Texas Travelers Pitcher Chosen as USA Elite Select All-American

MaKynli Miller, pitcher for Texas Travelers Gold, has been chosen to play in the USA Elite Select All-American games to be held in Orlando, Florida.

USA Elite Select has partnered with the All American Scouting Network (AASN) and the NPF to provide a three-day event experience for elite players. Participating athletes will have the opportunity to showcase their individual talents through two days of evaluations on athletic and game performance.  Players will be evaluated on athletic testing, offensive and defensive testing, mental toughness and overall game performance.

The National Camp concludes with the Select 30 All American Games, which features the top 30 athletes in each graduation class as selected by AASN following two days of evaluations. These athletes will compete against each other in two games to determine who will be named First and Second Team All-Americans. The final All-American teams will be announced via a selection show on Flo Softball following the event.  The country has been divided into eight regions and we will be selecting the top 26 players (13 girls on each team, two teams in each age group) to represent their respective region.

Miller came to the Texas Travelers Gold by way of Many, Louisiana. Upon MaKynli’s arrival to the Travelers she instantly provided a strong addition to the pitching staff.  Her poise on the mound allows the Texas Travelers to go deep into tournaments.  This was shown recently as the Texas Travelers won the USSSA State Championship as well as the ASA North Texas National Qualifier Championship.  Kyn as she is known to her friends, family and fans consistently has a WHIP under a one because of her accuracy and tight spins.

“When Kyn came to the Travelers, we saw a true leader on the mound and at the plate.  She is a very athletic girl with a great attitude.  She gave us something that we were lacking this season and that is a One-Two punch on the mound.  Combining Kyn with E (Elizabeth Schaefer) on the mound has instantly given the Texas Travelers one of the top pitching staffs in the country” states, Coach Kyle Bennett of the Texas Travelers Gold.

The Texas Travelers Gold will complete the season defending their Triple Crown 2016 Championship finish, 14U Wilson Tulsa Elite Invitational, World Fastpitch Championship, and ASA National Championship along with a handful of other top tournaments around the country.  MaKynli Miller will continue to take the mound for the Travelers helping them stay as one of the elite select softball teams in the country.

For more information about the Texas Travelers Gold Team and MaKynli Miller visit https://www.texastravelerssoftball.com.

What Does Being a Part of a Team Mean?

Almost 20 years ago I had a conversation with my sister during one of her collegiate volleyball seasons.  She was disappointed that her playing time had diminished.  I asked her, “Would you rather be a star player on a losing team, or a contributor on a National Championship Team?”  Let that question sink in for a minute.

Today, we are in a society that we earn our worth by how many likes we get on a social media post.  We write reviews on businesses instantly and think the rest of the world truly cares what our opinion is.  As parents we sit in the stands and feel the winning percentage of the team defines who we are as parents instead of enjoying the opportunity to watch our kids play a game they love.  Kids coming out of college expect a $60,000 a year job and ownership of the company they are working for.  Half of the population is protesting something and the other half is upset at the protestors.  It’s no wonder the “Team Concept” is getting lost in youth sports.

You have probably seen the following scenario:

The score is tied and going into the second International Tiebreaker.  Your team has a runner at second and your best batter is up at the plate.  The count becomes full and just like a storybook ending; a powerful swing sends the ball deep into the gap scoring the winning run!

These plays are exciting and as long as I can remember, there is always that one player who seems to get all of the glory.  For whatever reason, there is “that player” who has the opportunity to deliver the big result when the game is on the line.  Unfortunately, behind the fence there is the other player’s parent who is upset because “that player” wasn’t their kid.  Isn’t that a sad fact of youth sports?

Softball teams are made up of more than just the nine players who are in the field.  Softball teams are comprised of specialized baserunners, designated players, and backups.  Everyone on the team has a role and it is important for the success of the organization.

The key to a successful team is the acceptance of your role to help the team accomplish its goals.  Now, I want to make it very clear that if your daughter is not a starter on the team; she does not have to be satisfied with that particular role.  I encourage every player to have big dreams and strive to reach for those dreams as it will allow her to do great things.

Softball teams only have 9 spots on the field.  Therefore, if your daughter is not one of the starters can she still be a good teammate?  Can you as a parent help your player grow into a mature adult?

Anyone can throw on a jersey and call herself part of the team, but there is so much more to it than that. When you put on your jersey, you are not only becoming part of a team but part of a family. Whether you get along or not, all your problems should be pushed aside, for the sake of your team.

A good teammate understands that no matter what position you may play, whether you are the best player on the team or on the field, you are nothing without your teammates. The key to a good teammate is being willing to give up anything for your team, sacrificing whatever it takes.  A good teammate will continue to battle with you and not run away when things get tough.

Teammates are supposed to be responsible for one another and look out for each other on and off the field.

The best teammates are ones who pull for each other, even while competing for a position; you should continue to root your teammate on because you are both vital to the team’s success.  You should always want the best outcome for your teammates.

There is no room for negativity on a team. A good teammate should never put another player down; they should always pick each other up, especially on their lowest days. Teammates stick together, even on their worst days. No matter what a player may go through, just think how much more difficult it would be if they were doing it alone.

Learn to Listen or be coachable.  This is a huge one because no matter who is on your team, you can always learn from them. Drop your ego, listen when a teammate talks to you, thank them for their advice and think about what they said. Maybe it wasn’t good, maybe it won’t help you, but you won’t know if you don’t listen to them or the coach.

Be Supportive.  A team full of players who support each other will do better and have more fun than a team full of a bunch of individuals who aren’t a part of the same common goal. What I mean by supporting your teammates is that when they make a good play – tell them. Congratulate them. When they screw up, don’t get on their case. They know they made a mistake. They’re already beating themselves up about it. So don’t make it worse and call them out on it.

Be Accountable.  In order to be a part of your team, it’s good to know what your role on the team is and what the team can expect from you. Again, this doesn’t mean to not get better at another position that you desire.  However, it does mean to be the best you can possibly be at the position or role you are asked to play.  Iron always sharpens Iron!

Set Goals.  Define some goals for yourself.  Basically this comes down to being realistic with yourself about how much time you can commit to the team, what you can expect to bring to the team based on your skill development and what you yourself expect to get out of the season.  Once you define your goals write down how you will accomplish those goals.  Are you going to spend the extra time in the batting cage, add an extra pitching lesson in each week or work on fielding drills you have researched on the internet?

Exhibit flexibility.  Roll with the punches when things change. The ability to take advantage of an opportunity, even if it means changing plans, is huge.

Work as a problem-solver.  Good teammates are problem-solvers, not problem-dwellers. They don’t look to blame others, but rather find a way to make things work.

