TABLE OF CONTENTS
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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.
Judson Neil
Laiklyn Matheney
Faith In Sports
Jeffrey West
Keeleigh Neil
Aubrey Runion
Caroline Harrison
Generations PT 304-760-5660
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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.
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.
YOUTH NATION EVENT
PLAYER PROFILE
In Hurricane, West Virginia, young athletes are learning more than just the game—and Judson Neil is a perfect example of that. A cornerback wearing number 8 for the Hurricane Youth Football League Redskins, Judson has quickly made his presence known in just his first year of football. Inspired by throwing the ball with his dad and watching NFL games with his family, his love for the sport has grown into something special.
One of Judson’s favorite moments this season came when he recorded his first forced fumble and recovery—a play that showed both his awareness and determination on the field. As a cornerback, he takes pride in staying focused and making big plays when his team needs it most. His admiration for Josh Allen reflects the kind of player he hopes to become: a strong leader and a great teammate.
Off the field, Judson stays just as active. He participates in soccer, basketball, baseball, and wrestling, showing his all-around athleticism. When he’s not competing, he enjoys going to church, hunting, and spending time swimming. For Judson, being part of a team is about more than wins and losses—it’s about having fun and building friendships with players from different schools.
Though he may be quiet, Judson leads by example. He listens, learns, and applies what his coaches teach him, earning respect through his effort and attitude. With his work ethic and passion for sports, there’s no doubt that Judson Neil has a bright future ahead— both on and off the field.
PLAYER PROFILE
Laiklyn Matheney is making a name for herself in Hurricane as a fierce competitor and determined athlete. Wrestling for Athena Wrestling Club, Laiklyn has spent the past four years developing her skills and proving that the sport isn’t defined by gender—it’s defined by heart. Inspired by her brother and driven by a desire to show that girls can wrestle too, she has embraced every challenge that comes her way.
This season, Laiklyn reached a major milestone by helping secure a state championship—an accomplishment that stands as her favorite sports memory so far. Competing with intensity and focus, she continues to grow as a wrestler while proudly representing her team and hometown. She looks up to Jax Forrest as a favorite athlete, drawing inspiration from his performance and dedication to the sport.
Off the mat, Laiklyn enjoys a variety of activities, including riding bikes, fishing, and spending time on TikTok. But what stands out most is her appreciation for the “family atmosphere” that comes with being part of a team. That sense of support and connection fuels her passion and keeps her motivated.
When it comes to role models, Laiklyn doesn’t have to look far. She credits her mom and dad as her biggest inspirations, recognizing their constant support and strength. With a state championship already under her belt and a relentless drive to keep improving, Laiklyn Matheney is showing everyone exactly what it means to compete with confidence, toughness, and heart.
PLAYER PROFILE
Keeleigh Neil is a well-rounded athlete from Hurricane, West Virginia, whose passion for sports shines across multiple fields of play. Whether she’s competing in softball, volleyball, or tumbling, Keeleigh brings energy, determination, and a positive spirit to everything she does. With three years of softball, one year of volleyball, and five years of tumbling experience, she continues to grow into a confident and versatile competitor.
One of Keeleigh’s favorite moments this season came on the volleyball court, when she delivered the set-winning point from the service line—a moment that highlighted both her composure and confidence under pressure. Wearing number 10 and playing second base for the Hurricane Little League Volts, she also contributes on the softball field with focus and enthusiasm. She looks up to Simone Biles, drawing inspiration from her strength, resilience, and excellence in competition.
Outside of sports, Keeleigh enjoys going to church, cheerleading, singing, painting, drawing, and swimming. Her creative and active lifestyle reflects her joyful personality and love for staying engaged. For Keeleigh, the best part of being on a team is simple: having fun and cheering on her teammates, building friendships along the way.
Her biggest role model, however, is closer to home. Keeleigh credits her dad for helping her improve in softball while also supporting her emotionally, especially when it comes to staying calm and overcoming anxiety. With that kind of support and her own growing confidence, Keeleigh Neil is not only becoming a stronger athlete, but an inspiring teammate and competitor with a bright future ahead.
PLAYER PROFILE
Aubrey Runion is discovering what makes sports so special—and for her, it’s all about the friendships along the way. Playing for Hurricane Little League, Aubrey has spent the past two years growing as an athlete while learning the value of teamwork, fun, and connection.
Her favorite memory from this season says it all: making friends. While wins and big plays are exciting, Aubrey’s love for the game comes from the relationships she builds with her teammates. That same joy shows in her answer to the best part of being on a team—getting to make friends and share those moments together.
Off the field, Aubrey enjoys spending time playing with her brother, keeping her days active and full of energy. She’s also a fan of Marshall Thundering Herd, showing pride for her local team.
When it comes to role models, Aubrey looks up to her dad. His influence and support help guide her both in sports and in life, giving her someone to look to as she continues to grow.
With her positive attitude and focus on what truly matters, Aubrey Runion reminds everyone that sports aren’t just about competition—they’re about joy, friendship, and creating memories that last far beyond the game.
PLAYER PROFILE
PLAYER PROFILE
Growing as an athlete is about more than stats on a scoreboard, and Jeffrey West is proving that every time he steps onto the field. Representing Hurricane, West Virginia, Jeffrey has continued to develop his game while building confidence and creating memories that will stick with him long after the season ends.
A fan of the Atlanta Braves and star outfielder Ronald Acuña Jr., Jeffrey brings excitement and energy to the diamond. His favorite sports memory this season was blasting his very first home run, a moment every young baseball player dreams about. That achievement was a reflection of the hard work and dedication he has put into improving his skills throughout the year.
Jeffrey’s growth has not gone unnoticed by those around him. His parent shared how rewarding it has been to watch him continue developing as a player and competitor. Whether he’s practicing, competing, or cheering on teammates, Jeffrey continues to show the enthusiasm and love for the game that makes youth sports special.
As he keeps building his abilities and confidence, Jeffrey is creating a strong foundation for the future. With a passion for baseball and role models like Ronald Acuña Jr. inspiring him along the way, there is no doubt Jeffrey will continue making big plays and even bigger memories in the seasons ahead.
PLAYER PROFILE
Whether she’s leading the fast break on the basketball court or competing on the volleyball floor, Caroline Harrison brings energy, determination, and positivity to every team she represents. Competing for HABL Aces basketball, Putnam All-Stars basketball, and Triple Hits volleyball, Caroline has built a reputation as an athlete who values teamwork just as much as competition.
Wearing number 22 as a point guard and shooting guard, Caroline understands that success in sports is about more than individual talent. For her, the best part of being on a team is the friendships created along the way. She says teammates are always there to encourage one another through difficult moments, creating bonds that extend far beyond the game itself.
Outside of basketball and volleyball, Caroline stays active with pickleball, tennis, and golf. She enjoys any opportunity to compete while spending time with close friends, showing her love for both athletics and connection with others. Her passion for sports is fueled in part by her admiration for Caitlin Clark, whose relentless work ethic and commitment to improvement continue to inspire her.
Caroline’s attitude and drive make her a valuable teammate wherever she plays. Whether she’s running the offense, encouraging teammates, or competing in multiple sports year-round, she continues to show the leadership, dedication, and character that make youth athletics so impactful. With her strong work ethic and love for the game, Caroline’s future in sports is bright.
