YOUTH NATION EVENT
MAY 9TH, 2026
Marshall University Men’s Baseball
Jack Cook Field - 4pm
PLAYER PROFILE NOMINATION
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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.
Naomi McGhee
Blake Lemaster Noelle Burdine Local Business
Zander Garcia
Faith In Sports
Ryleigh Evans
Trinity Lee
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
CK
LITTLE LEAGUE – GREEN TEAM | NO. 10
From Kenova, West Virginia, Naomi McGhee is a versatile young athlete who brings energy, determination, and heart to every inning she plays. Whether she’s in the outfield, holding it down at third base, or stepping onto the pitcher’s mound, Naomi is always ready to make an impact for her team.
Naomi’s journey in softball began early, starting with T-ball at just four years old. Inspired by her cousin—who played professionally and now works as a top scout for the Los Angeles Dodgers—Naomi quickly developed a love for the game and a vision for her future. With dreams of one day following a similar path, she approaches each game with purpose and passion.
A standout moment from her season came during an impressive defensive play in the outfield. After catching the ball in center field, Naomi fired a throw all the way to third base to get the out—a play that showcased her awareness, arm strength, and confidence under pressure.
Naomi looks up to Marshall University softball pitcher Maddie Veal, admiring her hustle, kindness, and consistency. That same attitude shows up in Naomi’s own game, as she strives to give her best effort every time she steps on the field.
For Naomi, being part of a team is about more than just competition—it’s about connection. She loves building friendships, creating lasting memories, and working together toward a common goal. Off the field, Naomi enjoys reading, drawing, and riding her scooter or bike, showing that her creativity and curiosity extend beyond the diamond.
With her strong work ethic, positive spirit, and love for the game, Naomi McGhee is not only a player to watch—but a teammate and person who makes the game better for everyone around her.
PLAYER PROFILE
LAWRENCE COUNTY BULLDOGS | NO. 42
Hailing from Louisa, Kentucky, Blake Lemaster is a dedicated young athlete who brings toughness, heart, and a team-first mindset to the field. Playing quarterback for the Lawrence County Bulldogs, Blake has spent the last three years developing his skills through both regular and travel seasons, showing steady growth and a strong commitment to the game.
While he lines up under center, Blake isn’t afraid to step up wherever his team needs him most. One of his favorite memories from the season came when he made an unexpected, hard-hitting tackle—proving that no matter the position, he’s always ready to give maximum effort for his team.
Blake draws inspiration from NFL quarterback Drake Maye, admiring his playmaking ability and leadership on the field. But his greatest role models are closer to home —his mom and dad. He looks up to their work ethic and finds motivation in making them proud, which fuels both his performance in sports and his success off the field.
For Blake, football is about more than just competition. He values the friendships he builds and the shared effort that comes with being part of a team. Whether it’s putting in the work at practice or battling it out on game day, he thrives on the bond formed with his teammates.
Outside of football, Blake enjoys spending time outdoors and swimming, embracing an active lifestyle that keeps him moving year-round.
With his determination, humility, and strong support system behind him, Blake Lemaster continues to grow as both a player and a person—making a lasting impact every time he steps onto the field.
PLAYER PROFILE
SOUTH POINT YOUTH LEAGUE BASKETBALL | NO. 50
From South Point, Noelle Burdine is a rising presence on the basketball court, bringing determination, confidence, and a love for the game every time she steps into the paint. Playing center for the South Point Youth League, Noelle has quickly developed her skills over the past two years, proving that hard work and belief in yourself can take you far.
Inspired by watching basketball on TV and seeing her peers compete, Noelle stepped onto the court ready to challenge herself—and she’s done just that. One of her proudest moments this season came when she was selected to the All-Star team and helped lead her teammates to a championship win at the Ironton All-Star Tournament. It was a moment that celebrated not just her individual growth, but the teamwork and effort shared with those around her.
Noelle looks up to A’ja Wilson of the Las Vegas Aces, admiring her strength, skill, and dominance in the game. As a center, Noelle is working to build that same presence—playing with confidence and continuing to grow her abilities with each game.
For Noelle, being part of a team is all about connection. She loves meeting new people, building friendships, and sharing experiences that go beyond the scoreboard. That sense of community is what keeps her motivated and excited to keep improving.
Off the court, Noelle expresses her creativity through cheerleading, makeup, and making TikTok videos. She also enjoys collecting Squishmallows, showing a fun and lighthearted side to her personality.
Her biggest role models, though, are her parents. With her dad’s kindness and humor and her mom’s constant support and encouragement, Noelle has a strong foundation that continues to shape who she is both as an athlete and as a person.
