#athletes unlimited softball league

[aerinfrankellove]

Not to be a softball girlie on main but I’m so hype!!!!!!!

[davidshawnsown]

USA BASEBALL RPF (MODERN SETTING) 2 - Campaigns in the Ukraine (Chapter 5a)

(AN: It's been a long way since I last wrote on Tumblr. I've been doing one shots set in the war on Discord on my server there and will transcribe them here. With the situation as worse as two years ago, I have long had a writing pause to focus on Discord. But still, I did some content there, here on Tumblr, and now on Substack. I am still writing now on what the 78th BCT prepared for in the weeks and months before and after the start of their Ukrainian deployment, and expect that there will be chaptered one shots set in Ukrainian battlefields, both on the perspective of the 1st Battalion and of those individual fighters as well. I have resumed writing the RPF of the hockey boys and girls too. All these I do so that not only the world be aware of what is going on in Ukraine be known and that every effort be made to help arming the nation and financially assist its defense industry and national reconstruction, but also so that the memory of the fighting men and women of Ukraine and the many international fighters especially those who have perished will be remembered long after the end of this war. These first chapters will also serve as an introduction to the cast of characters of this series.)

DEDICATED TO THE MEMORY OF WILLIE MAYS AND ORLANDO CEPEDA

DUKE UNIVERSITY CAMPUS

DURHAM, NORTH CAROLINA

Friday, January 15, 2022

1045H EST

For the first time since activation elements of A and B Companies of 1st Battalion performed their first weekly Combat Water Survival tests in preparation for their potential Ukrainian deployment. The reason why is not just as a refresher training given that all those who were called for the mobilization program already had it done, but also to prepare for scenarios of crossing the rivers and lakes of Ukraine - as well as marshlands and swamps - without any vehicle or boat support, as well as in any scenario of any type of bridge being destroyed by Russian enemy fire as well as any Russian destruction of vehicles while crossing waterways by any means. Plans are made to make this a weekly duty as the other companies of the battalion are being activated from reserve and cadre status.

However Captain Frazier's 1st Platoon under 1LT Tyler Austin - the so-called Tokyo Boys - have some more time for swimming duties and water survival outside these, as per the behest of one of its men, as MAJ Sogard and some others view the proceedings. He can hear him shout "On me, go!" as the water splashes.

"Is that Sergeant Joe Ryan leading the company staff and 1st Platoon elements?"

BG Randolph replies, "He's the one. We all saw those swim pictures and videos he frequenly sent to us in Cary via email. He's grown so much since Tokyo."

"That's one of my A Company sergeants," the major answered.

Planned to be promoted to lieutenant colonel for his work in the brigade's reactivation to active duty, MAJ Scott Brosius added, "He's definitely been training in the pool in between our combat and training operations, Sogard."

"I'm sure he has been. And is that Major Nick Swisher?"

"Affirmative. Part of the 3rd NY, and as part of our brigade's training program, he has returned here to help in mobilization efforts. Ever the natural swimmer he is."

"Has Captain Plata known of this?"

"Has his seal of approval. And he's gonna make it a near daily duty outside of the weekly combat swim survival drills because 1st Battalion needs to be the vanguard in Ukraine operations."

"All normal so far for these lads, " added 1LT Mattalino. He says that through these and the other exercises they have been kept even more fit and healthy for operations ahead.

Sergeant Joe Ryan of 2nd squad, 1st platoon of A Company had been a part of the 2021 mobilization unit and ever the swimmer he was, alongside some of that unit, he was the lead NCO whenever pool and open water swims would occur. A native of San Francisco, CA, Ryan was selected to be a part of the 98th Tampa Bay but by the time he was already in Japan as a member of the 78th Brigade's Tokyo task unit in July of 2021, he had been transferred to Minneapolis and the battalion of the 1st Minnesota based in St. Paul operationally, since he had been named a part of its 1st Battalion upon his transfer. Being the lead swimmer in such training fixtures whenever a water scenario occurs he has been a big motivator for everyone in A Company. Captain Jake Arrietta of B Company could not help but watch from the sidelines at poolside as Joe and the 1st platoon finished their individual swim drills and emerged from the pool, all wet and bodies drenched by the water, before transitioning to combat water training invidiually - this time wearing combat shorts or speedos unlike in the earlier training in full battle gear. In both cases, the servicemen would carry their M4 rifles, which they have been inspected so that they would not be damaged by exposing to the water. It has been Joe's duty to help the company adapt to their role as the assault vanguard and to help them be ready for such scenarios in inland waters or in ocean waters. In this manner and reflecting where the 78th BCT is planning to head for deployment duties, preparing to swim in the fast flowing rivers of Ukraine, its lakes and swamps would be very easy if everyone would be prepared either if the crossing would be by themselves carrying their gear and rifles, inflatable boats or by their combat vehicles. All this was Joe's proposal when the 2021 contingent got formed up, for while this would be a reminder of his swimming days out west when he was young, it would also prepare them for the hard tasks of having to cross any inland body of water without any form of vehicular support. All of these, supervised by the medical staff, lifeguards and battalion and company leadership, would continue even during their deployment as preparation for the tasks they would do there.

