Big East

 

Connecticut:

Courtney Collins

Andrea Huelsenback

Madeline Schiappa

Audrey Grinnell

 

DePaul:

Kirsten Verdun

Megan Coronado

Hannah Penna

Allie Braden

 

Georgetown:

Jenna Stark

Allie Anttila

 

Louisville:

Caralisa Connell

Katie Keller

Maggie Ruckenbrod

Hannah Kiyohara

Taner Fowler

 

Notre Dame:

Chloe Saganowich

Laura Winter

Lauren Stuhr

Monica Torres

 

Pittsburgh:

Karlyn Jones

 

Providence:

Marie Flego

Morgan Culver

 

South Florida:

Kourtney Salvarola

Sara Nevins

Ashli Goff

Courtney Goff

Stephenie Medina

 

St. John's:

Jaclyn Reed

Michelle Tilson

 

Syracuse:

Kealy McMullen

Katelyn Pires

Jazmine Watson

 

Big South

Coastal Carolina:

 Beth Kassuhn

 

Gardner-Webb:

Christen Moon

 

Liberty:

Sammi Shivock

Alyssa DiMartino

 

Presbyterian:

Maggie Gilliland

Jennifer Marshall

Kaitlyn Sambito

Katie Seabrook

Codee Yeske

 

Radford:

Jessica Hutchens

Frankie Martinez

Samantha May

 

Winthrop:

Lauren Beaver

ACC SIGNINGS

Boston College:
Brianne Tanke
Nicole Koszowski
Megan Scanlon
Tory Speer
Alana DiMaso

Florida State:
Ashlyn Masters
Maddie O'Brien
Kelly Hensley
Hannah Rogers
Evelyn Morgado
Celeste Gomez

Georgia Tech:
Lindsey Anderson
Ashley Thomas
Alysha Rudnik
Hayley Downs

Maryland:
Candice Beards
Kelly Trimble
Jessica Warner
Nicole Mantheiy
Jessica Butler
Amanda McCann

North Carolina:
Sara Bucholz
Amy Nece
Lori Spingola
Ashley Bone
Jordan Scarboro

North Carolina State:
Chelsea Hartsell
Kayla Cox
Chelsea Tate
Albernice Drayton

Virginia:
Erica Cippoloni
Alex Rodriguez
Stephanie Harris
Marcy Bowdren

 

*For additions, corrections, or comments contact: garland@studentsports.com

 

 

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*Below are the names of the athletes signed to schools in some of the conferences across the country. This list is a work in progress, so feel free to send additional signing information to garland@studentsports.com.

 

SEC

	Steve Johnson for ESPN RISE
	Ryan Iamurri, Univ. of Alabama signee, played in the 2009 Under Armour All-America Game.

University of Alabama:
Kaila Hunt
Ryan Iamurri
Jackie Traina
Jordan Patterson

University of Arkansas:
Jayme Gee
Breanna Lynn Hutchinson
Macy Burr
Chloe Oprzedek
Amanda Geile
Jennifer Rambo
Clarissa Navarro

Auburn:
Hilary Mavromat
Alyssia Palomino

University of Florida:
Kasey Fagan
Cheyenne Cole

University of Georgia:
Morgan Montemayor
Julia Echols

University of Kentucky:
Lauren Cumbess
Ellen Weaver

LSU:
Kaley Coonce
Tammy Wray
Simone Heyward
Whitney Miller

Ole Miss:
Mallory McNeal
Natalie Nimmo
Rebecca Taylor Cantillo
Allison Brown

Tennessee:
Madison Shipman
Courtney Thomas
Ellen Renfroe
Melissa Davin
Tory Lewis
Chelsea O'Connor

Big 10

University of Illinois:
Jenna Mychko
Alex Booker
Jessica Perkins

University of Indiana:
Kristy Pasley
Shelby Gogreve

University of Iowa:
Kayla Massey
Katie Kroeger
Nikki Gentile
Brianna Luna

University of Michigan:
Lyndsay Doyle
Mandy Gardner
Caitlin Blanchard
Brandi Virgil
Nicole Sappingfield

Michigan State:
Cassee Layne
Sarah Bowling
Samantha Findling

Northwestern:
Samantha Albanese
Marisa Bast
Mari Majam

Ohio State:
Evelin Carillo
Leesa Gresham
Kasie Kelly
Melissa Rennie

Penn State:
Jordan Wheatley
Kasie Hatfield

Purdue:
Danielle Fletcher
Lindsey Raines
Laura Hurndon

University of Wisconsin:
Stephanie Peace
Mary Massei

Big 12

Baylor:
McKenzie Robinson
Chelsea Kovich
Shlebi Redfern
Claire Hosack

Iowa State:
Sara Rice
Breeana Holliday
Sara Davison
Evan Folks

University of Kansas:
Kendra Cullum
Ashley Newman
Elsa Moyer
Kristin Martinez
Laura Vickers
Collen Hohman

University of Nebraska:
Tatum Edwards
Taylor Edwards

University of Oklahoma:
Javen Henson
Destinee Martinez
Brittany Williams
Haley McGregor

Oklahoma State:
Tarrah Ettinger
Arianna Morrison
Morgan Hawkins

Texas:
Rachel Fox
Brejae Washington
Taylor Thom
Karina Scott
Mandy Ogle

Texas A&M:
Nicole Morgan
Amber Garza
Taran Tyler
Cassie Tysarczyk
Emily Albus

Texas Tech:
Kristin Martinez
Laura Ann Phillips
Brittany Talley
Kermitria Ward
Taylor Powell

 

*Stay tuned for updates on the list including signings from other conferences, information on the players and ESPN RISE Rankings of the best recruiting classes.

 

Who do you think has the best recruiting class? Email your answer to: garland@studentsports.com

 

 

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By Garland Cooper

It is hard to imagine a more intense day of softball than day two, but the final day of competition did not disappoint.

In the end it was No. 1 ranked Sheldon (Sacramento, Calif.) High School who took the title, but not after several close games across the board. Below are the results from the final day of play.

	Scott Kurtz for ESPN RISE
	Sheldon High School takes it all in the finals Saturday night.

Championship Game: Sheldon 2 – Canyon 0
Jolene Henderson had 12 strikeouts in the game and gave up only two hits to shut out Canyon (Anaheim, Calif.) High School. She also was two for three at the plate with a double. Danielle Henderson was one for two. For Canyon, Briana Gwaltney was one for three with a triple. Cheyanne Tarango took the loss for Canyon. Sheldon finished the tournament undefeated and improved their record to 10-0.

Semifinal Game: Canyon 4 – Esperanza 3
Cheyanne Tarango took the win on the mound and did well offensively, getting a crucial hit to help Canyon take the lead. Briana Gwaltney had two RBIs and Taylor Van Acker hit a two-run double for the Comanches. For Esperanza (Esperanza, Calif.), Kristin Scharkey had a hit, stolen base, and scored a run. Nicole Schroder had an RBI and Kelsea Roth hit a solor homerun.

Semifinal Game: Sheldon 8 – Camarillo 0
Jolene Henderson pitched a no-hitter and was two for three at the plate and hit a double off the fence. Danielle Wiltz was one for three with a double and Lindsey Ziegenhirt was one for three with a homerun and two RBIs. Dejanee Moore was two for three with a double, Meme Moore was two for three and Alexis Cooper was one for three with a two-run homerun.

Third Place: Esperanza 4 – Camarillo 3
Kailyn Johnson hit a homerun for Esperanza. Kelsea Roth and Alexis Borden split time on the mound. Jennifer Manuel was in the circle for Camarillo.

Consolation Champion: Vista Murrieta 11 – St. Francis 2
It was a team effort at the plate for Vista Murrieta (Murrieta, Calif.) in the win. For St. Francis (Honolulu, Hawaii), catcher Briana Tovio-Asato hit a two-run homerun in the top of the first inning.

Freedom 7 – Pleasant Grove 0
Hannah Williams was the winning pitcher for Freedom (Oakley, Calif.) and she recorded 14 Ks in her final game of the tournament.

El Modena 4 - Rodriguez 3
Haylie White took the win for El Modena (Orange, Calif.). For Rodriguez (Fairfield, Calif.), Andrinae White was two for three with a triple and two RBIs. Alexis Pickett was two for three with an RBI.

Norco 1 – El Toro 0
Teagan Gerhart had 13 strikeouts and gave up only two hits for Norco (Calif.). She also hit a homerun to win the game.

Carl Sandburg 3 – Sunnyslope 1
Morgan Biel went three for three with two singles, a double and an RBI for Carl Sandburg (Orland Park, Calif.).

Valencia 2 – Pacifica 1
Both teams scored a run in the first inning and the game came to a standstill until the sixth when Valencia pushed one across to seal the win.

Ayala 5 – Hart 4
Pitcher Jessica Hall picked up her third win of the season and went two for three at the plate. Nikki Chavez was two for three as well with two RBIs. Nani St. Germainwas one for three with two RBIs ad Natalie Martinez went two for three and scored two runs.

Sunrise Mountain 4 – West Orange 1
Sunrise Mountain (Peoria, Ariz.) pitcher Dani Bonnet had two hits and eight strikeouts in the game. Destinee Deherrera went two for three with a double and a homerun.