With her drive, positivity, and growing skillset, Noelle Burdine is making her mark—and her journey is just getting started.
PLAYER PROFILE
PLAYER PROFILE
HUNTINGTON HOUNDS | NO. 8
From Portsmouth, Ohio, Zander Garcia is a hardworking and enthusiastic athlete who brings energy and positivity to the field every time he plays. As a member of the Huntington Hounds in Barboursville Little League, Zander has spent the last five years growing his love for baseball and developing his skills at both left field and first base.
Zander’s journey began at just three years old when he started playing T-ball as a way to stay active and meet new friends. Since then, his passion for the game has only grown stronger. One of his favorite moments this season came when he hit an out-of-the-park home run —an exciting achievement that reflects the effort and dedication he puts into improving his game.
He looks up to Tanner Thomas as his favorite player, but his biggest inspirations are his parents. Zander admires their hard work and constant support, and he carries their advice with him every day—especially the importance of being a leader and someone who celebrates others’ successes.
When he’s not on the baseball field, Zander stays active with a variety of interests, including soccer, basketball, swimming, and video games. Most importantly, he values spending time with his family and friends, keeping those relationships at the center of everything he does.
For Zander, being part of a team is about more than just playing the game. He loves cheering on his teammates, learning together, and having fun while doing something they all enjoy. That team-first attitude shows in the way he plays and supports those around him.
With his strong work ethic, positive mindset, and love for the game, Zander Garcia is a player who not only shines on the field but also makes a lasting impact off of it.
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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.
PLAYER PROFILE
From Huntington, West Virginia, Trinity Lee is the kind of athlete every team needs—dedicated, dependable, and always ready when the moment calls. Wearing number 5 and holding it down at third base for Hite Saunders, Trinity brings a strong presence to the field, combining hard work with natural leadership.
In just three years of playing, Trinity has already made a big impact. One of her favorite moments this season came at a Halloween tournament, when she nearly sent a ball over the fence—a glimpse of the power and confidence she continues to build at the plate. But what truly sets Trinity apart isn’t just her performance—it’s her mindset. She plays with a teamfirst attitude, always putting her teammates before herself and stepping up in clutch moments when it matters most.
Trinity’s journey into softball was inspired by her mom, and that influence still shapes her approach to the game today. She also looks up to standout pitcher Montana Fouts, drawing inspiration from her competitive edge and dominance on the field. Off the field, Trinity’s biggest role models are her parents, who she admires for their hard work and the way they provide for their family. Their example fuels her drive to give her best in everything she does.
For Trinity, being part of a team goes beyond wins and losses. It’s about building friendships, growing through challenges, and developing into a leader alongside her teammates. Whether celebrating victories or pushing through tough games, she values every part of the journey.
When she’s not on the field, Trinity enjoys spending time with her family, playing Roblox, and being outdoors—keeping a balance between competition and fun.
With her work ethic, leadership, and ability to rise to the occasion, Trinity Lee is continuing to set the standard for what it means to be a great teammate —and she’s only getting started.
PLAYER PROFILE
PLAYER PROFILE
From Gallipolis, Ohio, Ryleigh Evans has found her home on the softball field—and she’s making the most of every moment. Wearing number 44 and playing catcher and third base, Ryleigh brings energy, enthusiasm, and a growing confidence to her teams, River City Rampage and South Gallia Little League.
After trying several sports, Ryleigh discovered her passion for softball three years ago, and she hasn’t looked back since. Her love for the game shines through in the moments she cherishes most—from announcing players at a game, to watching a teammate hit a home run, to standing alongside her role model, Tia Titi, during the national anthem. One of her biggest milestones this season was playing in her first travel tournament with Rampage, an experience that marked an exciting step forward in her journey.
Behind the plate, Ryleigh looks up to Tia Titi, inspired by her skill as a catcher and her presence on the field. Off the field, her biggest role model is her mom, someone she admires for her kindness, love, and the example she sets every day.
For Ryleigh, being part of a team is all about connection. She loves making new friends and building relationships through the game, creating memories that go far beyond the scoreboard. That same joy carries into her life outside of softball, where she enjoys hunting, painting, going to rodeos, and spending time outdoors.
A proud supporter of Marshall University athletics, Ryleigh continues to grow in her skills and confidence with each game she plays. With her passion for softball and love for her teammates, she’s embracing every opportunity that comes her way.
As she continues her journey, one thing is clear—Ryleigh Evans has found her sport, and she’s just getting started.
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