Being committed to a team is the same as being committed to school or a job. Your bosses and teachers rely on you to be there, and they expect you to work hard to become your best. Becoming your best for the sake of the whole is a great teammate quality and also a valuable lifelong trait. This, along with the other teammate traits mentioned, builds our character and shapes us for a future of happiness and success.

Texas Travelers Players do more than just Softball

The Texas Travelers Gold select softball team has been rated as one of the top softball teams in the country.  In 2016, the team earned invites to Texas Tech Showcase, USSSA Kansas City World Series and finished as the ASA Hall of Fame, Hitting for Heroes, ASA/DFW Champions Cup, USSSA Spring Spectacular, Hall of Fame Qualifier and Triple Crown OKC champions.  In addition to picking up top finishes in various tournaments they also placed third in the Ronald McDonald for the year.

For the 2017 Spring Season, the Texas Travelers Gold team will be playing in the USSSA Kansas City World Series, ASA National Championship, Triple Crown and the Colorado Sparkler as well as a variety of some of the most competitive tournaments in the country.  The girls are already being looked at from college teams such as University of Houston, Iowa State, Baylor, Texas Tech and Oklahoma State just to name a few.  In short, these girls can play softball and play against some of the best in the country.

However, these softball girls excel in a variety of activities off the softball field.  Many of the girls compete in UIL competitions, earn “All-A’s Honor Roll”, DUKE TIP (Academic Talent Search), Choir, Band and other sports.  The Texas Travelers feel it is important to encourage the players to build their resume of activities with other things than just softball preparing them for opportunities after high school and beyond.  The benefits of multi-sport participation are physical, psychological and social. These benefits last a lifetime.  According to many researchers, multi-sport athletes display improved health and wellness, including decreased injury rates, improved athletic performance (they master alternative activities faster than single-sport athletes), improved leadership skills and teamwork, better attendance in school and better academic performance.

The 04 Texas Travelers are a very competitive select softball team and part of a rich tradition of success.  Each team is hand selected.  The organization as a whole is small in nature, but has the success and great reputation as the larger organization giving its girls the highest advantage when it comes to their future having sent over 175 girls to play college softball.  Most of the team are comprised of outstanding 2022 graduates with a few very talented 2023 grads.

Madison McClarity made the 7th grade “A” team in both volleyball and basketball at Lyles Middle School. She was the team captain and top server for volleyball and is one of the three top scorers in basketball. She maintains an A/B grade point average in all her honor classes. She is interested in Oklahoma University, Texas Tech, Mississippi State and Texas A&M to pursue a degree in architecture. Madison enjoys playing sports, drawing/art, music, video games and hanging out with her family and friends.  Dee as she is known to her friends, family and fans usually plays one of the corner positions for the Texas Travelers and is a force to be reckoned with in the lineup as she typically is in the four hole!  Her raw talent and size alone strikes fear in opposing pitchers.

Elizabeth Schaefer is a pitcher for the Texas Travelers.  She also plays first base and outfield.  Elizabeth attends Williams Middle School in Rockwall, TX and has a 98 average in her Pre-AP honor classes.  She competes in UIL for writing, stats and reading and was selected for the DUKE TIP (Academic Talent Search) and a member of National Junior Honor Society.  She is an Honors Choir member and plays on the A-Team for Volleyball and Basketball teams.  She plans to run track and might even play soccer in the spring.  In addition to playing for her school and the Travelers, she is the Team Captain for her club volleyball team, Texas Assault.  In 2015 during the ASA National Championships, Elizabeth set a single game strikeout record for ASA with 18.  She has had over 1500 strikeouts since she began playing for the Texas Travelers becoming the All-Time Strikeout leader for the organization which has been around for over 20 years.  She maintains a .87 WHIP, 1.21 ERA, 1.85 strikeouts per inning and a .425 batting average.  She will be starting Rockwall high school in 2018 and would like to become a collegiate student-athlete playing softball.

Mia Rust will be a 2022 graduate of Union Grove High School. She is an all A student and a member of the “All A” Academic honor roll. Mia is a member of the Maps/Graphs & Charts, Ready writing, & Impromptu Speaking UIL Teams. Mia is a also a member of UG Archery team, 7th grade volleyball team, UG Theater, Junior High Band, Gifted/Talented team, & the junior high Track team. Other interest include working-out, shooting, hanging out with friends, Scuba diving, & playing with her dogs, Gracie & Trixie.  She is interested in attending LSU, Ole Miss, Baylor, Tennessee or Texas A&M after high school.  She plays catcher, first base and outfield for the Texas Travelers and is one of the big bats in the lineup!

Kelsie Adams is currently a Cheerleader for her School in Van Alstyne. She made her 7^th grade Volleyball team and Basketball team. Kelsie excels in her academics making the Honor Roll each report card, and has participated in UIL at her school.  Kelsie enjoys drawing and painting in and out of school. Kelsie intends to run track in the spring and is interested in taking lessons in golf.  She is interested in playing college softball upon her graduation and has earned the Hustle Award while attending the Oklahoma University Softball Camp the last several years.  When watching the Travelers play, you will see her as one of the most vocal players on the field no matter where she is playing.  Kelsie plays Second Base, Outfield and occasionally sees time at pitching when she is needed.  She is a speedster on the base paths as well.

Shelby Nelson is interested in Oklahoma State, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Texas Tech, Baylor and Iowa State.  Her academic success is very important to her. She has a drive to be the best that she can be at anything and everything she does. She is an "A" honor roll student, a member of NJHS, Lake Dallas Middle School Principal Award Recipient, Duke TIP nominee, a member of student council and The Leader In Me. She enjoys playing volleyball and basketball when she's not on the diamond as well as spending quality time with her family. She is mentoring young softball players that lookup to her and enjoys being able to share the love of the game with them.  Shelby plays catcher for the Texas Travelers enjoying showing off her cannon of an arm and can play just about anywhere else on the field.  When catching, she is the captain of the field giving her team an advantage by controlling the game.

Kaycee Bock currently attends Glen Rose Junior High and will attend Glen Rose High School in the future. She plays school volleyball and basketball and will play softball for her high school. She makes all A's and B's and is on the Tiger Squad at her school whose goal is to make a positive impact on the school by doing random acts of kindness, and organizing fun and positive student events. She is a member of the Girl Scouts and helps out during the summer at Camp Stevens Ranch. She loves softball, volleyball, basketball, riding her four-wheeler, crafts, nature, going to church and being with family.  During volleyball season Kaycee was a server, setter & middle blocker on her school volleyball team, the Glen Rose Junior High Lady Tigers. She is currently playing guard for her school basketball team.  Kaycee Bock plays third base for the Texas Travelers and is one of the power hitters for the team.  Kaycee is interested in attending University of Texas, Iowa State, Baylor, Florida after high school.