Vista Murrieta 6 – Sunnyslope 0
Vista Murrieta started to warm up the bats in the last day of the tournament. They started early, scoring a run in the first inning. They rallied in the fourth to score two and then again in the fifth to plate 3.

Piedra Vista 2 – Simi Valley 3
Pitcher Jennifer Soria picked up her first win of the season for Simi Valley (Calif.). Third baseman Callie Grant had three clutch line drive catches to help on defense.

Carl Sandburg 2 – St. Francis 3
Carl Sandburg was up 2-1 until the fifth when St. Francis scored two to go ahead and take the win.

Pleasant Grove 4 – Rodriguez 2
Ally Carda pitched for Pleasant Grove and gave up only two hits and struck out 12. She also was one for two with a homerun. Kristen Willmon had a RBI double in the bottom of the sixth to tie up the game and Allison Kendrix hit a single to plate two runs and give Pleasant Grove (Elk Grove, Calif.) the lead. For Rodriguez, Kiara Garcia was one for four and Alexis Pickett was one for two.

Freedom 2 – El Modena 1
Hannah Williams had six Ks on the win. Susan Robertson squeezed in the sixth to tie the game. Katie Wood hit the game-winning double with two outs in the bottom of the seventh.

El Toro 3 – Valencia 2
Emily Waters took the win on the mound for El Toro (lake Forest, Calif.). Lauren Chamberlain hit a walk-off homerun for El Toro and Brooke Bell was three for three and scored a run. Christy Roberts was two for three and also scored a run in the win.

Cienega 4 - Simi Valley 0
Cienega (Vail, Ariz.) scored all four of their runs in the first inning,  which proved to be enough to take the win. Amanda Oliveto took the loss on the mound.

Norco 4 - Pacifica 0
Teagan Gerhart  threw a no-hitter and was also three for three at the plate.

Hart 3 - Sunrise Mountain 2
This was a close one until the end. In the eighth inning, Hart (Newhall, Calif.) was able to push two to go ahead and take the win.

Chino 1 - Piedra Vista 0
One run in the third inning was all it took for Chino to take the win over Piedra Vista.

Ayala 5 – West Orange 1
Jessica Hall picked up her eighth win on the season and struck out six. She also doubled in a run in the fifth. Amy Ricciardi picked up an RBI on a squeeze in the third and doubled in a run in the fifth.

***********************

 

	Scott Kurtz for ESPN RISE
	Tournament MVP, Jolene Henderson.

2009 Faster to 1st All Tournament Team
Jolene Henderson – P - Sheldon High School - Tournament MVP
Danielle Henderson – 3B – Sheldon High School
Lindsey Ziegenhirt – C – Sheldon High School
Danielle Wiltz – CF – Sheldon High School
Dejanee Moore – 2B – Sheldon High School
Cheyanne Tarango – P – Canyon High School
Shannon Bustillos – C – Canyon High School
Taylor Van Acker – 1B – Canyon High School
Briana Gwaltney – SS – Canyon High School
Kailyn Johnson – 1B – Esperanza High School
Kristin Scharkey – CF – Esperanza High School
AC Borden – P – Esperanza High School
Jennifer Manuel – P – Camarillo High School
Sarah Shadinger – P – Camarillo High School
Hannah Williams – P – Freedom High School
Ally Carda – P – Pleasant Grove High School
Haylie Wagner – P – El Modena High School
Teanna Brooks – 3B – Rodriguez High School
Teagan Gerhart – P – Norco High School
Briana Tovio-Asato – C – St. Francis High School
Madison Shipman – SS – Valencia High School
Brooke Bell – OF – El Toro High School
Alexis Villamor – OF – Vista Murrieta High School

Faster to 1st W/L Records
Sheldon: 5-0
Canyon: 4-1
Esperanza: 4-1    
Camarillo: 3-2    
Freedom: 4-1
Pleasant Grove: 3-2
El Modena: 3-2
Rodriguez: 1-4
Norco:  4-1
Vista Murrieta:  3-2

Remaining W/L Records:
St Francis: 2-3
El Toro: 2-3        
Valencia: 3-2        
Pacifica: 2-3        
Ayala: 3-2    
Hart: 3-2    
West Orange:1-4        
Sunrise Mountain: 2-3
Carl Sandburg: 3-2  
Sunnyslope: 1-4
Cienega: 2-3  
Piedra Vista: 2-3
Chino: 1-4      
Simi Valley: 1-4   


Email: garland@studentsports.com with questions and comments!

By Garland Cooper

Day two of the Faster to 1st Tournament, hosted by Canyon (Anaheim, Calif.) High School followed the dramatic theme established on the opening day of the tournament.

Ten of the 16 games played were decided by one run and seven of the games went into extra innings. At the end of the day it is Canyon (Anaheim, Calif.), Sheldon (Sacremento, Calif.), Esperanza (Anaheim, Calif.) and Camarillo (Calif.) in the semifinal games Saturday. Stay tuned and find out who takes the title!

Piedra Vista 2 – Rodriguez 1
Channel Ewing scored two runs, Aurelia Sandoval went two for two, and Marissa Ellis had two RBIs for Piedra Vista. Despite the loss, Rodriguez was tough at the plate. Teanna Brooks went 3-for-3 and Andriana Collins tallied the only RBI for the team. Kiara Garcia, Cheyenne Cordes, and Nia Cesar all had a hit in the game.

Camarillo 2 - Cienega 1 
This barnburner lasted eight innings. Freshman Sarah Shadinger took the win on the mound and, despite a great pitching performance, Alexa Cash was the losing pitcher for Cienega.

Freedom 3 - Carl Sandburg 1
There was no score until the eighth inning when both teams got on the board. Freedom's Hannah Williams had 11 Ks on the mound to lead the team defensively. Susan Robertson and Chrissy Stalf led the push on offense with RBI singles in extra innings to put Freedom (Oakley, Calif.) on top.

Sunrise Mountain 8 – Chino 2
Dani Bonnet was on the mound for Sunrise Mountain (Peoria, Ariz.) and had six strikeouts on the game. She also performed at the plate with four hits. Mickayla Heller was 2-for-3 with four RBIs in the game.

Sunnyslope 1 - Piedra Vista 0
Nora Maschue took the win on the mound to shutout Piedra Vista (Farmington, N.M.). Demetra Hamill was perfect at the plate with a double for Sunnyslope (Phoenix, Ariz.) and Chelsea Yankolovich was two for four with a stolen base. Piedra Vista's Karista Donisthorpe was three for four in the leadoff spot.

	SCOTT KURTZ/ESPN RISE
	Lindsey Ziegenhirt is a big hitter for the Sheldon High School Huskies.

Carl Sandburg 4 - Cienega 3
In the eight-inning game, Emma Farrell went 3-for-4 with a walk and one run scored for Carl Sandburg (Orland Park, Ill.).

Vista Murrieta 4 – Chino 3
In the bottom of the seventh, Vista Murrieta (Murrieta, Calif.) played textbook softball to rally and defeated Chino (Calif.). Alexis Villamor led off with a double for the Broncos, bringing Sierra Romero to the plate. Romero laid down a bunt and Chino overthrew first base, scoring Villamor from second. With the game tied and Romero on second base, Taylor Edwards hit a shot to the shortstop, moving the runner to third. With two outs and the winning run at third base, big hitter Tatum Edwards shut the door with a hard groundball up the third baseline, scoring the final run and sealing the deal for the Broncos.

St. Francis 2 - Simi Valley 1
St. Francis (Honolulu, Hawaii) took their first win in the tournament in an eight-inning battle with Simi Valley (Calif.). All of the runs from both teams were scored in the final inning of the game.

Camarillo 1 - Freedom 0
Jennifer Manuel was the hero for Camarillo (Calif.), pitching all seven innings and driving in the only run in the first inning. Hannah Williams had 10 Ks in the loss and allowed no earned runs. Malena Padilla had two hits for Freedom (Oakley, Calif.).

Sheldon 4 – El Modeno 0
Jolene Henderson threw a no-hit shutout with 11 strikeouts for the Huskies. She also was 1-for-2 at the plate with a double. Lindsey Ziegenhirt remains solid in the lineup going 2-for-3 in the game with an RBI. Dejanee Moore also was two for three with an impressive three RBIs.

Norco 2 – Ayala 1
Teagan Gerhart was the star for Norco (Calif.) pitching all eight innings of the game, allowing only two hits, and striking out nine. She also drove in the winning run for the Cougars. Jessica Hall took the loss for Ayala (Chino Hills, Calif.).

Pacifica 1 – West Orange 0
In a tight game, pitcher Krystian Dewitt held strong, striking out 11 and allowing no earned runs for Pacifica (Garden Grove, Calif.). Cheyenne Mascarenas drove in the winning run in the eighth. For West Orange (Winter Garden, Fla.), Taylor Fawbush had 10 Ks in eight innings and allowed two hits. She also was 1-for-4 at the plate.

Esperanza 3 - Pleasant Grove 1
Alexis Borden was the winning pitcher for Esperanza (Anaheim, Calif.). At the plate, Vanessa Weaver had an RBI and speedster Jasmine Lee had two stolen bases and scored two runs.

