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Players Express Their Love & Appreciation in Our Special Father’s Day Tribute (2020)

Notre Dame pitcher Payton Tidd with her father Steve (a few years ago!) as part of our 2020 Father’s Day tribute post.

Extra Inning Softball would like to salute all the #GirlDads and #BucketDads in the softball community on Father’s Day, so we checked in with players and coaches from around the country.

Today we honor those “softball dads” who can wear many hats in addition to their paternal roles: coach, counselor, chauffeur, medic, patient listener and much more. In behalf of the fathers (or “father figures”) who can play such an important role in a young person’s life, we take time to honor them today.

After the beautiful player tributes to their moms/mother figures for Mother’s Day, we provided the opportunity for athletes nationwide to do the same Father’s Day; here are their loving contributions….

*****

Ashley Wolfe and her father Eric

Happy Father’s Day to my dad. Today I celebrate him, as every day since I was 7, he has willing done EVERYTHING for me, my dreams, and showing/teaching me how to be a better person, by working for those dreams. He’s my role model, giving of himself before himself. Always makes time to not only help me with the game I fell in love with, but others who ask him for advice.

My dad is the reason I play at the highest level, he’s my biggest supporter, but also my biggest critic!! Whenever I ask to go hit or take infield practice, whatever he’s doing stops and we go. We have traveled all over the country and I love all the memories that we’ve made together.

All the talks we’ve had, softball, school, or just life is what makes my Dad so incredibly amazing to me! If I end up half the person my dad is, then I’ll have turned out pretty good. I love you daddy!! Ashley #4

Ashley Wolfe to her father Eric
MIF, 2023, Iowa Premier

*****

Alexis Milanoswki and her father Ted

I love my dad more than words could ever describe. He is my friend, dad, and coach all in one. He pushes me over my limits and gets the best out of me with everything I do. He has coached me ever since I have started playing softball. He even volunteers his time as the assistant softball coach at my school, which I know isn’t easy having to leave work.

He has missed out on numerous exotic trips so that way he could coach and be at my games. He listens to my endless car concerts even though they are terrible, and he has taught me how to drive in two weeks. He takes time out of his day every day to help me get better at the sport I love. He makes me laugh when I am sad. He makes me fight when I am tired. He truly is the world’s greatest dad. I wish him the very best Father’ Day.

I love you dad.

Axe Milanowksi to her father Ted
IF/C, 2022, Georgia Impact Premier 04 Townsend/Jeffreys

*****

Rachel Cid and her father Robert

Happy Father’s Day to the #1 man in my life. You are one of the most hard-working fathers I know even outside softball. Just in a few words you are strong, loyal, real, funny (sometimes), loving, and so much more.

You have always been there to teach me right from wrong and to keep me on the right path in life.

Thank you for being the best #GirlDad I could ever ask for and the best coach for softball and just life in general. I love you so much!!

Rachel Cid to her father Robert
IF, Oregon Ducks softball

*****

Darien McDough with her father Brian

My dad has spent countless hours with me at the field, in the cages and traveling for tournaments. We’ve celebrated the good and fought through the adversity together and I wouldn’t trade those memories for the world. He pushes me the hardest whenever I need it the most. I

would not want to have pregame/post game talks with anybody else. I always hear his voice when I am at the plate, no matter how many people are cheering. My dad is my biggest fan, and he will always be the person I look up to the most in life.

I would not even be close to the person or the athlete I am today without him. Happy Father’s Day to my dad, and to his dad, my Papa, who we know is always watching down over us.

Darien McDonough to her father Brian
OF, 2021, Rhode Island Thunder Gold Lotti, Boston College signee

*****

Sam Roe with her father Steven

Happy Father’s Day to my number 1 supporter. Thank you so much for everything you do for me, but most of all thank you for showing me who I want to be like one day.

You’re always going to be the person I look up to the most even when you laugh at me for swinging at a change up in the dirt or for throwing the ball to the fence on a pick of.

No matter how much you tease me always remember what you taught me: “When all else fails, suck less!”

Sam Roe to her father Steven
C, 2022, Birmingham Thunderbolts, Florida commit

*****

JaMaya Byrum with her father

I just wanted to say how thankful I am for my dad. He is such a blessing; always being there for me, being a great coach and an even better father figure.

He gives me the best dad jokes and can always cheer me up. He has blessed me with support, wisdom and a whole lot of love. Thank you so much!

JaMaya Byrum to her father
IF/UT, 2023, Birmingham Thunderbolts 05

*****

Kirsten Fleet with her father Brian

Happy Father’s Day to my biggest fan, but also my biggest critic! You have made many sacrifices to help me live out my dream, and I am so grateful for that. All the late nights catching for me and early mornings for traveling wouldn’t be possible without you.

