Meet the Mountain/West Extra Impact Ambassadors
Jayden Mount
November 20, 2025 | 10:00AM ET
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At Extra Inning Softball, we believe the game is about more than runs, hits, and highlight reels—it’s about the people who make us stronger, the teammates who lift us higher, and the moments that remind us why we love softball in the first place. 💫
Our Extra Impact Ambassadors represent those values better than anyone. We’re introducing them by region, beginning with the incredible young women of the Mountain/West, who are using their voices and their platforms to empower, inspire, and support others—on and off the field.
Through their stories, you’ll hear how someone has empowered them to chase big dreams, how they’ve inspired others through action and example, and how they’ve supported teammates, classmates, and communities when it mattered most.
So grab your glove and your favorite snack, because it’s time to meet the players who are redefining what it means to make an impact that lasts far beyond the diamond.
1 STAR AMBASSADORS
Estrada Channell – 2032 – Corona angels- 2032 GV – 1 Star Ambassador
Estrada Channell embodies dedication, resilience, and compassion—both on and off the softball field. She hopes to become an Extra Impact Ambassador to inspire others through her love of the game and her belief that effort and attitude can make a difference. Softball has taught her teamwork, confidence, and perseverance, and she wants to help younger athletes discover those same lessons.
Beyond sports, Estrada is deeply involved in 4-H, where she raises and shows pigs at her county fair. Balancing early mornings, school, training, and animal care has strengthened her time management, discipline, and sense of responsibility. These experiences mirror her approach to softball—steady, hardworking, and full of heart.
Estrada draws immense strength from her mother, who drives her hours to practice each week and works tirelessly to support her dreams. Her mom’s sacrifices have empowered her to stay focused and confident, even through challenges. She also finds inspiration in her grandparents, whose unwavering presence at every game reminds her of the power of love and support.
Now, Estrada pays it forward by mentoring younger players, cheering them on through tough moments, and offering guidance whenever she can—showing that leadership is about lifting others up while continuing to grow yourself.
*****
Grace Hoyle – 2030 – Athletics Mercado Garcia 14U – 1 Star Ambassador
Grace Hoyle is a passionate and thoughtful athlete who plays with purpose and heart—both on and off the field. She hopes to become an Extra Impact Ambassador to help other players develop confidence, leadership, and joy through the game of softball. Grace believes the mental side of the game is just as important as the physical, and she wants to teach players how positive self-talk and mindset can elevate their performance. As a team captain and pitcher, she leads by example, emphasizing teamwork, sportsmanship, and the importance of having fun while competing.
Her coach, David Garcia, has played a major role in empowering her to become the player and leader she is today. He recognized her exceptional work ethic, discipline, and quiet leadership, naming her team captain after seeing how she consistently modeled the right behaviors for her teammates. Grace has embraced that responsibility, striving to foster a culture of hard work and positivity.
Off the field, Grace’s biggest inspiration is her mother, who balances career, family, and mentorship with grace and strength. Grace also demonstrates compassion beyond sports—recently helping a new non-English-speaking student in her class, showing that true leadership is about kindness, empathy, and making others feel valued.
*****
Grace Martinez – 2028 – Lady Magic 16U-Tucker – 1 Star Ambassador
Grace Martinez is a driven and passionate athlete whose love for softball goes far beyond the field. She aspires to be an Extra Impact Ambassador to share the lessons the sport has given her—teamwork, resilience, and leadership—with others. For Grace, softball is about connection and growth. She hopes to inspire younger players while continuing to challenge herself by learning from others who share her dedication and love for the game.
Her travel coach, Tenaya, has been a key figure in her development. When Grace first joined the team, she struggled with confidence, but Tenaya’s belief in her and consistent encouragement helped her build trust in her own abilities. Through her coach’s empowerment, Grace learned that hard work and self-belief can transform not only skill but mindset. She now pays that forward—mentoring teammates, sharing drills, and encouraging them to grow both as players and people.
Grace’s biggest inspiration is her mother, whose tireless support and sacrifices motivate her to give her all every day. From early mornings to long tournament weekends, her mom models selflessness and commitment. Grace is also deeply supported by her grandparents, who have been her foundation since childhood, attending every game and showing her the power of love, consistency, and belief.
*****
Ava Phillips – 2027 – Firecrackers Select Rico/Brashear 18U – 1 Star Ambassador
Ava Phillips is a passionate leader, mentor, and student of the game who strives to make a lasting impact on and off the field. She hopes to become an Extra Impact Ambassador to give back to the sport that has given her so much. For Ava, softball represents more than competition—it’s a platform for leadership, connection, and service. She wants to use her voice to inspire younger players to believe in themselves, play with joy, and approach the game with heart.
As a dedicated mentor at The Range Pitching Academy, Ava empowers young pitchers by teaching both the physical and mental aspects of the game. She believes true confidence comes from preparation and mindset rather than outcomes. Through her guidance, she helps others overcome fear, trust their routines, and find their inner strength—just as her own coaches once did for her.
Ava draws inspiration from athletes who lead with kindness and from her parents, who have been her constant foundation. Their support, along with the wisdom of coaches like Tony Rico, Sean Brashear, and Laughn Barth, has shaped her into a resilient competitor and compassionate leader. Ava continues to pay that forward by creating a positive, empowering environment for the next generation of athletes.
*****
Josephine Thompson – 2027 – WA Ladyhawks 18U Gold Simpson – 1 Star Ambassador
Josephine Thompson is a thoughtful and empathetic athlete who hopes to use her platform as an Extra Impact Ambassador to support others—especially those who may feel unheard or unseen. Having faced her own challenges in the game, Josephine wants to advocate for quieter players and show them that they can still have a powerful voice both on and off the field. Her mission is to help athletes grow not only in their skills but also in their confidence, mindset, and sense of belonging within the softball community.