Canyon 4 - Rodriguez 0
Cheyanne Tarango took the win for Canyon (Anaheim, Calif.) giving up only two hits and striking out 11. She also had an RBI double to score the first run of the game. Taylor Van Acker was 2-for-3. Andrinae White and Kiara Garcia were the only hits for Rodriguez (Fairfield, Calif.).

Valencia 4 – Sunrise Mountain 1
For Sunrise Mountain (Peoria, Ariz.), Brigette DelPonte was 3-for-4 with a double and a homerun.

Hart 3 – El Toro 2
Lauren Chamberlain tripled for El Toro (Lake Forest, Calif.) in the top of the seventh to tie up the game, 1-1. Emily Henry came the plate for Hart (Newhall, Calif.) in the bottom of the eighth and hit a two-run double to end the game.

 

By Garland Cooper

The Faster To 1st Tournament, hosted by Canyon (Anaheim, Calif.) High School, kicked off in Huntington Beach, Calif., Thursday. The opening day saw Canyon High's own Cheyanne Torango crack two homers and pitch a two-hitter.

Esperanza 2 – Sunrise Mountain 1
Chelsey Anderson was the winning pitcher for Esperanza. She went eight innings and gave up four hits. Kailynn Johnson hit a double to tie the game and then scored the winning run. Kelsea Roth went two for three.

Freedom 1 – Norco 0
Hannah Williams had ten strikeouts for Freedom and catcher Susan Robertson had the only two hits of the game. Malena Padilla laid down a crucial suicide squeeze to score Jackie Zepada from third. Despite the loss, Teagan Gerhart pitched a complete game for Norco, had 12 strikeouts and gave up only two hits.

	Scott Kurtz
	Cheyanne Tarango homered twice and picked up the win on the mound for Canyon.

Sheldon 3 – Pacifica 0
Jolene Henderson recorded 12 Ks, walked none, and allowed only one hit. Offensively, it was a team effort. Danille Wiltz went two for three with an RBI, Dejanee Moore and Amber Glenn went one for two, and Kristen Gray was one for two with an RBI. For Pacifica, Krystian Dewitt was the losing pitcher, but only gave up five hits and one earned run. Jamie Prussic was one for three.

Canyon 2 – Sunnyslope 1
Cheyanne Tarango took the win on the mound. She gave up two hits, walked none and struck out 13. Lauren Young was two for three with an RBI and Heather Kock was two for four. Nora Maschue fought hard and struck out nine in the game and Madison Collura contributed offensively going one for three with an RBI.

Pleasant Grove 3 - Vista Murrieta 1
Ally Carda took the win on the mound with 14 Ks and only two hits allowed. In the top of the fourth Kirsten Willmon squeezed to score Nicole Hutchins. Haley Willmon went two for three with a triple, and Nicole Hutchins was also two for three. Krystal Camina had an RBI single to give Pleasant Grove the lead for good.

Camarillo 1 – Ayala 0
For Camarillo, Jen Manuel had a double and an RBI. She also took the win on the mound. Mary Massei went two for three with a double in the fourth inning for Ayala.

El Modena 2 – West Orange 1
Haylie Wagner struck out a whopping twenty batters and gave up only two hits in nine innings for El Modena. Losing pitcher Taylor Fawbush struck out ten and gave up five hits. At the plate Fawbush had a double and an RBI.

Rodriguez 4 – Hart 1
Andriana Collins took the win on the mound for Rodriguez with seven Ks. Alexis Pickett went one for two with an RBI and Cheyenee Cordes was two for three with a double. Teanna Brooks went one for three with a double in the bottom of the first inning that scored two.

El Toro 3 – Sunnyslope 2
It was homerun derby for El Toro who had two hitters go yard in the game. Shannon Tinsley hit a two-run homerun in the fourth inning and MacKenzie Teskey hit a walk-off homerun in the seventh. Emily Waters was the winning pitcher for El Toro. Nora Maschue took the loss for Sunnyslope. Maschue did well at the plate going two for two with an RBI. Demetra Hamill was one for three with an RBI.

Pacifica 7 – Simi Valley 1
Kayla Anderson went three for four with an RBI for Pacifica. Taylor Cartwright singled in Simi's only run. Nicole Adair was two for three and scored Simi Valley's only run.

Valencia 2 – Vista Murrieta 1
Lauren Boser was two for two with two RBI for Valencia. Carly Mortenson took the win in the circle. Despite the loss, Tatum Edwards fanned 11.

St. Francis 7 – West Orange 0
Taylor Fawbush pitched the shutout and was two for four at the plate with two RBIs. Molly Billue was two for three with one RBI for West Orange. Koki Shealee had a double for St. Francis and Kelcee Santos had two stolen bases.

Esperanza 8 – Chino 1
Esperanza had a homerun in the first two innings. In the first, Kailyn Johnson hit a two-run bomb, and Kristin Scharkey hit a three-run dinger in the second inning.

Norco 1 – Carl Sandburg 0
This game was a pitcher's duel until the end. Both pitchers pitched a complete nine-inning game. Teagan Gerhart pitched a one-hitter and recorded and impressive 17 strikeouts in the win for Norco. Brittany Gardner gave up three hits and struck out 16.

Sheldon 2 – Simi Valley 0
Jolene Henderson gave up only one hit and fanned 13 in the win. Danielle Henderson was two for three with a double. Lindsey Ziegenhirt was two for three with a walk-off two-run homerun in the bottom of the seventh. Sophia Perez allowed two unearned runs for Simi Valley. Kelli-Jo Killingsworth had Simi's only hit.

Canyon 4 – El Toro 0
Cheyanne Tarango took the win on the circle with nine Ks and hit a two-run homerun in the first inning.

Pleasant Grove 4 – Valencia 3
Alyson Tiumalu hit a solo homerun in the bottom of the fourth and was one for two in the game. Ally Carda was two for four with a triple and a walk-off homerun in the bottom of the eighth.

Hart 4 – Piedra Vista 1
Hart improved to 10-1 on the season. Destiny Rodino took the win on the mound. Despite the loss, Piedra Vista had some impressive offense. Channel Ewing hit a solo homerun in the top of the third. Ewing and Sheisha Yazzie were both two for three in the game.

Ayala 5 – Cienega 0
Jessica Hall took the win for Ayala and allowed only one hit. Nikki Chavez hit a solo homerun in the bottom of the third and Mary Massei hit a double in the bottom of the fourth.

El Modena 5 – St. Francis 3
Miranda Islas hit a solo homerun in the third inning for El Modena.

Below are commitments and signings from the FL Elite Gold out of central Fla.

Alyssa Bache, 2011 P, verbal to the University of Florida.

Erika Arcuri, 2010 OF, verbal to FL International University.

Kirstin Austin, 2009 OF, signed with FL Atlantic University.

Sarah Bowling, 2010 IF, verbal to Michigan State University.

Mariah Reynolds, 2010 C/UT, verbal to FL Gulfcoast University.

By Garland Cooper

Evelyn Morgado, out of Miami, Fla., has committed to play at Florida State!

Morgado plays for the Gold Coast Hurricanes and for Florida Christian High School. She has been All-County since the eighth grade and was First Team All-State as a freshman.

Last year she batted just under .400 with four homers. She is looking to beat her school and personal record of nine homeruns in a season (she broke that record her freshman year.)

ESPN RISE had the opportunity to talk to Morgado and get the scoop on why she chose FSU and what she is working on this high school season!

ESPN RISE: What was it about Florida State that made you want to be a Seminole?
Evelyn Morgado: Everything! The tradition there impressed me. Also, at their games the stands are packed! I loved the coaches and the girls, I felt so at home.

ER: How does it feel to be committed to a college?
EM: It feels great! It is a lot of pressure off of my shoulder. Now I can just go out there, have fun and play.

ER: What other schools were recruiting you?
EM: Oklahoma, Univ. of Central Fla., Univ. of Tenn. Chattanooga, and Elon. I took visits to UCF and FSU.

ER: When did you realize you wanted to be at FSU?
EM: I can't really explain it, but I was watching a game and I saw the way that everyone was and realized that it was where I wanted to go to college. I realized that the coaches loved me and I loved and I felt at home even though I was seven hours away from Miami.

ER: What were you looking for in a college?
EM: I didn't want to go too far so that my parents could still come and see me and travel easily.

ER: Did you enjoy the recruiting process?
EM: It was exciting getting letter and having coaches come to see my play. There is some pressure, but it was just a really exciting time.

ER: Was there any moment that really impacted you when you were being recruited?
EM: My visits to FSU and UCF were amazing. I had dreamed of doing that since I was a little girl.

ER: What are you focusing on now that you are committed?
EM: I'm just going to keep working hard to improve on every aspect of my game and play my heart out.

ER: What are your goals for your high school and club seasons?
EM: In summer ball I want to win a National Championship in Las Vegas! In high school we are going to be the State Champions!

ER: Looking ahead to your freshman year at FSU, what are you looking forward to the most?
EM: Playing softball and getting a good education with a Business degree.
 

By Garland Cooper

Evelyn Morgado, a junior out of Miami, Fla., has committed to play at Florida State University.

Last season for Florida Christian High School, Morgado batted .384 with three homeruns and 28 RBI. She was also the stronghold in the infeld for the Varsity squad. 

Keep checking in for commitments and updates in the softball world! Preseason rankings coming soon!

