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celebrate.
PLAY HARD. DREAM BIG. ALWAYS REMEMBER.
#34 PLAYER PROFILE
BARBOURSVILLE YOUTH SPORTS | #34 | FIRST BASEMAN
At just 8 years old, Lawson Francis is already playing the game with heart, hustle, and a fierce competitive edge—earning him the nickname “Honeybadger.” Whether it’s making game-changing plays at first base or throwing out runners from across the diamond, Lawson’s presence on the field is impossible to miss.
Lawson hails from Barboursville, WV, and his baseball journey started early—at just 2 years old, when he joined in on his big brother’s tee ball practices. From that moment on, he was hooked. Today, he plays for Barboursville Little League – Samson’s Adams (Minor A) as well as Warriors Baseball 8U, where his love for the game has only grown stronger.
One of his favorite sports memories so far? Throwing out a runner at third base from first to help his team win the Stripes Tournament Championship in Wayne. It’s a play that speaks to his instinct, arm strength, and clutch performance under pressure.
When asked about his favorite player, Lawson doesn’t name a major league star—he chooses someone closer to home: Coach Robert Anthony Cruz (Coach RAC), a role model who’s clearly made a big impact on his life and game.
Off the diamond, Lawson is full of energy and fun. He loves playing football, hopping on Fortnite, and hanging out with his cousins Reagan and Riley. And like any true team player, he values working together with his teammates to bring home the win.
But it’s Lawson’s heart that really sets him apart. When asked who his biggest role model is, he didn’t hesitate: “Jesus, because He is who we should try to be like every day.” That foundation of faith shines through in the way he plays—with integrity, passion, and a joy that’s contagious.
With a glove that doesn’t quit, a fearless spirit, and a mission to be a bright light wherever he goes, Lawson Francis is already making a name for himself—and the future is as big as his dreams.
Keep grinding, Lawson. We’re all rooting for you!
PLAYER PROFILE
#13
ONA MILTON LITTLE LEAGUE | #13 | PITCHER, 1 AND 3 BASE ST RD
From the town of Ona, West Virginia, Cooper Johnson has been a standout on the baseball field since his very first swing. Now wrapping up his final year of Little League with the Shaffer’s Drive-In Texas Rangers, Cooper’s been playing the game he loves for seven years, and he’s left a lasting mark on the diamond.
Inspired by his mom, who played softball, Cooper’s love for A reliable pitcher, as well as a solid presence at first and third base, is simple but telling: “Throwing strikes.” It’s a moment that captures the confidence and control he brings to the
His favorite team? The LA Dodgers, and his favorite player is none other than two-way phenom Shohei Ohtani —a fitting choice for a multi-talented athlete like Cooper. But even more than the game itself, Cooper values the friendships he’s built through the sport. “Playing with my friends and teaching the younger players new things” is what he says he enjoys most about being on a team.
Off the field, Cooper keeps just as busy. He enjoys football, hunting, and riding his four-wheeler, showing the same adventurous spirit that drives him on game day.
When it comes to role models, Cooper doesn’t have to look far. “My parents are my biggest role model,” he says. “They let me try any sport I want and encourage me in all my activities.”
With a strong arm, a steady glove, and a big heart, #13 is heading into his next chapter with a world of opportunity in front of him. As his family proudly puts it: “Cooper, you have a bright future in baseball and in life. You can achieve any dream you have.”
HIGHLIGHT REEL
#99 PLAYER PROFILE
WARRIORS BASEBALL | #99 | SECOND BASE
Meet Silas Weaver, a rising star on the diamond from Ona, West Virginia. Wearing jersey #99 for the 8U Warriors, Silas brings energy, focus, and a team-first attitude to every game. Whether he’s making plays at second base or cheering from the dugout, he’s the kind of teammate every coach wants on the roster.
Silas has been playing baseball for five years, simply because he wanted to give it a try—and it’s been a home run ever since. One of his most unforgettable moments this season came when he caught a line drive at the pitcher’s mound, a highlight that shows just how sharp his instincts are on the field.
A loyal fan of the St. Louis Cardinals, Silas may not have a single favorite player, but he looks up to two very important people: his mom and dad, who serve as his biggest role models in life.
Off the field, Silas enjoys playing with his friends, bringing the same sense of fun and friendship to everyday life that he does to every practice and game. For him, the best part of being on a team is “cheering for my teammates”— a perfect example of the positive spirit he brings to the Warriors.
With a glove in his hand and a heart full of determination, Silas Weaver is a young athlete with a bright future and a love for the game that’s impossible to miss.
PLAYER PROFILE
CABELL MIDLAND VARSITY | #21 | PITCHER
#21
Hailing from Huntington/Barboursville, West Virginia, Ayden K. Perry has spent the last eight years perfecting his game—and it shows every time he takes the mound. Now pitching for the Cabell Midland High School Varsity team, Ayden wears #21 and brings heat, focus, and leadership to the field.