"Cannot believe this Dex. How cost THEY do that?" Jake asked his XO.

1LT Dexter Fowler replied, "They did this before in Japan, I was told, and right here at stateside."

SFC LaPorta added, "I'm sure Baker Company will do the same iin the future."

"Same for me here, hoping that we would do the same as they do", added SSGT Blaine Neal.

After individual and then squad level drills, Joe's group - the A Company officers and assigned NCOs and 1st platoon personnel together - would do platoon level swim duty as a group, as usual wearing speedos or shorts to simulate a platoon level river crossing without uniforms but with rifles. Everyone at poolside has been impressed by what they have done.

And then comes that part wherein the whole drill is repeated but with combat gear and bags to simulate moving these thru rivers and lakes.

After all come out of the pool and bring their bags and gear to poolside for a final inspection, Major Sogard greets them. "Well done 1st Platoon of A Company, and to you Sergeant Ryan. Your efforts will make this unit ready for what the coming weeks and months will bring."

"It was my idea after all, for I've been a swimmer all my life," the sergeant replied. After learning that the 78th would plan to come to the aid of Ukraine in case of the feared Russian invasion that week and indeed he and his companions were the first to be mobilized officially, he devised a plan, he said, to prepare his mates in the Tokyo contingent - the first ones of A Coy 1-78th IBCT that got mobilized - for the challenges that lay in Ukraine's rivers, lakes, marshes and swamplands and how to cross them in the absence of amphibious-ready armored vehicles and any crossable bridges in the immediate vicinity, either temporary or permanent. This would continue even after they have been deployed because such a duty would happen by order of company leadership.

"Have the rifles been checked, sarge, post-swim?"

"Yes sir, all well and in good condition."

"Well noted Ryan. Well done everyone. This is just a start for this company, right Captain Frazier?"

"Affirmative sir, " Todd replied. "We will do this again in a few days and then we will do it twice every week to prepare the boys for such scenarios."

"Same for me major," added CPT Tulowitzki.

"I hope this continues well for A Company. Dismissed."

As the major left, Todd looked to Sergeant Ryan, saying "There's more we can do to prepare for these. We have a hard task to do."

"Noted, captain. Is that the same, SFC Gose?"

The company first sergeant replied, "Yup. That's the same thing Joe."

"Hoping we're ready for the next one lads. There will be more of these that will come as we prepare to answer Ukraine's call."

78TH BRIGADE COMMAND MESS

1600H EST

"Maxwell, we now have a commander for D Company of 1st Battalion, also set to be activated from cadre status."

That was the word that LTC Dale Murphy informed BG Maxwell. The search was over, 1LT Bailey Ober can finally be appointed D Company CO by the orders of LTC Fenster.

"Who's that?" Maxwell asked.

"Assigned to 1st Battalion, 1st Minnesota based out of Minneapolis. He's from Huntersville."

"Why he is being recalled?"

"Part of 2014 contingent from universities and colleges, general. The very things he learned there he now applies as a platoon XO there," Dale replied.

"That explains everything. And who chose him?"

"Major Sogard, sir. On the suggestion of no less than Sergeant Joe Ryan from A Company."

Jason then ended the talk saying, "I therefore hope he will be informed at once that he's being recalled to the active ranks. He must be ready for his first command billet. So have you guys have found a company first sergeant for these boys now that this company will be reactivated from being in the reserves?"

"Yes also. SSGT Lucas Sims, 1st Battalion 1st Cincinnati City. He too will be informed in a few days of his appointment to the role."

Then Major Sogard arrived, stunned by the decision to activate D Company.

"It now has a new commander and first sergeant? That D Company?"

"Yes Major, the one being set to be prepared for active duty," replied LTC Murphy.

"Noted gents. In a few days from now we can finally activate this. We have to hand over command to the newly selected members of the command team. Those being cadre, the last of the peacetime rifle companies, are being transferred to the battalions being activated."

"Affirmative, major. Slowly 1st Battalion is completing its mobilization phrase."

"But how about the rest of 169th Corps? Have they been informed?"