Macy Hamilton plays both volleyball and basketball for Brooks Wester Middle School in Mansfield, Texas. She has been fortunate enough to be selected as the team captain for both sports.  Currently, she is the starting point guard for the 7th Grade A Team and specializes in playing lock-down defense against the opposing point guard. Macy hasn't met a ball that she doesn't enjoy diving for.  Macy is also a trained vocalist and guitarist. She was honored to have been invited to sing the National Anthem at the Mansfield Run with Heart 5k and in front of State Representatives and local Mayors to dedicate a new wing at Mansfield Methodist Hospital.   Along with the extra-curricular activities, Macy also is a stellar student, maintaining all A's in all Pre-AP classes.  Currently, Macy aspires to be a student athlete and play softball at one of the following colleges: Texas Tech University, Auburn University, University of Texas or follow in the footsteps of her cousin, Kelsey Miller and play for Dartmouth in the Ivy League.  She is a utility player for the Texas Travelers and has a drive that is second to none.

Kennedy Chastant is very outspoken honors student at Brownsboro intermediate school. She is competitive by nature and has represented her school in UIL and student council. This year she was one of the few students chosen to be in a special leadership class. During off season Kennedy plays basketball and has been chosen for All-Stars each year. This will be her last year to play Little Dibblers before she enters junior high next year. Softball is her passion and hopes to play catcher for a large D1 program such as Baylor, Oklahoma, Alabama or LSU.  The Texas Travelers love her bat in the lineup and leadership on the field and in the dugout.  As a catcher, Kennedy controls the speed of the game and is willing to sacrifice her body to deliver excellent results.

Emily Jonte is a 7th grader at St Mark Catholic School in Plano, Texas.  When she is not playing softball she enjoys spending time with friends and playing with her dog Rex.  She is an active volunteer at the Heritage Farmstead Museum in Plano where she feeds animals and helps with general maintenance.  Emily plays basketball for her school and she was a key contributor in last year’s run to the Dallas Parochial League title.  Emily is a pitcher for the Texas Travelers along with a very good bat in the lineup.  She has multiple pitches with a variation of speed and spin keeping the batters of balance.  MJ as she is known by her friends, family and fans provides the Travelers the opportunity to be able to compete with any team in the country at a very high level.   Emily patterns her game on being a five tool player.  She can run, hit for power, has a strong arm, loves to chase down fly balls in the outfield and can be counted on to drive in runs.  As a pitcher she will offer you 5 pitches:  fastball, screwball, change, curve, drop and she may throw each one during one at bat.  Emily is the consummate team player and enjoys seeing her teammates have success.

Tatum Cantu better known as Pickle to her fans, teammates, friends and family is very involved in her junior high school, Wheat Junior High in Cleburne, TX.  Tatum has a diverse set of skills.  She is on the student council and was honored with being voted student of the month for October by her teachers.  She is on the volleyball, cross country, cheerleader, and basketball teams. She is also in the Wind ensemble and Jazz band. Tatum wants to work with animals in some capacity in the future. Tatum is an A/B Honor Roll Student at Wheat Junior High.  She would like to go to a school that is not too far from home but far enough where she can have the college experience. She would like to attend Texas, Baylor, UT Arlington, Texas State or TCU.  Tatum is a strong bat for the Texas Travelers and can be seen making ESPN like plays in the outfield.  She also will play middle infield for the Travelers as well.  Tatum is a level headed player who could also be named “clutch” as she has always delivered the big hit when the game is on the line.

Ever since Gabrielle Briones was a little girl, she always seemed to amaze her parents, friends and coaches. She is always a determined little person.  She loves trying new and out of the ordinary things. If she is not playing softball, she is helping coach her little brother’s baseball team. When Gaby, as she is known to her teammates and fans, is not on the field, she keeps herself busy with school activities.  She is part of the Quest program, recorder club, Signing Choir, Safety Patrol, camera crew and a drummer for PTA performance. On her down time you can find Gaby reading. Not only is Gaby smart, talented and athletic she's also a sweet, loving, caring and a funny person.  Gabby plays outfield and middle infield for the Texas Travelers.  She has a high on base percentage and quickly rounds the bags as she helps puts runs on the board for her team.  Her footwork in the field is very fluid as she seamlessly scoops up ground balls.

Talia Gutierrez is the middle child of 5 in a single parent household, and has been the glue to hold her family together. She started out in advanced gymnastics and dance classes very young, and continued competing in any and all sports available to her at a very high level. She utilized her natural athleticism and overall sports IQ to outwit and outplay her always older opponents.  She currently plays soccer and is an amazing defender and goalie, she plays volleyball and is all over the court, utilizes her aggressiveness and speed in basketball to create turnovers and achieve breakaways, and plans to play all 5 school sports offered for 7th graders next year. She stays active in her community by volunteering and regularly attending church, is in theater and is a great singer, tutors other students as a peer mentor, and has maintained Straight A's her entire life. Her favorite activity is being an ambassador for circle of friends, a program that enhances inclusion for mentally disabled students at her school. They go on field trips together, plan dances and other programs to help those children feel important to their student body.  She is constantly outside and doesn't mind getting dirty, but she has a girlie side and loves getting her nails done. Talia is a natural leader, she possesses the intangibles that you can't teach, and the heart to leave everything on the field for her team.  The Texas Travelers appreciate her mental toughness as she controls the outfield and middle infield.  After high school Talia is interested in attending either Oklahoma State, OU, LSU, BYU, UVU, Texas Tech, Georgia, Baylor, University of North Texas, or University of Texas.

Kaydee Bennett is a country girl at heart and fierce competitor when playing sports.  She attends Sunnyvale Middle School and participates in UIL Academics, STEM Academics earning the A Honor Roll in all honors/advance courses.  Kaydee is on the A-Team in basketball, volleyball and will run track in the spring.  In addition to playing with the Texas Travelers she also plays outside hitter for the Texas Assault Volleyball Club -13’s Black, top team.  Kaydee is the leadoff hitter and shortstop for the Travelers and has a team lead in batting average, stolen bases and in the park homeruns.  She has been rated as one of the fastest girls in the nation from Home to First and Home to Home.  This always comes in handy especially when she can cover from one side of third base to the other side of second.  After high school Kaydee would like to be a college softball player for Baylor, Iowa State, Texas Tech, University of Texas, Oklahoma State or Texas A&M.

The coaches, led by Coach Kyle Bennett prepare the girls to be strong independent young women.  They are getting their players ready to be able to start as a freshman on their high school varsity teams, and with the organizations connection and strong alumni support; the Texas Travelers girls will be able to attract the attention of some of the top softball programs in the country.  As a matter of fact, Jordan Strickland, Baylor Bears history making shortstop, is on the coaching staff of the Texas Travelers Gold Team.

