portion of the “A” World bracket,GTL Cartel was firing on all cylinders as they blazed
a perfect 5-0 record.The game was a see-saw battle early with
multiple lead changes. The fourth inning provedto be the point of separation as GTL tookcommand of the game and never looked back.Conference USSSA stars Chad Munger andDonovan Pokraka flexed their might on bothsides of the ball and carried their team to anexciting 21-13 victory. Now GTL was just onevictory from “A” World greatness.
Meanwhile, the loser bracket featured someincredible battles. Despite losing their openinggame of the tournament JeanShoppe/Chaney’s/Easton fought their way throughthe bracket.
They won 5 straight games on Saturday andeventually had to play 8 games in 28 hours on theirway to the finals. They completed their thirdconsecutive run to the “A” World finals on Sundaymorning by dispatching their rivals T&RStucco/Worth 17-15 in the loser bracket finals.
Jean Shoppe players of note during their runthrough the loser’s bracket were shortstop JohnnyGallegos and outfielder Brad Reckart on defense.On the offensive side of the ball Hank Garris andTodd Joerling led their teammates to victory.
The 2009 USSSA “A” World Series final wasnow established. Jean Shoppe would meet GTLCartel for the “A” World title. The Championshipgame belonged to Jean Shoppe as they combinedconsistent hitting with a stingy defense to earn a21-11 victory.
The “IF” game proved to be no contest as GTLCartel crushed an exhausted Jean Shoppe teamwith a 21-2 victory claiming the USSSA 2009 “A”World Series title.
GTL’s sponsor Charles Garcia put together anoutstanding team that excelled throughout theseason and when it counted most at the USSSA“A” World Series. “We worked hard as a team andorganization for this Title, our success is atestament to our entire organization”, saidSponsor Garcia.
their way through the winner bracket finals with a25-22 victory over O&S/POVS/Hoffman/Combat fromST. Paul, MN, and an impressive 28-12 defeat ofTaylormade/Titans/PAS/Mizuno of Spotsylvania, VA.In their third outing they earned a tight 15-14 defeatover Blitz/Watanabe/Weller/Minges/Easton fromCincinnati, OH.
The Lower “A” World bracket proved to beequally competitive with favorites Budlight/TPS/LineDrive/55 from Plymouth, MI. and T&R Stucco/Worthof Polk City, FL sending their opponents quickly tothe loser’s bracket.
The highlight game in this section of thetournament was a showdown game betweenBudlight/TPS and Combat USA/Elite of Seattle, WA.as the winner of this game would earn the right toplay against T&R Stucco/Worth.
Combat USA/Elite arrived with west coast rageand sent a message to the rest of the tournamentscompetitors with a convincing 17-1 defeat ofBudlight/TPS. However, Combat USA would not getto savor their victory for long as their next opponentsT&R Stucco/Worth handed them a 24-8 defeat.
The winner bracket finals for the 2009USSSA “A” World Series was now set. It featuredGTL Cartel/Stucco/Worth/Elite and T&RStucco/Worth in a Saturday night battle of titans.On the line was a trip to the “A” World Finals and
GTL’s sponsor Charles Garcia put together an outstanding team that excelled throughout the season andwhen it counted most at the USSSA“A” World Series.
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By Fred Myers
Seattle, WA. - To win a USSSA “B” World titleis an amazing feat in itself, but to go undefeated(5-0) is simply spectacular. That’s what NorthwestCombat from Seattle, WA. accomplished at thisyears 2009 USSSA B Men’s World Championships.
“We came into the tournament at fullstrength and we were playing very well at thetime,” Said Northwest Combat Manager GeorgePhillips. “Because we have a talented group ofplayers and the fact that we were all swingingCombat bats we were very confident that if we goton a row we could bring home the “B”World title.”
The boys from Seattle started their journey tocapturing the “B” world title off with an impressive22-7 victory over Detroit’s Own/Tire Shop.Combat veteran Shane McCullough set the pacefor his teammates as he blasted two home runs
belonged to Derek he single handedly held theirteam to just one run for the entire game,” saidPhillips. “He did a remarkable job on the mound andhe kept their hitters off stride all game long and ourentire defense played flawless ball.”
On the offensive side of the ball Combat’s lastthree hitters in their line-up Josh Fulton, RyanGoodman and Brian Plenkovich combined for aperfect 9-for-9 at the plate.
In the championship game the two “B”powerhouse teams matched up again. At stake forBlitz Watanabe was a chance to redeem themselvesfrom their one sided defeat and for North WestCombat, the entire USSSA “B” world title was withintheir grasp.
Combat would not be denied of their destinyas they used their golden bats to explode for sixruns in the top of the first inning and theycontinued to light up the scoreboard with six moreruns in the second and six additional runs in thethird inning. Just to seal the deal Combat scoredfour more runs in the top of the fourth. Blitz spreadout six runs over four innings before yielding a 22-6 victory to North West Combat.
“Our players had worked very hard thisseason,” said Phillips. “Each player on the team trulycontributed to winning this World title. I can’t sayenough great things about this group of guys.”
deep to centerfield to spark his team to victory.Game two would be a critical game as Combat
faced one of their toughest opponents of thetournament as they were challenged to match hitafter hit and run for run against Fence Brokers fromConway, AR.
Combats defensive MVP third baseman JeffGare and their all tournament short stop Jon Oramteamed up for two rally killing double plays to pacetheir team to a 7-5 victory.
Against PRI from Cincinnati, OH. Combatscatcher Seth Stephens was perfect at the plate ashe led his offense with a 5-for-5 performance and5 RBI and one home run to lead his team to a 22-7 victory.
In the winners bracket finals against BlitzWatanabe of Cincinnati, OH. Combats TournamentMVP pitcher Derek Warren led the way for theSeattle based team. “Without hesitation this victory
“Because we have a talented group of players and the fact that we were all swinging Combat bats we werevery confident that if we got on a row we could bring home the “B” World title.” Said Northwest CombatManager George Phillips.
USSSA
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BatReview
Multi-Layer Biaxial™ and MPa7™ Resin System maximize sweetspot and push performanceto the limits.
InnerFlex Technology™ is triggered on impact, optimizing energy transfer from handle to barrel formaximum distance and ball speed.
100 Comp™ - 100% Composite is engineered utilizing 100% premium aerospace grade fiber to deliverMiken's legendary performance and durability.
R900™ is proven to endure grueling play deliver unrivaled durability and maximize performance.
Balanced for maximum bat speed.
Premium synthetic leather grip.
New X-Tack™ Plus provides extreme knob grip for even more control.
