YOUTH NATION EVENT
MAY 9TH, 2026
Marshall University Men’s Baseball
Jack Cook Field - 4pm
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PLAYER PROFILE Nomination
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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
Lowery
Frye
Faith In Sports
Kane Thompson
COLLABORATION CELEBRATES REGION’S YOUNG ATHLETES THROUGH SPECIAL FAN EXPERIENCE EVENTS
HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Marshall Athletics has announced a partnership with Youth Nation Magazine, further strengthening the bond between the Thundering Herd and young athletes across the region.
Through its partnership with the magazine, Marshall Athletics will host eight fan experience events in various sports per year, which provide Youth Nation's monthly featured athletes an opportunity to attend Marshall sporting events as honored guests.
The first of these fan experience events is scheduled for April 2026.
This opportunity and others like it continue with Marshall's vision within its 'Herd Mentality' in which the pillars include Engaging With Purpose within the community and Dedicating To Others by investing in those in the community through service and support.
"We are ecstatic about this partnership with Youth Nation Magazine, which continues to build the great bond that Marshall Athletics has within its community," said Ryan Crisp, Marshall University's Associate Athletic Director of Revenue Generation.
"Youth Nation Magazine does a great job of highlighting athletes throughout our area. Being able to collaborate with them for unique fan experience opportunities gives us the ability to inspire the next generation while providing meaningful Marshall Moments that will last a lifetime."
Nick Chapman, founder of Youth Nation, said the partnership with Marshall Athletics brings a level of excitement and inspiration that young athletes will remember for the rest of their lives.
"Marshall University means so much to families across our region," Chapman said. "For these young athletes to walk into a Marshall event not just as fans, but as honored guests, is something they will never forget. The power that Marshall Athletics brings to the youth sports community goes far beyond the game — it creates moments, memories, and motivation that can shape a young athlete's future."
An added benefit to the partnership is that Marshall Athletics will have some of its own studentathletes featured within Youth Nation Magazine, which allows readers to learn more about the journey of their favorite athletes who represent the Herd.
Youth Nation Magazine is a community-driven publication focused on highlighting youth athletes and the positive influence of sports in their lives. Each issue features local players, their accomplishments, and the stories behind their dedication, while also bringing together families, schools, and local businesses to support and encourage youth athletics.
The fast-growing magazine currently highlights all the great athletes within our region through four separate editions: the River Cities Edition, the Kanawha Valley Edition, the Greater Teays Edition and the Knights Edition. The overall footprint of the magazine is currently more than 50,000 people.
For all the latest information about Marshall Athletics, follow @HerdZone on Twitter and Instagram.
To follow all Thundering Herd sports and get live stats, schedules and free live audio, download the Marshall Athletics App for iOS and Android.
PLAYER PROFILE
From Nitro, West Virginia, Kaiden Holley is building his name in the trenches one snap at a time. Wearing jersey #90 and playing both offensive and defensive line for Nitro Youth League and the D Team, Kaiden embraces the gritty, hard-working mindset that defines great linemen. In just two years of playing football, he has already made big strides, fueled by determination and a love for the game.
A proud fan of the Pittsburgh Steelers, Kaiden looks up to NFL standout T.J. Watt. It’s easy to see the connection toughness, hustle, and heart are traits Kaiden brings to the field every time he lines up. His favorite memory from this past season was helping his team make it to the semifinals, a moment that proved hard work and teamwork truly pay off.
For Kaiden, football is about more than just wins and losses. When asked about the best part of being on a team, his answer says it all: family values. That sense of brotherhood keeps him motivated and reminds him that everyone has a role to play. His biggest role model is Coach Rob, his travel coach, who pushes the team to work hard while keeping things fun. Kaiden appreciates the balance of discipline and laughter, learning lessons that go far beyond the game.
Off the field, Kaiden enjoys fishing and hunting — hobbies that reflect his patience, focus, and love for the outdoors. Whether he’s waiting quietly in a deer stand or locking in at the line of scrimmage, he understands that preparation and perseverance make all the difference.
With the encouragement to always “play hard and give 100%,” Kaiden continues to grow each season. As #90 digs in at the line, one thing is certain: he’s giving everything he has — and Nitro football is stronger because of it.
PLAYER PROFILE
Nitro’s own Jordyn Lynch may be early in her basketball journey, but she’s already making an impact. Wearing jersey #21, Jordyn completed her very first season of basketball this year — and she did it as one of the youngest players on her team. Instead of backing down from the challenge, she stepped up, soaked in every lesson, and
A proud WVU fan, Jordyn proudly says her favorite player is… Jordyn! That kind of confidence shines bright and shows she believes in herself — a powerful trait for any young athlete.
When she’s not on the hardwood, Jordyn stays active in gymnastics, building strength, flexibility, and balance that carry over into her basketball game. The best part of being on a team, she says, is learning to pass and always give 100 percent — a mindset that will take her far in any
Her biggest role model is her daddy, someone she looks up to both in sports and in life. With strong family support and a season of experience under her belt, #21 is just getting started — and Nitro basketball has a bright future with Jordyn in the game.
