RANKINGS
EVENTS
I COMMITTED
COLLEGE
ABOUT
The OC Batbusters 16U Fitzherbert, a talented group of athletes out of San Diego, California, first put down roots in the iconic organization during August of 2022.
Coach Sarah Fitzherbert played collegiate softball at Eastern Arizona College prior to transferring during her junior year to finish her career at the University of Northern Colorado.
Following the completion of her own journey in the game, Coach Fitzherbert decided to utilize her love of the sport to help young athletes unlock and achieve their goals—whether that is continuing to play in college or being impact players during their high school seasons. Additionally, Coach Fitzherbert utilizes the role to impart the countless life lessons she has learned through her time on the dirt.
“This team is fun, exciting, energetic, and really enjoys the game of softball,” commented the OCBB coach. “[We have] a good mix of talented young ladies [who] quickly came together and began to see success early on during the fall season. They work hard to get better and they have fun while doing it.”
With more than 100 teams operating in the OC Batbusters organization, this young team is following in the footsteps of several major players in the sport and is determined to continue the legacy of excellence the teams are known for.
Continue reading for an inside look into one of the nation’s top club teams competing this year, The OC Batbusters—Fitzherbert squad, led by Coach Sarah Fitzherbert, who answers some questions below about the success of her organization, unique aspects of the talented team, and so much more…
What is your primary goal or focus for your team?
“To set our athletes up for success both on and off the field by building up their character and to prepare them for the next level in their game. We do all of this in a fun and enjoyable environment that builds a strong community around all of our athletes.
We aim to create an environment where players are not afraid to make mistakes and learn to play without that ‘fear of failure.’
We have a saying to ‘give 100% of what you have every single day’… whether that is 50% or 100% available in your tank… you give 100% of what you have.
We hope that at the end of the day our players can walk away from the softball field saying that they gave 100% of what they had that day and had fun while doing it… and we hope that at the end of each season our players understand that we care about them as more than just softball players. We care about the whole person and what they bring to the team. Each player has unique gifts that they bring to the team and each gift is just as important as the next. Teams are successful when players fully believe this and confidently use their unique gifts and talents to help the team.”
What have been some of your successes in terms of winning or placing at events this past year?
“TC Monster Mash, Gold Division 3rd Place (5-1)
CalZona Softball Tournament 1st Place (6-0)
Don Battles On (4-2)”
If there is one thing you would say that separates you from other club programs, what would it be?
“This team came together a few months ago (September 2023) and instantly clicked. These girls challenge each other and encourage each other to get better each and every inning that they play together. It is not often that you have a team that can comfortably challenge and encourage each other so soon after the roster was finalized.”
Now, for a sneak peak at the talented athletes that stack this team’s lineup…
OC Batbusters 16U Fitzherbert 2023-24 Roster
Avery Hansuvadha #00
2025 Shortstop & Outfield
“She is an all around great player with an outstanding attitude, who’s uniform is always dirty at the end of each game showing how hard she works. Avery is a tough out on offense and has a lot of range at shortstop.”
Cali Murphy #1
2026 Outfield & Second Base
“She is an outstanding outfielder who will work hard with a great attitude. Cali is extremely fast and really shows off her athletic ability with her ability to bat from both sides.”
Lake Bell #3
2026 First Base & Outfield
“She is an absolute wall at first base who brings lots of joy to the team and can lighten up any situation. Lake is currently in the top 100 for Alliance Fastpitch National Rankings for hitting.”
Kailey Stanford #7
2026 Pitcher & Outfield
“She is a workhorse on the mound that wants to be given the ball in any situation… her passion for the game really shows when she is asked to step into different situations. Kailey is developing into an outstanding hitter with great plate presence.”
Mackenzie Hughes #8
Infield, Catcher, Utility
“She is the definition of a versatile player who will work hard at any position you put her at… her uniform at the end of each game is also a great indicator of just how hard she works. Mack is the ‘Swiss army knife’ of this team, a great leader who leads by example, and a great teammate who has a lot of passion for the game.”
Chloe Bellman #11
2026 Third Base, Catcher, Outfield
“She is a speedy third basemen who can also catch and play outfield and has a tremendous arm. Chloe is an outstanding hitter and you can find her making everyone laugh.”
Hailey Hagerstrom #13
2026 Outfield & First Base
“She is a quiet force in the lineup who brings consistency and reliability in the outfield, first base and up at bat. Hailey is not afraid to leave her feet and layout for a ball.”
Kayla Gibson #21
2025 Catcher, Second Base, Outfield
“She is a lefty catcher who works hard at her craft. Kayla takes pride in what she brings to this team and is always looking to improve every aspect of her game.”
Julia Bongianni #24
2024 Outfield & Pitcher
“She is a left handed hitter who hits for power and covers a lot of ground in the outfield. Julia B. has a great attitude and is willing to do whatever she is asked to help her team. Side Note: She is one of the best team DJs for all of their walk-up songs!”
Julia Christman #25
2027 Pitcher & First Base
“She hits the ball extremely hard, has power to all fields and is an extremely tough out. Julia C. is currently in the top 100 for Alliance Fastpitch National Rankings for hitting. She works extremely hard at not only her hitting, but all aspects of the game.”
Sierra Wallace #28
2026 Pitcher & Outfield
“She is a lefty pitcher who spins the ball very well. Sierra works quietly at her craft and does it all with a smile on her face.”
Maddy Heikkila #36
2025 Outfield & Second Base
“She is a speedy lefty who can create havoc on the basepaths. She is not afraid to take an extra base. Maddy is one of those teammates who (regardless of how she is personally playing that game) is always cheering on her teammates and encouraging them.”
Keep up with the OC Batbusters—Fitzherbert on their social media platforms, linked below:
Visit the team’s page on the OC Batbusters Website!
Follow the squad on Instagram!
— Regan Weekly/Extra Inning Softball
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