BG Maxwell replied, "Now more than ever, we have to inform them we are being mobilized given what's going on in Ukraine. They better be ready to recieve the mobilization order from USEC Manfred and his command team led by LTG Halem, who for the past years was also Corps JAG until he handed over to a new general officer this year. We must be ready to tell them now is the time to prepare the work needed for mobilization, whether Russia gears up to invade Ukraine or not."

"Noted sir. And has Swaggerty been informed of the appointment of his company XO?"

"Yes he has been called of this," Sogard replied.

"I'm sure he will be ready to be recalled to active service."

"He will be ready, Josh, to renew his commissioning oath as he prepares for this new assignment."

"And is the 4th and 5th battalions set for activation orders?"

"Yes major. They will be raised soon."

"And our tank battalion?"

"Its M60s and Abrams are being reconditioned as well. They too will have drills with us. The same goes for our field artillery battalions, soon being set to become a regiment under brigade headquarters. We have a whole lot to do to prepare for our future operations in Ukraine, even the equipment, uniforms, weapons and logistics assistance needed."

"Noted sir. Back to D Company. Are we looking on who will be filling its ranks?"

"2013-2015 collegiate, 2017 and 2018 pre-training, 2011-2015 high schools. We will notify them at home and their families. If the names called are absent due to various reasons we will be informed. If overseas by the time they are being called, we will email them to ask them to be here in Cary. Those who are overseas who are willing to wear the uniform, we will try to call them even if not named in these lists. For they too will be a part of this if they accept that mission."

@joeybosa-aaronjudge @lukeexplorer @lightninging @homerofthebraves @dilangleywritesfanfic @alekmanoah @ilovetheyankees @darkorderaf @highwaytothedangerzone502  @zackcollins

[dhart4214]

WHY BASEBALL & SOFTBALL ARE THE MOST CHALLENGING SPORTS (according to me)

AND WHY THEY ARE CONSEQUENTLY THE MOST DIFFICULT, WHICH IS A PERTINENT REASON WHY IN MY OPINION THEY ARE THE BEST SPORTS BEFORE I START… I should clarify that when I say softball, I mean fast pitch softball and not the pick-up kind that I play on Saturdays… The reason why baseball and (fast pitch) softball are the most difficult sports in my view is a straight-forward one… If you’re a wide…

[sargewood]

no one's drafted montana fouts yet for the athletes unlimited softball league

[travisdermotts]

Athletes Unlimited announced today that they will be expanding their existing softball season and introducing a traditional, city based league that will have 30 game seasons.

Right now, AU has been running both their two week long AUX season and their longer AU pro season. Both of these have utilized unconventional structures, relying on individual stats and player points and redrafting teams each week. The introduction of a more traditional league will offer a bit more stability and allow teams to build up their own identities and fanbases.

AU will still run both the AUX and AU pro seasons, moving the latter to after the end of the league season and renaming it to the "AUSL Champions Cup", allowing them to keep the unique structure that had seen so much success over the past 4 years.

As someone who has played and watched softball all my life, this is huge. Like hockey, there have been many iterations of professional women's softball leagues (some with more success than others), but to me, nothing has been as stable as the product that AU has been able to create. They have been able to attract and retain some of the sport's best talent and have been able to provide more opportunities for their athletes to play and to be paid by having multiple seasons a year.

I really hope that everyone who has given their support to the PWHL this season and is excited for the beginning of the NSL, can also find room to support another new professional women's sports league in 2025.

[angela-anaconda-was-a-lesbian]

tell us your favorite gay softball player(s)!

I am SO glad you asked. Please note that this is just the tip of the iceberg.

First of all is the woman I fell in love with in 2015 and made me keep watching softball, Haylie McCleney (R-Alabama) and her fiancee, Kylee Hanson (L-Florida State). Hanson has retired but McCleney is on the US National Team and plays in the Athletes Unlimited league.

Speaking of Athletes Unlimited, a league that started last year, there are TWO couples who met during the inaugural season! There's Taylor Edwards (L-Nebraska, also on the US National Team) and Gwen Svekis (R-Oregon).

As well as Jordan Roberts (L-Florida) and Lilli Piper (R-Ohio State).

You like older, butch lesbians? Let's talk about Kelly Kretschman (R-Alabama) and her girlfriend Ally Carda (L-UCLA, also on the US National Team). Some consider Kretschman to be the GOAT of the softball world.

What about lesbians who play for rival teams? Look no further than Amanda Chidester (L-Michigan) and her fiancé Anissa Urtez (R-Utah). As you can see, Chiddy plays for the United States National Team and Anissa plays for the Mexican National Team.