Thank you for putting me in situations that were outside of my comfort zone, yet they have shaped me into the player and person I am today. Happy Father’s day, Dad, I love you!

Kirsten Fleet to her father Brian
P, 2023, Texas Bombers Gold 16U Burgess/Smith, Georgia commit

*****

Rees Cunningham with her father

My dad is our rock and has taught me to live gracefully and love deeply.

He never gives up when things get hard and is so strong! We love him so much!

Rees Cunningham to her father
OF/2B Iowa Blitz

*****

Payton Tidd with her father Steve

My dad has made me the person and player I am today. He has pushed me to challenge my limits and work hard in everything I do. He is my biggest fan and mentor as a player.

With every accomplishment and every failure he is always by my side. My dad means the world to me and is one of the reasons why I play the game of softball.

Payton Tidd to her father Steve
P, Notre Dame Irish softball

*****

Kyleigh Pitzer with her father Brad

My dad has pushed me and made me the softball player that I am today and that means so much to me now.

We have had our ups and our downs with pitching, but my dad has always wanted the best for me. He always wants to go out in the yard and catch and always does everything he can to make me better.

My dad is one of my biggest supporters and has pushed me enough in softball to give me a chance to play in college. I will always love and be grateful for my dad.

Kyleigh Pitzer to her father Brad
P, 2022, Hotshots Premier AL

*****

Emma Bailey with her father Cliff

When my dad is not on the bucket, he is always the first one cheering me on in everything I do!

His love and support are always constant, as he wants me to succeed in life and on the mound!

Emma Bailey to her father Cliff
P, 2022, Lady Dukes-Lamar

*****

Shayna Glass with her father Dustin

My dad means so much to me and he has shaped me into the person I am today.

I don’t know what I would do without his help, patience and kind words! I appreciate every little thing he does for me and I wouldn’t want any other Dad!

Shayna Glass to her father Dustin
OF/2B, 2022, So Cal Athletics-Limo

*****

Aleyah Terrell with her father Anthony

My father, where do I even begin? His guidance, love and support is what keeps me going. I love having someone so open-minded and selfless as my father.

Shout out to him for always taking time out of his day to make me a better ballplayer, his dedication to me growing never goes unnoticed!

Aleyah Terrell to her father Anthony
OF/UT, 2022, Lady Dukes-Lamar

*****

Brittany O’Donnell with her father Kevin

Without my dad, everything I have accomplished would not have been possible. He was my biggest supporter through all the ups and downs of games, practices and lessons. I told him I had a dream at 8 years old of playing softball for the University of Notre Dame and together we made that dream come true.

My dad, as the head of the Intensity organization, is responsible for making countless dreams of his players come true of playing competitive college softball. He gives his everything to each player day in and day out so they can fulfill their dreams and have the same amazing opportunities I did. He never missed a game in my playing career (he is an honorary ND alumni we joke). After every game, I would point to him in the stands and that would signal that ‘We Did It.’

Words can’t describe how wonderful my dad is in all he does for not only our family, but every family within the Intensity organization. I’m so proud to be his daughter! Love you Dad xoxo.

Brittany O’Donnell to her father Kevin
Jersey Intensity-BOD coach, former Notre Dame Irish pitcher

*****

Jayda Coleman with her father Cedric

Thank you, dad, for everything you have done for me. You’ve worked hard for me to be in the best possible situation. You’ve worked hard for me to be the best athlete possible and most of all the best person I could be.

Thank you, dad. I love you forever and always.

Jayda Coleman to her father Cedric
SS, 2020, Texas Glory – Shelton, Oklahoma signee

*****

Tegan Gabrielse with her father

I wanted to thank you for everything you have done. Putting your time into me me, catching me, helping me hit, field, everything.

Thank you for everything you have done to make me the ballplayer I am today.

Tegan Gabrielse to her father
P/C/UT, 2025, Virginia Unity 13U-Johnson

*****

Kailee Bautista with her father Deo

Happy Father’s Day to the crazy man who made me the person I am today! Without your sacrifice we wouldn’t be in this position as a family. I am so proud of the man you’ve been able to become. Your support with everything has been unbelievable.

Thank you for always being there for us no matter the what. You’ve taught me the ins and outs of life that now I can accomplish things today. You have guided me throughout everything which I’m so thankful for.

Thank you for the amount of time and effort you have put to strengthen this family! You have been such a great role model for us to look up to! Thank you for being someone that our family can admire!

We love you!