By Garland Cooper

In light of Friday the 13th we decided to ask thousands of softball players what their superstitions were when they played.

Some listen to special songs, other refuse to wash their socks, and many will never step on the chalk lines. Whatever it is, softball players sure do have a little Friday the 13th in them with the superstitions they have confessed.

Every day for a warm-up we have to run in the same line, even for games too. During the warm-up everyone has the same throwing partner. For my pitching warm-up when we are nearing game time, my team will sit on the bench and everyone will grunt, like a yell, during mid-pitch, since it was a tradition that they started when I was a freshman. They do that three times each game, and a majority of the girls do not wash their uniforms, socks included in the non-washing.  There are many more superstitions but I would be here all day long listing them. Our dirty uniforms get quite disgusting, but that's all the fun.
-Whitney Tuthill, Stretchion Lady Stars, CT, 2009, P

Some superstitions I have when I play are: I found a penny on the day of a game and taped it to the bottom handle of my bat and that game I hit a homerun, so every time I find a penny on the floor I pick it up and if it's game day, I tape it to the bottom handle of my bat. I get in the batters box the same exact time every time and if I don't I get REALLY nervous. I wore the same socks three times once because they were all county games and we kept winning.
-Sarah Prezioso, New Jersey Pride, 2010, SS

Superstitions are a huge part of the game. Any softball player will tell you so. For me, there are a few MAJOR ones. Before every game, I listen to the song "The World's Greatest" by R. Kelly. It is a slower song, but very uplifting. During the national anthem, I close my eyes and visualize situations I could be put in during the game and see myself succeeding in each one. NEVER touch the white lines when running onto the field. When I play third, I have to toss the ball to the same person after warm-ups.
-Ashley Bragg, Newton Rock Gold, DE, 2009, SS

It is a must to ALWAYS warm up with the same partner! Don't change anything about your warm up if you're on a winning streak! Never wash your socks if you are on a hitting, pitching, or fielding streak! Never trust a mom who says they won't wash your socks. Never wash your visor if you're on a winning streak.
-Codee Yeske, White Knoll High School, SC, 2010, 2B

I have many superstitions when I play.  I wear the same wristband on my arm every game, eat the same lunch/breakfast every game day, and I listen to the same songs before every game.  I also use the exact same equipment every game.
-Liz Huttner, West Windsor-Plainsboro High School, NJ, 2009

The superstitions that I have are: I ALWAYS keep is my first ring my dad ever gave me underneath my batting glove. If you ask me to take off my batting glove 100% of the time you will see it. If I don't have it on, I will play bad, end of story. Another superstition I have is that I NEVER EVER step on the chalk lines. If you step on it, that's PURE bad luck in softball, well in my eyes at least!!
-Candice Beards, Jersey Inferno Gold, NJ, 2010, 1B

Wow! Hmm this is a hard one. I can't wash my socks or uniform if I'm playing good. I always have to put the right sock on first and then the left one, same goes for my cleats. When I'm at the plate I always sing the same song in my head but I can't say the song because its confidential information.
-Megan Rollings, Marysville-Pilchuck High School, WA, 2011, 2B

Every time I'm up to bat I have to rub my nine wrist bands hit my chest twice and point to the sky. I can't go to bat until then.
-Bethany Davis, East Jessamine High School, KY, 2011, 1B

I always have to have my autographed card of Natasha Watley in my left sock before I play and a wristband of any color on my left arm.
-Cyndil Matthew, Westfield High School, NJ, 2009, OF

As far as superstitions go, I prepare for the game like I play. I must always wear something pink because it is my power color. My side bangs must be braided up into a ponytail and right underneath my pony tail is a silver clip that I've had since the seventh grade.
-Demi Laney, Lake Howell High School, FL, 2010, P

My superstition is that when I begin a game, everything that I am wearing has to be the same the whole game and if I am chewing gum it has to stay in my mouth for the whole game no matter what. I also stand in the same spot in the dugout when I come back in from defense.
-Courtney Lollar, Satsuma High School, AL, 2009, OF
 

Email Garland@studentsports.com

By Garland Cooper

Softball is about skill, performing your best, competition and playing hard. However, that doesn't mean that the athletes don't want to look their best while they are out on the field!

We asked thousands of girls what kind of uniforms they liked to wear and below are just a few of the answers!

*****

"The best type of uniform to wear is pants with a button up mesh shirt and a ribbon!"
–    Megan Sulivan, Glory Diamond Elite 18U, 2010

"I don't really think there is really a best but I think incorporating black would be really nice and intimidating."
 - Natalie Wideman, Mississauga Tigers/Team Ontario, Canada, 2010


"I love wearing softball pants; I like them so much better than shorts. I like wearing tank tops, too, but the short sleeves are fine, also. I think that the jerseys that the Florida Gators had this year would have to be my all time favorite jersey ever. I also like wearing a ribbon when I play softball, I try to match the color of my jersey, but sometimes I like to wear some different colors."
 - Stephanie Etter, Tuslaw Mustangs, Ohio, 2010

"I like button up with sleeves like Auburn has, and pants."
 - Erika Arcuri, Team FLA, 2010

Do you have a favorite style of uniform? Let us know! Email Garland@studentsports.com!

By Garland Cooper

With high school softball revving up, we are taking a look at the top ten teams from last year's FAB 50 National Rankings. Who will be at the top again and who will sink to the bottom? Only time will tell!

*****

Pembroke Pines was a dominant team last year. They won our Nike Faster to First Tournament and was in and out of the top spot in the FAB 50 National Rankings. It wasn't until they lost to Naples High School in the state finals that their fate was sealed at the No. 7 spot.

This year, it should be much of the same from Pembroke Pines. They return their ace, Lauren Sewell, who has signed with top softball program the University of Alabama. Sewell is also a force at the plate and will be useful for Pembroke Pines on offense and defense.

Going into the championship game, Pembroke Pines had won 30 straight. This year they lost a couple of big bats with Shayla Jackson and Audrey Broyles graduating. Regardless, they should be going deep into playoffs and will have a good chance to redeem themselves in that championship game.
 

By Garland Cooper

Naples High School came in as our sixth ranked team last season after winnings the Fla. 4A state championship.

Naples will be returning their ace in the circle, Jaclyn Traina. Last year, Traina was the Gatorade Player of the Year in Fla. And went 21-3. She also recorded a 0.35 ERA and 258 Ks in 133.1 innings pitched.; not bad for a sophomore.

Last year in the action-packed championship game against Pembroke Pines, another nationally ranked team, Naples proved to be the better team after rallying and pulling together in the sixth inning to take the 5-3 win. In that game, and throughout the season, the team showed teamwork and the will the win.

With Traina back in the circle Naples will be a force to be reckoned with. As long as they come back with the same determination they had last year, look for this team to make it to the top of the rankings again in 2009.

By Garland Cooper

	ESPN RISE
	Tahla Wade had one of the best SPARQ Ratings of the weekend.

 Below are the final SPARQ scores from the Rising Stars Winter Showcase testing that took place Jan.2. The top ten overall SPARQ Ratings are listed below.

TOP OVERALL SPARQ RATINGS

McKenzie Woody-2010-OF-113.1
Tahla Wade- Lake County Freedom-IL-2011-OF-111.78
Kathryn Malcolm-CT Eliminators Red Donovan-CT-2011-INF-110.76
Logan White- Brantford Bobcats-Ont.,Can.-2010-INF-109.41
Erika Polidori-Brantford Bobcats-Ont.,Can.-2010-C-108.06
Jula Kastner- Vienna Stars 18 Gold-VA-2011-CF-102.24
Alex Smith- Florida Elite Gold-FL-2009-P-100.11
Carly Thea-Team Long Island Gold-NY-2011-OF-94.44
Melanie Ruderman- Team Long Island Gold-NY-2010-OF-92.88
Christie Wright-Stretchion Lady Stars-NC-2009-OF-92.82

For more information see SPARQTraining.com

By Garland Cooper

	COURTESY OF THE MORGADO FAMILY
	Evelyn Morgado.

Shortstop Evelyn Morgado, a 2010 graduate for the Gold Coast Hurricanes Norman, impressed observers at the Rising Stars Winter Showcase last weekend.

Besides several "Web Gems” at shortstop, Morgado knocked four out of the park last weekend. One the homeruns came in a pressure-packed game against Georgia Elite Rogers. Morgado smacked one out to put the Hurricanes ahead, 1-0, a lead that lingered until the sixth inning. The game ended in a tie, 1-1.

Morgado has been a star since she began high school in 2007. Her freshman year she was the Co-MVP of the Varsity squad. She also was a First Team All-County and All-State selection.

Last season she was First Team All-County once again and the Miami Herald also named her the Female Athlete of the Year.

An all-around student-athlete, Morgado has made the Academic Honor Roll her freshman and sophomore years in high school. She also is a star volleyball and basketball player and has earned post-season honors in each sport.
 

 By Garland Cooper

Below are the top powerball throw scores from SPARQ Testing at the Rising Stars Winter Showcase.