What about lesbians who play for the same team? Well, here's Alex Powers (L-Florida State) and Sierra Romero (R-Michigan, also plays for the Mexican National Team). They met while playing for the USSSA Pride, a professional team that was once in the National Pro Fastpitch league.

Okay, but are there any married lesbians with kids? Of course! Meet Alex Hugo (L-Georgia) and Taylor Schlopy-Hugo (R-Georgia), and their son Finn! Taylor has retired but Alex is on the US Women's Baseball Team!

There are SO many more but I don't want to make this post unbearably long.

[softballsource]

ATHLETES UNLIMITED SOFTBALL • Coming August 30th!

Yes, that’s right, softball is back! Athletes Unlimited is a new group that sponsors unique professional sports leagues featuring a six-week season, one venue, rotating player-selected teams, individual point tracking, and bonuses.

The first sport will be women’s fastpitch softball, kicking off on August 30, 2020 in Chicago, Illinois, followed by women’s indoor volleyball in February 2021.

AU Advisory Board Members include Abby Wambach, Kevin Durant, Jessica Mendoza, and Caroline Wozniacki!

POINTS • explained more in depth in multiple videos on their Instagram

GIVING BACK • source

For every player, AU will donate an amount equal to 50% of her season bonus to the charity of her choice

COMPENSATION • source

$10k minimum compensation per player per season

Bonuses based on team and individual performance

$1 million in total compensation

Athletes share in profits

PLAYERS • see all athletes

AJ Andrews

Kelly Barnhill

Amanda Chidester

Sam Fischer

Hannah Flippen

Aleshia Ocasio

Samantha Show

Kelsey Stewart

and more!

[ngbldocumentary]

Women’s Fastpitch Softball Links

Sites of Interest:

Brakettes Softball Archives

International Women’s Professional Softball (IWPS)

National Girls Baseball League (NGBL)

National Girls Baseball League (NGBL) Collection

National Pro Fastpitch (NPF)

Pekin Lettes

Softball National News

The World of Early Amateur & Youth Sports in Chicago

Women in Softball

Softball Organizations:

Arizona Softball Foundation (ASF)

Athletes Unlimited Softball League (AUSL)

Brakettes Softball

Japan Diamond Softball League (JD.LEAGUE)

Japan Softball League (JSL)

Liga Mexicana de Softbol (LMS)

NCAA Softball

Softball Canada

Taiwan Professional Women’s Softball League (TPWSL)

USA Softball

Women's College World Series

[aerinfrankellove]

AUSL Draft January 29th!!!

[davidshawnsown]

USA BASEBALL ONE SHOT RPF 3: Before Leaving Bucha

(AN: Dedicated to the memory of all the Ukrainian civilians and military personnel who perished in this war, including in the Battle of Bucha, as well as to now retired 2008 bronze medal Olympian Dexter Fowler and new MLB Hall of Famer Scott Rolen.)

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 30, 2022

BUCHA CITY HALL, BUCHA

1740 EEST

As elements of the 1st and 2nd Battalions 78th Brigade Combat Team began to pack up alongside the armored units and the rest of the brigade's formations already in Ukrainian soil, the first battalion commander, LTC Darren Fenster, had started to realize how much the cost in liberating Bucha and the nearby city of Irpin had on the brigade at large, considering they were all involved in the latter and had been here following liberation to begin the hard task of clearing the roads littered with destroyed Russian heavy equipment and vehicles, a task the combat engineer and maintenance battalions had done briefly so that the brigade would begin the long drive to help assist in lifting besiged Chernihiv, as well as any mine detection and clearing work if needed.

But there's another thing that set to begin. The support formations as well as the chaplaincy unit and PAO were starting to see bodies of the Russian dead as well as their Ukrainian counterparts and those civilians either killed by Russia or were caught in the battle. These would be future proof of the war atrocities the Russian people committed to the defiant people of the city. These would be buried in just weeks after the bodies have been identified by representatives of the Ukrainian government, the Kyiv Oblast authorities, and the Bucha City Council, alongside the Criminal Police of the National Police's Bucha units now reconstituted, alongside personnel from national HQ and the Kyiv Oblast branch.

