YOUTH NATION CABELL COUNTY
PLAY HARD. DREAM BIG. ALWAYS REMEMBER. YouthNationSports.com
July 2026
BUBBLEGUM BOMBERS
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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.
PLAY HARD. DREAM BIG. ALWAYS REMEMBER.
CABELL COUNTY’S
YOUTH NATION MAGAZINE | 02
TABLE OF CONTENT fAITH IN SPORTS: Winning and Losing
3 Business Index 5 Player Profile : Alexa Clark 7 Player Profile : Ariah Plymale 9 Player Profile : Audrey Rappold 11 Player Profile : Emma Cash 13 Faith In Sports : Winning and Losing 15 Player Profile : Keeley Carter 17 Player Profile : Kendall Flynn 19 Player Profile : Kennedy Chapman 21 Player Profile : Kinsley Wallen 23 Player Profile : Lexi Bartram
Let yourself be challenged to follow Jesus’ example and learn to win by losing. More on p. 13
25 Player Profile : Maci Watts 27 Player Profile : Maya Klodowski
Y O U T H
N A T I O N ’ S
B U S I N E S S
L O C A L
D I R E C T O R Y
Medical
Real Estate
Generations PT | Teays Valley 304-757-2500
Impact Realty Group 304-410-0655
Generations PT | Milton 304-743-6995
Remax Clairty 304-525-7653
Insurance Seka Lewis-Gregor | State Farm 304-736-6100 Christian Brand | State Farm 304-760-5001
Eddie Mylar | Realtor 304-654-6045 Jon Jones | Movement Mortgage 304-881-1434 Success Mortgage 304-544-8666
Ricky Shifko | State Farm 740-867-3137
Local BusinessES
Cameron Vance | State Farm 304-744-4000
Cassie Clicks Photography 304-730-9748 Shimas Family Restaurant 681-217-1219
Home Improvement
Moye Law 304-586-1251
Design Roofing 304-760-8915
Revive Hair Salon | Holli Duncan 304-415-7754
Rt 60 Hardware 304-743-1571
Pioneer AFCU | South Charleston 304-348-6648
Hobba Builder | Custom Homes 304-546-5348
Pioneer AFCU | Huntington 304-348-6648
Assured Footing | Home Inspections 740-416-9167
Pioneer AFCU | Teays Valley 304-348-6648
All State Gutters 304-993-4685
Ohio Valley Bank | Milton 304-743-8074
ADT Safe Neighbor 304-417-0082
Ohio Valley Bank | Adam Chapman 304-721-2726
PLAYER PROFILE
YOUTH NATION MAGAZINE | 05
After eight years on the softball field, Alexa Carter
continues to prove that hard work and dedication lead to steady improvement. The Milton, West Virginia native
proudly wears jersey number 7 as a pitcher for Carter Major Softball, where she has developed into a dependable competitor and an encouraging teammate.
One of Alexa's favorite memories from this season wasn't a single game-winning moment—it was watching her pitching statistics improve with every outing. Seeing
the results of countless hours of practice reinforced her belief that consistent effort pays off and motivated her to keep pushing herself to reach new levels.
Alexa is a fan of the Oklahoma Sooners and looks up to standout pitcher Sydney Berzon. She also credits
Cameron Rose as one of her biggest role models, appreciating his patience and his ability to make softball fun while teaching the skills needed to succeed. His
encouragement has helped Alexa grow both as a pitcher and as a confident athlete.
For Alexa, one of the greatest rewards of playing softball is meeting new teammates each season and discovering abilities she never knew she had. She values the friendships, teamwork, and personal growth that come with every practice and game.
When she's away from the diamond, Alexa enjoys spending time with friends, swimming, and shopping. With eight years of experience, a passion for improving, and a positive attitude toward every challenge, Alexa continues to build an exciting future
in the sport she loves.