Made in the USA
MV-1 Balanced - Model: MSMV1BU
Length/Weight: 34/26, 34/27, 34/28, 34/30
14 ½" barrel length
2 ¼" barrel diameter
Review:2010MikenMV1BalancedMany of our reviewers had already swung past Miken legendary bats such as the Freak, the Recoil and the
NRG so the expectations were extremely high when they reviewed the MV1 balanced. Our large group ofpredominantly base hitters absolutely loved this latest Miken rendition. “This is definitely a bat for hard coresoftball players,” said Eric Delao. “Great feel and great balance, Outstanding distance and a very generous sweetspot. This is the bat you would give up your Friday check for.” After over 350 swings the bat exhibited no signs ofbreakdown or durability problems. “I can sum this bat up in two words “BOOO YA,” said Bobby Montoya. “Thisbat is flat out a hitting machine. It delivers crisp line drives and when you get a pitch you can drive, that’s it theballs gone, way gone.”
Line Drives 93
Distance 97
Feel/Sting 93
Sweet Spot 95
Sound 94
Durability 100
Graphics 90
Approved by USSSA 1.20 certified, NSA and ISA approved.
TheScore:
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Double Wall barrel design (7-7) 4 carbon & 3 glass on each wall = 4-1 comp
Patented DeMarini Half & Half two piece construction
4.1 handle flex index for a stiffer one piece feel at ball contact
Composite handle material
Barrel length 13”
Clutch end cap design
Balanced weight distribution
Meets 1.20 BPF test
2.25 diameter barrel
12 month limited warranty
26, 27, 28 & 30oz
Available in 34” length only
Review:2010DeMarini TheOneWhile all of our testers had swung DeMarini bats in the past, not one player had ever swung their latest 2010
bat known as “The One.” The first thing our testers took notice of was the unique “Sweet” graphics.DeMarini always does their own thing when it comes to their graphics, their cutting edge look has always stuck out.Their RD and Juggernaut bats are great example of their distinct looks. Once our players got to the hitting part theyfound out that this bat has a whole lot more to offer then just looks “This bat is one of the most consistent bats Ihave ever swung,” said Abraham Flores. “I especially love the sound off this bat when you get a hold of the ball, youknow from the swing and the sound that the ball will clear the fence.” “Earlier in the season I fell in love with theperformance that the RD produced,” said James Varrarreal. “But I will definitely have to make space for a secondDMar in my bag. This sticks got power and a great sweet spot even when I slightly miss, the ball flies for distance.After we got through the first round this bat improved with every swing.”
Line Drives 95
Distance 97
Feel/Sting 93
Sweet Spot 94
Sound 92
Durability 100
Graphics 94
Approved by USSSA, NSA & ISA (not approved for ASA play)
TheScore:
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USSSA
Tournament MVP William Knoppi Caseys Bailbonds/Castle Heating/Worth
Offensive Tournament MVP Chad Hartsell Caseys Bailbonds/Castle Heating/Worth
All Tournament Team Pat Paschal Caseys Bailbonds/Castle Heating/Worth
All Tournament Team Jayson Obermiller Caseys Bailbonds/Castle Heating/Worth
All Tournament Team Adam Yeaney Caseys Bailbonds/Castle Heating/Worth
All Tournament Team Jason Freeman Caseys Bailbonds/Castle Heating/Worth
All Tournament Team Kaeo Rubin Caseys Bailbonds/Castle Heating/Worth
All Tournament Team Tim Bobeck Caseys Bailbonds/Castle Heating/Worth
By Fred Myers
Orlando, FL. – Casey’s Bail Bonds from BonneyLake, WA. rolled a perfect 7, as in 7 wins and no losesat this years 2009 USSSA “C” World Championshipsheld at the Disney Wide World of Sports.
They started the tournament off with aconvincing 19-4 victory over Marty’s Boys fromLoxahatchee, FL.
“The key to winning this game and the entiretournament would be consistent hitting andoutstanding pitching,” said Casey’s Manager TimMcQuery. “As a team our batters hit well throughoutthe line-up and our tournament MVP pitcher BillyKnoppi did an outstanding job all weekend.”
In game two Casey’s sent DCS down to the
quickly as they out hit and out played Wagner Farms for aconvincing 18-6 victory.
The championship game was a much closer contestas Wagner Farms shook off their morning rust and battledCasey’s hit for hit as the score went back and forth. ButCasey’s defense saved it’s best for last. Whenever WagnerFarms would get a runner to first or second Casey’sinfielders would turn a double play to end the threat. Bythe seventh inning they pull away 12-5 for the victory andthe USSSA “C” World Championship.
“Chad Hartsell and our MVP pitcher Billy Knoppiwere on a mission and they would not be denied, but inmy heart the entire team deserves to be the MVP, they alldid their part and the did whatever was asked of them,they are all true world champions.” said Casey’sManager Tim McQuery.
loser’s bracket with a 20-11 victory. DCS opened the gameup with 8 runs but Casey’s clean up batter Pat Paschalcrushed a grand slam to cut the lead in half and Casey’shitters poured on the runs from that point on.
In a tough match up against Hub’s Pub, Casey’sbattled until the late innings before scoring a 17-12 win.The score was tied at 12-12 in the seventh inning untilCasey’s scored a five spot to snatch the game away.
Casey’s scored a 10-2 victory against Steve’sDrywall and a close 18-17 victory against Syndicate toadvance their team through the winner’s bracket.
The winner’s bracket final was set between Casey’sand Wagner Farms however because of a late night stormthe showdown was pushed until the morning at 7:00 AM.
Casey’s hitters may have been forced to roll out ofbed early for the morning game but their bats woke up
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BatReview
Maximum Allowable Performance (MAP)
Ultra Soft Feel (USF)
Super Sweetspot Size (SSS)
Hot Out of the Wrapper (HOT)
Blended Fiber Technology (BFT)
Gear Technology Outside (GT)
Variable Stiffness Technology (VST)
Multi-Wall Construction
Balanced for Finesse Players
Fully Loaded for Power Players
BALANCED - 34 ”
Weight 30oz. 28oz. 27oz. 26oz.
