BROOKS BILLUPS
KYSON BARRETT
GRAHAM LEVY
EMMA FRYE
AUSTIN KISER
celebrate.
PLAY HARD. DREAM BIG. ALWAYS REMEMBER.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Disclaimer: Please note that all photos featured in this magazine have been submitted voluntarily by parents or volunteer photographers, and the league has included a waiver and disclaimer in the registration completed by the parent or guardian prior to the season starting. Additionally, the intended audience for this publication is exclusively the parents and league participants. The content featured in our publication, which includes images of youth athletes, local businesses, league updates, and other information, is intended solely for informational purposes. We strive to accurately represent the activities, achievements, and stories of individuals and organizations within our community. Please note that while we make every effort to obtain consent and permission for the use of images and information, there may be instances where individuals or businesses are inadvertently included without explicit consent. We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and encourage anyone who wishes to have their image or information removed to contact us promptly. Additionally, the views and opinions expressed in our publication are those of the authors and contributors and do not necessarily reflect the views of our organization. We do not endorse any specific products, services, or businesses featured in our publication unless explicitly stated. By accessing and using our website and publication, you agree to release us from any liability for unintentional use of images or information and acknowledge that the content provided is for general informational purposes only. We reserve the right to update, modify, or remove content at any time without prior notice.Thank you for your understanding and support as we continue to strive for transparency, accuracy, and integrity in our publication. If you have any questions or concerns regarding the content featured, please don't hesitate to contact us.
MEET THE TEAM
Hunter Huffman
Kyson Barrett
Graham Levy
Austin Kiser
Emma Frye
THE PLACE TO FIND...
Welcome to Youth Nation, your go-to platform for celebrating the achievements of young athletes while strengthening community ties. Dedicated to serving local youth sports, each month, our magazine spotlights athletes and provides valuable insights for leagues and coaches, all while driving growth through a unique fundraising model that benefits both sports leagues and the community.
This section is one of the key areas of Youth Nation. The Information Hub is a space designed for parents to get more involved and stay connected. Here, parents can easily sign up for text notifications, upload photos, and even guarantee their child’s photo is featured in the magazine. The hub also provides opportunities for parent shoutouts, kid nominations, and keeps everyone informed with the latest league updates and announcements. It's a one-stop resource for making sure every moment and milestone gets the recognition it deserves. Check it out!
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Every month, Youth Nation receives hundreds of amazing photos of young athletes, and while we love seeing all these great moments, not every photo can make it into the magazine. With this option, you can ensure your athlete's photo is featured in one of our upcoming issues by agreeing to connect with one of the local small businesses that sponsor this program. It’s a win-win: your athlete gets to be featured, and you help support the businesses that keep the community thriving.
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#5 PLAYER PROFILE
HURRICANE LITTLE LEAGUE | HITDOGS | #5 | CATCHER / 2ND BASE
On the field, Brooks Billups plays with passion, precision, and purpose. A dedicated member of both Hurricane Little League and the WV Hitdogs, Brooks wears #5 and holds down two of the most important positions in the game: second base and catcher.
Brooks has been playing baseball for five years, and what keeps him going is more than just the sport itself—it’s the love of the game and the memories he's making along the way. Whether he’s fielding grounders or gearing up behind the plate, Brooks brings his best every time he steps onto the diamond.
When he’s not playing baseball, Brooks enjoys football and spending time outside, always staying active and competitive. His favorite part of being on a team? “The memories you create with your teammates,” he says —a perfect reminder of what youth sports are all about.
His biggest role models are his mom and dad, who, in his words, “work hard every day to give me everything I need to play the game I love.” That support and dedication fuel his drive to succeed and grow as both a player and a person.
With strong values, a hardworking spirit, and a genuine love for the game, Brooks Billups is building something special—one pitch, one play, and one memory at a time.
#2 PLAYER PROFILE
HURRICANE LITTLE LEAGUE | TRASH PANDAS | #2 | 1ST BASE
Meet Leo Brand, a fun-loving, hard-hitting member of the Hurricane Little League Trash Pandas! Wearing jersey #2, Leo plays first base and brings a big smile and even bigger enthusiasm to every game.
Now in his third season of T-ball, Leo started playing because he wanted to be out on the field with his friends—and that love for the game has only grown. This season, he reached a big milestone: hitting coach pitch instead of off the tee, a moment he’ll never forget.
Leo's favorite team is Marshall, and his favorite player isn’t a big-league star—it’s someone even closer: his buddy Jake Delph. Off the field, Leo has plenty of hobbies that keep him busy and happy. He loves playing with friends, hitting golf balls with his dad, swimming, traveling to Disney World, and drawing/coloring.
