Bobby Labs started the San Diego-based Breakers Labs organization four years ago and now they regularly challenge all the top teams in the country at all major events in all age groups, including PGF Nationals and Alliance Nationals.
Team Name: Breakers Labs 18U Gold Bobby
Head Coach: Bobby Labs
When did the team/program start and how/why did it come to be?
The teams in the beginning were originally part of the SoCal Breakers organization. But then about four years ago, we decided to branch out on our own and become our own organization. So at that point Breakers Labs was born. Looking back, it was one of the best decisions we ever made.
Where are you based? Where do your athletes come from?
We are currently based out of Vista, CA, with the Breakers Labs Training Center located in the Vista Business Park. Our athletes come from San Diego County, Riverside, Orange County and even a few well beyond that.
What was the purpose of creating the team?
The purpose for all our teams is to accomplish a standard set of goals. First off, we want to teach the proper techniques, fundamentals and mechanics to be able to play the game at an elite level across all the age divisions. Next, we want to win games because that’s the purpose of playing, to win. And to be able to win the important games, you need to play the best teams and that’s what we want to do. Lastly, we want to develop all our players and do everything we can to help them get recruited to play collegiate softball.
What have been some of your successes in terms of winning or placing at events?
Placing second and third in PGF the past few seasons has been one of the biggest highlights for the organization, but we don’t want to just accept that. We want to win it all.
What makes the organization unique?
I think the thing that makes us a little different from some of the others is we are not a “win at all costs” kind of organization. Of course, we want to win, but we want to do it by developing our players and coaches and doing things the right way. No shortcuts. Most importantly, we really believe in running the team and organization as a family. We spend a lot of time together and there’s a lot invested in the teams, players, coaches, etc. And sometimes family can be tough, but in the end we’re going to get there together.
What’s your softball background and how did you get to the point of leading the team?
It’s no secret that early in my life I made some less than ideal choices. But I can tell you that sports and softball in particular made me the person I am today. I don’t know where I would be without it.
I’ve been coaching softball for over 20 years now and can honestly say I would not change a thing. I started when my daughter was playing and just embraced everything softball had to offer. I’ve met a lot of amazing people along the way and can honestly say I owe everything I have to softball. So for me, being the founder of the organization is just a way I can help pay it forward and help others achieve their dream.
How many teams are there in the organization overall?
We are at 15 teams at this point. Four teams that are based outside of SD County.
Has there been a key moment or defining experience in the team’s history?
For this current 18U team, there have been a lot of growing pains and a lot of ups and downs. But as the fall season progressed, we really learned a lot about what it takes to win. We played in an invite-only tournament and beat some of the top teams in the country. That showed the girls that their team had all the components to hang with and beat the best.
What is your primary focus or goal with this team?
We really have two goals: First: To get all the players recruited to the college that best fits their academic and athletic needs. Second: Win a championship.
What do you think are the strengths of the team?
Everyone supports and is happy for each other’s success on the team. There are no egos.
When we’re on offense, our biggest strength is having the ability to spread out the ball to all fields. Hit the ball where it’s pitched. Hitters will take what the defense gives them. The mantra is to pass the stick so everyone gets an opportunity to contribute. They are all willing to have selfless at-bats for the opportunity to score a run, move a runner or have an otherwise productive out. Whatever is needed to put the team in a position to have the best chance to win the game.
When we’re on the field, the team does not compound mistakes. Players rally around each other to move on after a mistake. On-field communication is exceptional and pre-pitch awareness, timing and positioning has really reduced the chance for a big inning from the other team.
And most importantly, the team plays with an amazing attitude and loves to have fun.
If there is one thing you would say that separates you from other club programs, what would it be?
The feeling that the team and the organization are a family.
Has your team earned an invite to PGF Nationals or AFCS?
We have a berth to PGF Nationals and earned a Tier 1 berth to Alliance.
What will it take for your team to be successful this season?
Continue to have consistent starts from our pitchers and have an ability to carry a game when needed. Hitters need to continue to have quality at-bats while making the most of their opportunities. Team has a chip on their shoulder and plays as if they are always the underdog.
Can you describe your pitching staff?
What makes them great is they cheer for each other and celebrate each other’s success. They have the ability to go the distance (CG) while maintaining command in the late innings has really allowed us to go deep in high-level tournaments. Each pitcher knows her role and does whatever is needed to help the team win.
Do you have an interesting factoid about your team?
Most of the returning players on the roster have been with the org since 12U.
Anything else interesting or fun that I could use to portray your team as a top organization?
Our coaches love to help each other and challenge each other to be their best. But at the same time, they are all willing to help each other, other team’s players and keep the atmosphere light, fun and focused on having success!
*** Scroll down to check out Players to Watch and the full Breakers Labs 18U Gold Bobby roster!