FULLY LOADED - 34 ”
Weight 30oz. 28oz. 27oz. 26oz
Review:2010CombatGearAfflictedMost of our hitters had hit with other Combat bats like the Virus Morphed and the Virus Plague. So there was
quite a bit of excitement when we brought out the Combat Gear Afflicted. We put their latest stick to the absolute testas we placed over 350 hits on the Gear Afflicted. “I would not want to be a pitcher with these line drives screamingoff this bat,” Said Gill Anzallo. “This bat has far exceeded my expectations. The lines drives come off this bat as goodas any Combat or any bat I have ever swung before.” Despite the fact that our players relentlessly pounded this batwe had absolutely no durability issues. “This bat is an all around keeper with sweet graphics and outstandingperformance for the line drive hitter or the long ballers. This bat smacked balls over our 320 foot fences throughoutthe afternoon.” Said Eric Delao
Line Drives 93
Distance 95
Feel/Sting 93
Sweet Spot 95
Sound 89
Durability 100
Graphics 89
Meets 1.20 BPF Standard
TheScore:
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Batreviews
Advantage: Hybrid construction, sweetspot extending 5.4L technology and Resmondo loading make this theperfect bat for players looking to maximize hitting power and for an exceptional feel
5.4L- Multilayer design that extends the length of the sweetspot 2” toward the endcap
EIP RAV- Technologically advanced manufacturing processes & Worth’s proprietary high strength, highelongation epoxy system ensures the highest quality composite bats available
1.20 BPF multilayer core- Multilayer composite core designed to provide exceptional rebound andmaximum durability
Flex- Handle stiffness and barrel flexibility optimized to provide maximum batted ball speedResmondo- Maximum end load for maximum power
100% Composite- Barrel is made solely from composite materials
Hybrid- Dissimilar materials combined to deliver bats with optimal performance and exceptional feel
HD Heavy Duty Frame- Aluminized fiberglass reinforced heavy duty handle
Silencer Grip- Maximum sting and vibration reduction for better feel
One year warranty
Length/Weight: 34”/30oz, 34”/29oz, 34”/28oz, 34”/27oz, 34”/26oz
MSRP: $299.95
Review:2010ResmondoMutant (SBM54R)
We had a large group of reviewers from Southern California on hand ready and eager to swing this bat for thevery first time. Most of them had heard roomers about this bats performance. And after 300 swings not one hitter onsite was disappointed. Our group was a large mix of base hitters and power hitters from the B, C and D tournamentlevels. “This Resmondo’s bat is perfect,” said Jim Lliteras. “In fact I could not find anything wrong about it. If I am hittingto get on base or drive runners in this bat straight out delivers and with the right pitch to pull, I can easily clear theFences. Please tell Worth not to change a thing.” “It’s got a great pop,” said JR Montoya. “The ball explodes off thisstick. This bat adds another 30-40 feet on to my swing. Also the graphics are sweeeeeet. I would buy this bat in a heartbeat.” After over 300 swings the bat exhibited no signs of breakdown or durability problems.
Line Drives 94
Distance 97
Feel/Sting 95
Sweet Spot 94
Sound 92
Durability 100
Graphics 94
Approved by USSSA, NSA, ISF and all other associations using 1.20 BPF standard
TheScore:
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By Dave Utnik
Oklahoma City, OK. – Long Haul Trucking MVPpitcher Geno Buck could have pitched all night, only hedidn’t have to.
That was the reward for being the onlyundefeated team in the field. Long Haul Truckingprides itself on having one of the best lineups at any
Led by two home runs each from shortstop BrettMcCollum and third baseman Mike Rhines, Long Haulcombined for 40 hits in the four-inning game. Buck,who went 3 for 5 in the finals, hit one of the team’seight home runs — a two-run blast in what became a16-run second inning.
Big innings were prevalent in all four games for LongHaul, beginning with a 24-2 victory over CSI/JSA, ofOklahoma City, in the opening round. Team Combat, ofKent, WA, went down 24-2, while Chaney’s fell by a 32-9margin.The tournament proved to be a showcase of sorts forMcCollum, a rising star and All-American who went 5 for 5with three home runs against Chaney’s and demonstratedgreat range and a strong arm on defense.
“He’s definitely an up-and-coming player,” Jost said.“The great thing about our team is that we have a coupleof guys you’d probably never heard of before who are nowcore players for us.”
McCollum was one of four players to bat .800 (12 for15) during tournament play, joining teammate and fellowAll-American Kevin Bazat, Ralph Hogdon of Armed Forcesand Andy Schiltz of TCP/Pipac/Easton. Long Hauldesignated hitter JD Genter also earned All-Americanhonors, along with center fielder Jeremy Isenhower andChris Larson.
“I’m very happy with the team we took outthere,” Jost said. “We probably had seven or eightguys hit over .700. “Our whole team was hitting the ballwell throughout the tournament and we’ve got some guyswho can run too.”
level of slow pitch softball, but the thing is the ball clubhas pretty outstanding pitching, too. And Buck is thereason that the ASA Men’s Class “A” NationalChampions now reside in Lakeland, Minn.
He is the pitching star who rarely needs to workmore than four innings and the cleanup hitter for a squadthat scored 124 runs in four games at the ASA Hall of FameComplex in Oklahoma City.
Buck stood in the circle for all four of Long Haul’svictories, allowing only 45 runs, and he earned thetournament Most Valuable Player award following a 39-14victory over surprise finalist Fence Brokers, of Bryant, Ark.
“He’s very important to us for several reasons,” LongHaul coach Gary Jost said.“Geno grew up with ASA and I think he feels morecomfortable pitching when he can get back a little bit andthrow higher. We didn’t make an error behind him eitherand when you do that you’re going to win.”
With rain in the forecast for Sunday morning, thetournament was played in two days rather than three withthe championship game ending around 1:15 a.m. FenceBrokers, led by home run champion and All-AmericanChaun Demars, took a thrill ride through the losers’ bracketbefore running into a well-rested Long Haul squad in thetitle game.
While Fence Brokers played virtually non-stop theentire day, Long Haul had a five-hour break after defeatingChaney’s/WCS/Easton 32-9 in the semifinals and theyarrived at the park just after midnight ready to hit.
“It was nice to play it all on Saturday since we wereplaying so well,” Jost said. “It definitely helped us.”
“I’m very happy with the team we took out there,” said Long Haul manager Gary Yost. “We probably had seven or eight guys hit over .700. “
ASA
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ASABy Dave Utnik
Oklahoma City, OK. – The true legacy of ChaunDemars’ power requires a tape measure larger thanMinnesota. His home runs travel that far.
Some legends in his home state suggest thatDemars has sent poor unsuspecting softballs soaring overmany of the 11,000 lakes that share the landscape.Softball fields are rarely large enough to contain him. Hallof Fame Stadium surely couldn’t.
Demars hit six home runs in three games — addingMost Valuable Player honors to his elite status — andTharaldson Enterprises captured the ASA Men’s B DivisionNational Championship with a three-game sweep againstChecking/Worth in Oklahoma City.
“It’s always nice to win, but it’s a little extra specialwhen you can lock down an MVP trophy,” Demars said.“Those don’t happen very often.” The Western Championsare ranked No. 1 in the nation for the first time thanksmainly to Demars, who went 7 for 9 with 12 RBI.
A decade ago, Tharaldson made the ForbesMagazine list of America's 400 richest people and he iswidely acknowledged as North Dakota’s richest man,having made a fortune in the motel and hotel industry.
It was hard for anyone not to appreciate what hissoftball team did throughout the weekend.
Pitcher Todd Schuldt even tossed a five-hit shutoutagainst the Eastern Champions from, New Haven, Conn.,which was no small feat considering that designatedhitter Derek Riolo hit three home runs during the series,while pitcher Norm Adair was 4 for 7, shortstop JasonLongo went 4 for 8 and catcher Charlie Baumgartner was4 for 9.
“We knew we had a good team but we alwaysrespect our opponents,” Riggs said. “We knew we weregoing to play a good team from Connecticut but we’reconfident in our ability. “We’ve been trying to win this forseveral years now,” he said. “Last year (we lost) and thisyear we won it going.”