When asked about the best part of being on a team, Leo says it best: “Playing alongside my best friends.” That team spirit and love for friendship are what make him such a great teammate.
Leo’s biggest role model is his dad, and his words say it all: “He’s the best dad ever! He teaches me how to do stuff, he’s fun and playful, he makes me laugh, he works hard, and he loves me and mommy a lot.” With his heart in the game and his dad by his side, Leo Brand is making memories, building skills, and having a blast every step of the way.
PLAYER PROFILE
HURRICANE | BRAVES COACH PITCH | #21 | SHORTSTOP
#21
Asher Hale, a proud member of the Hurricane Braves Coach Pitch team, brings energy, focus, and teamwork to the field every time he plays. Wearing #21 and holding down the position of shortstop, Asher is always in the middle of the action—ready to make the next big play.
From his hometown of Hurricane, West Virginia, Asher has been playing baseball for five years, inspired by his early love of the game and playing catch with his dad. That bond helped fuel his passion, and now he’s one of the Braves’ most dependable players.
DA big fan of the Houston Astros, Asher doesn’t just love the game—he u team. For him, the best part of playing is “making friends, cheering positive attitude that makes him a great teammate on and off the field.
Outside of baseball, Asher is full of creativity and curiosity. He Minecraft, showing that he has just as much talent with his hands off
When it comes to role models, Asher looks up to someone close to home: his dad. and always takes care of us,” Asher says—a reflection of the values and does.
With a strong work ethic, a heart for teamwork, and a love for growing in skill, but also in character—making him one to watch this season and beyond.
PLAYER PROFILE
HURRICANE MIDDLE SCHOOL| KANAWHA VALLEY EAGLES| #0 | POWER FORWARD
Whether he’s powering through the paint or draining a three-pointer from the outside, Hunter Huffman is a force to be reckoned with on the basketball court.
Representing Hurricane Middle School and the Kanawha Valley Eagles, Hunter wears #0 and plays the role of a strong and reliable power forward.
Hunter has been playing basketball for five years, inspired by a love of the game and the thrill of competing with his team. This season, his favorite moments include sinking three-point shots and celebrating wins with his teammates, proving that hard work and teamwork lead to great memories.
A dedicated fan of West Virginia University and a big admirer of Michael Jordan, Hunter looks up to the NBA legend not just for his skills but for his determination. “He never gave up,” Hunter says—and that same never-quit attitude shows in the way he plays.
Off the court, Hunter enjoys collecting cards, playing video games, and getting active in football, showing that he’s a wellrounded athlete with a variety of interests.
For Hunter, the best part of being on a team is simple: friendships and teammates. It’s the camaraderie and support that make each season special—and it’s clear he values every connection he makes on and off the court.
With his talent, positive mindset, and love for the game, Hunter Huffman is proving that #0 is just a number—because he plays like a champion every time he hits the floor.
What's Happening AROUND THE AREA
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FAITH IN SPORTS GOD’S POWER IN OUR WEAKNESS
By Nate Thompson
"He gives strength to the weary and increases the power of the weak." – Isaiah 40:29 (NIV)
In the world of youth sports, every player knows what it feels like to be tired—physically, mentally, and even emotionally. Whether it's a long practice under the summer sun, a tough game that doesn’t go your way, or the pressure to keep improving, exhaustion is part of the journey. But Isaiah 40:29 offers encouragement that hits home for any athlete chasing their goals: God gives strength to the weary.
This verse isn't just about spiritual strength. It's a reminder that God cares about every part of your life—including what happens on the field, court, or track. When you're giving your all and feel like you have nothing left, God doesn't walk away. He steps in.
For young athletes, this means two powerful truths:
1.It's okay to be tired. Even the best athletes run out of steam. Feeling worn out doesn’t mean you’re weak—it means you’re human. Isaiah 40:29 tells us that God sees our limits and wants to lift us up, not tear us down.
1.Strength doesn’t just come from muscles. The kind of strength Isaiah is talking about comes from within. It's the courage to keep going, the focus to stay sharp, and the heart to support your teammates. When you lean on God, you tap into a strength that doesn’t fade with fatigue or fear.
So next time you're on the field and feel like quitting, remember Isaiah 40:29. Say a prayer, take a breath, and trust that God is fueling you for more than just winning—He’s shaping your spirit. And in His eyes, playing with faith, perseverance, and heart is the greatest victory of all.