Kailee Bautista to her father Deo
C/1B, 2022, Texas Blaze NTX, 2022

*****

Laney Roos with her family

I would like to thank my dad for always being one of my No. 1 supporters and never giving up on me when others did. Thank you for always believing in me and pushing me to be my best.

Thank you for all of the hard work you put into me being the softball player I am today. I can’t wait to see you in Purple and Gold supporting me in the stands!

I love you forever dad!

Laney Roos to her father
P/OF, 2020, Texas Glory, LSU signee

*****

McKenzie Clark with her father Brian

Softball dads are the best dads. They push you harder, they cheer louder and they are the best throwing partners.

Shout out to all of the great softball dads out there!

McKenzie Clark to her father Brian
OF/C, 2020, Tampa Mustangs-TJ, Clemson signee

*****

Layla Lamar with her father James

For me, I would say my dad pushes me the most out of anyone I know. He always supports me in everything I do! He is my biggest fan, but also my toughest critic and it only makes me better.

I am so happy he started a travel team, and thanks to it I have met some of my best friends.

I don’t know what I would do without him, he always keeps me going, provides for me at any time and never fails to put a smile on my face.

Layla Lamar to her father James
IF, 2024, Lady Dukes-Lamar, Florida commit

*****

Ramsey Suarez with her father Mike

My dad is my biggest fan and my best friend. He’s always there to tell me I can do anything and to have confidence in myself. I would never ever be where I am without him.

If I didn’t have my dad by my side, I wouldn’t be half the softball player I am now. He picks me up when I’m down and spends hours to help me get better.

He’s guided me through the game and taught me how to be the best player I can be. He’s the best coach and father I could ever ask for and I’m so thankful that I have a dad like him.

Ramsey Suarez to her father Mike
3B/1B, 2022, Athletics-Mercado/Ornelas, UCLA commit

*****

Paige Sinicki with her father Chuck
Paige with Corona Angels coach Marty Tyson

My dad is such an important part of my life and I’m so grateful for everything he has done for my family, friends and teammates. He pushes me every day to become better because he has always told me that there’s always someone better than you, so work harder than them.

That has always been something I’ve praised my whole life. Happy Father’s Day, Dad!! I love you so much. Thanks for being you.

Happy Father’s Day as well to my second dad. Thank you for not only being a great coach in my life, but a supportive dad. Thanks for teaching me so many life lessons. Love you Coach Marty!!

Paige Sinicki to her father Chuck and to her coach Marty Tyson
SS/UT, 2021, Corona Angels-Tyson, Oregon commit

*****

Kailani Tatro with her father

My dad is my biggest supporter and without him I don’t know what I’d do.

He’s the best dad I could ever ask for.

Kailani Tatro to her father
P/1B, 2023, Batbusters-Gomes/Brooks

*****

Izzy Berouty with her father Gary

Happy Father’s Day!! Thank you for being a great role model, father and coach!!

We make a great team even though I’m a better third base coach than you 😁 I love you! #girldads #bucketdad.

Izzy Berouty to her father Gary
P, College of Charleston Cougars softball

*****

Sam Booe with her father Chris

I’m thankful for one of my biggest supporters for always cheering for me when he’s there or watching on live stream.

He’s one of my favorite catchers and is an amazing dad.

Sam Booe to her father Chris
P/1B, 2021, Beverly Bandits-Helbling, 2021

*****

Allison Royalty with her father Dan

Happy Father’s Day to my Dad! Not only has he taught me so much about being an athlete, he showed me what it takes to be a successful and compassionate human being.

He has always showed up to every game possible to show his support. He has been my number #1 fan since day one. To this day, he will still get on a bucket to catch a bullpen for me!

I appreciate him always pushing my siblings and I to be the best versions of ourselves, to set our goals high and for instilling a strong work ethic in us all. I can’t thank him enough for his dedication to loving our family. I love you, dad. Thank you for all you do! HAPPY FATHER’S DAY to all the other dads out there!

Allison Royalty to her father Greg
P, 2020, Athletics-Mercado/Smith, Arizona State signee

*****

Kyye Ricks with “Pops” Gregory Hart

My grandad is so awesome and I love the love and support he gives me daily.

Thanks Grandad for all you do for me and for the countless hours of training, coming to all the tournaments and being there for me through the great times, and especially for the hard times.

I love you so much. HAPPY FATHER’S DAY.

Kyye Ricks to her grandfather “Pops” Gregory Hart
OF, 2022, EC Bullets-Mayfield/Biele, 2022, OF

*****

Alex Salter with her father Mark

My father is my biggest supporter. I wouldn’t be as confident as I am without him. He has put in endless hours training with me.

