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PLAYER PROFILE Nomination
Want to See Your Athlete Featured in Youth Nation?
We love celebrating the hard work, heart, and hustle of young athletes in our community—and your child could be next! To have your athlete considered for an upcoming Player Spotlight feature in Youth Nation, simply scan the QR code below and complete the short submission form. It only takes a few minutes! You'll be asked to provide some basic info, a photo, and a few fun questions to help us tell their story.
Don’t forget to upload a great photo in uniform!
Scan the QR code and share your athlete’s journey with the Youth Nation family today!
CONNECT WITH US
If you are interested in learning more about to Youth Nation, how to nominate your athlete to be featured, or you are a local business who wants to advertise, please email YouthNationTeam@gmail.com
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.
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YOUTH NATION FAN EXPERIENCES EXPAND WITH MARSHALL ATHLETICS
Youth Nation is thrilled to announce that following a recent meeting with Marshall Athletics, multiple new Youth Nation Fan Experience events have officially been scheduled for the upcoming year.
These experiences are designed to reward and celebrate the incredible young athletes featured in our magazines while creating unforgettable memories with Marshall University Athletics.
Upcoming Fan Experience Events Include:
Two Marshall Football Experiences
⚽ Men's Soccer
⚽ Women's Soccer Volleyball
Men's Basketball Women's Basketball
One of the upcoming football experiences will feature an exclusive behind-the-scenes opportunity that includes:
✅ Locker Room Access
✅ Athletic Facility Tours
✅ The Thunder Walk Experience
✅ Exclusive Field Access
What started as a simple idea to recognize local athletes has quickly grown into something much bigger. Through this partnership, Youth Nation is able to provide opportunities that many young athletes may never otherwise experience, while continuing to celebrate their hard work, dedication, and achievements. We truly believe these events will create lifelong memories for the athletes and families who participate.
The Best Part?
Every athlete featured in Youth Nation receives a FREE ticket to attend these fan experience events. There is never a cost to be featured in Youth Nation, and there is never a cost for featured athletes to participate in these special experiences.
Additional dates, event details, registration information, and exciting announcements will be released soon. Until then...
BE EXCITED. The best is still to come.
PLAYER PROFILE
Drezdon Wade is a dynamic wide receiver for the Dunbar Bullpups who continues to make his mark on the field with skill, dedication, and a love for the game. Hailing from Dunbar, West Virginia, Drezdon has been playing football for five years, a journey that began with inspiration from his dad and has grown into a true passion. Wearing jersey number 3, he brings energy and focus every time he steps onto the field.
A fan of Lamar Jackson and the Baltimore Ravens, Drezdon models his game after one of the NFL’s most electrifying players, showing flashes of speed and playmaking ability at the wide receiver position. His favorite sports memories come simply from playing the game itself—an indication of how much he enjoys every moment of competition, teamwork, and growth throughout the season.
Off the field, Drezdon enjoys spending time playing video games, balancing his athletic commitment with time to relax and recharge. Whether it’s practice, game day, or downtime, he approaches everything with enthusiasm and determination.
With strong support behind him and a growing love for football, Drezdon Wade is a young athlete to watch. As he continues to develop his skills and confidence, there’s no doubt he has a bright future ahead in the game.
PLAYER PROFILE
At just 10 years old, Paige Haynes is already making an impact both on and off the court and field. Representing the Nitro Wildcats in basketball and softball, Paige is more than just a young athlete—she’s a teammate who leads with encouragement, consistency, and a growing foundation of faith.
For Paige, sports are about more than competition. They’re about showing up, every single day. Whether it’s practice or game time, she has learned that discipline starts with simply being present and giving your best effort. That mindset carries into how she treats others, especially her teammates. When someone is having a tough day, Paige is quick to remind them that “tomorrow is a new day” and that they’ll have another chance to get it right. It’s a simple message, but one that reflects both maturity and heart.
Her favorite Bible verse, “Blessed is every one that feareth the Lord; that walketh in His ways,” speaks to the kind of person Paige is becoming. While she may still be early in her journey, that foundation is already visible. She strives to walk in a way that honors God—not just in how she plays, but in how she treats those around her.
That character hasn’t gone unnoticed. Her family describes her as not only a strong athlete, but also a role model. With a willingness to lend a helping hand to anyone in need, Paige reflects a servanthearted attitude that stands out in youth sports. She understands that being a great teammate isn’t just about skill—it’s about lifting others up.
When asked what message she would share with others, Paige keeps it simple: “Never give up.” It’s a reminder that perseverance matters, whether you’re facing challenges in a game or in life. Through her actions, her attitude, and her faith, Paige Haynes is proving that even the youngest athletes can make a meaningful impact.
PLAYER PROFILE
From the courts of Nitro to the bright lights of travel ball opportunities, Aubree Meadows is quickly making a name for herself as a dedicated and passionate young athlete. A guard for the Nitro Youth Basketball League 4th Grade All-Stars, Aubree brings energy, determination, and a love for the game every time she steps on the floor.