Jordan Strickland is one of those rare individuals who is looking to give back to others.  In fact, the Baylor Bear softball legend is giving her time and softball knowledge to a group of young, up-and-coming softball players by helping the Texas Travelers.  Strickland’s softball accomplishments at Baylor include the 2014 Women’s College World Series All-Tournament Team, 2014 Second Team All-Big 12, 2014 First Team Academic All-Big 12, 2013 First Team Academic All-Big 12, Seven-Time Big 12 Commissioner’s Honor Roll Selection, and Two-time Baylor Dean’s List Selection.  “I could not be more pleased to have Jordan as part of our coaching staff.  She is a remarkable young woman with a great career, and an excellent role model for all of our girls to imitate” states, Head Coach of the Texas Travelers, Kyle Bennett.  Jordan works with the infielders primarily, but more importantly sharing her experiences on and off the field with the impressionable young softball players.

The Texas Travelers Gold is also a fully funded team.  This is a plus in today’s select softball world where playing for teams require you to pay for their uniforms, coaches, team lessons on top of the travel expense to play at a high level.  The softball players that play for the Texas Travelers save thousands of dollars for their parents because of the support they receive from the continued donations.

In addition to being a fully funded team, the Texas Travelers have a marketing program second to none.  DeliveryMaxx has donated its patent-pending services to help market the Texas Travelers as well as each of their players which will help when the girls start the recruiting process.

The Texas Travelers are one of the top select softball teams in the country.  They have already secured their invitation to the most competitive tournaments in the United States and will fill the additional weekends with College Showcase Events and 14u tournaments.  Even though they have some of the top rated players at their position, the players are always looking to add the right player with the right parents to the roster giving them a heighten level of competition even in their own club.  The players and coaches both agree that their performance at practice, off the field, and tournament play determines their time of play in competition.  The coaches look at each player as an individual and identifies how the player can best help the team reach its goals.

If you are interested in playing for the Texas Travelers, you should have the following attributes and contact Coach Kyle Bennett at 972.679.7702.:

• Don’t be afraid of competition. Yes, the Texas Travelers have great players. However, the Travelers give everyone an opportunity to win the right to play. When the girls take the field, they know they have earned the right to play their position because they are the right player that helps the team reach its goals.

• Have a desire to play at a high level. The Texas Travelers compete in the most prestigious tournaments as well as College Showcases in the country, and some of those tournaments are around the Dallas and Fort Worth area. However, it’s not just about chasing trophies or rings. The Texas Travelers players’ goal is to be ready to start as a freshman on their high school varsity team and then ultimately be recruited to play softball in college.

• Be coachable. The Texas Travelers coaching staff has a lot of experience, and connections to college experts in softball. The organization treats every girl like they are their own daughter and wants nothing but the best for them. This team is not looking for individuals, but they always have a spot for someone who wants to continue the pursuit of excellence.

• Love to overcome obstacles. Many girls are pushed away from softball because of cost or their current organization doesn’t see their value. The Texas Travelers are known for finding girls that love to prove they belong and can play at a high level. In addition, the Texas Travelers players are all on scholarships as the team is fully funded.

• Have parental support. The Travelers coaching staff makes the decisions on the field, but the organization is only as strong as its parents. Parents are required to understand the philosophy of the Texas Travelers organization, and positively reinforce the goals of the players and team. When playing for a select softball team, you will spend a lot of time with the families of the players. Therefore, it is important to make sure team chemistry on and off the field provides lasting positive memories for your daughter.

The Texas Travelers will be completing their roster for the Spring Season as they prepare to become 2017 National Champions.  For more information about the Texas Travelers or its players visit the team on Facebook or contact Coach Kyle Bennett at 972.679.7702.

Texas Travelers invited to Texas Tech Softball Team Camp

The Texas Travelers Gold team was invited to attend a three game guarantee to play in front of the Texas Tech Softball Coaching staff November 12^th and 13^th in Lubbock, Texas.

The Travelers have already qualified for the USSSA World Series in Kansas City over the summer and are looking to earn bids for PGF and ASA Nationals.  They have won the ASA Hall of Fame, Triple Crown and recently finished 3^rd in the Ronald McDonald Elite Softball Tournament.  The team boast some of the top players in the country and look forward to showcasing their talent in front of college coaches.

Saturday and Sunday’s matchup will feature the Travelers who are all 2022 or 2023 graduates playing against 2020 graduates from the Firecrackers, Texas Outlaws and Impact Gold teams.  However, this isn’t the first time the Texas Travelers will be playing up a division as they play 14u tournaments quite often.

The 04 Texas Travelers are a very competitive select softball team and part of a rich tradition of success.  Each team at each age group is hand selected.  The organization as a whole is small in nature, but has the success and great reputation as the larger organization giving its girls the highest advantage when it comes to their future having sent over 175 girls to play college softball.

The coaches, led by Coach Kyle Bennett prepare the girls to be strong independent young women.  They are getting their players ready to be able to start as a freshman on their high school varsity teams, and with the organizations connection and strong alumni support; the Texas Travelers girls will be able to attract the attention of some of the top softball programs in the country.  As a matter of fact, Jordan Strickland, Baylor Bears history making shortstop, is on the coaching staff of the 04 Texas Travelers.

The 04 Texas Travelers is also a fully funded team.  This is a plus in today’s select softball world where playing for teams require you to pay for their uniforms, coaches, team lessons on top of the travel expense to play at a high level.  The softball players that play for the Texas Travelers save thousands of dollars for their parents because of the support they receive from the continued donations.

For more information about the 04 Texas Travelers or their players, contact Coach Kyle Bennett at 972.679.7702 or follow the team on Facebook.

Elizabeth Schaefer Strikeouts 1500 Batters

Pitching can be a lonely place on the field.  All eyes focus to the mound on every single pitch.  Half of the stadium is hoping for failure and the other half is praying for perfection.  A pitcher has to have the skill to pitch and execute each throw with precision.  In addition to a strong arm, a pitcher must be very tough mentally to endure the constant pressures the game presents.

On July 2, 2016 during the ASA Hall of Fame Championship game against Impact Gold DFW 03, Elizabeth Schaefer accomplished something few others her age has, and sent her 1500^th batter back to the dugout with an outside fastball on a full count.  The 04 Texas Travelers ended up winning the championship game 8-0.

Elizabeth who turned 12 in March has been pitching since she was 9 years old.  Her pitching coach, Rick Lee has helped her develop a Fastball, Drop Ball, Curve, Rise and nasty Flip Change.  Schaefer has been clocked recently in games as well as a college showcase camp with a Fastball that reaches 59 mph and can come back with her flip change as slow as 37 mph leaving batters scratching their heads as they take the slow walk back to the dugout.  She has logged 20 no-hitters including a complete perfect game where she struck out every batter she faced in the game against one of the 03 Glory teams.