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#07
Alexa
Carter
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PLAYER PROFILE
YOUTH NATION MAGAZINE | 07
For the past four years, Ariah Plymale has embraced everything that makes softball special. What first drew
the Milton, West Virginia native to the sport was the
opportunity to be part of a team, and that love for teamwork continues to shine every time she takes the field. Wearing jersey number 12 for the Ona-Milton
Erin Carter team, Ariah is a versatile player who is always ready to contribute wherever she's needed.
One of her favorite memories from this season was hitting her very first inside-the-park home run. The
exciting play was a rewarding moment that reflected
her hustle, determination, and growing confidence at the plate.
A fan of Marshall athletics, Ariah enjoys the friendships that softball has brought into her life. She says the best part of being on a team is making new friends
while
learning
and
growing
together
throughout the season. Her willingness to support her teammates and play any position makes her a valuable part of the team.
When she's away from the softball field, Ariah enjoys spending time fishing. She also credits her mom and dad as her biggest
role models because they have always supported her and stood by her no matter what. Their encouragement gives her the confidence to keep working hard and enjoying every moment of the game.
With a positive attitude, a team-first mindset, and a love for the sport, Ariah continues to grow as both a player and a teammate.
As she builds on her experiences, she's creating memories that will last a lifetime while laying the foundation for an exciting future in softball.
#12
Ariah
plymale
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PLAYER PROFILE
YOUTH NATION MAGAZINE | 09
For Audrey Rappold, softball is more than just a sport—it's a
passion that has shaped her life since she first picked up a
bat in T-ball at five years old. As she transitioned into softball, the Ona, West Virginia native realized she had found something she truly loved. Today, Audrey proudly wears jersey number 13 for the Ona-Milton Erin Carter team, where she makes an impact at both shortstop and center field.
One of Audrey's favorite memories from this season came on Opening Day. It wasn't just about playing the game she loves,
but also spending the entire day with friends and celebrating
with fireworks after the games. The experience reminded her
why softball is about so much more than wins and losses— it's about the memories created with teammates along the way.
A fan of Marshall athletics, Audrey looks up to Sydney Burko,
admiring both her talent and her passion for the game. That same passion is something Audrey brings to the field every
day. In fact, when she's not at practice or playing in games, she's often in her yard working on her skills because, as she says, she eats, sleeps, and breathes softball.
For Audrey, the best part of being on a team is having coaches and teammates who communicate well, support one another, and work together toward a common goal. That team-first mindset has helped her grow both as a player and as a teammate.
With years of experience, a relentless work ethic, and an undeniable love for the game, Audrey continues to raise the bar for herself every season. Her dedication and enthusiasm make it clear that her softball journey is only getting started.
#13
Audrey
rappold
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PLAYER PROFILE
YOUTH NATION MAGAZINE | 11
For Emma Cash, softball is about much more than competition—it's about having fun, making memories, and growing alongside her teammates. After four years of playing
the game, the Sanford, North Carolina native has developed into a dependable infielder for Ona Milton Little League,
proudly wearing jersey number 14 every time she takes the field.
When asked to choose her favorite moment from this
season, Emma couldn't narrow it down to just one. With so many great memories shared with teammates and friends, she believes every game has offered something special. That appreciation for the journey reflects her positive attitude and love for the sport.
Emma is a fan of the Florida State Seminoles and looks up to
standout pitcher Sam Landry. She enjoys the challenge of competing while having fun with her teammates, saying that's one of the best parts of being on a team. Whether it's
practice or game day, Emma values the friendships and experiences that come from working toward a common goal.
Away from the softball field, Emma enjoys playing volleyball and spending time with friends. Her biggest role model is her papa, whose strength and positive attitude while battling cancer have inspired her to face life's challenges with courage and determination.
With a team-first mindset, a competitive spirit, and a love for the game, Emma continues to make the most of every
season. As she keeps building friendships and creating lasting memories, her passion for softball is sure to carry her toward many more exciting moments in the years ahead.