Josephine’s journey has been shaped by meaningful friendships and mentorships built through the sport. When she was 12, she formed a lifelong bond with a teammate who was also competing for the same pitching spot. Instead of letting competition divide them, they lifted each other up—sharing pep talks, giving advice, and pushing each other to be better. That experience taught Josephine the value of empowerment through encouragement.
Now, she pays that forward by mentoring younger players, including a 10-year-old pitcher who was struggling with confidence. Through empathy and shared experiences, Josephine helped her rediscover her love for the game. Backed by unwavering support from her father, her biggest fan and coach, Josephine continues to lead with compassion, resilience, and purpose.
*****
Mia Valdez – 2030 – Athletics Mercado Hernandez 16u – 1 Star Ambassador
Mia Valdez is a determined and faith-driven athlete who plays the game with passion, purpose, and heart. A Class of 2030 catcher and lefty power hitter for Athletics Mercado Hernandez 16U, she thrives on competition and embraces challenges as opportunities to grow. Though she describes herself as shy off the field, her confidence shines through every time she steps behind the plate or into the batter’s box. Mia balances her athletic and academic commitments with excellence, consistently making the honor roll and giving credit to her faith in God for guiding her journey.
Mia’s drive and character have been shaped by the people who empower her. Her longtime coach, Coach Richard, has worked with her since she was eight years old, instilling discipline, patience, and belief in her potential. His consistent support and dedication have helped her develop both as a player and as a person.
Her greatest inspiration comes from her father, Frank, a stage 4 cancer survivor whose faith, strength, and positivity motivate Mia daily. She honors his perseverance with every game she plays. Whether it’s encouraging her pitcher or blessing another player with a used bat, Mia embodies the true spirit of an Extra Impact Ambassador—leadership through love, faith, and generosity.
*****
2 STAR AMBASSADORS
Sophia Perez – 2028 – Stars National Walker 16u – 2 Star Ambassador
“Becoming a Tier 2 Ambassador means I’ve shown growth from Tier 1. It shows I’ve gone beyond the basics, taken on more responsibility, and proven I can represent Extra Innings in a stronger way.”
Sophia Perez, a 2028 graduate from Pueblo, Colorado, is a versatile shortstop and utility player (#1 for high school, #4 for club) who competes with Stars National Walker 16U. Known for her strong work ethic and commitment to excellence, Sophia takes pride in continuous improvement both on and off the field. As a Tier 2 Extra Inning Softball Ambassador, she embodies growth, leadership, and accountability—striving to represent the program with dedication and integrity while inspiring others to rise beyond expectations.
Brielle Pruitt – 2029 – Firecrackers Leles Boykin Smith – 2 Star Ambassador
“I’m so excited for the opportunity to be a Tier 2 Ambassador! I am really looking forward to what this holds for me and to give back to the softball community!”
Brielle Pruitt, a 2029 graduate from Antelope, California, is a versatile catcher and third baseman (#28) for Firecrackers Leles Boykin Smith. Dedicated and enthusiastic, Brielle brings strong leadership and energy to every game. Her love for softball and her desire to uplift others make her a standout representative in the Extra Inning Softball Tier 2 Ambassador Program, where she continues to grow as both an athlete and a mentor.
*****
Kayla Strong – 2028 – Sorcerer T/K 16u Gold – 2 Star Ambassador
“I’m so excited to become a Tier 2 Ambassador and continue my journey with Extra Inning Softball! I am so thankful to be a part of this program and represent EIS because it creates so many opportunities on and off the field to inspire young athletes and shine the love of Jesus!”
Kayla Strong, a 2028 graduate from Oakley, California, is a versatile pitcher, third baseman, and shortstop (#23) for Sorcerer T/K 16U Gold. Known for her leadership, strong faith, and drive to make a difference, Kayla brings passion and purpose to everything she does. As a Tier 2 Extra Inning Softball Ambassador, she continues to grow as both a player and mentor—using her platform to inspire younger athletes and share her love for the game and for Christ.
*****
Kayla Walton – 2026 – Athletics Mercado National Showcase Team 16U – 2 Star Ambassador
“I am honored to be a Tier 2 Ambassador and give back to the game that has given so much to me!”
*****
Harper Zaboy – 2032 – LTG Wallace – 2 Star Ambassador
“I am truly grateful for the opportunity to serve as a Tier 2 Extra Inning Ambassador. I’m all in on this journey and look forward to continuing to empower, inspire, and support fellow athletes along the way.”
Harper Zaboy, a 2032 graduate from Martinez, California, is a standout shortstop (#25) for LTG Wallace. Recognized for her determination, team spirit, and passion for helping others, Harper embraces every opportunity to lead with kindness and positivity. As a Tier 2 Extra Inning Softball Ambassador, she continues to grow as both an athlete and role model—committed to empowering teammates and spreading encouragement throughout the softball community.
*****
Closing the Circle of Impact
The stories shared by our Northeast Ambassadors remind us that the power of softball stretches far beyond the scoreboard. Every word, every act of encouragement, and every example of perseverance becomes part of a ripple effect—one that strengthens teammates, families, and entire communities. 🌟
These young women prove that leadership isn’t about titles or trophies; it’s about lifting others while continuing to grow yourself. Whether through mentorship, friendship, or faith, they’re creating a culture of confidence and kindness that will echo through the next generation of players.
As we continue introducing our Extra Impact Ambassadors by region, one thing is clear: when girls empower girls, the game—and the world—becomes a better place. 💜
Stay tuned as we head to the next region and spotlight more remarkable athletes who continue to empower, inspire, and support—on the field and beyond.
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