ROTATIONAL POWERBALL THROW

Kathryn Malcolm-CT Eliminators Red Donovan-CT-2011-INF-40
Toni MacReynolds-Newtown Rock 18U-VA-2010-C-39
Amber Donovan-CT Eliminators Red Donovan-CT-2011-C-38
Natalie Becker-AZ Roadrunners-AZ-2010-P-38
Logan White-Brantford Bobcats-Ont.,Can.-2010-INF-37
Erika Polidori-Brantford Bobcats-Ont., Can.-2010-C-37
Michelle Tilson-Vienna Stars 18U Gold-VA-2010-C-37
Alex Smith-Florida Elite Gold-FL-2009-P-36
Blaire Kelley-Hatters Gold-FL-2011-P-36
Hayden Bartlett-Georgia Impact White-GA-2011-C-35
Savanna Hennings-Birmingham Vipers-AL-2010-P-35
Brooke Red-Georgia Impact White-GA-2011-P-35
Emily Carosone-Hatters Gold-FL-2012-SS-35
Lauren McColgan-Vienna Stars 18 Gold-VA-2010-2B-35
Ashley Rollins-Vienna Stars 18 Gold-VA-2010-P-35
Abby Carpenter-Vienna Stars 18 Gold-VA-2011-3B-35

By Garland Cooper

	PHOTO CREDIT
	One SPARQ Tester prepares for the vertical jump.

Below are the top testers in the vertical jump from this past weekend's SPARQ Testing at the Rising Stars Winter Showcase. 

VERTICAL JUMP

Tahla Wade-Lake County Freedom-IL-2011-OF-26.3
Logan White-Brantford Bobcats-Ont., Can.-2010-INF-25.5
McKenzie Woody-2010-OF-24.8
Elaina Hempe-2009-OF-24.4
Kathryn Malcolm-CT Eliminators Red Donovan-CT-2011-INF-24.4
Kelsie Scott-Vienna Stars 18U Gold-VA-2010-OF-23.8
Christie Wright-Stretchion Lady Stars-NC-2009-OF-23.6
Stephanie Sobolewski-Plantation Pressure-FL-2013-C-23.4
Erin Satterfield-AZ Roadrunners-AZ-2012-INF-23.2
Chelsea Benjamin-2010-INF-23
 

More rankings and scores to come, stay tuned!

By Garland Cooper

Below are the top testers from last weekend's Rising Stars Winter Showcase in the 20 yard shuttle:

20 YARD SHUTTLE
Carissa Throckmorton-Lady Orioles 18U Fisher-MD-2011-IF-4.50
McKenzie Woody-2010-OF-4.62
Lindsey Menezes-Miami Stingrays Black-FL-2012-P-4.63
Erika Polidori-Brantford Bobcats-Ont., Can.-2010-C-4.65
Jula Kastner-Vienna Stars 18 Gold-VA-2011-CF-4.65
Hailey Harris-Charlotte Cobras-NC-2010-P-4.66
Savanna Hennings-Birmingham Vipers Hays-AL-2010-P-4.69
Melanie Ruderman-Team Long Island Gold-NY-2010-OF-4.72
Stephanie Sobolewski-Plantation Pressure-FL-2013-C-4.72
Shannon Lauret-Lake County Freedom-IL-2011-OF-4.75
 

By Garland Cooper

	ESPN RISE
	Tahla Wade was the fastest sprinter who SPARQ Tested this weekend.

This past weekend ESPN RISE was out SPARQ Testing faspitch athletes at the Rising Stars Winter Showcase in Davie, Fla. 

 If you are unfamiliar with SPARQ Testing, the event will consist of four athletic tests:
•    20-yard sprint
•    Agility shuttle
•    Vertical jump
•    Rotational Powerball throw

All the scores from the four tests are then totaled resulting in an overall SPARQ Rating. This is a numerical value of the athleticism of a female softball athlete.

This rating is a useful tool that can help players recognize their strengths and weaknesses in order to train and better prepare themselves for competition at the highest level. These values also can be valuable in the recruiting process as many colleges perform similar tests and might find such information helpful and appealing.

After testing over 160 athletes we were able to compile the top testers in each category. Below are the top testers from the 20 Yard Sprint.

20 YARD SPRINT
Tahla Wade - Lake County Freedom - IL - 2011 - OF - 2.89
McKenzie Woody - 2010 - OF - 2.90
Taylor Thomas - Lady Orioles 18U - MD- 2009 - OF - 3.00
Christie Wright -  Stretchion Lady Stars - NC - 2009 - OF - 3.00
Emily Carosone - Hatters Gold - FL - 2012 - SS - 3.00
Brittany Sutton - CT Eliminators Red Donovan - CT - 2011 - P - 3.02
Katie Zavodny - Midland Magic Gold - NC - 2010 - OF - 3.03
Shannon Lauret - Lake County Freedom - IL - 2011 - OF - 3.04
Logan White - Brantford Bobcats - Ont., Can. - 2010 - IF - 3.04
Rhydian Glass - CT Eliminators Red Donovan - CT - 2012 - P - 3.04
 

 For further information go to: www.SPARQTraining.com/Fastpitch.

Keep checking in for more top SPARQ Testers!

By Kynon Codrington

	ESPN RISE
	SPARQ Girls.

The annual Rising Stars Winter Showcase event kicked off the 2009 softball year in style with picture perfect weather in the Ft. Lauderdale suburb of Davie. Over 1,500 athletes participated in the weekend's tournament action. For the seniors on hand it was another chance to earn a coveted college scholarship. The younger players in attendance were looking to gain experience in the premier national camp.

College coaches from Auburn, University of Virginia, University of Central Florida, Florida Atlantic, Florida International, Miami-Dade Community College, and a host of others were on hand to scout and observe the top talent.

Rising Stars provided a recruiting clinic for players featuring an NCAA seminar by NCSA for parents and athletes. In addition to the seminar athletes had a chance to test, train, and compete for the top individual SPARQ Rating. Most of the players on hand were familiar with SPARQ and had tested at previous events or used SPARQ Training in their off-season work out program.

Over 160 athletes SPARQ tested and the results were impressive as the competition was intense throughout the day. The top vertical and 20 yard dash honors went to a class of 2011 Outfielder Tahla Wade, who posted a 26.3 vertical jump and a 2.89 - 20 yard dash time.

The speedy outfielder also tossed the power ball 33 feet and recorded a solid 4.84 shuttle time. Not to be outdone in the shuttle was 2011 Infielder Carissa Throckmorton, who blazed a 4.50 mark. Throckmorton's lateral speed was the best of the tournament.

The player that demonstrated the strongest core power was 2011 Infielder Kathryn Malcolm, who threw the power ball 40 feet. Malcolm shined in the other test areas as well registering a 24.4 inch vertical leap, 3.10-20 time, and a 4.78 shuttle.

Keep checking in for more SPARQ Rankings and results!

 

By Garland Cooper

2.    ASU WON THE WCWS
Arizona State took the title at the NCAA Women's College World Series as the six seed in the tournament. The team was led by pitcher Katie Burkhart and outfielder Caitlin Cochran. What was most impressive is that the team went undefeated throughout the tournament beating Alabama and Texas A&M twice, and UCLA once. ASU proved to be the best collegiate program in 2008.

3.    GOLD COAST HURRICANES WIN ASA NATIONALS
The Gold Coast Hurricanes became the first team from Fla. to take the ASA National crown. The Hurricanes were led by LSU-bound pitcher, Rachele Fico and Kelsey Horton was there rock at the plate. After defeating the Corona Angles in the final game, the Hurricanes became known as the best club team in the country in 2008.
 

Questions or comments? email: Garland@studentsports.com

By Garland Cooper

**Over the past week ESPN RISE has highlighted the top signing classes in the nation. These classes were outlined after intensive research including consultation with club coaches, college coaches and ESPN affiliates.

Below is a final outline of the top early signing classes.


1. Oklahoma
Oklahoma makes the top spot after signing two pitchers, a righty and a lefty, and a catcher, adding depth and diversity to their battery. All three can hit also adding a punch at a plate.
2. Arizona
Arizona brings in one of the best pitchers in the nation along with some power and speed at the plate. They cover almost all aspects of the game with their signing class.
3. Cal
Cal brings in a pitcher-catcher combo that has worked together successfully for years. They also bring in a bat to help in the lineup.
4. Florida
Florida has a big class with five athletes. Three of the five have won a championship in the last two years. It is a diverse and talented class that will give Florida depth at the plate, on the field and on the mound.
5. Tennessee
The Lady Vols bring in a couple of pitchers that will add some depth as well as some speed on the base paths. With the hard outs in the lineup and some depth on the mound, Tennessee looks like a tough competitor.
6. Texas
The addition of two pitchers will give Texas some strength and depth on the mound. They also bring in two hitters to help put at the plate. Two pitchers and two hitters will really add some power to the Texas roster.
7. ASU
ASU brings in three of the best from Ariz. With the help of the these three ASU will bring in what  it needs to get back to the WCWS within the next few years.
8. Michigan
The Wolverines bring in an ace pitcher as well as a hitter and some speed. They have really covered all their bases with the class and will be tough to beat.
9. UCLA
They only signed two, but they are important additions. The pitcher and hitter they signed will go a long way to improve the Bruin roster.
10. Northwestern
The Wildcats bring in speed, pitching, and power to round out their 2009-2010 roster. This will be an important class for NU and adds a little bit of everything to help them on the field.