#18
Emma
CASH
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But thanks be to God! He gives us victory through our Lord Jesus Christ
FAITH IN SPORTS 1 Corinthian 15 : 57 - NIV
WINNING AND LOSING
Written by Nate Thompson
Winning isn’t Everything When it comes to sports, one of the things we talk about most is winning. Winning is great,
everyone likes to win. It makes us feel good, it builds our self-esteem and can lead to good things happening for us. However, no one person can win all the time. We all fall short and
lose at some point, and losing does not feel good like winning does. It can make us feel bad, we could beat ourselves up over it and it can hurt our self-esteem.
The world tries to teach us that winning is what matters most. The Bible on the other hand
has a lot to teach us about winning and losing, it shows us that God sees it different than we do. The Bible tells us that winning is no where near the most important goal in life. In Matthew 6:33, Jesus says to seek the Kingdom of God above all else.
So what is the goal God has for us in life if not to do anything to win? That is answered in the gospel of Mark (Mark 12:29-31) where Jesus claims there are two commandments that
are greater than all others. To love the Lord our God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength and to love our neighbor as ourself.
YOUTH NATION MAGAZINE | 14
Love Over Winning Jesus teaches that loving God and loving other people are the most
important things we can do, more
important than winning a game, a
championship, more important than any trophy. When you do lose, make sure to think onto what is more important:
“Did I show love for God by obeying and honoring him with my words and my actions?”
Victory in Jesus In some cases, losing is good. In Matthew
13:44, Jesus told the parable (story with a message or lesson) of a man who gives all
he has to obtain a treasure worth more than anything he had before, the treasure in that
story is the Kingdom of Heaven. Sometimes
losing is worth it because it means winning something even better.
“Did I show love for others by treating them as I would want treated?”
When it comes down to it, if you are following those two commandments, that is a win over any championship.
YOUTH NATION CHALLENGE
It is written in 1 Corinthians 15:57 that
Identify times in your life that
Christ, who loved us”
Greatest Commandments
“Overwhelming victory is ours through
So regardless of if you make the shot, win
you struggle to follow the 2
the game, the tournament or the biggest
Let yourself be challenged to
is worth so much more than any other win on
learn to win by losing.
trophy, you have a victory in Jesus and that Earth.
follow Jesus’ example and
PLAYER PROFILE
YOUTH NATION MAGAZINE | 15
After eight years on the softball field, Keeley Carter has developed into a versatile player whose determination and love for the game shine every time she competes. The Barboursville, West Virginia native proudly wears jersey
number 21 for Ona Milton Little League Coach Carter's team, contributing at third base, pitcher, and the outfield wherever her team needs her most.
One of Keeley's favorite moments from this season came
while pitching. A batter sent a line drive straight back toward the circle, and Keeley reacted quickly, making an impressive
catch for the first out of the game. The play showcased her athleticism, focus, and confidence under pressure.
A fan of Marshall University athletics, Keeley looks up to
Sydni Burko, admiring both her talent on the field and the
person she is off of it. Keeley strives to bring those same qualities to her own game, approaching every practice and competition with a commitment to improve.
While she enjoys competing, Keeley says the greatest reward of softball has been the friendships she's built throughout
the years. The relationships formed with teammates and coaches have made every season memorable and have helped shape her into both a better player and teammate.
Away from the diamond, Keeley enjoys reading, camping, and participating in both 4-H and FFA. With years of
experience, a team-first attitude, and the versatility to excel in multiple positions, Keeley continues to make an impact wherever she plays. As she keeps working toward her goals, her future in the game is filled with exciting possibilities.
#21
Keeley
Carter
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YOUTH NATION MAGAZINE | 17
For six seasons, Kendall Flynn has found a second home on the softball field. What began as an opportunity to play alongside
friends quickly grew into a true passion for the game. Today, the Ona, West Virginia native proudly wears jersey number 26 as the
catcher for the Ona-Milton Little League Bubblegum Bombers, coached by Erin Carter.