Earlier that day the lieutenant colonel, together with their brigade commander BG Hopkins had led a flag lowering ceremony marking the end of the American commitment to the liberation of the two cities west of Kyiv. Given that the Americans came very late into the battles for these cities with American heavy weaponry assisting the Ukrainian war effort, he thought of how must the 2nd Battalion had lost some of its personnel while the 1st Battalion had injuries, but not any KIA, in the battles. 4th Battalion too suffered light casualty numbers, and the armored battalion and armored cavalry squadron, thankfully, only lost a few tanks due to their late arrival (majority being Abrams and M60s and not those of the light tank company). The anti tank artillery battalion and the brigade's field artillery regiment, thankfuly, suffered no casualties from their ranks, the same for the support formations. Irpin was the baptism of fire once more of the 78th Brigade, which contributed personnel to the theaters of the Second World War, had fought as a whole unit in Korea and Vietnam and Panama and as a battalion in Grenada, yet again as a whole formation in both Gulf Wars and sent a battalion to Somalia and later Bosnia, and fought with other formations of the Army in Afghanistan and Iraq against terrorist groups. Now it was finally fighting with Ukrainian formations and militias against Russian forces in support as well of the International Legion of Territorial Defense's American personnel. Their efforts and the American equipment the brigade had been using have impressed the Ukrainian servicemen they fought with on the final days of the battles for these two cities and the effectiveness of the Western materiel against Russia's war machine have even convinced the Ukrainian Ministry of Defense that Ukraine's future equipment will be mostly Western made.

Among those officers and NCOs present were the commander of the operational forces in Ukraine of the 46th Command, Brigadier General Mark DeRosa and the commanders of the 3rd NY Infantry and the 1st Minnesota Infantry, COL Aaron Boone and COL Rocco Baldelli, as well as now BG Joe Girardi, commandant of the 83rd Philadelphia. The battalions of their regiments, as well as of the 4th Rapid Reaction Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine and the 112th Territorial Defense Brigade, both of these involved in the Bucha and Irpin battles, were all present, as well as those of the 58th Mechanized Infantry Brigade and the 2nd Battalion of the Toronto Rifles, all of them Canadian residents within the Toronto area that joined the war effort once their regiment was given the OK from Ottawa to join their American comrades with an added provision of helping to transport willing Canadian veterans who plan to join the International Legion, awaiting the arrival of the multi-national personnel from the 1st Battalion. And joining them were their Ukrainian hosts, the men and women of the Ukrainian Ground Forces' Operational Command North, MINDEF and the Armed Forces General Staff who were all proud of the multi-national effort made to liberate those areas near the capital.

Following the address by the commander of the 4th Brigade, the US officers offically handed over the Bucha city flag to the representatives of the city council, officially declaring as concluded the operations to liberate these two cities given the accomplishment of the objectives of these. The last US officer to be given the city flag before the handover to a Ukrainian Ground Forces serviceman of the 58th Brigade, who will first be handing over the flag to representatives of the Ukrainian forces stationed there before being presented to the city council representative was Captain Todd Frazier of A Company of the 78th's 1st Battalion, their commanding officer. It was his efforts and that of his fellow servicemen, together with their Ukrainian counterparts, that ensured the victory of the join US-Canadian-Ukrainian force that dealt a heavy loss to 3 regiments of the Russian Airborne Forces and the Russian Ground Forces' 35th and 36th Armies, thru two brigade combat teams. It was a tough time for the 78th and the American and Canadian formations that joined them in assisting Ukraine with the recapture of two cities west of Kyiv.

At that ceremony, the American officers of the units that helped Ukraine liberate Bucha expressed not just condolences to the fallen servicemen and the civilians who died, but also cited the courage and amazing determination and teammwork they and the Canadians as well as their Ukrainian brothers shown in the past days. No less than BG DeRosa addressed that formation with remarks of what he put in his words as the "bravery and fierceness" of the boys of the 78th that helped win the victory for Ukraine in Bucha and earlier in Irpin. Similar messages were stated by the other unit commanders. LTC Fenster of the 1st Battalion addressed the personnel of the unit of their amazing work that have helped Ukraine win the twin battles and the fact that there were no fatalities among its personnel was also applauded given their late arrival in the operation.

The few Ukrainians who spoke that day were not just proud of the Ukrainians who liberated Bucha but also of the American and Canadian formations who helped them get the win and push Russia out of the capital's western suburbs. They were indeed eternally full of gratitude not just to the people of the world who helped to continue showing support to the nation in their time of need but also to the personnel of the International Legion and the 169th Corps who were the first reservists to be deployed to Ukraine and were the first to help fight for a common cause.

As the 78th Brigade's band played the State Anthem of Ukraine preceded by O Canada and The Star Splangled Banner, the forces gathered on Energetskiy Street saluted as the flags were lowered and in their place the blue and yellow Ukrainian flag was hoisted, signifying Bucha now having returned to Ukraine. Fighting may be going on north in Hostomel, but it is a sign of the capital's surroundings being slowly cleared of the Russian aggressor. Soon the 3rd and 87th regiments are to move north, while the 78th Brigade will be moving directly to reinforce the forces fighting Russians in the Chernihiv Oblast area.