During last year’s 2015 ASA/USA National Championship in Normal, Illinois; Schaefer pitched a nine inning game striking out an ASA National Record 18 batters helping the 04 Texas Travelers to a 3^rd place finish in one of the most prestigious tournaments in the country.  When you add her WHIP (Walks plus Hits given up per inning pitched) she has a state best of .83 and batters are hitting less than .148 against her.  Even more impressive is she rarely walks a batter averaging 1 base on balls for every 25 batters she strikes out, and she is striking out 1.25 batters an inning.

Schaefer was dominate in 10u softball where you can get away with having a great fastball.  However, where most pitchers struggle their first year of 12u Softball; Elizabeth continues to excel with the extra movement on her pitches changing speeds quite effectively.  She has had to learn to really pitch and understand the mental part of the game.  “In 12u, we have asked Elizabeth to utilize her drop ball which produces a lot of groundball outs.  This has cut into her strikeout totals.  However, she does this without hesitation and that is one of the things that makes her a great teammate” states, Head Coach of the Travelers, Kyle Bennett.

E, as she is known to her teammates and fans, also plays for the Sunnyvale High School team which plays other high school softball teams around the Dallas/Ft. Worth area.  This soon to be 7^th grader enjoys the challenge facing older girls who are used to facing strong pitching.  “I don’t really look at a batter at being tough.  I just pitch to where the pitch is called and try to do what the coach ask me to do” shares Elizabeth Schaefer.

Her goals are pretty straight forward.  She wants to help her Texas Travelers win Nationals where they will be playing in Branson, Missouri this year.  When she enters Rockwall High School, she would like to win a State Championship or two.  Of course, she has two more years before entering high school.

She would like to be recruited and play for a D1 College helping them to a National Championship.  Then her ultimate goal is to be chosen as one of the top 18 girls to represent the United States playing for Team USA.  To accomplish these goals; Elizabeth knows there is a lot of work that still has to be done.  She knows she will have to increase her velocity into the upper 60’s and continue to understand how and what pitch she should deliver to tough batters.  At 5’8” and a young 12 year old, Elizabeth is still growing which will allow her to increase her strength helping her achieve this criteria.  She has yet maximized her leap, but once she masters this, her velocity will increase even more.  In addition to her physical abilities; Elizabeth also makes the grades in school recently finishing in the top five of her class while playing club volleyball, select softball, and league basketball and participating in band and choir.

Elizabeth is a pretty special player and sure to be seen at a higher level in the future if she continues to put in the work.  Elizabeth loves everything that comes with pitching on the mound and enjoys her team looking to her to deliver excellent results.

For more information about Elizabeth Schaefer, her teammates, or the Texas Travelers you can follow them on Facebook or follow the Texas Travelers News Network Site.  Coach Kyle Bennett can be reached at 972.679.7702.

Texas Travelers play Triple Crown in Oklahoma City

From June 4th to June 6^th softball in Oklahoma and the world for that matter doesn’t get any better.  The College World Series is taking place during that time, but the Triple Crown OKC will also feature some of the top teams around the United States as well.

In addition to the 04 Texas Travelers, last year’s lone Texas representative to ASA National Championship; TCR Blue (Conifer, Colorado), LA Gators (Branch, Louisiana), NM Express (Carlsbad, New Mexico), American Freedom Taylor (N. Richland Hills), Buckaroos (Ft. Collins, Colorado), Sidekicks (Perry, Kansas), Insanity (Mohave Valley, Arizona), Indiana Gators (Whiteland, Indiana), KC Threat (Independence, Missouri), Colorado Stars (Lafayette, Colorado), Impact Gold Lampl (Tomball), Heartland Havoc 03 (Moline, Illinois), NWA Knockouts 03 (Centerton, Arkansas), NM Lady Titans (Gallup, New Mexico), Texas Bombers CC (Corpus Christi), Firecrackers CO (Thorton, Colorado), Tulsa Elite (Shawnee Oklahoma), Ft. Worth Batbusters (Bedford), Texas Rage 03 (Sequin), Texas Fusion (Frisco),  Oklahoma A’s (Yukon, Oklahoma), NC Xplosion (Windsor, Colorado),  Team Elite (Lake Charles, Louisiana), Vipers 03 (Texarkana, Texas), TCR 12 Blake (Centennial, Colorado), SA Boom (San Antonio), Texas Stealth (Pasadena), Warriors (Broomfield, Colorado), Texas Sudden Impact (Woodlands), Blue Angels (Southhaven, Mississippi), STX Lightning 03 (San Juan), Texas Fusion 03 (Ft. Worth), Prodigy (Highland Ranch, Colorado), Esprit 03 (Fenton, Missouri), Texas Legends (Spring), Sizzle Elite (Omaha, Nebraska), Adrenaline Black (Castle Rock, Colorado), Texas Bomber CTX (Kyle), Impact Gold DFW 03 (Haslet), Pueblo Sharks Ministry (Pueblo, Colorado), West U Ice (Houston), Firecrackers ETX (Honey Grove), QC Patriots (Bettendorf, Iowa), RGV Thunder Gray (Edinburg), Rocky MTN Thunder (Highlands Ranch, Colorado) will be competing in this prestigious tournament.  Most of these teams are preparing for their World Series or National Tournaments for the end of their year as the Texas Travelers are utilizing the tournament as they get ready to compete in the National Championships in Branson, Missouri.

The Texas Travelers are one of the few pure 04 teams comprised of 11 and 12 year olds who were born in the year 2004.  Most teams have a combination of 03 & 04’s or are all 03’s.  Even though the Texas Travelers are one of the youngest teams, they are one of the most talked about teams in the country.

The Texas Travelers will face the TCR Blue Saturday at 9:00 am on Saturday in Norman, Oklahoma.  On Sunday they will face LA Gators at 9:30 am and then New Mexico Express at 12:30 pm all at Buck Thomas field.  Depending how the Travelers compete those two days will determine who and when they will play on Sunday and Monday in single elimination bracket play.  The championship game scheduled for 3:00 pm Monday deciding who will be the Triple Crown OKC Champions.

The competition will be fierce, but the Texas Travelers support will be strong.  Good luck to all of the girls competing.

For more information on the Texas Travelers, players, coaches, or schedules visit the Texas Travelers News Network or follow the team on Facebook.  The Texas Travelers take pride in competing at the highest level possible for select softball. 

About ASA:

The Amateur Softball Association (ASA), a volunteer driven, not-for-profit organization based in Oklahoma City, OK, was founded in 1933 and has evolved into the strongest softball organization in the country. The growth and development of the association led the United States Olympic Committee (USOC) to name the ASA the National Governing Body of Softball, pursuant to the Amateur Sports Act of 1978.