While every season brings special memories, Kendall says her favorite moments are simple: anytime she gets to play catcher. She
enjoys the responsibility of leading from behind the plate, staying
involved in every pitch, and helping guide her team through each
game. It's a position that perfectly matches her enthusiasm and love for softball.
A Marshall fan, Kendall has long admired former standout Morgan
Zerkle, whose success and dedication inspired her throughout her softball journey. Above all, Kendall says her biggest role model is
God because of His unconditional love for everyone. That faith influences the way she approaches both the game and the people around her.
One of Kendall's favorite parts of being on a team is cheering on her teammates. She understands that softball is about
more than individual accomplishments—it's about encouraging one another, celebrating successes together, and growing as a team.
When she's not on the field, Kendall enjoys crafting and expressing her creativity. As her Little League career comes to a close and she prepares for the next chapter, she carries with her years of memories, lasting friendships, and a deep love
for the game. With her leadership, positive attitude, and passion for softball, Kendall is well prepared for the exciting
opportunities that lie ahead.
#26
Kendall
Flynn
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YOUTH NATION MAGAZINE | 19
Over the past three years, Kennedy Chapman has grown into a confident and versatile softball player who embraces every
opportunity to compete. The Salt Rock, West Virginia native
proudly wears jersey number 36 for Ona Milton Little League Coach Carter's team, contributing at first base, shortstop,
and in the outfield while always putting the team's success first. One of Kennedy's most exciting memories came on April 16, 2026, when she hit her very first inside-the-park home run. It was a
milestone she had worked hard to achieve and a moment that rewarded her dedication, hustle, and determination.
A fan of the Tennessee Lady Vols, Kennedy looks up to Diamond Leslie for the example she sets on and off the field. She also
credits her family as her biggest role models, saying their love, encouragement, and support inspire her to give her best in everything she does.
For Kennedy, the best part of softball is simply having fun with
her teammates. Whether it's competing in games, celebrating big
plays, or encouraging one another through challenges, she enjoys every opportunity to create memories with the people around her.
When she's away from the softball field, Kennedy enjoys camping, fishing, and participating in FFA. With her positive
attitude, versatility, and passion for the game, she continues to grow as both a player and a teammate. As she looks ahead to future seasons, Kennedy is sure to keep making memorable plays and enjoying every step of her softball journey.
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#36
Kennedy
Chapman
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YOUTH NATION MAGAZINE | 21
In just two years of playing softball, Kinsley Wallen has discovered a passion for the game and a love for competing with her teammates. Inspired to start playing by her cousin, the Milton, West Virginia native has quickly developed into a
dependable second baseman for the Ona Milton Softball
Majors team, coached by Erin Carter. Wearing jersey number 3, Kinsley continues to grow in confidence every time she steps onto the field.
One of her favorite memories from this season came when she recorded her first big hit. It was a rewarding moment that
reflected the hard work she has put into improving her game and gave her even more confidence at the plate.
Kinsley is a fan of Marshall athletics and looks up to Diamond
Leslie as her favorite player. She also credits her dad as her biggest role model because of the time he spends teaching her the game and practicing with her. His encouragement
and willingness to help her improve have played an important role in her softball journey.
For Kinsley, one of the best parts of being on a team is making new friends. She enjoys building relationships with her teammates while learning new skills and sharing exciting moments throughout the season.
When she's away from the softball field, Kinsley enjoys spending time on TikTok. With a positive attitude, a growing love
for the game, and a strong support system behind her, Kinsley continues to improve every season. As she keeps believing in herself and working hard, there's no doubt many more exciting moments are waiting in her softball future.
