This article was written by BenitoLink intern Ariana Rivera. Lea este artículo en español aquí.
Local standout softball player Mia Mead has been selected to play for the All-American softball team and will represent Team U.S.A. at the world championships in Puerto Rico in November.
The 14-year-old Hollister resident received an offer to join the team after her performance at the EXACT X1 showcase in June, which was attended by National Collegiate Athletic Association and National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics softball coaches.
Austin College head softball coach Brandon Johnson coached Mead at the showcase and said in the short time they worked together, he took notice of her work ethic and athleticism.
“She’s got just so much talent and she’s so coachable that it’s not surprising at all. She’s going to do great things,” Johnson said.
Johnson said that he and other college coaches are looking to recruit well-rounded athletes, and he considers Mead a natural.
“I really enjoy being able to play softball,” Mead said. “I don’t know how to explain it. It’s a part of me, I just feel like I have to play.”
Mead said her love for the game came early in life, and it has grown through the years. She has played for Hollister Heat recreation teams, Hollister Heat and Hollister Blackjacks travel teams. Her current team is Firecrackers Bay Area based in Morgan Hill.
But being on the All-American team means that the girls selected will not have a chance to practice together before they compete on the field.
“I’m nervous because I’m not gonna know anyone,” she said, “and it’s gonna be hard to play with them, but also I’m excited to get to know people, and be able to play with other people outside my comfort zone.”
Although the team dynamic will be different, Mead said her mental preparation will remain the same.
“It’s all about [the mentality],” she said. “I just prepare myself when I try to tell myself, ‘Okay, you’re ready. You can do this. I know you can.’”
Mead credits her father, Scott Mead, as the coach who taught her everything from hitting to fielding, and he continues to be her coach and manager.
“It’s a constant grind for her,” Scott said. “She works five days, five to six days a week. Whether it’s in the gym or on the field. And so it’s paid off, clearly.”
Scott said that he hopes this tournament will allow his daughter to get a sense of what’s out there and the opportunities that can come from her hard work. He said this is a stepping stone, a chance for her to make amazing contacts and lasting friendships.
“I’m really excited about being able to show off my talent and show college coaches what I can do,” Mead said.
Mead and her father said that this opportunity carries significant expenses, and they are seeking sponsorships and donations to help offset the cost.
To contribute, contact Scott Mead at smead184@gmail.com or by phone at (831) 801-5648.
The BenitoLink Internship Program is a paid, skill-building program that prepares local youth for a professional career. This program is supported by Monterey Peninsula Foundation AT&T Golf Tour and Taylor Farms.
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