PLAYER PROFILE
From Nitro, West Virginia, Brynlee Handley has been flipping, flying, and fearlessly chasing her dreams since she was just two years old. What began as recreational gymnastics quickly grew into a true passion, and now — six years later — Brynlee is making her mark as a competitive gymnastwithRevolutionGymnastics.
This past season was unforgettable. Brynlee captured a State Championship in the Xcel Silver division in 2025 and earned a welldeserved move up to Xcel Gold for the 2025–2026 season. The accomplishment reflects years of dedication, discipline, and determination. Competing at a higher level brings new challenges, but Brynlee embraces eachonewithconfidenceandexcitement.
Inspired by gymnastics legend Simone Biles, Brynlee also looks up to someone closer to home — Emma Mason, a former gymnast from her own gym who now competes in college for the Georgia Gymdogs. Brynlee even had the chance to travel and watch Emma’s team compete, an experience that fueled her motivation and showed her what’s possible throughhardworkandcommitment.
A fan of the Georgia Gymdogs herself, Brynlee understands that gymnastics may be an individual sport, but being part of a team makes it even sweeter. The best part, she says, is having fun with her friends and cheering each other on. That encouragement and camaraderiehelppushhertobeherbestateverymeetandpractice.
When she’s not in the gym, Brynlee enjoys motocross, drawing, and spending time with friends — balancing strength and creativity both insideandoutsidecompetition.
With a state title already under her belt and a new level ahead, Brynlee is proving that big dreams can start small — sometimes with atinytwo-year-oldwalkingintoherveryfirstgymnasticsclass.
PLAYER PROFILE
From Cross Lanes, West Virginia, Ava Lowery has spent the last six years building her game, her confidence, and her love for soccer. Wearing #21 as a defender for SSRA, Ava plays with heart and determination every time she steps onto the field.
Inspired to start playing after watching her sister have fun with the sport, Ava quickly found her own passion for the game. This season brought a major highlight: earning her team’s first win. That moment wasn’t just about the scoreboard — it was about teamwork, growth, and the reward of hard work finally coming together.
Ava looks up to soccer legend Lionel Messi, admiring his skill, leadership, and ability to change a game with confidence and creativity. She’s also a fan of West Virginia State University athletics, supporting local programs and dreaming big about her own athletic future.
For Ava, the best part of being on a team is simple: being with her friends and having fun doing something they all love. That joy fuels her energy on defense, where she works hard to protect the goal and support her teammates.
Off the soccer field, Ava stays busy year-round. She participates in softball, cheer, volleyball, robotics club, magnet school of music, church, and dance — a schedule that shows both her drive and her wide range of talents. Whether she’s solving problems in robotics, performing in music, or competing in another sport, Ava gives her best effort in everything she does.
Her biggest role model is her mom, who constantly pushes her to be better and supports her at every event. With strong family encouragement and a mindset built on believing in herself, Ava continues to grow as both an athlete and a person. And as #21 guards the field, one thing is clear — she truly is amazing, just as those who support her say she is.
PLAYER PROFILE
PLAYER PROFILE
From Cross Lanes, Kane Thompson is the kind of athlete who never clocks out. The moment he gets home from school, you’ll find him with a football or basketball in his hands, or watching highlight videos, studying how to take his game to the next level. For Kane, sports aren’t just something he plays, they’re something he lives.
Now in his second year with the Nitro Little League Wildcats, Kane proudly wears #15 at tight end. His love for the NFL inspired him to start playing, and that passion shows every time he steps on the field. This season brought a moment he’ll never forget: scoring his first touchdown. It was the kind of play every young athlete dreams about, and for Kane, it was proof that hard work pays off.
Kane looks up to Hall of Fame wide receiver Randy Moss for his playmaking ability and dominance on the field. He’s also a big fan of Ohio State Buckeyes football, cheering on one of college football’s most storied programs. When asked about the best part of being on a team, Kane keeps it simple and honest: “I get a chance to score!” That competitive spark and love for the big moment make him a constant threat every time he lines up.
Off the football field, Kane channels that same energy into basketball, staying active year-round and sharpening his athleticism. His biggest role model is Kobe Bryant, someone he admires for his toughness and relentless mindset. That “Mamba Mentality” shows in Kane’s determination to attend every practice and improve every day.
With drive beyond his years and a passion that never slows down, #15 is just getting started. If his first touchdown is any sign of what’s ahead, Cross Lanes will be cheering for Kane for many seasons to come.
PLAYER PROFILE
From Poca, West Virginia, Camryn Bonnett bringsspeed,toughness,andhearteverytime he takes the field. Wearing #5 for the NFL Giants, Camryn has been playing football for four years and continues to grow his game seasonafterseason.
One of his favorite memories this year was helping his team win their first football game — a moment that made all the hard practices and long hours worth it. For Camryn, those victories are special, but what matters most are “the memories” made alongside teammates. The friendships and shared experiencesarewhattrulydefinetheseason.