As the sun began to set in the Bucha hills, LTC Fenster knew it would be long before the boys of his battalion would be on the move north but having to skip Brovary as the Russians are fighting Ukrainians there on the road to Chernihiv, but now as they begin to leave for the journey, the 1st Battalion's CO talked to the boys of A Company that set the tone for the liberation to happen, in particular the 1st platoon made up of those who were in Tokyo more than half a year prior.

"Captain Todd, officers and men of Able Company," spoke the battalion commander, " Ukraine is very much grateful to all you have contributed since we arrived. We cannot help but remember not the the fallen from the rest of the brigade, but the fact that the ENTIRE 1st Battalion made it all the way without any single fatality despite injuries - well done to all of you, especially to you guys at A Company who led the way in Irpin first and then Bucha and aiding the Ukrainians in the liberation of these cities and the country at large. I am damn proud of all of you, and I will never forget helping you achieve the impossible. Ukraine is thankful for the work you all did fighting Russians west of the capital, and one day it will reward us all greatly. As we and the whole of our battalion leave Bucha, while recalling the fallen and the dead and the sacrifices made to liberate it and Irpin, we are proud to have helped Ukraine fight the invader determined to wipe this nation off the map. Understood?"

"Sir yes sir!"

Todd replied, "Lieutenant colonel sir, it was my company's hard work and cooperation with the Ukrainians that led to this point. I am damn proud of my men and all my fellow infantrymen of the battalion, and of all of you in battalion command that helped make it possible."

"Same for me and Baker Company," Captain Jake Arrietta replied.

"Ditto, colonel," added CPT Kylee Lahners, the C Company commander. The other company commanders said the same. It was indeed a great effort by everyone that made those twin victories possible.

Bucha will soon rebuild, but the mark left by the forces of liberation will remain for generations, LTC Fenster thought, knowing that soon they will be back to prepare for the victory parade in iconic Maidan Nezalezhnosti alongside their Ukrainian partners and the many who will be fighting with them together under a singular cause of assisting Ukraine in its struggle against the Russian occupier, no matter what.

@joeybosa-aaronjudge @lightninging @homerofthebraves @dilangleywritesfanfic @auroralightsthesky @alekmanoah @ilovetheyankees @darkorderaf @highwaytothedangerzone502 @zackcollins

[guncelkal]

Athletes Unlimited Volleyball scores big with Nike, GEICO, Gatorade, and more sponsorships for debut season

Athletes Unlimited Volleyball scores big with Nike, GEICO, Gatorade, and more sponsorships for debut season

Summary List Placement Athletes Unlimited is just days away from serving up its inaugural volleyball season, but the network of professional women’s sports leagues known for debuting with softball last summer already has some heavy hitters on its bench. With 44 of the best volleyball players on the planet ready to compete and games scheduled to broadcast on national television and stream across…

[olympicgames-en]

Cat Osterman to retire after Olympics, '21 league

#OlympicGames [ESPN]Defending champion Cat Osterman has committed to return for the second season of Athletes Unlimited softball before she retires.

[aerinfrankellove]

I’m so hype

[davidshawnsown]

USA BASEBALL RPF (MODERN SETTING) 2 - Campaigns in the Ukraine (Chapter 4b)

CAMP LASORDA TRAINING RANGE

Cary, North Carolina

1201H EST

"Please introduce yourselves," Captain Frazier stated to the three individuals who were with 1LT Realmuto and SSG Schwarber and were observing the company-wide tactial combat exercise that morning.

"Actually 5 of us here, but I'm not from the 2017 contingent. Name's Corporal Kody Clemens, and I'm from 1st Battalion 94th Detroit. And one of us may be also the one responding to the email lately."

"And that's from Major General Tony Reagins, sir, if you would remember," 1SGT Gose said.

"I know, sir."

"Why you're here?" asked Todd.

"Dad served with the national contingent with the 78th Brigade in 2006. He sent me there after knowing that Major General Reagins wants volunteers from all the regiments of the 169th Corps in the brigade's 1st Battalion given the ongoing Ukrainian situation as well as to help boster its ranks for future deployments abroad."

"Roger Clemens you may say?"

"Yes sir. Sent me a letter that he wrote for all of you. Stated that he will return to the brigade one day."

"Rank?"

"Retired a lieutenant colonel, and will be here in an advisory role. Was in a number of regiments of the 169th Corps."

"Speciality?"

