Meet the Northeast Extra Impact Ambassadors
Jayden Mount
November 11, 2025 | 10:00AM ET
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At Extra Inning Softball, we believe the game is about more than runs, hits, and highlight reels—it’s about the people who make us stronger, the teammates who lift us higher, and the moments that remind us why we love softball in the first place. 💫
Our Extra Impact Ambassadors represent those values better than anyone. We’re introducing them by region, beginning with the incredible young women of the Northeast, who are using their voices and their platforms to empower, inspire, and support others—on and off the field.
Through their stories, you’ll hear how someone has empowered them to chase big dreams, how they’ve inspired others through action and example, and how they’ve supported teammates, classmates, and communities when it mattered most.
So grab your glove and your favorite snack, because it’s time to meet the players who are redefining what it means to make an impact that lasts far beyond the diamond.
Milena Blasi – Unity 12U Blasi – 2032 – 1 Star Ambassador
For Milena Blasi, softball is more than a game—it’s a way to live out her faith, leadership, and gratitude for those who have shaped her journey. Empowered by her longtime coach Josh Johnson, Milena has learned that success comes from “hard work, dedication, and believing in something bigger than yourself.”
She’s inspired by standout athletes like Rylie Johnson (LSU), Morgan Waln (Alabama commit), and Kaileigh Byars (South Carolina), who’ve shown her how perseverance and positivity can turn dreams into reality. But her foundation begins at home—her parents, both in law enforcement, model strength, sacrifice, and unconditional support. Their example reminds her to stay humble, dream boldly, and always show up for others. For Milena, to empower means to lift others, to inspire means to lead by example, and to support means to love fiercely—on and off the field.
*****
Shannon Bratton – Vanquish 18U National Lichtner – 2028 – 1 Star Ambassador
For Shannon Bratton, becoming an Extra Impact Ambassador is a chance to inspire the next generation of players the same way others once inspired her. She wants young girls to see that dreams are achievable through hard work, focus, and belief in themselves. As a varsity athlete and leader, Shannon takes pride in mentoring younger players like Gianna and Penny, who first met her through youth camps. Both girls now play in her travel organization, and she continues to guide them—helping them develop composure, discipline, and passion for the game.
“Gianna looked up to the way I control myself on the mound,” she said. “She’s learned to stay calm and focused through my guidance.” Even while recovering from a season-ending groin injury, Shannon finds strength in role models like Jordy Bahl, whose comeback from ACL surgery inspires her to persevere. Through every challenge, Shannon’s biggest supporters remain her parents, who drive her to every game, celebrate every milestone, and remind her why faith, family, and love for the game matter most.
*****
Maia Contreras – Tampa Mustangs 16u Gleason – 2027 – 1 Star Ambassador
For Maia Contreras, being an Extra Impact Ambassador is about more than representing a program—it’s about serving others, strengthening her faith, and helping the softball community grow together. Driven by her belief that anything is possible with faith, focus, and a strong plan, Maia hopes to mentor younger athletes while inspiring others to stay resilient through challenges. “Softball is a game of mental toughness and the ability to stay focused and positive,” she said.
“My goal this next season is to be a leader on my team and empower my teammates to build each other up during the good games and the challenging ones.” Maia finds inspiration in her coaches, teachers, and teammates who push her to reach new levels and remind her that hard work always pays off. Supported by her family, who make sacrifices for her late-night lessons and tournaments, Maia is grateful for every person who’s believed in her. Their encouragement fuels her desire to give back, empower others, and remind every young athlete that with faith, perseverance, and support, they are capable of anything.
*****
Carena Martinez – Virginia Legends – 2028 – 1 Star Ambassador
For Carena Martinez, becoming an Extra Impact Ambassador is about connection—sharing her story with other girls who love the game and reminding them that even when things get hard, it’s going to be okay. She hopes to encourage players who may be facing the same challenges she’s overcome, using her experiences to help them find confidence and perspective.
Carena credits her newest coach for empowering her through calm, constructive feedback rather than criticism, teaching her to focus on progress instead of perfection. “He’s more of a ‘this is what you did and how it can be better’ type,” she said. Her parents, both former athletes, continue to be her biggest mentors, offering wisdom and guidance from their own experiences. Inspired by their support, Carena has found joy in mentoring her 7-year-old cousin, who’s already making waves as a young pitcher. Whether through art, softball, or family, Carena’s story reflects the power of patience, encouragement, and believing in yourself no matter the struggle.
*****
Daniella Neve – Unity Attard/Johnson 16U – 2030 – 1 Star Ambassador
For Daniella Neve, becoming an Extra Impact Ambassador is a way to uplift girls and women in sports while giving back to the platform that’s supported her journey. A passionate athlete and established social media influencer (@bucktiktok), Daniella hopes to use her voice to promote Extra Inning Softball and its mission to spotlight stories that inspire. “Extra Innings has written amazing stories that have showcased me, and I would love to now showcase their platform,” she said.
Empowerment, for Daniella, begins with her father—her biggest role model and motivator. Even through illness, he never missed a game and continued to train with her, teaching her resilience and the value of perseverance. She finds daily inspiration in training with elite athletes like Taylor Pleasants, whose work ethic and passion fuel Daniella’s own drive to reach her dreams. Supported every step of the way by her parents, who travel to every event and encourage her to compete beyond her age level, Daniella feels blessed to have a foundation built on love, faith, and ambition.
*****
Addison Rydin – Unity Attard/Johnson 16U – 2028 – 1 Star Ambassador
For Addison Rydin, softball is more than competition—it’s a platform for purpose. She wants to use her voice as an Extra Impact Ambassador to show that strength in sports comes from both physical effort and mental resilience. “I believe athletes can make a difference beyond the field,” she said. Passionate about mental health, Addison hopes to one day become a sports psychologist, using her experiences to help others find balance and self-belief.
Her greatest empowerment comes from her mom, who supported her through a season of doubt and reminded her that “worth isn’t measured by stats.” That encouragement reshaped how Addison now uplifts her teammates—sharing breathing routines, confidence-building habits, and steady reassurance when they need it most. Inspired by her brother Brandon, who turned a career-ending injury into a thriving sports media career, Addison learned that setbacks can spark new passions. Supported by family and her best friend Avery, she continues to grow as both an athlete and leader, proving that the most powerful wins often happen within.
*****
Closing the Circle of Impact
The stories shared by our Northeast Ambassadors remind us that the power of softball stretches far beyond the scoreboard. Every word, every act of encouragement, and every example of perseverance becomes part of a ripple effect—one that strengthens teammates, families, and entire communities. 🌟
These young women prove that leadership isn’t about titles or trophies; it’s about lifting others while continuing to grow yourself. Whether through mentorship, friendship, or faith, they’re creating a culture of confidence and kindness that will echo through the next generation of players.
As we continue introducing our Extra Impact Ambassadors by region, one thing is clear: when girls empower girls, the game—and the world—becomes a better place. 💜
Stay tuned as we head to the next region and spotlight more remarkable athletes who continue to empower, inspire, and support—on the field and beyond.
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