Starting at catcher in all three games, Demars hadfour RBI in the opener, an 18-8 win, and he hit three homeruns in game two — a dramatic 8-7 victory that wasn’tassured until the bottom of the seventh. His final home runof the tournament, a two-run first-inning blast, was theimpetus of a 13-0 victory in game three.
Shortstop Shane Leininger, the team’s leadoff batter,also collected seven hits and scored six runs. OutfielderJason Madsen was 7 for 10, while second baseman RonBrown was 6 for 11.
With team sponsor Gary Tharaldson, occupying a VIPseat on the bench, the team combined for 51 hits,including a three-run double by first baseman JimSchlieman in the final game.
“I’ve coached Gary Tharaldson’s team for 10 yearsnow. I’m not just saying this because he’s our sponsor, buthe’s the best sponsor in the nation,” coach Mark Riggssaid. “At this level, we get unlimited support from Gary.He’s a softball fanatic. He loves ASA Softball.”
Tharaldson Enterprises wins the ASA Hooters “B” National Championship.
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09ASA
By Fred Myers
Oklahoma City, OK. – It was almost as if StevenLopez was wielding a wand rather than an aluminumbat. Nobody could get the West Coast Dynasty rightfielder out.
In five games at the ASA Men’s Class C NationalChampionship Tournament in Oklahoma City, Lopezbatted .833 with three home runs and a team-leading13 RBI — a performance worthy of Most ValuablePlayer honors.
“Steven was commanding the ball to do whateverhe wanted,” Dynasty manager Jason Felix said. “Hemade only three outs the entire tourney.”
Lopez was the magical force behind the Dynasty’schampionship run as the team comprised of SouthernCalifornia all-stars generated 64 runs and tookadvantage of an abrupt exit by Softball Times, which wasdisqualified following opening round play for using anineligible player.
in the semifinal matchup, while second baseman ChrisBoggs tripled twice to drive in two runs.
CSC/Gutterworks battled back to earn a rematch inthe title game by defeating Double Deez, 14-13, in thelosers’ bracket final on a walk-off double by Chad Ferrell.But Lopez took center stage again in the championshipgame, driving in six runs out of the leadoff spot.
“As the manager, I decided to let every guy get achance to play on Friday so they could experience what[the Hooters Championship Series] was all about,” Felixsaid. “But heading into Saturday, I let everyone know it wasgame time.”
Left fielder Stephen Nobbs went 4 for 4 in the finalsand Martinez had six RBI as West Coast Dynasty used a13-run fourth-inning to break open a one-run game.
“Heading into the Hooters National Championship, itwas as if we were on an extended vacation and we weregoing to enjoy and seize the moment,” Felix said. “Play towin is our motto.”
“We arrived to the park [on Saturday] to find out thatSoftball Times was eliminated from the tourney due to anillegal player,” Felix said. “Our team was upset that SoftballTimes was eliminated, however it was out of our hands.
“We, as a team, wanted to send a message to all ofsoftball with this controversy at hand: Let’s play hard, let’splay smart and let’s leave it on the field,” he continued.“Every guy on the team was challenged with needing a bighit or making a must needed play on defense.”
Lopez embraced the challenge by going 15 for 18and the Dynasty made the most of its unexpectedplacement as the championship round’s No. 1 seed. All 15players contributed to the title run, which featuredexceptional defense from center fielder Aaron Martinezand third baseman Rego Nieto as well as outstandingpitching from Jason Grissom and Masami Countryman.
The Western National champions allowed only 13runs during the final day, when they defeated Southchampion CSC/Gutterworks 16-4 and 21-9 to claim thetitle. Lopez went 3 for 3 with a pair of homers and five RBI
West Coast Dynasty defeated South champion CSC/Gutterworks 16-4 and 21-9 to claim the ASA Hooters “C” National Championship.
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ASA
By Mike Larkin
Oklahoma City, OK. – When a line drive caughtJR Estes square in the face, he sat out one inningand headed right back out to the pitcher’s circle.That is the type of competitor Estes is.
The mask he wears on game days flew all theway to first base while the softball that struck himwound up by the third base dugout.But Estes wouldn’t even allow medical personnel toattend to him that day. Virginia Select was playing forthe ISA C Eastern National championship and hewasn’t about to leave the field.
pumped by that decision.”After defeating Victory Custom Athletics 11-9
in the semifinals, the national championship camedown to a tense battle between Virginia Select andthe LA Strokers, from Dusco, La. and that’s whenEstes emerged once again as a leader.
His 4-for-4 performance accounted for threeRBI, catcher Brian Whetzel hit a two-run homer andright fielder Andy Shreve broke a sixth-inning tiewith an RBI double as Virginia Select won 10-9.
“Andy Shreve came through like he has allyear in clutch situations, finding a gap to scorewhen Select had to have runs,” Estep said. “BrianWhetzel, also known as “hot man” because of hisgreat numbers of late, hadn’t hit any home runs outin a while but sealed it with his key homer.”
Estes did just about all the rest, going 15 for21 (.714) and driving in 18 runs in six games toearn MVP honors.
“He peels the ball and hustles like it’s alwaysthe Nationals. JR plays with enthusiasm, intensity,and a love of the game that is contagious,” Estepsaid. And when shortstop Dwayne Hall caught a linedrive for the final out Virginia Select finally had its“don’t wake me up if I’m dreaming” moment.
“It’s what you hope for, you dream ofgetting an opportunity to accomplish andsuddenly you’ve done it,” Estep said. “VirginiaSelect Softball is the best of the best. What anhonor and an accomplishment.”
In Crozet, Va., the softball communityrecalls that Aug. 22 incident with a touch ofreverence and Estes’ teammates used it to inspire
a championship run they will never forget.“Something about that day and thatmoment, when the worst could havehappened and it didn’t, gave us theextra spark and the extra intensity todo some amazing things at the finishof the season,” Virginia Select
statistician Brandi Estep said.Recognized as a “fireball” and “fearless
leader” on the softball field, Estes can now stakeclaim to “motivator” and “most valuable player” ofthe nation’s elite Class D men’s slow pitch team.
After capturing the ISA Eastern title with a 5-0 record, Virginia Select made the long trip —from Panama City, Fla., to Oklahoma City — tobecome ASA Hooters Championship seriesNational Champions.
“In all honesty, it’s been a paramount season,”Estep said. After winning 11 consecutive games tocapture the ASA Eastern Nationals, Virginia Selectwon the WSL North American Nationals in PanamaCity and then made team history in Oklahoma City,where they flourished under the lights in a primetime finale.
“The forecast caused ASA to change thetournament to a Saturday night finale because rainwas to set in on Sunday morning,” Estep explained.“Always fans of night games, Virginia Select was
Virginia Select brought home the ASA Hooters “D” National Championship.
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09ASA By Sara Kurtz
The dangerous part about pitching to Ruby Nugentis that she can hit anything. Put a softball within an inchor two of the plate and chances are the Enough Said staris going to end up on first base, maybe even second. It’swhat she does — hit, run and score.