This season, Ayden delivered a standout performance with seven strikeouts in just three innings, a moment that perfectly captures his dominance as a pitcher and his growth as a competitor. Inspired early on by friends and family, he’s turned a childhood passion into something much more.
A fan of Marshall University and admiring legendary flamethrower Randy Johnson, Ayden models his game after players who play with power and purpose. But his biggest role model isn’t a pro athlete—it’s his mom. “She’s always pushed me to be the best I can be and leads by example,” he says.
Outside of baseball, Ayden keeps active and balanced with hobbies like fishing, pickleball, and working out. That drive and discipline off the field help fuel his performance on it.
For Ayden, the best part of being on a team is being around his friends and having fun, a reminder that even at the highest levels of youth sports, the heart of the game is still about connection and joy.
With a powerful arm, a solid mindset, and the support of a strong team and family, Ayden K. Perry is a name to remember— both for what he’s accomplished and for what’s still to come.
HIGHLIGHT REEL
PLAYER PROFILE
CMHS LADY KNIGHTS SOCCER| #24 | MIDFIELD
#24
Meet Arabella Salser, a dynamic athlete from Ona, West Virginia, who brings drive, versatility, and passion to the soccer field. A key player for the CMHS Lady Knights, Arabella wears #24 and plays nearly every position—but shines brightest in the midfield, where her leadership and endurance stand out.
Arabella's journey with soccer began at just 2½ years old, celebrating her third birthday after her first season at the YMCA. Inspired by watching her older brother play, she quickly fell in love with the game —and she hasn’t stopped since.
This season, Arabella delivered one of her most exciting moments yet: scoring her first-ever penalty kick during a sectional tiebreaker, showing poise under pressure and a love for big moments. A fan of Sophia Smith and the U.S. Women’s National Team, she models her play after some of the sport’s best.
Off the pitch, Arabella leads a remarkably well-rounded life. She’s a member of the Elite Performance Academy’s Competition Dance Team, competes in mid-distance running, pole vault, and long jump with the CMHS Track & Field team, sings with the CMHS Rhythm In Red Show Choir, and plays club soccer with Square One Sports. Her schedule is packed, but her passion fuels every step.
When asked about the best part of being on a team, she answers with heart: “Making new friends while learning how to work together.” And she credits her parents as her biggest role models, recognizing the time, support, and love they give to help her chase every dream.
From first kicks to clutch goals, and from track to stage, Arabella Salser is a shining example of dedication, talent, and the joy of doing what you love—on and off the field.
#8 PLAYER PROFILE
ONA MILTON LITTLE LEAGUE | BAD NEWS BEARS | #8 | PITCHER
At just 8 years old, Spencer Dowdy is already making waves on the baseball field with the OMLL Bad News Bears. A proud resident of Ona, West Virginia, Spencer has been swinging a bat and throwing strikes since he was just 3½ years old, and his love for the game only keeps growing.
This season, one moment stands above the rest: winning his first game 9–0, where he pitched a shutout with 2 strikeouts and 6 strikes. It was a game that showed off his talent and determination, and it’s a memory he’ll never forget.
Spencer plays a key role on the team, covering the field as a pitcher, catcher, and center fielder—a triple threat who can do it all. His favorite team is the Cincinnati Reds, and his favorite player? The always-entertaining Coach Rack from the Savannah Bananas.
Off the field, Spencer loves to fish, ride his bike, and go camping—activities that match his adventurous spirit and love for the outdoors. He also enjoys being part of a team, especially since he plays alongside many of his school friends, saying, “I love my friends. They help me.”
When it comes to role models, his dad tops the list. “He helps me,” Spencer says simply but sincerely—showing just how much his father's support means to him both on and off the field.
With a strong arm, a love for the game, and a great group of teammates and family cheering him on, Spencer Dowdy is a player to watch and a kid with heart. His family sums it up best:
“Spencer, we are SO proud of you. You are rocking it with baseball and in school!”
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.
LORRE WILSON
#2 PLAYER PROFILE
OWN IT VOLLEYBALL CLUB | #2 | DEFENSIVE SPECIALIST/ LIBERO
From Ona, West Virginia, Payton Bowyer brings hustle, heart, and leadership to the court as a standout on the Own It Volleyball Club's 16’s Becca team. Wearing #2, Payton plays both as a defensive specialist/libero and outside hitter, showing her versatility and commitment every time she steps into the game.
Payton has been playing volleyball for six years, first inspired by watching her sister take up the sport in middle school. That early spark has grown into a full-blown passion—one that’s already brought big victories. Her favorite memory from this season? Winning the gold championship in Lexington, a thrilling moment that highlighted all the hard work, teamwork, and fun that went into the season.