The ASA has many important responsibilities as the national governing body of softball in the United States, including regulating competition to insure fairness and equal opportunity to the millions of player who annually play the sport.  When the ASA entered the softball picture in 1933, the sport was in a state of confusion with no unified set of playing rules and no national governing body to provide guidance and stability. The ASA changed all that by adopting softball's first universally accepted rules of play and by organizing consistent and fair competition across the nation.

From this beginning, the ASA has become one of the nation’s largest and fastest growing sports organizations and now sanctions competition in every state through a network of 74 local associations. The ASA has grown from a few hundred teams in the early days to over 200,000 teams today, representing a membership of more than four million.

Battle of DFW North Texas State Championship

There are certain tournaments across the country that live up to the hype, but this weekend is an exception.  The Texas Travelers will be competing in the Battle of DFW North Texas State Championship May 14^th and 15^th.  There will be over 40 teams across North Texas, Louisiana and Oklahoma who will be battling on the softball diamonds for greatness.

The USSSA tournament will be featuring some of the top 12U teams in the country, and as a first year 12U softball team comprised of all 04’s; the Travelers continue to make headlines with their play on the field.  In fact, the Texas Travelers are one of the most talked about teams in the country with many head turning players.

Tournament play will be in three different locations across the Dallas and Ft. Worth area with the Texas Travelers playing at Denia Park located at 1001 Parvin Street in Denton, Texas on Saturday.  Their Pool Play games will be against EPIC Fastpitch, Dallas Tigers and Glory Adkins 03 which will determine their seeding for Bracket Play on Sunday.  Some of the notable teams in the tournament will be Firecrackers DFW, Oklahoma Angels, American Freedom, Impact Gold and Texas Glory 03.

The competition will be strong, the days will be long; but the Texas Travelers and their fans live for softball weekends.  Good luck to all of the teams and girls competing in the Battle of DFW North Texas State Championship Tournament.

For more information on the Texas Travelers, players, coaches, or schedules visit the Texas Travelers News Network or follow the team on Facebook.  The Texas Travelers take pride in competing at the highest level possible for select softball.  

Texas Travelers play First Stage of ASA Qualifier in San Marcus

The road to the 2016 ASA/USA National Championship starts this weekend in San Marcus, Texas with the First Stage Qualifier taking place at Gary Fastpitch Softball Complex located at 2600 Airport Highway 21. 

The Texas Travelers will start their Pool Play competition against Texas Sudden Impact (9:40 AM), Texas Diamond Sports Hotshots (1 PM), Texas Bombers STX (2:40 PM) and a nightcap with Texas Glory 2k4 (7:40 PM).

Teams all over Texas will be competing to earn the right to qualify for the 2016 ASA/USA National Championships held in Salem, Virginia July 31 through August 7, 2016.  Last year, the Texas Travelers finished 3^rd in the Country in Normal, Illinois.  This year, the road becomes a lot harder for the Travelers as they are a first year 12U team competing against some of the top talent in the country.  In addition, to strong first year 12U teams such as the Hotshots; the softball club will face very good second year 12U organizations as they compete to become the best softball team in the country.

Each year since 1934, over 30,000 players and thousands of teams try to qualify for the ASA National Tournament.  Teams earning a berth to the United States most notorious event held for softball will have an opportunity to compete to be called the nation’s best softball team in the country.  Since each competitor must earn their berth into an ASA national through a network of qualifying tournaments conducted throughout the season, the champion goes home as the unchallenged best team in the nation for their respected division each year.  There are many tournaments each year, but only one tournament that is synonymous with Team USA and is the National Governing Body of Softball.

Pool Play will determine the seeding for the Travelers and the other 72 teams across Texas and Oklahoma.  Single Elimination Bracket Play will begin on Sunday.

Good Luck and safe travels to all of the teams.  The Texas Travelers look forward to healthy competition and building great memories for these young softball players.

For more information about the 04 Texas Travelers contact Coach Kyle Bennett at 972.679.7702 or follow The Texas Travelers on Facebook.  To follow particular players, games, practices or see any other information about the North Texas Select Softball team visit: 04 Texas Travelers News Site.

Texas Travelers start the 2016 Softball Season Playing Elite Teams

A couple of years ago, nobody gave the 04 Texas Travelers any thought when it comes to facing them on the field.  Today is a much different story as the Travelers are one of the top 04 Select Softball Teams in the country.  As a matter of fact, they will be testing their skills against some of the top 03 select teams this weekend in Houston, Texas at the Gene Campbell Sports Complex.

Starting out, the 1st Annual Start Spring With A BANG Tourney (a PGF sanction tournament) was an invitation only tournament.  The goal was to allow some of the most talked about teams in the country to face the elite softball competition around Texas preparing them for a long battle into becoming the National Champion for 2016.  The Texas Travelers were one of the first teams contacted to play.

This tournament will feature the best teams in the State of Texas.

In addition to the 04 Texas Travelers; Hotshots North (03 & 04), Texas Legends (03), GT Shockers (03), Hotshots South (04), Impact Gold (03), DirectTV Genies (03,04), Texas Bomb Squad (03), Hotshots Cryer (04), Sudden Impact (03), Texas Stealth (04), Impact Gold Barajas (03) will be playing in this early season warmup.  All of the teams are very strong with the Texas Travelers being the only North Texas Team making the trip down south to compete with the best of Texas.

Each of the teams compete at the highest level of select softball.  Last year the Hotshots teams finished first and second in the 10U PGF Nationals held in California while the 04 Texas Travelers finished 3^rd in the ASA/USA National Championships held in Normal, Illinois. 

This weekend, the Texas Travelers will find themselves in a Pool with the Hotshots North, Texas Legends, and GT Shockers and play a warmup game against the Texas Stealth.  Pool Play will determine Sunday’s bracket seeding with the championship game being played at 4 PM.  It will take a lot of perfect execution by the Travelers to make the championship game, but the girls are excited to show their talents on the field.

The Texas Travelers will look a lot different from last year’s squad that made a strong run in the National Championship Tournament.  In addition to Pitching Ace Elizabeth Schaefer, Hitting Phenom, Kaydee Bennett, and Speedsters Kelsie Adams and Zariah London; the Travelers have added Rylie Rumfield, Kenleigh Aguirre, Kennedy Chastant, Kailee Bautista, Emily Jonte, Kaycee Bock, Madison McClarity and Alyssa Stansbury.  These girls are very strong defensively and can hit too. 

Although the Travelers have only played one scrimmage together, the team has quickly become a strong unit with great parents, a strong fan base and the hardest working softball players around the diamond.  These girls will be fun to watch as each girl is one of the top players at their position in the country.

For more information about the Texas Travelers follow them on Facebook or contact Head Coach Kyle Bennett at 972.679.7702.