I appreciate all of his sacrifices more than he will ever know. I love you Dad and I hope you have an amazing day. You deserve it.

Alex Salter to her father Mark
P/1B, 2020, Georgia Impact-Lewis, Alabama softball

*****

Bailey Dowling with her father Gary

Happy Father’s Day to my softball-loving, travel buddy, girl dad. Thank you for always supporting me in everything I do!

Love you, Dad!

Bailey Dowling to her father Gary
SS, 2020, Georgia Impact-Lewis, 2020, SS, Alabama signee

*****

Jasmine House with her father

My dad means everything to me. He is my biggest role model in life. He has worked so hard to get to where he is and I aspire to work hard like him.

When I’m too hard on myself, he is the person to bring me up and tell me that it will be okay and he continues to push me no matter what.

Jasmine House to her father
OF/UT, 2021, Iowa Premier Fastpitch

*****

Jada Phillips with her father Gary

My dad is my everything. Without him, I wouldn’t be the person or player that I am today. He has always been there through my ups and downs.

I am very grateful for all of the time and effort that he has put into my game to make me better. He is dedicated to my success and future and always has my back. Happy Father’s Day to the best dad in the world!

Jada Phillips to her father Gary
C/UT, 2024, Tennessee Mojo

*****

Maddy Dwyer with her father Jim

I am so thankful for all my dad has done for me throughout my softball career. From countless hours of driving during travel ball to attending every one of my games in college, he has always been there.

Happy Father’s Day, Dad!”

Maddy Dwyer to her father Jim
P, Stanford Cardinal softball

*****

Marlene & Donna Friedman with their father Jerry

My dad has taught me to be independent and to always work hard. Without him, I would not be the person I am today.

Love you, dad!

Marlene Friedman to her father Jerry
3B, 2020, Firecrackers-Brashear, Arkansas signee

*****

Aubrey Flores with her father

My dad means so much to me, more than words can describe. He has always been there for me through thick and thin, no matter if it was catching for me on a bucket or helping me with homework for school.

I know that he will always be there for me when I need him.

Aubrey Flores to her father
P, 2025, Athletics-Mercado/Bonola 2024

*****

Bridget DeRoche with her father Joe

My bucket Dad is the calm within my storm. When I am in the circle and going strong, he paces with a stick. When I am struggling in the circle, he reminds me that I need to OWN it because I have put the work in year-round.

He even clears a snow path if needed for spring in Maine. We are a team and I just hope he will always know he is my rock foundation.

Addison DeRoche to her father Joe
UT, Southern Maine River Rats

*****

Kayla Falterman with her father Troy

Happy Father’s Day to my dad, coach, biggest supporter, and best friend. Thank you for pushing me to my potential, always pitching BP to me, and spending countless hours, effort, and money to give me the opportunity to succeed at softball.

You’re the biggest sports fanatic, my travel buddy, the most hard-working person I know, and my biggest role model. I’ve learned so much from you, and I’m so grateful for everything you’ve done for me and our family. I love you so much, and I don’t know what I would do without you. Can’t wait to spend your day at our favorite place, the ballpark!

Kayla Falterman to her father Troy
UT, 2021, Hotshots Premier, Louisiana (ULL) commit

*****

Jordan Woolery with her father Noel

Thank you for coming into me and my mom’s life and making such a huge impact on the field and off the field! You truly are one of the most amazing people in my life!! I can’t wait for more LA trips and other adventures softball takes us on. Thank you for always throwing me front toss and playing catch with me! I love you the most!

Jordan Woolery to Noel
IF, 2022, Sorcerer Old Skool, UCLA commit

*****

Mia Galella with her father Tom

My Dad is special to me in so many ways. He has been my biggest supporter and I know that he’s always got my back. He has taught me so much and has given me confidence in myself.

I wouldn’t have had the opportunities I do if it weren’t for him. Is like to wish my Dad a Happy Father’s Day! Love you.

Mia Galella to her father Tom
IF/OF, 2025, PA Chaos 14U National

*****

Rylei Trujillo with her father Anthony

Happy Father’s Day to the most fierce and hard-working man. Everything you say is to better me and the family everyday. I thank you for being our strong man through everything.

And as we get older I hope you realize everything I do in life is to try to be like you and try to impress you.

I know I can be mean—grinning face with smiling eyes—but no matter what I am your best friend and you are mine. Thank you for making me a better person and softball player and I know one day everything you have given to me I will hopefully pay you back. I wuvvv you!

Rylei Trujillo to her father Anthony
P, 2023, LTG Lions

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