Honoring our heroes this Veterans Day, at Extra Inning Softball we believe that the values that make great athletes—discipline, integrity, courage, and teamwork—are the same ones embodied by the brave men and women who serve our country. On this Veterans Day, we pause to honor those who have worn the uniform, those who stood in defense of freedom, and those whose sacrifices make it possible for our young athletes to dream, play, and grow.
To our veterans and active-duty service members: thank you. Your courage and commitment inspire us all. Your service reminds us that freedom is not free—it’s protected daily by those willing to give everything for others.
➡️ Join us in celebrating these heroes and the families who proudly stand beside them.
The Spirit of Service Beyond the Field
In softball, we talk often about “playing for something bigger than yourself.” Nowhere is that spirit more evident than in the hearts of our veterans. Their selflessness, discipline, and quiet leadership mirror the lessons we strive to teach in every dugout and on every diamond across the nation.
Whether it’s a father teaching his daughter to pitch, a coach who proudly served before mentoring young athletes, or a fan cheering from the stands with memories of deployment still close to heart—the softball world is filled with men and women who remind us what true strength looks like.
This year, we received several heartfelt submissions from families and players eager to share photos of the veterans in their lives. Each image tells a story of love, legacy, and sacrifice.
This photo was submitted by Alexandra Akins in honor of her father, Dr. Todd Akins, who served in the United States Air Force from 1997 to 2005 as an Aerospace Medicine physician and deployed to Iraq and Kuwait in support of Operation Enduring Freedom.
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These photos were submitted by Keke Jordan, Extra Elite #4 catcher in the Class of 2028, in honor of her grandfather, SGT Anthony K. Jordan, who proudly served in the United States Army from 1978 to 1992.
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This photo was submitted by Jay Lesniewski, head of Stealth Fastpitch 18U in Uncasville, Connecticut, in honor of his father, Stanley John Lesniewski, a United States Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class (E4) who served with Marine Aircraft Group 36 in Chu Lai, Vietnam from 1966 to 1967—fondly known by the team as “Grumpa,” their #1 fan since 2020.
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This photo was submitted by Lucy Jack of the VA Lady Legends 12U in honor of her father, Coach Todd Jack, who proudly served in the United States Navy from 1984 to 2008.
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This tribute was submitted by Marley Guadan in honor of her uncle, Ricardo Ortega-Tapia, a U.S. Army Combat Veteran who served from 2008 to 2013, and in remembrance of her late uncle, Sergeant Andres Estrada, who proudly served from 2010 to 2015 (1990–2015).
Honoring Those Who Served—and Still Inspire
We honor those who have served our nation and also left their mark in the softball world. From military parents in the stands to coaches and umpires who once stood in uniform, their leadership continues to shape our community in meaningful ways.
To everyone who sent us photos and stories—thank you. Your willingness to share these moments helps us remember that softball is more than a game; it’s a community built on family, gratitude, and the strength of those who came before us.
Every name and face shared with us carries a legacy of courage and love. On fields across America, young players grow up watching the quiet pride of veterans who now cheer from the sidelines—and learning, through them, what honor and service truly mean.
A Shared Legacy of Strength
The connection between athletics and military service runs deep. Both demand teamwork, perseverance, and a commitment to something greater than oneself. Veterans bring these same values home—to their families, their communities, and yes, even the softball field.
Many of the parents, coaches, and mentors who shape this sport learned their resilience long before game day—on bases, ships, and battlefields far from home. Their influence reminds every athlete that the lessons learned between the lines extend far beyond the scoreboard.
A Final Thank You
As we honor our veterans this Veterans Day, Extra Inning Softball extends heartfelt gratitude to all who have served and continue to serve. We also thank the families who shared their cherished photos and stories with us, allowing our community to pause and reflect on what truly matters: faith, family, and freedom.
Today, and every day, we remember that the spirit of service connects us all—on the field, in our homes, and across this great nation.
🇺🇸 From the entire Extra Inning Softball family—thank you, veterans. We honor you, we remember you, and we are forever grateful.
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