"Rifleman/NLAW launcher and a squad deputy leader, can work with other squads when he was in the enlisted. Was a OCS grad in 1988."

"Welcome to A Company Kody, you will be a good member of of one of the platoons of your choice. Your call."

"With the 2nd Platoon I will be assigned, captain."

"Permission granted, I will inform 1LT Bohm that you've chosen his unit at once."

"Thank you, captain Frazier." Then, the young corporal gave the letter to the company commanding officer, and he read it with reverence.

"That's your father who wrote that letter?" asked CPT Tulowitzki.

"Yes sir."

"So who's with you today?" LTC Fenster asked.

Kody replied, "Let him be the one.. Actually two got the emails from General Reagins and came with to the camp with me. He will be the one first, then I'll ask the other. And also another one was part of 2017 contingent, which means six of us who came with the lads from Philly." And then he asked the one who was with him to get himself introduced.

"First Lieutenant Clayton Kershaw. A Company, 1st Battalion, 83rd Los Angeles (mechanized)."

"You served with the brigade before?" Todd asked the serviceman from Dallas.

"Yes captain, 2005 high schools contingent."

"What year you joined your regiment?"

"2006. Commander then was BG Colleti and was a direct entry specialist. Was reassigned to 1st Battalion's A Company in 2008. Got into OCS 4 years later after the regiment noticed my leadership skills with 2nd squad merited me taking the course to become an officer."

"Specialty?"

"Marksman/sniper, but I also use my sidearm pistol. Can also utlitize MPATS systems like the Javellin and M72 Law. And also, I'm a platoon commander in that company. I've delegated the duty of platoon leader to 1LT Tony Gonsolin upon recieving the email from MG Reagins, and before I left for Cary, had Tony informed in person that he's in charge while I'm away."

"Glad you took the call," 1LT Trevor Story stated. "You joining 8th Platoon?"

"Yes lieutenant Story."

"Welcome, sir, you got the job."

"Thank you sir, will be ready to help your boys."

"SSGT Sonny Gray, 1st Battalion, 1st Cincinnati City. Part of 2017 mobilization contingent under COL Leyland. But when I was being recalled from being a part of that contingent this week I got an email from the 1st Minnesota relating to a personnel transfer to that regiment. I replied accepting the offer and thus was supposed to report to Minneapolis and then to the training battalion in Florida next month."

"With my 1st Battalion?!" replied a shocked SGT Joe Ryan.

"Yes, with your unit. That regiment under COL Baldelli sent a member of the 2nd Battalion operationally deployed with one of their battalions to Cincinnati to serve in my stead."

"So welcome then to the Twin Cities, you are going to like serving with me when we're back to our original regiments. But now you will be under the colors again, Sonny."

"Thanks Joe."

"Original regiment?" MAJ Sogard asked.

"1st Oakland. Got my enlisted papers in 2011 and was moved to 1st Battalion two years later."

"And you did serve in the 78th Brigade before?"

"Yes. 2009 and 2010, with collegiate contingent. With the 1st one that I served when I got the call, it was as part of the overall contingent led by then Major Derek Jeter."

"And before you were in Cincinnati," Todd asked, "did you serve in New York?"

"Yes, A Company 1st Battalion 3rd New York. YOUR unit then, Todd. I still remember meeting you that summer when I was moved there. And you were with two others?"

"Yes, Sonny, now SSGT Tommy Kahnle and 1LT David Robertson who also was with me and the others last year in Japan."

"And you did transfer to Cincinnati after two years?"

"Yes captain."

"So you were a sniper and grenadier no matter where you served?"

"Affirmative, sir."

"1LT Bregman, please welcome him back to 5th platoon," Todd ordered. "I'm sure he has memories of that fall training exercise of 2017, but given that he was a part of that year's contingent he will be taken care of by you and the other officers."

"Thank you Todd," Alex replied. Then, looking at Sonny, he told him, "1LT Brandon Crawford expects to see you with the boys today, Sonny. Welcome to 5th platoon."

"Glad to be back there with the rest, Alex. Tell Brandon and everyone there I'm happy to be reunited with them, sir."

"Thanks staff sergeant. I expect you will be a great asset to the platoon."

Then the next one spoke.

"SGT Jonathan Lucroy, A Company, 1st Battalion 72nd Atlanta."

"Part of 2017 contingent?" Troy asked.

"Yes I was, 1st platoon.. Was a squad commander that year. Called up from 61st Texas."

"So you were with the Atlanta regiment last year?" asked 1SGT Gose.

"Yes, first sergeant."

"Welcome back to the 78th," Todd said. "You will be with Alex and the boys of 5th platoon today under Lieutenant Crawford."