Aubree has been playing basketball since kindergarten, when her dad first signed her up. What started as a simple introduction to the sport quickly turned into something more—she fell in love with the game and hasn’t looked back since. That passion continues to grow, highlighted by one of her favorite moments this season: being asked to play travel ball with the Class of 2033, an opportunity that reflects both her skill and potential.
Wearing number 23, Aubree models her game after her favorite player, Natalie Smith, while also cheering on her favorite team, WVU. But beyond the stats and recognition, Aubree values something even greater about the game—the friendships she builds along the way. For her, being part of a team means connection, encouragement, and shared experiences that go beyond the scoreboard.
Off the court, Aubree enjoys riding her bike and spending time being a kid, but her mindset reflects a maturity beyond her years. She looks up most to her mom, who she describes as someone who always puts others before herself. That example of selflessness clearly shines through in Aubree’s own approach, both as a teammate and as a person.
With strong support behind her and a growing list of accomplishments ahead of her, Aubree Meadows is a player to watch. Her journey is just getting started, but one thing is certain—she’s playing the game the right way, with heart, joy, and a commitment to never give up.
PLAYER PROFILE
At just 8 years old, Haynes is already showing what it means to combine faith, determination, and a love for sport. Whether she’s flipping through routines in gymnastics or stepping onto the field for softball with Revolution and the Nitro Wildcats, Haynes brings energy, positivity, and heart to everything she does.
From the very beginning, her passion has been clear. As her parent shared, “From the moment her feet hit the mat, I knew she would be a gymnast.” That natural connection to the sport, paired with her willingness to work hard and improve, has helped her grow both as an athlete and as a young person. Alongside gymnastics, she also enjoys softball, showing her versatility and love for staying active.
Haynes’ faith plays an important role in her journey. Her favorite verse, Joshua 1:9, reminds her to be strong and courageous, trusting that God is always with her wherever she goes. That mindset shows up in how she approaches challenges—pushing forward even when things get tough and refusing to give up.
As a teammate, Haynes is just as encouraging as she is competitive. She makes it a priority to lift others up, often reminding her teammates that they’re doing a good job and that she’s proud of them. It’s a simple but powerful way she reflects her character and the values she’s learning both in sports and in life.
Through gymnastics and softball, Haynes is learning lessons that will stick with her far beyond the game—especially perseverance. Her outlook is simple but strong: keep going, even when it’s hard. With that kind of mindset and a foundation built on faith and encouragement, Haynes is already on a path toward a bright future.
PLAYER PROFILE
For Logan’s own Carson Hale, basketball has never been just a game—it’s been part of his life for as long as he can remember. Picking up a ball at just five years old, Carson quickly found a love for the sport that only grew stronger with time. Watching others play and constantly being around the game pushed him to improve, shaping him into the dedicated athlete he is today for the Logan Wildcats.
Wearing #42 and holding down the center position, Carson brings both physical presence and determination to the court. His favorite players, Anthony Edwards and Cooper Flagg, reflect the kind of competitive edge and intensity he strives to bring every time he plays. That mindset paid off in a major way this season, when Carson delivered a buzzerbeater to win the regional championship—sending his team to the state tournament in unforgettable fashion.
But for Carson, basketball is about more than just big moments. It’s about the bond built with teammates. He values having people he can count on, all working toward the same goal. That shared journey makes every win more exciting and every loss easier to overcome.
Off the court, Carson stays just as active. Whether he’s working out, golfing, fishing, or camping, he enjoys staying busy and spending time with friends. When he does get a break, he appreciates the chance to relax and recharge.
Through it all, Carson credits his biggest inspiration—his mom. Her strength, work ethic, and ability to push through anything have shaped the way he approaches both life and basketball. It’s that same mindset that keeps Carson focused, grounded, and always striving for more.
With his work ethic, love for the game, and a clutch moment already under his belt, Carson Hale is a name Logan won’t soon forget.
PLAYER PROFILE
Raelyn Meadows is proving that hard work and determination can take you far on and off the court. A point guard for WV Wild travel basketball, Raelyn brings leadership, energy, and a love for the game that stands out every time she plays.
Now in her fourth season, Raelyn continues to grow as a player, embracing every opportunity to improve her skills and compete at a higher level. One of her favorite moments this season was receiving a championship ring—an achievement that reflects both her effort and her team’s success. Wearing numbers 15 and 23, she models her game after her favorite player, Steph Curry, and proudly supports the Golden State Warriors.
For Raelyn, basketball is about more than just the game—it’s about the relationships built along the way. She says the best part of being on a team is making new friends, a mindset that makes her not only a strong competitor but also a great teammate. Her leadership at the point guard position shows in how she connects with others and keeps her team moving forward.
Off the court, Raelyn enjoys spending time with her dad building Legos, showing a creative and thoughtful side that balances her competitive spirit. She is inspired by her role model, Malachi Thompson, a freshman wide receiver at WVU, whose determination and work ethic motivate her to push herself and use her talents to create a better future.
With a strong foundation, a love for the game, and a mindset focused on growth, Raelyn Meadows is on a path full of promise. As she continues to develop her skills and chase her goals, one thing is clear—she’s aiming high and putting in the work to reach it.
