The Nationals 16U Sars squad first began in December of 2021, when Head Coach John Sars came up with his vision for the program.
“I wanted to create something special where these kids were being developed by the most talented softball players that I could find,” shared Coach Sars. “They all have made an incredible impact on our athletes.”
He brought in Megan Wiggins, Megan Good, Jessi Warren, Elizabeth Mason, and Aspyen Godwin, all women who have competed at the highest level and want to give back to rising stars in the sport.
After recruiting all-stars in the game to help lead the new program, Coach Sars met with John Garner, Terry Batts, and Tianna Batts to discuss organizational logistics.
“After meeting [them], I knew this was the organization for my team. Their focus was on developing each athlete to be the very best they can become,” recalled Coach Sars. “If you look at the commitment rate, well, that speaks for itself.
Now two years old, the Nationals organization has developed into an elite group of college-bound athletes that compete against the best competition in the country.
#WeAre a different team! Striving to build and mold players for that next level and to build confidence! Proud of this group of girls!!! #NationalsProud @JohnSars_Nats pic.twitter.com/Q7EpZPa1BS
— Nationals – SARS (@national16usars) November 14, 2023
What’s interesting about this program—besides it’s immense success in just a few seasons of play—is that Coach Sars has designed a structure where his athletes don’t “pay to play” on his team. Instead, the Nationals 16U Sars are completely sponsored, meaning the players are not required to purchase specific gear, uniforms, or even chip in on tournament fees.
This dynamic is incredibly unique in today’s world of fastpitch club softball, as the cost of playing continues to rise, making it more and more difficult for talented athletes to get the exposure they need.
Currently boasting five teams across different age divisions, each athlete that enters into the program goes through an interview process prior to making the team. The focus of these interviews is not on the talent of the athlete, but more to make sure goals and visions are aligned between the program and the athlete.
“We are a very small organization, but the size of our organization doesn’t matter. We know who we are and what we are about and it shows,” commented the coach. “Colleges trust the development process we have for our athletes and that is why so many of our players move on to play colligate softball.”
Another perk of being an athlete in the Nationals organization is the relationships the program has developed with The Next Level Foundation, which has resulted in 22 Name, Image, and Likeness (“NIL”) contracts to date, including with two current Power 5 athletes. Working with this company, the organization ensures that its athletes in the club sphere have the opportunity to be rewarded for their dedication to the sport.
“I’ve never seen such great camaraderie among athletes. Our girls actually love each other and you can tell. That’s really what I hoped to create with this team,” continued Coach Sars. “It took two years, but the coaches sit back now and go, ‘This is the best group of kids we’ve ever coached.’”
This fall, the Nationals 16U, led by Coach Sars, finished in the Top 8 at PGF’s “Show Me the Money,” showcase, and although they didn’t come out on top, the talented group, ranging from 2027s to 2025s, made the organization proud with the energy and passion they took the field with each inning.
“I told them I could not be more proud of them if they would have won it or finished where we did,” recalled the coach. “They were just so much fun to play with that weekend. I love their spirit and their energy. It’s no doubt that they will each play at a high level because of how much they are pushing themselves right now.”
“Most importantly, these girls are grounded, driven, talented and committed to each other,” shared Coach Sars. “I have the best group of kids in the world. I just love coaching them.”
Continue reading for an inside look into one of the nation’s top club teams competing this year, The Nationals 16U Sars squad, led by Coach John Sars, who answers some questions below about the success of his organization, unique aspects of the talented team, and so much more…
What is your primary goal or focus for your team?
“Development, bonding with their teammates, having fun and pursuing their dreams to play at the collegiate level.”
What have been some of your successes in terms of winning or placing at events this past year?
“Every tournament is a win for us. They grow, mature and learn a lot about themselves and each other. For such a young team, we’ve had some finishes. In our respected divisions, we have finished top 16 in Colorado, top 8 at TC Nationals, top 20 at PGF and just recently top 8 at Show Me the Money.”
What makes the organization unique, in your opinion?
“Our priorities, our focus is strictly the kids. Not only as athletes, but human beings. Don’t get me wrong, we want the win every time we step on the field, but John Garner has a saying that I like. We are not focused on the win, but it’s the victory we are chasing. What he means is helping our softball players grow and develop into strong, confident, fearless young women of the future.”
If there is one thing you would say that separates you from other club programs, what would it be?
“Honestly, I’m not sure. I don’t put much energy into what other clubs do or what they are about. I know what works for us and we have some incredible kids. Motivate them, teach them, discipline them and care about them. It’s actually pretty simple when your best interest is them. How does it not create a great environment.”
Now, for a sneak peak at the talented athletes that stack this team’s lineup…
Nationals 16U Sars 2023-24 Roster
Anna Bardeen #8
2026 Pitcher, Outfield, First Base
“Her personality lights up a room. So much fun to coach and it helps when you have a kid that can swing it like she does.”
Anna Champey #4
2026 Pitcher & Middle Infield
“One of the most outgoing kids I have ever coached. She’s resilient and will do anything required to help her team.”
Hali Duke #3
Presbyterian College Commit
2025 Middle Infield & Third Base
“She is the quiet leader and if the game is on the line you want her involved. Her faith keeps her grounded.”
Kaylee Huckaby #7
2025 Right-Handed Pitcher
“Kaylee is very outgoing and a total work horse. She’s been injured this fall, but we have high expectations for her. She is very driven.”
Dani Lee #11
Liberty University Commit
2025 Right-Handed Pitcher & Utility
“One of a kind! Her presence makes all of us better people. Her teammates love her and her love for the game and the Lord says everything about her.”
Kate Miller #2
2026 Outfield
“Not only is she the fastest kid I have ever coached, she is one of the most naturally talented kids on the field. The definition of controlled chaos. Definitely one of the best outfielders in the country.”
Julia Morici #18
Auburn Commit
2025 Middle Infield
“The General! There is a reason why she is going to the SEC. This kid just cannot be out-worked. Her passion for the game makes her the most coachable kid on the field. Julia is 100% the team leader and is completely fearless. She is one of those athletes a coach never forgets.”
Lyla Morici #17
2027 Pitcher, Outfield, First Base
“I could write a book on how talented she is. She’s already a Top 5 pitcher in the country for the 2027 class. The nicest kid you’ll ever meet, laid back and loves life. Put her in the circle and she’s as cold as ice. Nothing phases her. She just controls the game and is dangerous.”
Kaylah Reynolds #41
2026 Pitcher
“She is a competitor! Nothing is going to stop this kid. She competition is what drives her and she’s the best teammate in the dugout! She’s the diamond in the rough. She will make a statement this coming year on just how good she truly is.”
Abbie Sars #27
Auburn Commit
2025 Catcher & Utility
“I get to watch this kid everyday and she makes me proud! She has had some tough struggles, but the fight in her is that of a warrior. She is the best teammate one could ask for and has a passion for the game that can’t be compared.”
Ashlynn Shafer #12
2026 Outfield
“The happiest kid on the team. I have never seen her not smiling. Make no mistake, this kid has grit. She’s a great addition to our team.”
Keep up with the Nationals 16U Sars on their social media platforms, linked below:
Follow the Nationals 16U Sars on X
— Regan Weekly/Extra Inning Softball
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