Bases Loaded Article XII

Southern Collegiate Sports (SCS) may be brand new to the scene, but there is a level of trust and assurance with the man behind the name. Ken Wilson has spent years building relationships, all for the common goal of building the gap between opportunity and female student-athletes.

Ken has been around softball since 2010 when he began coaching rec ball. As his daughter began her career on the softball field he knew he had to focus all his energy on developing the plans for her future. Since that fateful beginning, Ken has focused on his passion for helping kids cultivate a future through the recruiting process.

The name of the organization is descriptive and clear. These girls competing at the select level are interested in exposure and opportunity. Their goal is to continue that passion past the day they receive a high school diploma and that is exactly what Southern Collegiate Sports is offering.

The name itself was derived from the idea of furthering student athlete's careers past the high school level. Why not Southern Collegiate Softball? "I wanted the name to cover more than just one sport and to emphasize the focus of all college-level sports," said Ken, "there is so much potential for us to help out in more than just softball."

If you’re familiar with SCS events then you know the structure of a camp right before the tournament begins. This is intended to provide girls the opportunity to stand out in an environment where college coaches can focus on skills and strengths. The purpose of the structure is to be consistent with the needs of coaches from across all five divisions. Most importantly these events encourage growth for young college coaches and the opportunity to reach out to potential athletes.

Of course, Ken acknowledged the help of the many people who have been a part of his journey to success. Including his previous partnerships with DFW Fastpitch Owner, Darren Darracq and Head Coach and co-founder of Texas Glory Kevin Shelton.

“The purpose of these organizations and events is to create a community of purpose,” said Ken “SCS is the start of helping teams not located near DFW feel appreciated and supported.”

For more information on Southern Collegiate Sports click the link.

Bases Loaded Article XI

For the Keller Outlaws 09, Softball is a matter of growth and competition that will build a passion for the sport for years to come.

Watching this team of 10u play, reminded me why I love softball in the first place. For these nine and 10-year-olds waking up for an 8 am is exactly how they choose to spend their weekends.

 Ask them what the love about softball and every single player lights up.

Their ability to compete at a level that many other teams have yet to grasp is evident between every play. Errors were not followed by frowns but enthusiasm to make the next out. Strikeouts were few and far between but you would have never noticed because the atmosphere was entirely uplifting.

Their team motto: “If it’s about me it’s not about the team.”

The Keller Outlaws were reluctant to compete with USSSA for one reason, and that was the competitive environment that existed prior to this season. With the introduction of C division play, head coach Spencer Meche was willing to take the leap.

“C class guaranteed a level of competition that builds confidence and character,” said Meche, “it’s important to compete and prioritize the mental impact the game has on young players.”

The Outlaws set a goal this season to win 33% of games they played and it’s safe to say that goal was surpassed. 

While much of the success falls in the hands of the players, we can't forget the dedication of the coaches. Between a coach who played softball her whole life through a D1 career, a pro slow pitch player and a devoted father with a love for the game softball is evidently a passion. These coaches are invested in the future of these young girls.

Speaking with some of the parents validated the dedication this team has to USSSA’s new structure of competition.

"Obviously the goal of playing in this environment is to improve technique but more importantly, we hope to build the girls' confidence," said Heather Hutto.

Stephanie Feldpausch said, “We want to see our girls come together as a family and build each other up.”

Kristi Byler and Karen Beaman agreed, “Competing like this is important for the girls’ development and creating bonds that carry much further than a season.”

The Keller Outlaws 09 have found an opportunity within USSSA's C class division and since their decision to compete for their growth has shown.