And, right now, she does it better than any otherslow pitch player in the country.“Ruby and I just worked so hard together the past twoyears to make her the dominant player that she istoday,” Enough Said coach Ian Houston said. “She hasreally bloomed from the cocoon to a beautiful butterfly.”
Some of the best pitchers in the world have triedgetting Nugent out. It doesn’t happen often, which is onereason Enough Said captured the ASA Hooters Women’sOpen National Championship in convincing fashion atthe Hall of Fame Complex in Oklahoma City.
With Nugent anchoring a prodigious lineup thatfeatures fellow All-Americans Christan Dowling, SireneJohnson, Misty Smith, Crissy Hixon and Tonja Russell,Enough Said scored 84 runs in four tournamentcontests, including a 24-6 thumping of the United States
and the program’s first NCAA berth in six seasons.Two years later, she was named MVP of the “Simply
Marvelous” flag football squad that won a pair of nationalchampionships. But hitting is Nugent’s specialty.
As the starting center fielder, she was 4 for 4 in a19-6 five-inning victory over the Iowa Aces, 2 for 2 in a28-1 three-inning win over the Hood Ballers and 2 for 4 ina 13-5 semifinal triumph over the Armed Forces.
Dowling, Johnson and Smith each batted .800,going 12 for 15, during tournament play, along with All-American Cara Coughenour of the Iowa Aces, while All-American Sabra Gamel of Armed Forces went 10 for 13.
Smith’s biggest hits of the competition came in thedecisive fourth inning of the championship game whenshe connected on a three-run homer and a two-rundouble. Johnson also hit a two-run homer during the rally,while Tracy Bougere launched a three-run blast to breakopen a 7-3 game.
Also named to the All-American team were AmberBarado (Anarchy), Karrie Warren (Armed Forces), EricaCrossley (Anarchy), Lindsey Smith (Iowa Aces), CandaceDugo (Armed Forces) and Brittany Sinwell (Iowa Aces).
Armed Forces in the championship game.“We appreciate the Armed Forces,” Houston said.
“They are a good softball team. We appreciate what theydo for our country in terms of protecting our walls, so nomatter what the story is and what the outcome of thegame is, we always hold them in our hearts and keepthem in our prayers because they’re taking care of us.”
On the diamond, there was no way to defend againstNugent, who was named the tournament MVP following a12-for-14 (.857) performance that including seven RBIand nine runs scored.
She was 4 for 4 in the finals — completing atwo-year transformation from All-Mid-EasternAthletic Conference selection at Florida A&M to slowpitch national champion.
“She’s a young lady that I worked so hard with,”Houston said. “She played fast pitch at FAMU (FloridaAgricultural and Mechanical University) and there was atransition period for her from fast pitch to slow pitchbecause it is a different game.”
Nugent graduated from Florida A&M as one of themost accomplished athletes in school history. In 2005, shebatted .323 to lead the Rattlers to the MEAC championship
“We appreciate the Armed Forces,” stated ‘Enough Said’ manager Ian Houston. “They are a good softball team. We appreciate what they do for our country in terms ofprotecting our walls, we always hold them in our hearts and keep them in our prayers because they’re taking care of us.”
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ASA
By Dave Utnik
The Hammer came down swiftly andaccurately to nail down an ASA Women’s C DivisionNational Championship.
Patricia Wimsatt, the catcher affectionatelyknown as “Hammer” went 11 for 13 to earn MostValuable Player honors as Low Bob’s, of Frankfort, Ky.,captured the best-of-five Hooters ChampionshipSeries by defeating the Springfield (Mo.) Crush threegames to one in Oklahoma City.
“I was shocked to be named the tournamentMVP. I am totally shocked because we have so manygood players who deserved to win this honor,” saidWimsatt, who drove in four runs in the championship-clinching game. “It’s my first time playing in theHooters Championship Series, so I’m really surprised.I am very honored.”
Wimsatt’s maiden venture into championshipplay was a memorable one. She scored nine runs anddrove in five, including a two-RBI single in the fourth-inning of the deciding game when Low Bob’s scored10 times to secure a 19-9 victory.
“I don’t know how much longer I will have toplay so to win the national championship is great,”Wimsatt said. “No matter how or when I go out, I will
the line softball tournament that everyone wants toplay in,” Low Bob’s coach Ted Carter said. “That iswhat we set our goal towards in the beginning ofthe year.
“To come out here and play so well, I’m reallyproud of them,” he said. “I just put them out thereand let them do what they do.”
always be an ASA National Champion. I’m very proudto say that.”
Low Bob’s nearly swept what became acompetitive series in three games after winning thefirst two games 22-6 and 16-13.
Center fielder Annie Rardin (4 for 4, eight RBI) andshortstop Terri Ellingsworth each homered twice in theopener and Low Bob’s built an early 14-3 lead in Game2 as Leigh Ann Bowen went 4 for 4 with three RBI.
But the Crush rallied for a 12-11 victory in Game3 on a game-winning single by catcher Patty Trump inthe bottom of the seventh.Springfield center fielder Ashley Arbon also singled todrive in pitcher Christal Beckner, while designatedhitter Cristal Hoovens came through with a base hit tobring home Rhonda Thornton. But the Crush couldn’tkeep up with Wimsatt’s hot bat despite clutchperformances from third baseman Jami Bauer andoutfielder Tammy Fitzpatrick.
Bauer went 8 for 11 with eight RBI, whileFitzpatrick was 11 for 13 with seven RBI for the Crush,who nearly forced a tiebreaker by jumping out to a 9-4 lead in game four. But Low Bob’s combined for 10hits in the bottom of the fourth inning, including a two-run double by Bowen and a two-RBI single by Rardin.
“The Hooters Championship Series is a top of
Low Bob’s nearly swept what became a competitive series in three games after winning the first two games 22-6 and 16-13.
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09ASA
By Sara Kurtz
Erika Meier wasn’t even sure that she’d havemedical clearance to play softball again this summer, socompeting for a national championship rarely crossedher mind.
The PDX outfielder loves the game, but she lovesher father more. And when he needed a kidney transplantearlier this year, Erika offered one of hers.Softball could wait. Her father couldn’t. The decision waspretty much that simple.
“About seven months ago, I gave my dad my rightkidney so my doctors didn’t know if I would get to playsoftball this year,” she said. “I started back up in April andI’m finally starting to play like myself. Both my dad and Ifeel great now.”
With Meier back in the lineup during the firstweekend of October, PDX completed a historic run tobecome ASA Women’s Hooters “D” Division NationalChampions by sweeping BW3/K&G in a best-of-five
to score nine runs on 10 hits in the fifth inning to secure a12-7 victory in the bright Oklahoma sunshine.
It turned out that sunrise at Hall of Fame Stadiumbrought back fond memories for PDX.
After playing through the night to capture theWestern National title in Oregon, the players welcomedanother early start time.
