07/15/2026
This weekend we finished up our 2026 season and what an incredible ride it has been. This season we made the decision to become one of the inaugural teams with Nebraska Reign and push ourselves to play against national competition. We knew that the move would be a challenge. This year was not about winning every game; it was about pushing to be a better version of ourselves. These ladies were ready for it. We started off strong, picked up some big wins against great teams and proved what we can do on the field. We had game winning hits, lights out pitching, and played some of the best defense we have ever played. We also faced some adversity where we did not play to our potential and games where we took some tough losses. Through all of this we grew, came together as a team and played some of our best softball in the last few weeks. While we did not end with the record that we wanted, the growth that they showed this year has been amazing to watch.
The season is not about wins and losses. On the field it is about pushing yourself to grow as a player, grow as a team, and know that you gave everything you had. But more importantly it is the experiences and friendships off the field that we will carry with us. From off-season practices and meeting new teammates, to random 6-7 jokes and hacky sack games, the laughter in the dugout and the team bonding events. This team has formed a bond and memories that you will share together for a lifetime.
Now for the reason this post is a few days later than normal for me. The end of this season is a bittersweet one for me. It marks the end of a journey that started a long time ago for a core group of players on this team. Some of them have played this game together since 2019. A few others joined the team 5 years ago and throughout the years we gained the rest of our team. This weekend was the last tournament for many of the girls on this team as they head off to college or pursue other passions next year.
Little did I know 6 or 7 years ago (pun intended) when my 10-year old daughter was given a chance to be on a 12U team by former coaches Jenn and Chris the profound impact it would have on me and my family. This team opened their arms and welcomed Addi and the rest of our family to the team. She found her joy and love for the game again and it helped propel the journey that she is on now. These players and families (past and current) have become an extended part of my family. Over the years they have babysat our kids, attended dance recitals and high school events, and had countless hours of fun and laughter at tournaments, gatherings and team events. Four years ago, they entrusted me and Mike to coach this team and for that I am forever grateful. The commitment and faith that they have shown has allowed me to pursue this passion and grow as a person and leader. While I know that we will still see each other outside of softball, next year their will be a void in the stands and dugouts where you all were these past few years. Be sure to come back often, support the team, and just catch up.
To the Players, I cannot begin to tell you how proud I am of this team and everything that you have accomplished this year and over the past 4 seasons. We started out as a C level team and have moved up to playing national tournaments in that timeframe. That growth is amazing is a testament to your hard work, commitment, and drive to be the best version of yourself. You are all amazing young women, and I am excited to see where the future takes each of you. Please know that I and the other coaches are always here if you need us and we will be cheering you on wherever you go.
To our Families, thank you again for entrusting us to coach your daughters and for allowing us to be a small part of their journey. Thank you for all the things you do for the team, from fundraising, to shuttling around teammates, to helping with events, your support means the world to us.
To coaches Mike, Miles and Jen, I could not do this without you. Thank you for all the hard work and time you put into building up these young women. Mike – thank you for being by my side these last four years. It has been a great ride, and I am so glad that you and I took this chance to lead this team. Miles – your love and passion for teaching the game is infectious. Thank you for always looking for ways to improve and discussing the game at any hour of the day. You two will be sorely missed in the dugout next season. Jen – Thank you for coming on board this year and being the voice of reason. Let’s run it back next season!
To the Fans, thank you for your unwavering support for these ladies. Whether they are a friend, a granddaughter, or a niece, you always show out for this team and the coaching staff, and it is greatly appreciated.
To John Parsons and the entire Reign organization, thank you for believing in us as coaches and players to be representatives of this organization. We appreciate the support you have shown this year and can’t wait to get started for next year.
For one last time this year, Let's Go Reign!!!
Steve
