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Extra Inning Softball looks at top travel ball events coming up this Summer and, today, we head to the Buckeye State to learn more about a showcase that will draw top teams and players along with a healthy dose of college coaches….
Event: Ohio Stingray Showcase
Event Director: Mark Skapin
Location: Columbus Ohio
Dates: July 7-9, 2023
Age: 10U, 12U, 14U, 16U and 18U
Cost: $1,200 per team
Event Link Page: Ohio Stingray Showcase (2023)
Event Description
The Ohio Stingray Showcase is one of the largest summer events in the Midwest with nearly 200 teams from all over the country coming to Central Ohio.
The event is hosted at several sites in Central Ohio, including Ohio State University.
The event is also run in conjunction with the Stingray NFCA Camp that takes place on Thursday, July 6, 2023, just prior to the event (click HERE for more details).
Last year (2022), there were over 20 Division 1 coaches who worked with the 140-plus players at the camp.
In 2022, the Ohio Stingray Showcase had over 120 college coaches in attendance and this year more are expected.
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Q&A with Chad Dennis, President of the Ohio Stingrays
Extra Inning Softball: What is the history of the Ohio Stingray Showcase?
Chad Dennis: This event has been held in Central Ohio for over 25 years and it continues to grow. We are now attracting teams from all across the country and the talent is better than ever.
Last year we had more teams and more college coaches in attendance than ever before, and this year will be even better as the event is already sold out and the team list is outstanding.
We feel this event is one of the best in the country and, with the NFCA partnership, we have tons of great coaches in attendance.
EIS: What makes this event one that travel teams must go to?
CD: We had over 120 college coaches in attendance in 2022 and we expect even more this year. The feedback we received after last year’s event from the teams and college coaches was outstanding.
EIS: What about the format, facilities or other ingredients makes this event one to attend?
CD: The format is 4-game pool play followed by single elimination bracket.
The facilities used are at Ohio State University Beekman Fields, Fortress Obetz, Pickerington Central and Pickerington North Highs schools, Licking Valley High School and Legacy Park!
Our showcase is the only event Ohio State University allows on their campus and we have had a great partnership for 20-plus years.
EIS: Who are some top colleges, pros, Olympians, etc. who have come through?
CD: All the Big Ten schools; numerous ACC and SEC programs including Notre Dame, Louisville, Pitt; all the MAC and most of the Ohio Valley schools and nearly ever Division I, II and III programs in the Midwest.
EIS: What are some fun things to do in the area when players are enjoying down time?
CD: The Columbus Zoo, Huntington Park, Columbus Clippers baseball… also Kings Island Amusement Park & Water Park in Mason, Ohio.
EIS: Is there anything else you would like to add about the Ohio Stingray Showcase?
CD: We believe this event is something special with teams from California, Arizona, Colorado, New York, and a total of over 40 states attending this years’ event.
The team list is better than ever, and we continue to draw and attract some of the best in the county!