Is your Daughter a Good Teammate?

The score is tied and going into the second International Tiebreaker.  Your team has a runner at second and your best batter is up at the plate.  The count becomes full and just like a storybook ending; a powerful swing sends the ball deep into the gap scoring the winning run!

These plays are exciting and as long as I can remember, there is always that one player who seems to get all of the glory.  For whatever reason, there is “that player” who has the opportunity to deliver the big result when the game is on the line.

However, softball teams are made up of more than just the nine players who are in the field.  Softball teams are comprised of specialized baserunners, designated players, and backups.  Everyone on the team has a role and it is important for the success of the organization.

The key to a successful team is the acceptance of your role to help the team accomplish its goals.  Now, I want to make it very clear that if your daughter is not a starter on the team; she does not have to be satisfied with that particular role.  I encourage every player to have big dreams and strive to reach for those dreams as it will allow her to do great things.

Softball teams only have 9 spots on the field.  Therefore, if your daughter is not one of the starters can she still be a good teammate?

Anyone can throw on a jersey and call herself part of the team, but there is so much more to it than that. When you put on your jersey, you are not only becoming part of a team but part of a family. Whether you get along or not, all your problems should be pushed aside, for the sake of your team.

A good teammate understands that no matter what position you may play, whether you are the best player on the team or on the field, your nothing without your teammates. The key to a good teammate is being willing to give up anything for your team, sacrificing whatever it takes.

Teammates are supposed to be responsible for one another and look out for each other on and off the field.

The best teammates are ones who pull for each other, even while competing for a position; you should continue to root your teammate on because you are both vital to the team’s success.  You should always want the best outcome for your teammates.

There is no room for negativity on a team. A good teammate should never put another player down; they should always pick each other up, especially on their lowest days. Teammates stick together, even on their worst days. No matter what a player may go through, just think how much more difficult it would be if they were doing it alone.

Learn to Listen or be coachable.  This is a huge one because no matter who is on your team, you can always learn from them. Drop your ego, listen when a teammate talks to you, thank them for their advice and think about what they said. Maybe it wasn’t good, maybe it won’t help you, but you won’t know if you don’t listen to them or the coach.

Throw on your own. A team full of good players will beat a team of bad players. And with the amount a team practices, and because it’s usually always together, the best way to get better as an individual is to get out on your own and throw. Let’s say your team practices 2 times per week and 4 hours each practice. In those 8 hours, how much time will you get to spend working on your throwing? And I don’t mean the number of throws – I mean focused, deliberate practice throwing? I’d estimate maybe 60 minutes tops total. And that might be generous. In order to become better, you need to go out and throw on your own (or with a parent). You can go before or after practice. You can go on the off days. Whatever. Just make time to throw.

Be Supportive.  A team full of players who support each other will do better and have more fun than a team full of a bunch of individuals who aren’t a part of the same common goal. What I mean by supporting your teammates is that when they make a good play – tell them. Congratulate them. When they screw up, don’t get on their case. They know they made a mistake. They’re already beating themselves up about it. So don’t make it worse and call them out on it.

Be Accountable.  In order to be a part of your team, it’s good to know what your role on the team is and what the team can expect from you. Again, this doesn’t mean to not get better at another position that you desire.  However, it does mean to be the best you can possibly be at the position or role you are asked to play.

Set Goals.  Define some goals for yourself.  Basically this comes down to being realistic with yourself about how much time you can commit to the team, what you can expect to bring to the team based on your skill development and what you yourself expect to get out of the season.  Once you define your goals write down how you will accomplish those goals.  Are you going to spend the extra time in the batting cage, add an extra pitching lesson in each week or work on fielding drills you have researched on the internet?

Exhibit flexibility.  Roll with the punches when things change. The ability to take advantage of an opportunity, even if it means changing plans, is huge.

Work as a problem-solver.  Good teammates are problem-solvers, not problem-dwellers. They don’t look to blame others, but rather find a way to make things work.

Being committed to a team is the same as being committed to school or a job. Your bosses and teachers rely on you to be there, and they expect you to work hard to become your best. Becoming your best for the sake of the whole is a great teammate quality and also a valuable lifelong trait. This, along with the other teammate traits mentioned, builds our character and shapes us for a future of happiness and success.

The 04 Texas Travelers are a very competitive select softball team and part of a rich tradition of success.  Each team at each age group is hand selected.  The organization as a whole is small in nature, but has the success and great reputation as the larger organization giving its girls the highest advantage when it comes to their future having sent over 175 girls to play college softball. 

The Texas Travelers are preparing each of their players to start as a Freshman for their Varsity High School Team.  They also are preparing the girls who want to play college ball to have numerous of opportunities.  The coaching staff is comprised of coaches who have won at the National Level in Select Softball and a coach who earned All-American status as a D1 College Player.  Their immediate goals for the team are to compete at the highest level in select softball and become the best 2004 team in the country and allow the team to build great memories while in their youth.  Being a fully funded team, the Texas Travelers require their parents and softball players to understand the team concept and fully support the coaches and Travelers organizations as well as enjoy the comradery of the weekend during the tournament play.

If you are interested in playing for the 04 Texas Travelers, you should have the following attributes and contact Coach Kyle Bennett at 972.679.7702.:

• · Don’t be afraid of competition. Embrace the challenge. Yes, the Texas Travelers have great players at many positions. However, the Travelers give everyone an opportunity to win the right to play that position. When the girls take the field, they know they have earned the right to play their position because they are the right player that helps the team reach its goals.
• · Have a desire to play at a high level. The Texas Travelers compete in the most prestigious tournaments in the country, and some of those tournaments are around the Dallas and Fort Worth area. However, it’s not just about chasing trophies or rings. The Texas Travelers players’ goal is to be ready to start as a freshman on their high school varsity team and then ultimately be recruited to play softball in college.
• · Be coachable. The Texas Travelers coaching staff has a lot of experience, and connections to college experts in softball. The organization treats every girl like they are their own daughter and wants nothing but the best for them. This team is not looking for individuals, but they always have a spot for someone who wants to continue the pursuit of excellence.
• · Love to overcome obstacles. Many girls are pushed away from softball because of cost or their current organization doesn’t see their value. The 04 Texas Travelers are known for finding girls that love to prove they belong and can play at a high level. In addition, the 04 Texas Travelers players are all on scholarships as the team is fully funded.
• · Have parental support. The Travelers coaching staff makes the decisions on the field, but the organization is only as strong as its parents. Parents are required to understand the philosophy of the Texas Travelers organization, and positively reinforce the goals of the players and team. When playing for a select softball team, you will spend a lot of time with the families of the players. Therefore, it is important to make sure team chemistry on and off the field provides lasting positive memories for your daughter.