Camryn plays running back, a position that demands quick thinking, agility, and fearlessness. He looks up to college standout Cam Skattebo and cheers for powerhouse programs like the Texas Longhorns football and Oregon Ducks football. Watching highlevel competition inspires him to keep pushinghimselfandimprovingeveryday.
When he’s not on the gridiron, Camryn stays just as active. He enjoys motocross, mountain biking, and snowboarding — sports that match his adventurous spirit and love for adrenaline. That athletic versatility helps build the balance, strength, and courage that showupinhisfootballperformance.
His biggest role model is Ryan Dungey, whom he admires not just for his success but for his humility. Camryn respects the way Dungey handles both victory and competition with character — a mindset Camryn aimstocarryintohisownlifeandsportsjourney.
With a focus on having fun and continuing to grow, #5 is creating a foundation built on hard work and humility. Whether it’s breaking through a defensive line or racing down a dirt track, Camryn Bonnett gives iteverythinghe’sgot.
PLAYER PROFILE
For Addyson Horan, volleyball isn’t just a sport — it’s a calling fueled by passion, discipline, and relentless drive. A Class of 2026 student at WIN Academy/Homeschool with an impressive 3.85 GPA, Addyson has spent eight years developing into one of the top competitors in West Virginia Christianschoolathletics.
Recognized as Top 5 in Kills and Hitting in the state, Addyson’s production on the court speaks for itself. She was also chosen to compete at the Gatlinburg National Showcase, a testament to her skill and reputation beyond the local level. As an outside hitter and setter who can play all the way around the court, her versatility makes her a true asset. Whether she’s setting up the offense or finishing a rally with authority, Addyson brings intensity and controltoeverypoint.
But what separates her from others at her position goes deeper than statistics. A team captain her junior and senior years, Addyson is described by coaches as responsible, compassionate, caring, and a natural leader — the ultimate “hype girl” who energizes her teammates while holding herself to the highest standard. She admits she is her own toughest critic, yet that self-accountability fuels her progress. “Challenges are what drive me,” she shares. “When I know I’m not at my best, I push myself even farther.”
To Addyson, being coachable means being willing to change, to be molded, and to embrace hard moments as opportunities for growth. She understands that correction isn’t criticism — it’s preparation. That mindset has shaped her into an all-or-nothing competitor who leaves everything on the court.
Looking ahead, Addyson hopes to pursue a degree in Dental Hygiene while competing at the collegiate level. She’s seeking a college program that will push her to become a better athlete and an even better person — one built on strong culture, academics, faith, and competition. Why should a college program invest in her? The answer is simple: she has dreams to become better, and she’s willing to outwork anyone to achieve them. With leadership, versatility, and grit, Addyson Horan’s senior season is just another step in a journey defined by determination and heart.
PLAYER PROFILE
From South Charleston, West Virginia, Emma Frye is quickly becoming a dependable and versatile force on the softball field. Wearing number 22 and playing multiple positions—including pitcher, first base, third base, and outfield—Emma brings flexibility, determination, and a strong work ethic to Travel Alpha Sports Academy.
One of her favorite moments this season came on the biggest stage—pitching in a championship softball game. It’s a memory that reflects both her growth and her ability to step up when her team needs her most. Emma embraces challenges headon, and for her, one of the most valuable parts of being on a team is learning how to overcome adversity and keep pushing forward.
Emma’s journey into softball began three years ago, inspired by her mom, who also played the game. That influence continues to shape her approach today. Her mom remains her biggest role model, someone she admires for her love, hard work, and constant encouragement to be her best. Emma also looks up to Alysia Hively, drawing inspiration from her success and presence in the sport.
Off the field, Emma enjoys spending time outdoors, whether it’s hiking or being around horses, and she takes pride in being a great big sister. Those qualities carry over into her role as a teammate, where she supports others and leadsbyexample.
AproudsupporterofMarshallUniversity,Emma continues to develop her skills and confidence with every game. Her ability to play multiple positions, combined with her drive to improve, makesheravaluableassettoherteam.
With her determination, strong support system, and love for the game, Emma Frye is continuing to grow into a player who thrives in big moments—andshe’sonlygettingstarted.
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FAITH IN SPORTS VICTORY THAT CHANGES EVERY GAME
“ ‘Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?’ The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
1 Corinthians 15: 55-58
In these verses Paul wrote to the church in Corinth of the death and resurrection of Jesus, in which death and sin were defeated. What looked like the ultimate loss became the greatest victory in history. The cross looked like defeat. The tomb looked final. But three days later, everything changed.
And that victory still changes every game we play.
In sports, we talk about momentum shifts, comeback stories, and championship moments. We know what it feels like to be down on the scoreboard, tired in the fourth quarter, or facing an opponent that seems unbeatable. But Easter reminds us of something deeper: the ultimate victory has already been won. Because Jesus defeated death, we don’t compete for victory, we compete from victory.
So play hard. Compete with integrity. Encourage your teammates. Work like it matters, because it does.
Thanks be to God, the victory that changes every game is already ours.