“In our Western National Finals, we had to playthrough the night so our championship game was at5:30 in the morning as the sun was coming up inOregon,” Gross said. “So it’s exciting to be here inOklahoma City playing for the title. It’s the first time anyof us have ever been here.”
The first team to take the field was also the firstteam to clinch a Hooters Championship Series trophy. Andit’s not likely to be their last.
“To play on the stadium field where the OlympicTeam has played is just priceless and it is even betterto win.”
series in Oklahoma City.“Erika’s a great person — the most positive person
that you could ever imagine being around,” PDX coachChris Gross said. “She’s also a great player.”
The Western National champions were relentless atthe plate, batting .529 as a team and Meier was in themiddle of several big plays throughout the tournament onher way to earning Most Valuable Player honors.
“Erika’s one of those people that rose to the occasionof the tournament,” Gross said. “She hit extremely wellwith a base hit almost every time. Defensively, she madesome really spectacular catches for us. She caught sometough hits that were tough to get a hold of.”
BW3/K&G didn’t make anything easy for PDX, either.The Eastern National champs, from Champion, Ohio, led inall three games. But each time, PDX rallied — scoringthree runs in the bottom of the seventh in game one anderasing an early 3-0 deficit in game two.
In the deciding game, Meier sparked anothercomeback by going 3 for 4 with three RBI and PDX went on
“To play on the stadium field where the Olympic Team has played is just priceless and it is even better to win.” PDX coach Chris Gross said.
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09CatsVillage
By Fred Myers
It's official, Cat Osterman delivers another winner -only this time you and your teammates can be a part ofit! Coming in the summer of 2010 is the Cat OstermanExperience, the first ever "stay-and-play" facilitydesigned and built exclusively to host girl's fastpitchsoftball tournaments. Creating an opportunity for softballteams and their families from across North America tocome and compete, and have the experience of alifetime. Each participating team will stay on site throughthe 6 day and 5 night tournament, and is guaranteed toplay in a minimum of 8 games (weather permitting).This multi-million dollar facility has been designed as aworld class complex with the players and their families inmind. The teams will stay in the exclusive Player'sVillage, an area of the complex where if you're not a
members can enjoy the arcade, a dining establishmentwith covered patio seating that overlooks the fields, a pro-shop where your favorite sports gear and paraphernaliacan be purchased, an umpires lounge, and the CatOsterman Experience Hall of Fame.The teams and family members will also get to enjoy theone-of-a-kind opening and closing ceremonies, whereeach player will be inducted into the U.S. Girls Softball Hallof Fame.
There is also a family night that includes a down-home style barbecue, music, entertainment and activitiesthat are too numerous to mention.So, if you'd like to witness Cat's finest delivery yet, andhave the experience of a lifetime - Go towww.softballtoday.com and click on the Cat OstermanExperience Banner.
member of the team (player, coach, or "team mom")access is not permitted. Inside the village you'll find theAll-Star Pavilion, where players will dine, participate innumerous activities, and enjoy a variety of nightlyentertainment (karaoke, comedy show, magician, etc.).Also located in the village are the Player's Grill and theTeam Clubhouses, where each team will stay and sleep intheir private air-conditioned quarters and have theopportunity to bond and create team chemistry.
The Hall of Fame fields are immaculate, and includemeticulously groomed fields with air and mist cooleddugouts, professional Musco lighting, Diamond Pro InfieldMix, bricked pitcher's circles and batters boxes, warningtracks, and covered spectator seating. Our tournamentheadquarters, which is affectionately referred to as "TheBarn", provides a fun atmosphere where team and family
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By Eric Kramer
The diving catches occur with such frequencythat nobody expects a ground ball to elude JillJordan’s grasp.
The Texas Travelers’ shortstop has a way ofturning almost any hard-hit ball into a routine out.
“I don’t know how many she’s caught, but shedoes that all the time,” Travelers coach Les Jonessaid. “It’s not really a surprise anymore.”
But the thing you need to know about Jordanis that she hits as well as she fields.
As a sophomore at Wylie High School lastspring, she batted .349 — the second highestaverage in the Dallas-Fort Worth area — and thebig hits kept coming all summer long in helping theTravelers become the United States SpecialtySports Association (USSSA) 18U Softball TodayTeam of the Year.
Jordan earned most valuable players honorsas the Travelers went 7-0 at the USSSA WorldSeries. They were the only undefeated team in thefield and, with Jordan patrolling the infield dirt, theteam allowed only 13 runs.
extra innings and then went on to win thechampionship game, 5-3.
“If Brooke doesn’t make that catch we probablywouldn’t have won that game,” coach Jones said.
There were clutch performances throughoutWorld Series play as four Travelers — Wylieoutfielder Sierra Holley, Mesquite outfielderSamantha Reynoso, Frisco Liberty third basemanErin McLeod and Forney High’s Mabary — joinedJordan and Lander on the all-tournament team.
Mabary made a diving catch on a popped-upbunt and doubled a runner off first base in thechampionship game, while first baseman MacieTillery scored the winning run in the dramaticsemifinal win over the Sliders.
Right fielder Dara Hendon, another savvydefender, also threw out a runner at first to prevent arun from scoring.
“Everybody on the team contributed,” coachJones said. “The team has been together since 10and under so they all kind of matured together andknow how to react in pressure situations. It was areally good season.”
“We just played really good defense and wehad some great pitching, too,” coach Jones said.
Every member of the World Series squad madetheir high school varsity team as freshmen, includingthen 14-year-old catcher Laura Mabary, a slap-hitterwho batted leadoff.
She sparked an offense that averaged 6.28runs per game and ace Brandi Lander took care ofthe rest.
Lander, a Mabank High School graduate, wasselected as the tournament’s outstanding pitcherafter throwing nearly every inning.
“When she’s on her game she can be adominant pitcher,” coach Jones said. “None of theteams there could really handle her.”
The Travelers never allowed more than threeruns in tournament play and only one team evenposed a threat — the eventual runner-up MissouriSliders, led by offensive most valuable playerCaitlin Blose and defensive most valuable playerJulia Spicer.
But thanks to a diving, back-handed catch atthe fence by center fielder Brooke Jones in thesemifinals, the Travelers pulled out a 3-2 victory in
The Texas Travelers proudly showcased their hardware after capturing the prestigious USSSA 18U World Series.
USSSA
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USSSA
By Dave Utnik
The legend of Mackenzie Bradley begins with herglove. It should probably be lined in gold. That’s howgood she is.
Nothing much gets past the star sophomore,whether she is chasing down fly balls in center field forLee’s Summit North High School or covering ground atsecond base for the USSSA Kansas City Freeze U16travel squad.
“During the summer, she’s the best secondbaseman we have,” Freeze outfielder Lizzie Aller said.“She stops everything and she hits really well, too.”
In Missouri, where she is affectionately known as“Mack Attack” — a nickname given to her byteammate Ashley Schmidt’s exuberant dad, JackFurrow — Bradley is an honor roll student and aversatile athlete who also started at guard on the juniorvarsity basketball team as a freshman.