Honorable Mention: LSU
LSU has signed an important all-star pitcher and a catcher that will a huge addition to the lineup. With these two athletes they have created a tough combo on the field and a tough out at the plate.

Up-and-coming: Mississippi State
Mississippi State brings in two lefty pitchers and some force at the plate. This entire signing class is stacked with top athletes that will take the Bulldogs far into playoffs.

 

By Garland Cooper

**Coming in at number four on the list is Florida. They bring in come championship players; no doubt they have a WCWS title on their mind.

4.  FLORIDA
What puts Florida at the top of the list is the fact that they are bringing in two out of five athletes who have won a National Championship in the past two years. This says that the 2009-10 freshman class knows what it takes to win and, more importantly, knows what it takes to win a championship. Those athletes are: pitcher Ensley Gammel (Worth Firecrackers ASA Nationals 2007) and catcher Kelsey Horton (Gold Coast Hurricanes ASA Nationals 2008). Of course, the other three are no slouches. Utility player Brittany Schutte plays against the best competition in the country with the SoCal Athletics as well as infielder Samantha Holle who is a recent addition to the Gold Coast Hurricanes Squad. On top of those star athletes, infielder Brittany Walker out of Texas batted .500 this past high school season.

**Keep checking in for more 2009 signing class rankings!

By Garland Cooper

ALABAMA

Courtney Conley will be joining the Crimson Tide for the 2009-10 season. She is from St. Louis, Mo. and plays third and first for Eureka High School and the St. Louis Chaos.

She was named All-Conference, All-District, All-Region, All-Metro, and All-State last season. Conley also earned Under Armour All-American accolades and Gatorade Player of the Year honors in 2007.

KENTUCKY

Kara Dill out of LaGrange, Ohio, and Alice O'Brien from Murfreesboro, Tenn. will join the Univ. of Kentucky.

Kara Dill plays shortstop and pitches for Keystone High School. Throughout her career, her high school team has won 81 games and lost only 14. She contributes to that impressive record on the mound with 11 wins and one loss. She has thrown 94 innings and recorded 139 Ks. At the plate, Dill has a career .550 batting average with 36 extra base hits.

Dill has earned All-Conference, All-Lorain County, All-Northeast District, and All-State honors since her freshman year at Keystone. She also holds school records with the highest career batting average, and single season hits.

Alice O'Brien plays infield and outfield for Riverdale High School and the Murfreesboro Firebirds.

Last season O'Brien batted .481 with 14 homeruns as leadoff for her high school team. She also recorded a .926 slugging percentage and a .600 on-base percentage. Her 14 dinkers were enough to solidify a school record in single season homeruns.

She has been an All-District player for her three years at Riverdale. This past season she was named the 7AAA Player of the Year and was an All-State selection. Her high school team elected her as the Most Valuable Player and the Position Player of the Year after her junior season.

MISSISSIPPI STATE

Mississippi State brings in five athletes from all over the country to round out their 2009-2010 roster. Stephanie Becker out of Aurora, Ill., Jessica Cooley from Birmingham, Ala., Shelby Fisher from Scottsdale, Ariz., Erin Nesbit out of Acworth, Ga., and Kylie Vry out of Des Moines, Iowa have signed to be a Bulldog.

Stephanie Becker is a lefty pitcher who pitches for West Aurora High School and the Orland Park Sparks.

She has been All-Conference and All-Area the past two years. Throughout her career she accumulated 554 strikeouts and a 43-17 record. Last season she recorded 200 Ks with a 0.78 ERA and a 14-8 record. In summer ball she was 18-8 with a 1.51 ERA and 154 strikeouts this past season.

Jessica Cooley is an outfielder and infielder for Oak Mountain High School and the travel team Skyhawks Express.

Last season she was an All-State and has been an All-Area selection since her start at Oak Mountain. Cooley also has helped her high school squad to playoffs two out of three seasons.

Shelby Fisher first base and outfield for Horizon High School and the Desert Thunder travel team.

She has been All-Region for three seasons and was All-State twice. Her junior season she hit .411 with 28 RBIs. With the Desert Thunder she batted .414 at the plate with six homers and 33 RBIs leading her team to ASA Gold Nationals.

Erin Nesbit plays shortstop for Harrison High School and the Atlanta Vipers Gold.

In this past fall season, Nesbit batted .384 with 29 runs scored, 24 RBIs and two homers. She was given the Harrison High School's Wendy's Heisman Award as the top female athlete in the school. She has been All-Region the past two seasons. With the Vipers she batted .387 this summer and had six homeruns, 34 RBIs, and 44 runs scored.

Kylie Vry is a lefty pitcher for Des Moines East High School and the Gold Coast Hurricanes.

In her short high school career, Vry managed to set a high school record for most strikeouts in a game with 19 Ks in a seven-inning no-hitter. She also was named to the Iowa Girls High School Athletic Union Elite Team All-State team in 2007. That same season she accrued 378 Ks in 186 innings pitched and recorded a 0.27 ERA. This summer she helped the Gold Coast Hurricanes to an ASA National Championship.

FLORIDA

The Univ. of Florida has signed five for the 2009-2010 season. The athletes include: Ensley Gammel out of Bakersfield, Calif., Samantha Holle from Tampa, Fla., Kelsey Horton from Valrico, Fla., Brittany Schutte out of Fountain Valley, Calif., and Brittany Walker from Tomball, Texas.

Ensley Gammel pitches and plays first base for Centennial High School and the Worth Firecrackers.

She has earned several postseason honors including earning All-League honors the past three seasons, and All-County honors twice. She was also Kern County Player of the Year in 2008 and was named ESPN Cal Hi Sports First Team All-State.

For the 2008 season she allowed only one earned run and was 25-3. She also recorded a 0.44 ERA with 258 Ks. At the plate she batted .359 with 28 RBIs and five homers.

Samantha Holle is an infielder for Chamberlain High School and the Gold Coast Hurricanes.

She was All-State and Hillsborough County Softball Player of the Year for the 2008 season. She also was given the team Hitting Award for 2008 after receiving a Rookie of the Year and Most Improved Award in past seasons. She also has been named a four-time All-American Scholar-Athlete.

Kelsey Horton is a catcher for Durant High School and the Gold Coast Hurricanes.

She was All-State, All-County, and All-Conference for the 2008 season. She has been All-Academic Athlete of the Year in 2007 and 2008 in softball and volleyball. For her high school squad she also has been named the Offensive Player of the Year two years running.

Brittany Schutte is a utility player for Mater Dei High School and the SoCal Athletics.
She was All-League and League MVP this past season. In 2007 she was named the Rookie of the Year and received All-League Honorable Mention honors.

Brittany Walker plays infield for Klein Oak High School and the Texas Eclipse Gold.

She has been All-District for two years and this past season was named First Team All-Greater Houston. This past season she batted a team-high .500.

TENNESSEE

Tennessee will bring in four girls to complete their 2009-2010 roster. The athletes include: Raven Chavanne out of Thousand Oaks, Calif., Lauren Gibson from Pasadena, Md., Melissa Brown from Valencia, Calif., and Ivy Renfroe out of Humboldt, Tenn.

Raven Chavanne plays outfield and third base for the OC Batbusters  Haning.

In 2007 she batted leadoff for the 16U OC Batbusters and was .583 at the plate, helping her team to a third place finish at ASA Nationals. She also is an outstanding track athlete for Newbury Park High School and holds records in several categories.

Lauren Gibson is a pitcher and utility player for Chesapeake High School and Team New Jersey.

Gibson was named ESPN RISE Magazine State Player of the Year, and she was an ESPN/Under Armour All-American in 2008. The past two years she has led her high school team to the 4A State Championship and threw no-hitters in both final games. For the past three seasons she has been All-Metro and All-County.

In 2008 she recorded 165 Ks in 120 innings pitched with a 17-2 record and a 1.23 ERA. She also contributed at the plate with a .500 average, 29 RBIs, 16 stolen bases, and 34 runs scored.

Melissa Brown is a middle-infielder for Hart High School and the SoCal Choppers.

This past season Brown was an All-League selection after leading her team to their second Foothill League Title since joining the squad. She batted .458 with 16 RBIs and 28 runs scored in 2008. She was named the Best Defensive Player on the Varsity squad for the past two years and also was the MVP her freshman year.

Ivy Renfroe pitches for Trinity Christian Academy and the Illinois Southern Force.

Since her start on the team she has more than 90 wins under her belt with an impressive 1,000+ Ks. She was a finalist for the Gatorade/RISE Magazine Tennessee Player of the Year and was an All-State selection as well as the District Most Valuable Player. This past season she went 20-4 on the mound with a 0.51 ERA and 261 Ks. That included eight no-hitters, and one perfect game. Renfroe also performed at the plate with a .396 average and 33 RBIs.

SOUTH CAROLINA

The Gamecocks have added two for their 2009-2010 campaign. The athletes are Briana Hamilton and Hannah Milks, both from S.C.

Briana Hamilton plays shortstop at Byrnes High School and the Georgia Knockouts. She was named the to All-State team in 2006 as well as being selected to the All-Region team in 2005 and 2006. She also was the Region II-4A Player of the Year in 2006. In 2005 she helped her high school to a 4A State Championship.