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PLAYER PROFILE
MINOR COACH PITCH – DODGERS | #8 | ALL-POSITIONS
With a big smile and a love for the game, Kyson Barrett brings energy and enthusiasm to the field as a key player for the Minor Coach Pitch Dodgers. From Scott Depot, West Virginia, Kyson wears #8 and plays all positions, showing versatility and a willingness to jump in wherever his team needs him.
PLAYER PROFILE
HURRICANE LITTLE LEAGUE | MARLINS | #4 | OUTFIELDER
Say hello to Graham Levy, one of the newest and brightest young stars in Hurricane Little League. Playing for the Marlins and proudly wearing #4, Graham is stepping into the world of baseball for the very first time—and already making it count.
This season marks Graham’s first year playing T-ball, and his love for the game started where many baseball dreams begin: at home, watching games on TV with his dad. That spark turned into action, and now he’s out on the field as an outfielder, learning and growing with every game.
One of Graham’s favorite memories this season was a big personal achievement: hitting the ball when his coach pitched to him for the first time. It was a moment of confidence, progress, and fun—everything Little League is all about.
A loyal fan of the Boston Red Sox, Graham’s favorite player is Wilyer Abreu, and his biggest inspiration is someone close to home: his Pa. “He is a construction worker and a cowboy, and I want to be like him when I grow up,” Graham says with pride.
Off the field, Graham enjoys riding his scooter and making crafts, showing off his creativity and love of adventure. But what really makes baseball special for him? “Making new friends!” That team spirit is what keeps him excited to come back to the field game after game.
With a heart full of energy and a glove ready for action, Graham Levy is kicking off his baseball journey with excitement, friendship, and a love for the game that’s sure to grow with every swing.
#26 PLAYER PROFILE
HURRICANE LITTLE LEAGUE – COACH PITCH INDIANS | #26 | UTILITY PLAYER
Austin Kiser, a versatile athlete from Hurricane, West Virginia, is making big plays and even bigger memories on the field with the Hurricane Little League Coach Pitch Indians. Wearing #26, Austin plays all over the diamond—earning him the title of utility player, just like his favorite MLB star, Jose Altuve, but with a game that's uniquely his own.
This is Austin’s fourth year playing baseball, and his inspiration comes from home. With a dad who played college ball at West Virginia State University and a mom who grew up playing softball—and now cheers the loudest in the crowd—baseball runs in his blood. "I love hearing her cheer for me," Austin says. "They get excited when I do good, and that’s why I love playing."
One of Austin’s most unforgettable moments this season came when he made his first out at shortstop with a laser rocket throw to first base, then followed it up with a stand-up double— all while the high school team was there watching. It was a moment of skill, confidence, and pure excitement.
Off the field, Austin is just as busy. He races motocross, plays basketball, pickleball, and golf, and loves jumping into Roblox and Minecraft during downtime. But no matter the activity, he always has a strong support system behind him.
For Austin, the best part of being on a team is spending time with his best buddy Jaxon and other kids from his class. And when it comes to role models, he looks up to both of his parents: “They work really hard so I can do the things I like,” he says. He also dreams of becoming a firefighter like his dad—a true hero who saves lives and keeps others safe.
With talent, heart, and a family that fuels his drive, Austin Kiser is a name to remember—on the baseball field and beyond.
PLAYER PROFILE
#7
HURRICANE LITTLE LEAGUE | DIAMOND DAWGS | #7 | PITCHER, 1 & 3 ST, RD
Meet Emma Frye, a multi-talented athlete from Charleston, West Virginia, who’s making her mark with the Hurricane Little League Diamond Dawgs. Wearing #7, Emma plays wherever she’s needed—pitcher, first base, third base, and outfield—showcasing her versatility, skill, and team-first mentality.
Now in her third year playing softball, Emma was inspired by her mom, a former standout player herself. Wanting to create her own path and memories in the sport, Emma stepped up to the plate— and has been swinging ever since. This season’s highlight? Pitching a 3-up, 3-down inning to secure a win, a moment that proves Emma thrives under pressure.
Her favorite team is Marshall University, and her favorite player is Alysia Hively, a name that inspires Emma to continue pushing herself on and off the field. That same dedication carries into her life beyond softball, where Emma enjoys horseback riding, tennis, basketball, and hiking.
What Emma values most about being part of a team is the bond it builds: “Making lifelong friends and working together to achieve our goals,” she says. And she’s got someone special guiding her every step of the way—her mom, whom she calls her biggest role model. “She pushes me to achieve more,” Emma shares proudly.
With talent, determination, and a strong support system behind her, Emma Frye is more than just a key player —she’s a future leader in the game, creating memories one pitch at a time.