But softball is her passion and the sport thatcould one day earn her a college scholarship. That’s herultimate goal, anyway.
“Mackenzie is awesome.With her at second baseand Jordan Bradshaw at shortstop we have so muchrange in the middle,” Schmidt said. “Mackenzie is oneof the best ‘clutch hitters’ I’ve ever seen. Whensomeone is on base, she will bust the game open.”
Bradley has been doing that in Lee’s Summitsince coaches Gary Meier and Kevin Bachkora createdthe Freeze six years ago. But last summer, sheintroduced herself — and her gold glove — to the restof the softball nation by earning the offensive mostvaluable player award at the United State SpecialtySports Association (USSSA) 16U World Series.
And she happily shared the spotlight with thesame girls she first took the diamond with.
“They are basically like my family because I seethem almost every day,” said Aller, a 4-wheeler fanaticand another member of the original Freeze 10U squadwho was selected as the World Series’ defensive mostvaluable player.
“We did pretty much everything together andonce we got to the field we wanted to win. That’s whatwe were there for. It’s the best year we’ve ever had.”
The friendships that exist beyond the softballfield created virtually perfect harmony throughout thesummer as the Freeze went 71-16 with 32 shutoutsand a collective .301 batting average.
“What was apparent when I arrived was how wellthe girls worked together, both on the field and off,” saidSchmidt, who shares the circle with talented right-hander Sydnie Meier. “Though we go to different schools,it was obvious they had been best friends for a very longtime and that each of them are great athletes.”
Chemistry is an important ingredient for theFreeze. When Nill left, coach Meier was very carefulabout filling the roster spot before ultimately choosingthe program’s first slap hitter, Andi Davis.
“We are very happy to have her on the team,”Schmidt said. “After playing with us in our falltournament it was evident that she is really going toadd a new dimension to our offense. Her additionshows that Gary really does a great job picking girls.”
“Aly [Mosier] was the leadoff hitter for years.Then Kelsi O’Neill took over at number one and shehas been awesome. Now we have Andi; a slapper thatcan get on base like 700 percent of the time. Coachreally has a great lineup.”
O’Neill broke her high school’s record for on-base percentage last spring and also ignited a well-crafted Freeze lineup that went 12-3 against 18Ucompetition, while Bradshaw and Mosier led the teamin triples.
“We’ve had the privilege of having five originalplayers still with us and the majority of the team forthree or more years,” Meier said. “We’ve had to add afew players over the years, but we’ve have been verylucky to keep most of the team together.”
The Freeze averaged 5.3 runs per game in going 6-1 at the World Series, while Schmidt, one of six playerschosen to the all-tournament team, threw three shutoutsand finished the summer with a 0.83 ERA.
Mosier, Bradshaw and Merrell were also chosento World Series all-tournament team.
“Representing the United States [at the WorldSeries] was the most exciting experience of my life,”said Schmidt, an aspiring Olympian who considersJennie Finch a role model.
“As we first secured the number one seed andthen fought our way to the championship game wewere seeing our dream come true. We’ve playedagainst a lot of very good teams here in [Missouri] soI knew we were ready.”
“I can’t imagine playing for any other team thanthe Freeze,” said Bradley, who began her travel careerwith the U12 squad. “Although I have only known mostof these girls a few years, I feel like I’ve known themmy whole life. Our chemistry on and off the field is keyto our success.”
“Winning softball nationals is one of our greatestaccomplishments and I wouldn’t have wanted to do it withany other group of girls. Every single girl on this teamcontributes nothing but good things because of the loveand passion we share for this sport. We have so muchconfidence in each other, because there’s alwayssomeone there to pick us up when we’re down.”
Made up primarily of sophomores from Lee’sSummit, Lee’s Summit West, Lee’s Summit North andRay-Pec High Schools, the Freeze won championshipsat the MSP Spring Classic, MIAA College Showcase andBuffalo Wild Wings Tournament before sharing theUSSSA World Series title with the Oakville Angels.
It is a diverse squad that features one classpresident (Allison Nill), a Super Citizen recipient (RachelMcKinzie), a soccer star (Bradshaw), a varsitybasketball point guard (Kellie Bachkora) and a Class 4high school softball state champion (Kelsi O’Neill).
“The Freeze 16A is a fantastic team. I joined themtwo years ago when they added two players, myselfand [catcher] Kennedy Merrell, after they had their firsttryout since their inception,” Schmidt said. “Allison Nillhad been with the team since the beginning, but thisfall she decided to quit softball and pursue golf. Allisonmade the varsity golf team as a sophomore and is anexample of how talented a bunch the Freeze 16U are.”
Though their interests and talents vary, the twothings Freeze players all have in common are blue andwhite travel uniform and memories of a championshipweekend in Plano, TX.
Top Row: Greg Bachkora, Jordan Bradshaw (SS, OF), Sydnie Meier (P,1st) Mackenzie Bradley (2nd, OF), KevinBachkora, Kellie Bachkora (3rd, OF), Allison Nill (1st, OF), Gary Meier (Manager) Bottom Row: Rachel McKinzie(OF), Kelsi O'Neill (C, OF), Kennedy Merrell (C, OF), Aly Mosier (3rd, SS), Liz Aller (OF, C), Ashley Schmidt (P, 1st)
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By Dave Utnik
They’ve practically grown up together on thesoftball fields of northeastern Illinois, forging childhoodfriendships that began way back in grade school.
In the suburbs of Chicago, where shopping spreesto Finley Square Mall are all the rage, the Glen EllynPhillies have discovered that the fun of building achampionship team is knowing that your teammate isalso your neighbor, or your sister.
“This is not a club team nor is it a team comprisedof players recruited from various areas,” coach JohnChitkowski said. “It is a team of very good, skilled playersthat have enjoyed playing together over the years andhave developed a strong chemistry.”
Relay throws to the plate and line drives into thegap are just part of the normal bonding process for theUnited States Specialty Sports Association (USSSA) 14UTeam of the Year.
The Phillies weren’t necessarily assembled tocontend for a national title. Their primary function is todevelop varsity players for one of the area’s nearby highschools — Glenbard South and Glenbard West.
Winning just sort of happened along the way until
“Offensively, Devan was one of our power hitters andracked up a lot of RBI during the tournament. But, it washer catching that I am sure won her the MVP,” Chitkowskisaid. “Devan caught three no-hitters during thetournament, assisted in three put outs at the plate in keysituations and intimidated would-be base runners with herthrows to the bases.”
First baseman Rachel Cohen did her intimidating atthe plate with a .652 batting average that earned herOffensive MVP honors, while Stephanie Chitkowski wasselected outstanding pitcher after going 5-0 in the circlewith a pair of no-hitters.
Also chosen to the All World Series team werepitcher Amanda Montbriand (3-1) and pitcher DanielleChitkowski, who was 4-0 with one no-hitter.
