08/06/2026
🥎 NOW RECRUITING – 2027 SPRING/SUMMER 12U FASTPITCH
ABOUT COZAD 222
At Cozad 222, our mission is to help young athletes develop into fundamentally sound softball players while building confidence, character, and a lifelong love for the game. We believe success is measured by player growth, teamwork, and creating an environment where every athlete is encouraged to reach her full potential.
MEET OUR COACHING STAFF
Our program is led by Head Coach Heidi Bazata and Coach Brian Bazata. Together, they bring more than 20 years of coaching experience each, working with athletes from 8U through 18U. Heidi is a former collegiate softball player, and throughout their coaching careers they have helped develop multiple state tournament teams, with many former players continuing their softball careers at the collegiate level.
In addition to serving as Head Coach, Heidi is the team's pitching coach, working closely with pitchers throughout both the in-season and offseason. Her individualized instruction helps athletes develop sound mechanics, build confidence in the circle, and continue improving year-round.
Assistant Coach Ashley Kinnan has been part of the Cozad 222 program since its inception. A former standout catcher at Cozad High School, Ashley was a member of four consecutive NSAA State Tournament qualifying teams and helped lead the Haymakers to back-to-back state championships. As a catcher, she developed the leadership, communication, and game-management skills that define the position as the team's "field general." Today, she brings that same knowledge and perspective to helping our athletes develop both their softball IQ and on-field confidence.
Assistant Coach Melissa Brill has also been with the Cozad 222 program since its beginning. Melissa played varsity and club softball in McCook, Nebraska. She was part of two NSAA state qualifying teams and won a 16U Western National Championship with her summer club. Melissa is an outfield specialist and is knowledgeable in every aspect of the game. Over the years, she has become a steady, reassuring presence in the dugout, encouraging players, supporting families, and helping create the positive team culture that defines Cozad 222.
Our entire coaching staff is USA Softball Certified and committed to teaching strong fundamentals, teamwork, sportsmanship, confidence, and a love for the game in a positive, player-focused environment.
At Cozad 222, we believe every athlete deserves quality instruction, positive encouragement, and the opportunity to reach her full potential both on and off the field. Our goal is to help players grow not only as softball athletes, but also as confident teammates and young women of character who are prepared for success wherever life takes them. We are committed to creating an environment where players are challenged, supported, and inspired to become the best versions of themselves.
WHAT MAKES COZAD 222 DIFFERENT?
⭐ Player development is our top priority.
⭐ Fundamentals are emphasized every practice.
⭐ Positive coaching focused on confidence and growth.
⭐ Competitive tournament schedule.
⭐ USA Softball Certified coaching staff.
⭐ A supportive team culture where players and families are respected.
WE ARE CURRENTLY LOOKING FOR ATHELETES WHO:
✔ Have a positive attitude
✔ Are willing to work hard
✔ Want to improve their softball skills
✔ Enjoy being part of a team
✔ Are committed to learning and competing
We value coachability, effort, and a desire to improve.
WHAT FAMILIES CAN EXPECT
✔ Organized practices
✔ Clear communication
✔ Positive coaching
✔ Competitive tournament opportunities
✔ An emphasis on sportsmanship and teamwork
✔ A program that supports every player's development
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What age group is this team?
2027 Spring/Summer 12U Fastpitch.
Where are practices held?
Cozad, NE
When are practices?
Once a week off season practice generally starts in January at Cozad’s indoor facility.
How many tournaments do you plan to play?
In years past, we have played 7 to 8 weekend tournaments predominantly in the months of May and June. There will also be several scheduled double headers or triangulars during weekdays throughout the season.
INTERESTED?
If you'd like to learn more about Cozad 222 or would like your athlete to be considered for our roster, we'd love to hear from you.
Complete our Player Interest Form here:
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https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1papKd2j0i4oLKZIeD-VAgF03IP1KF-jlVDoNOEwZvbY/edit
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