Knights Edition - July 2025

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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.

celebrate.

PLAY HARD. DREAM BIG. ALWAYS REMEMBER.

PLAYER PROFILE

ONA MILTON WONDERS – SOFTBALL | # 26 | LEFT FIELD AND 3 BASE RD

# 26

From Ona, West Virginia, Kendall Flynn brings energy, focus, and determination to the diamond as a member of the Ona Milton Wonders. Wearing #26 and covering both left outfield and third base, Kendall is in her fourth season of softball and continues to grow with every game she plays.

Her favorite moment this season? Going 3-for-3 at the plate during the second scrimmage—a game that proved her hard work and practice are paying off. Inspired by Marshall University and her favorite player, Morgan Zerkle, Kendall plays with pride for her team and love for the sport.

Off the field, Kendall enjoys crafting and reading, showing her creativity and curiosity when she’s not out making plays on defense or swinging the bat. When asked about the best part of being on a team, she says simply, “Being part of the sport.” For Kendall, being involved, learning, and growing with her teammates is what makes the experience special.

Her biggest role model is her brother, who not only supports her but also helps her improve her game. “He helps me with softball,” she says, showing just how much his guidance means.

With her family cheering her on—“We are so very proud of you and love you so much”—Kendall Flynn is becoming a strong athlete, a loyal teammate, and a name to remember on the field.

#11 PLAYER PROFILE

BARBOURSVILLE YOUTH SPORTS | FOOTBALL, BASKETBALL, BASEBALL | #11

Meet Rush Barber—a driven young athlete from Barboursville, West Virginia, who’s making waves across three different sports. As a proud Tri-Athlete, Rush balances football, basketball, and baseball, playing for Barboursville Youth Football, Buddy League Basketball & All-Stars, and Barboursville Little League Baseball. Whether he’s taking the field, the court, or the diamond, #11 brings energy, heart, and leadership.

Rush has been playing football for 3 years, basketball for 2, and just kicked off his baseball journey this season. Inspired by his dad and fueled by a love for competition, Rush is always pushing to improve. His favorite sports moment this year? Officially becoming a Tri-Athlete—a milestone that proves his dedication and versatility.

Rush plays outfield in baseball, guard in basketball, and linebacker/running back in football, showing off his wideranging athletic skills. Off the field, he loves spending time with his family, white water rafting, fishing, hiking, and playing with his German Shepherd, Sadie.

What does he love most about being on a team? “The friendships, learning from each other, and winning together!” It’s clear that Rush thrives not only in competition but also in camaraderie.

He looks up to De La Cruz, Steph Curry, and Ja'Marr Chase—but his biggest role model is his dad. “He works very hard and never gives up. He always helps me get better and loves our family,” Rush says.

From being born in the front seat of an F-150 to taking center stage in Barboursville sports, Rush Barber is living proof that greatness starts early—and it’s clear he’s just getting started.

PLAYER PROFILE

KNIGHTS BASEBALL CLUB / WV WARRIORS | # 15 | UTILITY AND PITCHER

# 15

From Milton, West Virginia, Jaxon Chapman is a young athlete already making a big impression on the baseball field. Wearing #15 and playing for both the Knights Baseball Club and WV Warriors, Jaxon fills the role of a true utility player and pitcher, bringing nearly a decade of experience and an unstoppable drive to every game.

Jaxon started playing baseball at the age of four, inspired by a love for the game and a natural competitive spirit. One of his proudest moments this season? Pitching a complete game against a middle school varsity team—as just a sixth grader. That performance showed not only his talent on the mound, but also his composure and maturity well beyond his years.

A huge fan of WVU Baseball and Aaron Judge, Jaxon brings the same level of focus and power to his own game. Off the field, he enjoys hunting and fishing, finding balance in the outdoors when he’s not dominating on the diamond.

Jaxon says the best part of being on a team is “getting to know and support all your teammates and form a relationship with them.” His team-first mentality makes him a leader on and off the field.