Hannah Milks plays for Wade Hampton High School and the Carolina Elite. She was an All-State selection this past season. She batted .568 and had 16 stolen bases on the year.

AUBURN

Auburn brings in two for the 2009-2010 season. Caitlin Schultze of N.J., and Kelsey Cartwright out of Nashville, Tenn. will complete the roster.

Caitlin Schultze hit .346 last season with two homers and 13 RBIs. She catches and was Fourth Team All-State last season.

Kelsey Cartwright plays for was .519 at the plate with an impressive 48 RBIs, 54 runs scored, 20 doubles, and 14 homeruns. Her 14 dinkers was a single-season high school record. Cartwright also was First Team All-State and a Gatorade/RISE Magazine Player of the Year nominee after leading Goodpasture High School team to an AA State Championship. For her career, she has batted .466 with 56 stolen bases, 58 doubles, 16 triples and another career school record of 32 homeruns.

OLE MISS

Ole Miss softball has signed three players for the 2009-2010 season. They are: Brittany Broome from Suwannee, Ga., Erinn Jayjohn out of Justin, Texas, and Kelly Nolan from Glendora, Calif.

Brittany Broome plays in the outfield for North Gwinnett High School and the East Cobb Bullets.

Last season she hit .374 with 38 runs scored and 38 stolen bases (a county record). She was named All-County for her efforts.

Erinn Jayjohn pitches and plays first base for Northwest High School and the Texas Elite.

She led her high school squad to a 5-5A District Championship with an impressive .487 average and 27 RBIs at the plate.

Kelly Nolan catches for Glendora High School and the SoCal Explosion.

She helped her high school team to the Division II CIF Finals. She was .380 at the plate for her high school team, contributing to her career .395 batting average. For the past three seasons she has been an All-League selection and this year she led her team to a League Championship.

The SoCal Wicked 18 Gold Softball out of La Habra, Calif. had several athletes busy signing their National Letters of Intent this week.

The following players have signed to join their chosen university for the 2009 season:

Megan Coletta - Sonora High School - Ohio State Univ.
Reina Gaber - South El Monte High School - Univ. of Houston
Jaqueline Harkey - Redlands High School - Azusa Pacific Univ.
Alexa Limon - Sonora High School - Mahattan College
Julia Pecina - La Habra High School - Ohio State Univ.
Ariel Tsuchiyama - Sonora High School - Cal State Fullerton
Jocelin Whitmore - Sonora High School - Manhattan College
Patty Zavala - Sonora High School - Florida International Univ.

	COURTESY OF THE GABER FAMILY
	Back Row(L-R): Patty Zavala, Jocelin Whitmore, Alexa Limon, Jaqueline Harkey. Front Row(L-R): Reina Gaber, Megan Coletta, Julia Pecina, Ariel Tsuchiyama.

By Garland Cooper

Below are some recent additions to the pre-signing day list. Signing day for 2009 graduates is Nov. 12. Also, some news on a 2010 commitment out of Florida.

MD Wagner's Gold
Shanna Brown - UT - University of Memphis
Lauren Gibson - IF - University of Tennessee
Courtney Liddle - C - Virginia Tech University
Jen Reading - 1B - Drexel University
Brooke Tull - P - Seton Hall University
Liz Wedell - UT - Shippensburg State University
Taylor Williams - OF - University of Virginia
 

San Diego Renegades (Tillet/Fox)
Stephanie Speierman - P - Michigan

 
North Florida Gold
Tiffani Brown - SS/2B - Florida State University

 
Virginia Stars Gold
Callie Eward - Georgetown
Cassie Greenhawk - Bucknell

 
MORE COMMITMENT NEWS
Kelly Hensley, a 2010 outfielder for the North Florida Gold, has committed to play at Florida State University. She also plays for Niceville High School.

For more additions, email garland@studentsports.com.

By Garland Cooper

In light of the fast approaching early signing day, below is a list of many club teams and the seniors on those teams that will be signing to play college at the next level.

The list is alphabetical by the name of the travel team.

	LAUREN SEWELL
	Lauren Sewell of the Florida Gold will sign with the Univ. of Ala.

Ca Cruisers Gold
Jenna Rich - SS/P - Stanford
Samantha Dodd - OF - DePaul
Melanie Fagaly - C/3B - Florida State
Kim Bruins - P/2B/1B - Texas

Corona Angels (Tyson) (CA)
Shawna Wright - IF - Univ. of Washington
Kamerin May - P/UT - San Diego State
Kristin May - C/3B - San Diego State
Kaylan Howard - SS/2B - Univ. of Oregon
BB Bates - OF - UCLA
Tiffany Corder - SS/2B - UCSB

Florida Gold
Lauren Sewell - P - Univ. of Alabama

Houston Power Gold (Glowacz)
Kimberly Damian - UT - Sam Houston
Ashley Isbell - C/1B - Sam Houston
Stephanie Regan - OF - Harvard

Impact Gold (TX)
Shelbi Tucker - 2B/SS/OF - Sam Houston
Maegan May - C/1B/3B - Texas A&M
Anna Hernandez - 3B/OF - Texas State
Bailey Watts - P/1B - Univ. of Houston
Bree Brown - P/OF - DePaul

Jersey Inferno Gold
Olivia Galati - P/IF - Hofstra
Kerilyn Svenson - New Haven
CJ Slugh - UT - Hofstra
Tammy Wray - LSU
Chelsea Kehr - Boston Univ.

Jersey Intensity Gold
Amy Buntin - C - Univ. of Notre Dame

KC Wahoos (MO)
Morgan Brunmeier - Southwest Missouri State
Chantelle Dietz - OF - Butler Community College

KC Zephyrs Gold
Keela Scott - SS - Nebraska
Maggie Strange - C - Wisconsin
Sam West  - CF - Drake
Shelby Pohlman - OF - Dayton
Nikki Bruce - 2B - Eastern Kentucky
Patrice Jackson - 1B - San Diego State

Lady Magic (CA)
Jolene Henderson - P - Cal
Lindsey Ziegenhirt - C - Cal

MD Wagner's Gold
Shanna Brown - UT - University of Memphis
Lauren Gibson - IF - University of Tennessee
Courtney Liddle - C - Virginia Tech University
Jen Reading - 1B - Drexel University
Brooke Tull - P - Seton Hall University
Liz Wedell - UT - Shippensburg State University
Taylor Williams - OF - University of Virginia
Ashleigh Williams - P/3B - Bloomfield College (NJ)

Midland Magic (IL)
Sydney Shelton - Southern Illinois, Carbondale
Alex Pflieger - Western Illinois
Kelsey Michelini - Western Illinois
Sara Bradley - Illinois State
Heather Austin - IUPUI
Abby Wood - Eastern Illinois
Lindsey Coleman  - SIU Edwardsville
Janele Robinson - Middle Tennessee State
Kaitlyn England - Murray State

NJ Breakers Gold
Abbey Houston - P/OF - Rutgers
Melanie Mitchell - P - Univ. of Virginia
Lauren Szymanski - IF/OF - Univ. of Maine
Katie Warrington - P/OF - Liberty

North Florida Gold
Samantha Rich - Jacksonville State Univ.
Hilary Chapman - Northwest Florida State College
Tiffani Brown - SS/2B - Florida State University

OC Batbusters (CA)
Stephanie Aguirre - OF/2B - Nevada
Chelsea Barilli - SS - Nevada
Cassidy Bell - IF - Penn State
Raven Chavanne - IF/OF - Tennessee
Teagan Gerhart - P - Stanford
Ashley Lane - OF - Michigan
Lauren Lastrapes - OF - Nevada

OC Lionettes (CA)
Chelsea Velovich - P - Univ. of San Diego

Olathe Rockets Gold (KS/MO)
Rachel Hay - C  - University of Missouri
Maggie Hull OF - University of Kansas
Rosie Hull OF - University of Kansas
Brittney Lang P/OF - Southern Illinois University
Lindsey Muller P/3B - University of Missouri
Kendall Patterson C/3B - University of Kansas
Janessa Swinney OF - University of Missouri, Kansas City
Lauren Himpel  OF - Washburn University

Pennsbury Gems Gold (PA)
Ashley Dimon - Syracuse
Kirby Groves - 1B/3B - Seton Hall
Ali Robinson - Temple

St. Louis Diamond Cats
Jenna (JJ) Marston - SS/CF - University of Missouri
Lauren Ackerman - C/UT - Northwestern University

San Diego County Breakers
Danielle Smith - OF/3B - LMU

San Diego Renegades (Tillet/Fox)
Amanda Carpenter - OF - Ball State
Lauren Gellerman - C/1B - Ohio Univ.
Maggie Doremus - 2B/SS - Oregon State
Anita Green - OF/2B - Cal Baptist
Shannon Tillet - 1B/C - Miami-Ohio
Amanda Ziegler - 3B/OF - UCSB
Stephanie Speierman - P - Michigan

San Jose Sting Gold
Keilani Ricketts-P- Oklahoma
Molly Medeiros-P- LMU
Kelly Schulze-C- UC Davis
Caitlin Breen-OF- Stanford
Kelly McDonald-3B UCSB
Bina Abbott-1B-Towson
Ali Palermo-C- Sonoma State University
Maia Monchek-OF- Purdue