In short, the Texas Travelers require their players and parents to be the perfect teammates.  The 04 Texas Travelers will be preparing to become 2016 National Champions.  For more information about the 04 Texas Travelers visit the team on Facebook or contact Coach Kyle Bennett at 972.679.7702.

Softball Tryouts in North Texas

The 04 Texas Travelers are finalizing their roster for another successful season for the spring of 2016. Recently placing 3rd in the 2015 ASA/USA National Championship held in Normal, Illinois; the Travelers are looking for strong softball families and great girls to help add to their strong roster. During this past Fall Season the Travelers placed in the Gold Bracket in each tournament as a first year 12U team.

The Texas Travelers are one of the strongest All-2004 team in the country boasting some of the most talked about players.

There are several things you will want to look at when it comes to finding the right select softball team for your daughter. There are many North Texas Select Softball teams, and finding the right team for your daughter can be instrumental in her development as she gets older.

• The Texas Travelers are preparing each of their players to start as a Freshman for their Varsity High School Team. They also are preparing the girls who want to play college ball to have numerous of opportunities.
• The coaching staff is comprised of coaches who have won at the National Level in Select Softball and a coach who earned All-American status as a D1 College Player. 
• The goals for the team are to compete at the highest level in select softball and become the best 2004 team in the country.
• The Texas Travelers parents support the coaches and Travelers organizations well as enjoy the comradery of the weekend fun.
• The Texas Travelers are a fully funded team which allows the players to use available funds for pitching, hitting and fielding lessons outside of the Travelers practice.

The 04 Texas Travelers are a very competitive select softball team and part of a rich tradition of success.  Each team at each age group is hand selected.  The organization as a whole is small in nature, but has the success and great reputation as the larger organization giving its girls the highest advantage when it comes to their future having sent over 175 girls to play college softball.  

The 04 Texas Travelers were chosen by ASA, which is the governing body of softball to represent Texas in the 2015 ASA/USA National Championship held in Normal, Illinois.  However, the winning record of the 04 Texas Travelers is not what defines the team.  This team was built from the ground up to compete and win at the highest level.

The coaches, led by Coach Kyle Bennett prepare the girls to be strong independent young women.  They are getting their players ready to be able to start as a freshman on their high school varsity teams, and with the organizations connection and strong alumni support; the Texas Travelers girls will be able to attract the attention of some of the top softball programs in the country.  As a matter of fact, Jordan Strickland, Baylor Bears history making shortstop, is on the coaching staff of the 04 Texas Travelers.

Jordan Strickland is one of those rare individuals who is looking to give back to others.  In fact, the Baylor Bear softball legend is giving her time and softball knowledge to a group of young, up-and-coming softball players by helping the 04 Texas Travelers.  Strickland’s softball accomplishments at Baylor include the 2014 Women’s College World Series All-Tournament Team, 2014 Second Team All-Big 12, 2014 First Team Academic All-Big 12, 2013 First Team Academic All-Big 12, Seven-Time Big 12 Commissioner’s Honor Roll Selection, and Two-time Baylor Dean’s List Selection.  “I could not be more pleased to have Jordan join our coaching staff.  She is a remarkable young woman with a great career, and an excellent role model for all of our girls to imitate” states, Head Coach of the Texas Travelers, Kyle Bennett.  Jordan will be working with the infielders primarily, but more importantly sharing her experiences on and off the field with the impressionable young softball players.

The 04 Texas Travelers is also a fully funded team.  This is a plus in today’s select softball world where playing for teams require you to pay for their uniforms, coaches, team lessons on top of the travel expense to play at a high level.  The softball players that play for the Texas Travelers save thousands of dollars for their parents because of the support they receive from the continued donations.

In addition to being a fully funded team, the 04 Texas Travelers have a marketing program second to none.  DeliveryMaxx has donated its patent-pending services to help market the 04 Texas Travelers as well as each of their players which will help when the girls become old enough to start the recruiting process.  Just Google “Top 04 Select Softball Team in the Country” and see how many times the Travelers are mentioned.

The 04 Texas Travelers were one of the top 10U teams in the country.  They are a first year 12U team, but they have already found success playing in 12U.  They have won the Summer Swinging 12U Championship as well as finished in the Gold Bracket in every Fall Tournament.  This includes a 2nd place finish in the ASA Fall Preview and a Gold Bracket Finish in the Ronald McDonald held in Houston, Texas.  The Travelers are quickly being talked about as one of the top 12U teams around.

Even though they have some of the top rated players at their position, the players are always looking to add to the roster giving them a heighten level of competition even in their own club.  The players and coaches both agree that their performance at practice, off the field, and tournament play determines their time of play in competition.  The coaches look at each player as an individual and identifies how the player can best help the team reach its goals.

If you are interested in playing for the 04 Texas Travelers, you should have the following attributes and contact Coach Kyle Bennett at 972.679.7702.:

• · Don’t be afraid of competition. Yes, the Texas Travelers have great players at several
  
  positions. However, the Travelers give everyone an opportunity to win the right to play that position. When the girls take the field, they know they have earned the right to play their position because they are the right player that helps the team reach its goals.
• · Have a desire to play at a high level. The Texas Travelers compete in the most prestigious tournaments in the country, and some of those tournaments are around the Dallas and Fort Worth area. However, it’s not just about chasing trophies or rings. The Texas Travelers players’ goal is to be ready to start as a freshman on their high school varsity team and then ultimately be recruited to play softball in college.
• · Be coachable. The Texas Travelers coaching staff has a lot of experience, and connections to college experts in softball. The organization treats every girl like they are their own daughter and wants nothing but the best for them. This team is not looking for individuals, but they always have a spot for someone who wants to continue the pursuit of excellence.
• · Love to overcome obstacles. Many girls are pushed away from softball because of cost or their current organization doesn’t see their value. The 04 Texas Travelers are known for finding girls that love to prove they belong and can play at a high level. In addition, the 04 Texas Travelers players are all on scholarships as the team is fully funded.
• · Have parental support. The Travelers coaching staff makes the decisions on the field, but the organization is only as strong as its parents. Parents are required to understand the philosophy of the Texas Travelers organization, and positively reinforce the goals of the players and team. When playing for a select softball team, you will spend a lot of time with the families of the players. Therefore, it is important to make sure team chemistry on and off the field provides lasting positive memories for your daughter.

The Texas Travelers will begin holding practice Sunday, December 6, 2015 at 2 PM.  All are welcome to come out.  The practice will be held at the Girls Mesquite Sports Complex located at 1919 McKenzie Road in Mesquite, Texas.  The 04 Texas Travelers will be completing their roster for the Spring Season as they prepare to become 2016 National Champions.  For more information about the 04 Texas Travelers visit the team on Facebook or contact Coach Kyle Bennett at 972.679.7702.