When it comes to role models, Jaxon doesn’t look far—his dad tops the list. “I admire the way he lives his life and how he carries himself,” Jaxon says, reflecting the values of hard work, humility, and perseverance.

With the unwavering support of his family—“Keep grinding, buddy. The best is yet to come!”—Jaxon Chapman is a name to watch in the world of youth baseball. His future is bright, and he’s just getting started.

PLAYER PROFILE

# 33

OMLL GIOVANNI’S INDIANS – BASEBALL | # 33 | SHORT STOP AND PITCHER

From Ona, West Virginia, Tanner Witt is proving to be a standout talent with a love for the game and a drive to constantly improve. Wearing #33 and playing shortstop and pitcher for the OMLL Giovanni’s Indians, Tanner brings both leadership and skill to the field.

Tanner began his baseball journey in 2017, inspired by the stories of his dad, who also played the game. Since then, Tanner has worked hard to grow as a player—and it shows. One of his proudest moments this season was hitting a home run over the fence in an 8U travel game, a milestone any young slugger dreams of.

He looks up to Bobby Witt Jr. and proudly supports both the Royals and the Reds. But when it comes to real-life inspiration, Tanner names his parents and sister as his biggest role models. “They always try to teach me right from wrong and to always do better,” he says.

Off the field, Tanner is just as active and curious. He participates in MMS track, plays for the Warriors 12U team, enjoys 3D printing, fishing, PS3 games, and loves card and board games. Whether he’s competing or creating, Tanner is always learning and having fun.

For him, the best part of being on a team is meeting new friends and helping each other to learn and get better—a team-first mindset that makes him a leader on and off the field.

Backed by the support of his family —“It’s been a privilege to watch you grow and develop your skills in all you do that interests you”— Tanner Witt is building a future filled with potential, character, and big league dreams.

HIGHLIGHT REEL

PLAYER PROFILE

# 26

OMLL DURHAM BULLS / WARRIORS TRAVEL TEAM – BASEBALL | # 26 | OUTFIELD, 2 BASE, SHORTSTOP ND

From Ona, West Virginia, Gunner Hall is a rising star in youth baseball, known for his hustle in the outfield and versatility at second base and shortstop. Wearing #26, Gunner plays with energy, focus, and a love for the game that started back when he picked up a bat at just three years old

Now in his fifth year of playing, Gunner says his passion for baseball came from his dad, who passed down a deep appreciation for the sport. That love was on full display during his first two games with the Warriors travel team, when he racked up four hits in a single day—a moment he’ll never forget.

A fan of the Yankees, Reds, and Dodgers, Gunner especially looks up to Aaron Judge for his talent and presence on the field. But his biggest role model? His cousin Garrett, who shares his passion for hunting, fishing, and sports. “He’s really good at baseball and basketball,” Gunner says. “He’s also a good friend.”

Outside the diamond, Gunner stays active and grounded. He enjoys hunting, fishing, golfing, and going to church, showing a balance of competitive spirit and strong values.

For Gunner, the best part of being on a team is simple: “Being with my friends, playing baseball, and winning games.” That mindset makes him a great teammate and a strong leader on the field.

With proud words from home —“Keep working hard and keep setting goals. We are so proud of you!”—Gunner Hall is proving that heart, hustle, and humility make all the difference in the game and in life.

PLAYER PROFILE

#11

BARBOURSVILLE – SAMMON’S ADAM’S MAJOR LEAGUE SOFTBALL | # 11 | CENTER FIELD AND 2 BASE ND

From Barboursville, West Virginia, 11-year-old Mylah Painter is making her mark on the softball field. Playing second base and center field for the Barboursville Sammon’s Adam’s Major League team, Mylah wears #11 and brings three years of growing skill, hustle, and heart to every game.

One of her favorite memories from this season was the excitement of Opening Day—a celebration of teamwork, energy, and the start of another chance to shine. Inspired by the Marshall softball team and her favorite player (herself!), Mylah plays with confidence and pride.