Shamrocks Gold (VA)
Courtney Liddle - UT - Virginia Tech

So Cal Explosion Gold
Elizabeth Santana - SS/2B - UC Davis
Melanie Nichols - P - Ohio State
Kelly Nolan - C - Ole Miss
Caitrin DeBaun - OF - Long Beach State

So Cal Panthers (Combat Panthers)
Teresa Conrad - SS/OF - New Mexico

So Cal Pride Gold
Morgan Barchan - OF - Southern Illinois
Samantha Heyman - OF Univ. of Indiana

Sorcerer Gold - Pete (CA)
Jessica Moore - P/SS/OF - Oregon
Chelsea Cohen - P/1B - Arkansas

Sorcerer Gold - Phil (CA)
Jordan Wallace - IF - Cal
Whitney Massey - OF/C/IF - Univ. of Wisconsin
Emily Allard - OF/IF - Northwestern
Maya Burns - C/OF - Stanford
Michelle Gascoigne - P - Oklahoma
Hannah Williams - P - Fresno State

Stone City Sharks (Joliet, IL)
Kayleigh Bertram  - IF - Grand Valley State
Melissa Gunderson - IF/OF - Bethel College
Jhavon Hamilton - OF - Illinois State University
Nellie Kosola - OF - Grand Valley State
Coryn Schmidt - C/IF - University of Illinois (Chicago)
 
TC Tremors (NY)
Alicia Cacciotti - C/3B/P - Lockhaven
Hali Enderby - OF/2B - St. Bonaventure
Lucia Meola - OF/3B/2B - Binghamton Univ.
Morgan Nandin - SS/OF - Syracuse
Rosie Roessel - 2B/OF - Lehigh
Stacy Kuwik - P/OF - Syracuse

Texas Glory Gold
Brittany Caruthers - C/UT - Stephen F. Austin
Kallan Thompson - IF/OF - Lousiana Tech
Kayleigh Walts - C/UT - UTEP
Angela White - P - Stephen F. Austin
Brooke Blackford - C/UT - Tennessee State
Kathy Shelton - IF/OF - Baylor
Stevie Pierce - IF/OF - Missouri State
Hannah Schnebly - P - Tennessee State
Christina Roosmalen - 1B/UT - Southern Miss
Jessica Sheldon - P/OF - Centenary

Texas Storm Gold
Kelsi Kettler - 1B/3B - Baylor
Beth Dietrich - P/1B - Southern Miss
Anne Marie Taylor - P/OF - Texas State
Brooke Baker - OF/3B - Texas State

Virginia Stars Gold
Callie Eward - Georgetown
Cassie Greenhawk - Bucknell

Washington LadyHawks Miller
Allie Burger - OF - Univ. of Oregon
Jordan Goschie - SS/2B - Univ. of Iowa
Allegra Wilde - 3B - Seattle Univ.
Caitlin Colvin - P/1B - Ohio Univ.
Allyson Johnson - IF - Univ. of North Carolina Greensboro

West Jersey Witches
Katherine Vanbenschoten - OF/1B - Fordham Univ.
Shannon Hutchinson - IF/OF - Penn State
Chelsea Palumbo - IF/OF - Fordham Univ.
Kelly Schymanski - P/OF - Caldwell College
Katie Trotter - UT - Univ. of Maryland - Baltimore

Worth Firecrackers (Rico) (CA)
Sara Acosta - OF - Maryland
Ensley Gammel - P - Florida
Baillie Kirker - IF - Arizona
Jessica Shults - C - Oklahoma
Rebecca Walker - IF - Fresno State


  What are you doing to make your signing day experience special? Share it with ESPN RISE and email garland@studentsports.com!

Below are the results from the SPARQ Testing that took place this past weekend at the Rising Stars Showcase in Plantation, Fla.

Unfortunately, much of the testing was cancelled due to bad weather so many of the athletes did not get to complete the testing and therefore did not receive overall SPARQ Ratings. However, below are the results from the tests that were completed.

SPARQ Testing consists of four events: 20-Yard Dash, Rotational Powerball Throw, 20-Yard Shuttle, Vertical Jump. When the testing is completed, the athletes receive an overall SPARQ Rating that measures the athleticism of a softball player.

	KYNON CODRINGTON
	SPARQ Testers.

20-YARD DASH
Jordan Abell - 2B - 3.14
Lauren Mario - SS - 3.15
Anniela Vaccaro - SS - 3.17
Marie Williams - 2B - 3.19
Tonyetta Johnson - SS - 3.2
Chynna Sandhop - SS - 3.21
Brooke McCartney - SS - 3.22
Jessica Burk - 2B - 3.25
Sydney Turcnin - SS - 3.26
Megan Flaherty - 3B - 3.26

ROTATIONAL POWERBALL THROW
Lauren Mario - SS - 45
Anniela Vaccaro - SS - 43
Marina Groenewegen - 3B - 4
Joanna Clark - OF - 42
Victoria Marvin - SS - 41
Taylor McBeth - 1B - 40
Toynetta Johnson - SS -  39
Cat Clifford - 3B - 39
Jordan Connell - P -  39
Jordan Abell - 2B - 38
Chelsea Kell - SS - 38
Maggie Betz - 3B - 38
Kelly Bowler - P -  38
Krista Morrone - P - 38

VERTICAL JUMP
Toynetta Johnson - SS -  24.2
Jordan Abell - 2B - 23.0
Taylor McBeth - 1B - 21.1
Courtney Budynas - SS - 21.0
Marina Groenewegen - 3B - 20.0
Kathleen Conway - P - 19.7
Devin Batson - 3B - 19.3
Vicki Switzer - 3B - 19.2
Emily Moran - SS - 18.7
Maggie Betz - 3B - 18.7

20-YARD SHUTTLE
Anniela Vaccaro - SS - 4.18
Erica Wanzel - SS -  4.2
Meghan McGowan - SS - 4.44
Toynetta Johnson - SS - 4.47
Sydney Turcnin - SS - 4.5
Megan Flaherty - 3B - 4.6
Chynna Sandhop - SS - 4.62
Jordan Connell - P - 4.63
Lisa Blanton - 2B - 4.63
Robin Kennery - P - 4.68

OVERALL SPARQ RATING
Toynetta Johnson - SS - 112.23
Jordan Abell - 28 - 99.57
Kathleen Conway - P - 80.76
Courtney Budynas - SS - 67.14
Devin Batson - 3B - 63.99
Samantha Grove - P - 63.54
Emily Moran - SS - 60.24
Beverly Weaver - P - 54.48
Bre Desporte - SS - 46.5
Kathryn Coles - 3B - 43.5


For full results and more information see SPARQTraining.com.

By Kynon Codrington

	KYNON CODRINGTON
	A group of SPARQ Testers.

Davie, FL- The Rising Stars Showcase kicked off on Friday morning as inclement weather loomed over the Ft. Lauderdale area. The showcase continues to be one of the premier softball tournaments in the country.

Players in attendance ranged from the west coast to the Mid-Atlantic/Southeastern regions, and our northern neighbors of Canada. The SPARQ training staff supervised a dynamic warm-up and instructed players on the advantages of sport specific training. Rob Oristaglio, SPARQ Trainer of Ultimate Athletes Inc., went over some of the results from the recent Oktoberfest Showcase in Lancaster, Calif. to challenge the group and see if they could top their California counterparts.

Archbishop Molloy (Fresh Meadows, NY) shortstop Anniela Vaccaro got off to a great start. Vaccaro, a previous SPARQ tester, had the best rotational power ball throw at 43 feet and blazed a 4.18 short shuttle run.  It appeared Vaccaro was on her way to top SPARQ honors when rain interrupted the vertical jump and caused a short delay.

The fastest 20-yard dash award went to Delta (British Columbia, Canada) second baseman Marie Williams who edged Vaccaro's 3.08 time with a 3.06. The player with best vertical jump was Pascagoula (Miss.) shortstop Toynetta Johnson who recorded a 24.2 inch leap. Vaccaro's power ball throw and shuttle run and Johnson's vertical jump topped the best scores from Oktoberfest.

Congrats to all of the participants who competed and took part in SPARQ Testing. Good luck this weekend in tournament action!

Keep checking in on more top SPARQ scores from the Rising Stars Showcase this past weekend!

By Garland Cooper

Below are recent commitments from the North Florida Gold softball team:

Samantha Rich, a 2009 graduate, has committed to play at Jacksonville State University (Jacksonville, Ala.).  Rich also plays for Wewahitchka High School.  She was a 2008 EA Sports Second Team All American and she helped lead her high school team to back-to-back 2A State Titles during the 2007 and 2008 seasons.
 
Hilary Chapman, a 2009 graduate, will continue her career at Northwest Florida State College (formerly Okaloosa-Walton Community College).  Chapman also plays her high school ball at Wewahitchka, Fla.  She was a member of the 2008 State Championship team.  
 
Kasey Fagan, a 2010 graduate, will attend the University of Florida.  Fagan plays high school ball for Dunnellon High School (Fla.) where her father Kevin (a former football player for the University of Miami and San Francisco 49ers) coaches.
 
Sammi Fagan is a 2011 graduate and will play at the University of Florida with her sister, Kasey. Sammi's commitment came only a few days after her sister's. Fagan also plays at Dunnellon High.