The Phillies also received outstanding play fromoutfielder Taryn Andros, shortstop Kelly Borneman,outfielder Hannah Davey, second baseman AnnekeOlson, third baseman Alivia Ramirez and outfielderJacklyn Tyburk.
“It was truly an amazing summer,” Chitkowskisaid. “All the players contributed to thechampionship with solid defense, timely hitting andmost of all hustle, attitude and energy.”
they finally outgrew the B Division this season and had thesummer of their lives in capturing in USSSA World Series.
“Over the years, this team has competed at thenational level four times. Although the team has finished inthe top five and top 10 before, this summer’s victoryrepresented their only national championship,” saidChitkowski, who was assisted by Len Olson, HowardCohen and Mark Borneman.
Led by World Series MVP Devan Parkison, Glen Ellynwent 35-10 overall, with 12 of those victories coming inOrlando, where not even humidity or mid-90 degreetemperatures could slow them down.
After arriving in central Florida with the modestgoal of winning one game, the Phillies wound upscoring more runs than any team in the field andclinched the program’s first World Series title withconsecutive 4-2 wins over the nation’s No. 2 rankedUSSSA squad, the West Palm Beach Wicked.
Five of the Phillies’ starters were selected bytournament umpires to the 11-player All-WorldSeries Team.
Parkison, who caught all 13 games and batted fifthin a lineup that averaged 5.38 runs per game, was the topoverall performer.
The Glen Ellyn Phillies of Northeastern Illinois were all smiles after capturing the USSSA 14U World Series.
USSSA
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By Fred Myers
Normal, IL - They were the perfect blend ofquickness and power — in the pitcher’s circle andat the plate.
No 12-&-under fastpitch softball team in thecountry had a better mix of talent than Power Surge,which won 99 games and swept through thenational championship tournament in Normal, IL tobecome the ASA Softball Today team of the year.
“We had a record that is almost unbelievable,”coach Scott Berndes said. “There are so many greatteams and to be able to be the best in the country istruly amazing.”
With a pitching staff that allowed less than onerun per game, Power Surge won everywhere it wentduring the 2009 season, including a USSSA 14Ucompetition that prepared them for nationals.
A year after they reached nationals as an 11-&-under team, Power Surge was almost unbeatablein 2009.
Of course that had a lot to do with the efforts ofpitchers Sara White, Selena Taamilo and Kaylie Hill,
Pre-States Revenge Tournament and the SabobaUSSSA 14U Pre-Nationals Tournament.
There were few challenges during a 92-7-1summer of fun, at least until Power Surge ran intothe Southern California Jynx at nationals.
After easily defeating the American LibertyKruzers, Corona Angels, Team Fury, Lady Lasersand Texas Diamonds, Power Surge faced a sternchallenge from the Jynx, who climbed out of thelosers’ bracket to reach the finals.
Behind a clutch fifth-inning hit from Hill and atwo-run double from Dvorak in the internationaltiebreaker inning, Power Surge rallied from an earlydeficit to earn a 5-3 victory.
“We played the best of the best,” saidBerndes, after his team went 7-0 with five shutoutsduring the national tournament.
“The teams from Texas and the south weretruly outstanding and it made for a difficult run tothe championship,” he said. “Normally we high fivethe girls after a win, but after winning the nationalchampionship, I took my time and hugged each girland told them how great they were.”
The 12U Power Surge team had a dream season after capturing both the ASA National title and the SoftballToday Team of the Year honors.
who combined for a 0.79 ERA in the circle —creating a power outage for every opposing team.
“We had the best pitching in the country,”Berndes said.
Of course, Power Surge had arguably the bestoffense, too.
With four left-handed slap hitters — Erin Mario,Anna Barkhimer, Katie Schultz, and Julea Cavazos —constantly getting on base, the girls from San Diegoran the bases like a merry-go-round.
Catcher Carlee Wallace led the team in RBI, butthe Power Surge had big hitters throughout a lineupthat also featured Rebecca Dvorak, Katie Byrd, AliciaBrown, Tiana Miller, and Abigail Metsch.
“We were one of only four 11U teams to go tothe 2008 ASA Nationals and I think the experiencereally helped us become ASA National Championsthis year,” Berndes said.
Power Surge played with the confidence ofaspiring champions all summer in winning theSouthern California ASA State Tournament, FresnoForce Classic Tournament, Huntington Beach SurfCity Tournament, Palm Springs Big League Dreams, A
SA
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09ASA
By Robert Campbell
In just two travel seasons, the youngest members ofthe Victory USA softball family have quickly adopted theorganization’s winning tradition.
On the same day that their 14U sister squad claimeda national championship, the 10U team announced itsarrival as a rising power by battling through the losers’bracket to win a title and become the Softball Today ASA10-&-under team of the year.
“I am so happy for all of the players, coaches and theparents who worked so hard the entire season,” coachMark Campbell said. “I could not be any prouder of a groupof girls.”
With Campbell also guiding the 14U squad duringnationals, Robert Young and Brian Gutierrez co-directedthe ASA championship journey — one that featured a six-game winning streak and back-to-back triumphs over theCobras in the finals.
Pitchers Breanna Gutierrez and Stephanie Bestteamed up for seven wins and combined on a no-hitteragainst Georgia Extreme as Victory USA rebounded froman opening day loss to the Southern California Crunch.
Not even a one hour rain delay in the final gamecould slow down the comeback thanks in part to a four-RBI game from catcher Deja Mulipola, who tripled in tworuns in the second inning and had a two-run single in
“From the time they started playing in the fall theycontinued to grow as a team,” coach Campbell said. “Weonly practiced one day a week because of the distance thekids travel to be on the team. But as the season wentalong, the girls began to understand what it took to win.”
Following a 9-2 victory over the Georgia Cobrasthat secured the 2009 10U ASA National Championship,the excited winners called to share the news withCampbell, who was in the process of celebrating a titlewith the 14U squad.
“These are the little things I will always remember,”he said. “And that is why I do this.”
the fourth.“The competition was tough,” coach Campbell said.
“The Southern California Crunch, Cerritos Franchise andAmerican Athletics were teams we played in thetournament that we had hard-fought games against. Weplayed all three of them throughout the season since theyare also from Southern California.”
The competition helped Victory USA rise to thechallenge when it mattered most.
Alyssa Barrera doubled in the game-winning runagainst Cerritos Franchise (2-0) and Alyssa Pelegrin camethrough with a tie-breaking single in a 2-1 win overAmerican Athletics.
There were big hits in every game — with keycontributions coming from Montana Dixon, Taylon Snow,Mack Boesel, Bailey Henkie and Jaymee Campbell —until only the Cobras (and a rain shower) stood betweenVictory USA and a national title.
Gutierrez tossed a three-hitter and struck out eightin a 5-0 victory that forced a deciding game and then Bestsent everyone searching for a cell phone with a complete-game pitching performance that was complemented byMulipola’s four RBI and run-scoring hits from Boesel,Dixon and Pelegrin.