Outside of softball, Mylah enjoys drawing—showing she has both athletic and artistic talent. But whether she’s at the plate or sketching on paper, her favorite part of playing sports is making new friends and being part of something bigger than herself.

Her biggest role model is her mom, and with a strong support system at home cheering her on—“I am so proud of you and we love you!”—Mylah’s future is as bright as her determination.

Keep your eye on #11—Mylah Painter is proving that heart, hustle, and a love for the game go a long way.

HIGHLIGHT REEL

FAITH IN SPORTS

PASSION. PURPOSE. JOY.

Abundant Life: Competing With Purpose and Playing With Joy

In John 10:10, Jesus says, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” It’s a powerful reminder for athletes of all ages—especially young athletes—that life isn’t just about surviving. It’s about thriving. It’s not just about showing up. It’s about showing up with passion, purpose, and joy.

Too often in youth sports, we fall into the trap of pressure. Pressure to win. Pressure to be perfect. Pressure to impress. And that pressure can start to steal the joy of the game—the very thing that made you fall in love with your sport in the first place. That’s the thief Jesus warned about.

The enemy would love for you to believe your value is based on your stats, your speed, or your scoreboard. He whispers lies like “you’re not good enough,” “you’ll never make it,” or “you’re just a benchwarmer.” But Jesus offers something completely different. He says: You are enough because I made you. I have more for you. I came to give you life—and not just life, but life to the full.

And yes, that includes how you play, how you lead your team, how you bounce back from failure, and how you carry yourself in victory.

Living an abundant life as an athlete doesn’t mean you’ll always win. It means you’ll always grow. It doesn’t mean you’ll never face setbacks. It means you’ll never face them alone. God doesn’t promise ease— but He promises fullness. And in youth sports, that fullness shows up in the friendships you form, the resilience you build, the leadership you step into, and the joy you feel every time you give your best effort.

Coaches, this is your chance to pour into more than just players—you’re shaping young lives. You’re giving them tools for faith, for adversity, and for character.

Parents, speak life into your athletes. Remind them that their identity isn’t based on performance, but on the God who created them.

Athletes, don’t just play the game—live the life. Smile. Encourage. Hustle. Compete. Worship. You were made to do more than go through the motions. You were made to live fully and freely.

So the next time you take the field, court, or track, remember what Jesus said: “I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.” That’s not just a promise for Sunday morning—that’s a promise for every moment, including game day.

Play with freedom. Compete with heart. Live with purpose. Because the most important victory is living the full life God created you for.

PLAYER PROFILE

CABELL MIDLAND HIGH SCHOOL – BASEBALL | # 16 | CENTER FIELD

# 16

Meet Braylon Wing, a standout center fielder from Barboursville, West Virginia, who’s been swinging for the fences since he was old enough to hold a bat. Now representing Cabell Midland High School, Braylon wears #16 and brings over a decade of experience, heart, and hustle to the game.

Braylon’s love for baseball runs deep—sparked by his dad’s passion for the sport and fueled by years of hard work and memorable moments. This season’s highlight? Ripping two triples at John Cooke Stadium, a performance that fired up the team and showed off his speed and power at the plate.

LORRE WILSON

He’s been playing baseball for 13 years, and his game reflects that dedication. Off the field, Braylon keeps the adrenaline going with hobbies like snowboarding and playing football, proving he’s a true allaround athlete.

His favorite MLB player is Freddie Freeman, and he roots for the St. Louis Cardinals at the pro level and Vanderbilt in college baseball. But his biggest role model isn’t just a player— it’s Jesus. “Because we wanna be like Him,” Braylon says, showing a grounded spirit and deep values that guide him on and off the field.

For Braylon, the best part of being on a team is the camaraderie, family atmosphere, and winning together—the full package of sportsmanship, fun, and competition. Backed by a straightforward but powerful message from home—“Give it your all, and don’t suck!”— Braylon Wing is a name to remember, both for his skills and his character.