A fan of powerhouse college programs like Nebraska and Louisville, Payton looks up to star Harper Murray, known for her drive and skill. But when it comes to real-life inspiration, Payton doesn’t hesitate: her mom is her biggest role model. “She always pushes me to be the best version of myself,” Payton says.
Off the court, Payton enjoys tanning, swimming, and hanging out with friends, keeping a healthy balance between competition and fun. For her, the best part of being on a team is “getting to play with your best friends and being able to lean on each other.” That sense of connection and support is what makes her team more like a family.
With grit in her game, a strong support system behind her, and big goals ahead, Payton Bowyer is a rising talent whose love for volleyball is just getting started.
PLAYER PROFILE
BARBOURSVILLE LITTLE LEAGUE | #23 | PITCHER / 2 BASE ND
#23
FMeet Emma Williams, a talented young athlete from Barboursville, West Virginia, who’s making big plays and big memories on the softball field. Representing Barboursville Little League and Village Realty Group, Emma wears #23 and splits her time between pitching and second base—two positions where she’s been making a serious impact.
Emma’s been playing the game she loves for six years, originally inspired by her passion for softball and the chance to spend time with friends. That motivation has carried her through a standout season, highlighted by an unforgettable moment: getting to pitch, recording several strikeouts, and making a double play at second base by catching a pop fly and tagging the runner. Moments like that show Emma’s awareness, hustle, and allaround skill.
While this season holds special Her favorite team is the Tennessee Volunteers, and she looks up to standout pitcher Karlyn Pickens. But her biggest inspirations extend beyond the field. Paige Bueckers, her parents, and her Papaw all serve as role models—people who have helped her grow and taught her the value of hard work and dedication.
When Emma’s not on the diamond, she’s likely on the court—basketball is another one of her favorite hobbies. No matter the sport, though, she thrives in a team environment. The best part of it all? “Getting to make lifelong friends,” she says with a smile.
Whether she’s in the pitcher’s circle or covering second base, Emma Williams brings intensity, sportsmanship, and heart to every game. With a bright future ahead, she’s proving that hard work and love for the game go a long way.
PLAYER PROFILE
#9
BARBOURSVILLE LITTLE LEAGUE – MARCO’S PIZZA | #9 | 2ND BASE/ PITCHER
From Barboursville, West Virginia, Sam Dement brings passion, precision, and a team-first attitude to the field every time he suits up for Barboursville Little League’s Marco’s Pizza team. Wearing #9, Sam splits his time between second base and the pitcher’s mound, making plays and keeping his team in the game with both his glove and his arm.
Sam’s love for baseball began early—at just 3 years old, he picked up a bat and never looked back. His inspiration? The pure love of the game. That passion continues to drive him season after season.
When he’s not on the field, Sam is a fan of the Cincinnati Reds and Marshall Thundering Herd, two teams that reflect both major league dreams and hometown pride. Off the field, you’ll likely find him fishing with his dad or relaxing with his favorite video games.
For Sam, baseball isn’t just about hits and outs—it’s about friendship and teamwork. “The best part of being on a team is having all my friends working together for a common goal,” he says, showing a maturity and team spirit beyond his years.
His biggest role model? His dad, who “shows me the right way to do things,” both in baseball and in life.
With years of experience, a great work ethic, and a deep love for the game, Sam Dement is a player who leads with heart, plays with purpose, and continues to grow with every inning.
PLAYER PROFILE
#13
BARBOURSVILLE MINOR A SOFTBALL – TOWER | #13 | 3 BASE/ CATCHER RD
With quick reflexes at third base and a strong arm behind the plate, Ryleigh James is a rising star on the Barboursville Minor A Softball – Tower team. Hailing from Barboursville, West Virginia, Ryleigh wears #13 and brings energy, determination, and a love of the game to every inning she plays.
Ryleigh’s softball journey began in 2021, when she gave T-ball a try. She liked it so much that she stuck with it—and hasn’t looked back since. Her favorite memory this season? Opening Day, a moment full of excitement, fresh starts, and the promise of a fun season ahead.
Her favorite team is Marshall University, and she looks up to softball standout Rielly Lucas—not just because they share a similar name, but because “she is nice and a great softball player.” That blend of kindness and talent clearly inspires how Ryleigh plays the game herself.
Off the field, Ryleigh keeps just as busy. She’s involved in majorettes, loves swimming, and enjoys spending time with her family and friends. That same social spirit carries onto the field, where her favorite part of being on a team is simple: “Having fun with friends and meeting new people.
Whether she’s guarding the corner at third or calling the game from behind the plate, Ryleigh James plays with joy, focus, and heart—making her a true asset to her team and a player to watch in seasons to come.
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