#03
Kinsley
Wallen
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YOUTH NATION MAGAZINE | 23
Since first stepping onto the softball field at five years old, Lexi Bartram has embraced every opportunity to learn, compete, and have fun. What began because the game
simply looked exciting has grown into a passion that continues to shape the Ona, West Virginia native. Today, Lexi
proudly wears jersey number 99 in the outfield for the Bubble Gum Bombers, coached by Erin Carter.
One of Lexi's favorite memories from this season came
during a Banana Ball game, an unforgettable experience that combined excitement, teamwork, and plenty of fun. Moments
like that remind her why she loves the sport and the friendships it creates.
A Marshall fan, Lexi looks up to former softball standout Morgan Zerkle for her talent and success on the field. Closer
to home, however, her biggest role model is her brother,
Logan. She appreciates the time he spends playing catch with her, helping her practice, and teaching her new skills that continue to build her confidence as a player.
For Lexi, one of the greatest rewards of softball is making new friends and sharing memorable experiences with her teammates. She enjoys being part of a team where everyone encourages one another and works together toward a common goal.
When she's away from the diamond, Lexi enjoys drawing, roller skating, crafting, collecting squishies, and spending
time with her two Great Danes, Thor and Daisy, her cat Elsa, and her axolotl, Luna. With years of experience, a
determined spirit, and a genuine love for the game, Lexi continues to grow as both an athlete and a teammate. Her future is filled with exciting possibilities, and she's ready to make the most of every opportunity.
#99
Lexi
Bartram
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#46
Maci
Watts
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PLAYER PROFILE
YOUTH NATION MAGAZINE | 26
For the past four years, Maci Watts has enjoyed the
excitement, friendships, and lessons that come with playing softball. The Milton, West Virginia native proudly wears jersey number 46 as a right fielder for the Ona Milton Little League Carter Majors, coached by Erin
Carter. With every season, she continues to grow as both a player and a teammate.
When asked about her favorite memory from this season,
Maci didn't point to a particular play or game-winning
moment. Instead, she chose the time spent with her friends. For Maci, the relationships built through softball
are what make the sport so meaningful, creating memories that last long after the final out.
That same appreciation for friendship is what she enjoys
most about being on a team. Whether it's practicing together, encouraging one another during games, or
celebrating successes, Maci values being surrounded by teammates who make every season fun.
Away from the softball field, Maci enjoys reading and spending time with family and friends. She says her biggest role
model is her mom because of her kindness and the example she sets every day. That positive influence has helped
shape Maci into a caring teammate who enjoys supporting those around her.
With a positive attitude, a love for the game, and an appreciation for the friendships softball has brought into her life,
Maci continues to make the most of every opportunity. As she keeps learning and growing, she's creating memories that will stay with her for years to come.
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PLAYER PROFILE
YOUTH NATION MAGAZINE | 27
For Maya Klodowski, softball has been an exciting journey ever since her dad inspired her to pick up the game three
years ago. Since then, the Ona, West Virginia native has
developed into a dependable catcher for the Ona-Milton Little League Bubblegum Bombers, coached by Erin Carter. Wearing jersey number 9, Maya enjoys the fastpaced action and leadership that come with playing behind the plate.
One of her favorite memories from this season came when she tagged out an opposing catcher at home plate. It was
an exciting defensive play that highlighted her quick reactions, determination, and ability to step up in a big moment.
A fan of the Tennessee Lady Vols, Maya also looks up to Marshall University standout Diamond Leslie, admiring her
talent and success on the softball field. She strives to bring
that same effort and determination to her own game every time she competes.
For Maya, one of the greatest rewards of softball is making new friends and spending time with her teammates. She enjoys the friendships and memories that come from working together toward a common goal while encouraging one another throughout the season.
Away from the field, Maya enjoys art and music. She says her biggest role models are her brothers because they always support her, encourage her, and help her become a better player and person. With a strong work ethic, a positive attitude, and a growing love for the game, Maya continues to make the most of every opportunity and has an exciting softball future ahead of her.
#09
Maya
Klodowski
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