PLAYER PROFILE

RIVER CITY RAMPAGE 12U GREEN – BASEBALL | # 16 | 1ST BASE

# 16

From Ona, West Virginia, Brady Wallace is stepping up to the plate with focus, power, and determination. As a first baseman for the River City Rampage 12U Green team, Brady wears #16 and brings eight years of experience that started back in T-ball. Today, he’s known for his steady glove, strong bat, and quiet leadership.

One of the season’s biggest highlights? Winning the Border Wars Championship, where his team outscored their opponents 44–11 over the weekend—an unforgettable accomplishment that reflects both talent and teamwork.

Off the field, Brady enjoys camping, basketball, and playing video games. But when it’s game time, he’s all in. His favorite team is the Cincinnati Reds, and he looks up to Elly De La Cruz for his electrifying style of play. In life, Brady’s biggest role model is Michael Jordan, whose motto he lives by: “You should never give up.”

For Brady, the best part of being on a team is simple—winning and having fun. That balance of drive and joy is what makes him a teammate others look up to.

Backed by the support of his family—“We see the dedication, the character, and the heart you bring to everything you do”—Brady Wallace is a young athlete with a bright future. With hard work, humility, and heart, there’s no telling how far #16 will go.

# 20 PLAYER PROFILE

LITTLE LEAGUE | TEAM | # 20 | LIBERO / OUTSIDE HITTER

From Ona, West Virginia, Kaylee Adkins is making big moves on the volleyball court with the Own It 15U/16U team. At just 14 years old, Kaylee plays two key roles—libero and outside hitter—and brings fierce determination and a team-first attitude to every match.

Kaylee’s journey began in middle school gym class, where a casual game sparked a serious passion. She started taking lessons with Coach Becca and soon joined the 12U team. Four years later, she’s become a standout player known for her hustle, heart, and sharp instincts.

While game-day wins are exciting, Kaylee’s favorite moments come after the whistle blows—laughing and bonding with teammates at dinner after tournaments. “They’re always fun, and we laugh a lot,” she says. For Kaylee, volleyball is just as much about the friendships as it is the competition.

She’s inspired by Morgan Hentz, her favorite player, and by Jill Gillen, a standout outside hitter who proves height doesn't define your limits. “She reminds me to keep working, no matter your height or position,” Kaylee says, reflecting on her own drive and perseverance.

When she’s not on the court, Kaylee enjoys sleeping, baking, and watching TV—a well-earned break from her busy schedule. She loves the life lessons volleyball teaches, especially teamwork and communication, and values the deep friendships it has brought her.

With strong support from her family—“We are incredibly proud of all your dedication and hard work on and off the court!”—Kaylee Adkins is a rising star, proving that heart and hustle can take you anywhere.

PLAYER PROFILE

#1

BARBOURSVILLE LITTLE LEAGUE | SAMMONS/ADAMS CORRUPTORS | #1 | 2 BASE, SHORTSTOP, OUTFIELD ND

Meet Avery Frye—a standout athlete from Barboursville, West Virginia, who brings energy, talent, and heart to the diamond every time she steps on the field. Wearing #1 and playing second base, shortstop, and outfield for the Barboursville Little League Sammons/Adams Corruptors, Avery has been playing for seven years after first picking up the game just to try something new. It turns out, she was a natural.

This season’s top moment? Winning the Girls with Game Tournament—a memory that still brings a big smile. Inspired by her favorite player, Sophie Cundiff, and a loyal fan of Marshall University, Avery shows the same spirit and determination as her role models.

But it's not just about what she does on the field. Avery’s favorite part of team sports is “making new friends and making memories,” and when she’s not playing, you’ll find her shooting hoops, hanging out with friends, or strolling through the mall.

Her biggest role model? Isley Hibner, lovingly called “Hibby.” “She always keeps everyone upbeat and cheers others on whether she’s on the field or on the bench,” Avery says. “She’s a really good player, but an even better person. We all love her!”

With strong skills, a team-first mindset, and a love for the game, Avery Frye is a name worth remembering in youth sports.

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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 IS THE PLACE for athlete player profile nominations

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Knights Edition - July 2025 by Youth Nation Inc. - Issuu