"Got it, cap. Cannot wait to be back with the boys of Crawford's platoon, Todd."

"Birthplace?"

Luc, as his then comrades in Milwaukee called him, stated that he was from Eustis in Florida. He later stated that he was a grenadier for his unit.

"Sergeant First Class Giancarlo Stanton gentlemen," the next man greeted. "Part of 3rd squad of the 2017 contingent. Now a part of the very Yankees of the 3rd NY. Was in Miami when the call came out. No less than regimental colonel of the 93rd, BG Jeter, asked me if I would be fit for COL Boone's regiment in the Big Apple, and I said yes."

"Still remember you sergeant when we first met in 2012," Todd stated. "I was a young 2LT then."

"Same for me in Colorado", Troy added. "Glad you are back with the brigade. I am certain Alex will help you make the transition to being a part of 5th Platoon."

"Thanks for the welcome," he replied. "I'm ready to be back with the boys I trained with."

1SGT Gose, upon welcoming Stanton back to the 1st Battalion's A Company, told him, "You will surely be fit for your duty to the nation. You gonna call those from your battalion who are graduates of the brigade's training program to come here to Cary?"

"Sure do sergeant, as my current regimental commander was a graduate of the program".

"I'm sure you will do just that."

Then the second of those other two who responded to MG Reagins stepped up.

"SSGT Adam Ottavino, gentlemen."

"Regiment previously assigned?" asked 1LT Austin.

"1st Boston. Already accepted a transfer offer from the 62nd New York Light Infantry."

"Adam, you previously served with me in the 3rd NY before?" Stanton asked.

The staff sergeant replied, "Yes I was."

"And the same in Colorado?" added Tulo.

"Yes captain."

"Pretty much the same," said 1LT Story. "The people of Denver cherished your days here with the 93rd Colorado. And, by the way Kyle, you served with that staff sergeant over in Boston?"

"Yes I did serve with him in the 1st Battalion 1st Boston under COL Alex Cora."

"Welcome to A Company", Todd said. "It's a pleasure having you around this time. So you're planning to reunite with Trevor with his platoon?"

"Yes, captain," Adam replied. "Have to be together with one of my fellow officers."

"Accepted. 8th Platoon welcomes you staff sergeant. 1LT Story will be your platoon leader at this time."

"Thanks Captain."

"Speciality?"

"Marksman/NLAW launcher. Can also use a MANPAD for air defense."

"You're gonna make it big here, Ottavino."

"That's all that came here," Corporal Kody stated. "I know that these guys who were with me came here with one purpose in mind. They came to Camp Lasorda determined to be ready to answer the country's call and prepare to come to the aid of our allies abroad in due time. Officers, I hope these new arrivals will be part of the boost needed for 1st Battalion's A Company to be combat ready in the weeks to come, these new servicemen will not be the last of those who will be coming here."

"Indeed more of them will be coming," replied 1LT Tulowitzki. "I expect more responses to come from that email."

In the meantime BG Randolph had called up the other assigned officers of the 2017 contingent: MAJ Alan Trammell, now a retired LTC from the 895th Detroit and MAJ Tino Martinez, a 1LT then with the 1988 national mobilization contingent. Alan would be recalled back in an advisory role with Tino returning as part of brigade staff. They told him they will be in Cary that week.

B COMPANY MESS

Camp Lasorda, Cary, NC

1430h EST

Every member of B Company 1st Battalion 78th Brigade's leadership staff as well as the rest of the companies was given a copy of the letter from the brigade commander confirming the first members of C Company, that all-women's unit, that will be beginning mobilization work this week in Cary town. They are as always to be stationed as part of 1st Battalion and will be ready to serve with the rest of that formation. 1LT Lahners was confirmed its CO with 1LT Underwood as XO, both women having arrived there in Cary last night, told BG Maxwell earlier to 1LT Fowler. MSGT Gianelloni was to be given her permanent appointment as company first sergeant, and she just arrived in Cary the night before as well. The 2021 contingent was to be the basis of company command and its 1st platoon with the 2019 contingent being 2nd Platoon of the same company. 3rd and 4th Platoons respectively would be from elements of the 2018 and 2017 contingents. Veteran officers and NCOs who served in the past would be assigned to the battalion proper and the company if needed. As in the rest of the 1st Battalion it is a Bradley battalion and thus its drivers and crews are expected to be a mix of men and women, the latter forming the majority.

The full roster of the 2021 contingent by now set to be activated was:

1LT Lahners, company CO

1LT Underwood, company XO

1LT Sementelli, company adjutant

1LT Benites

1LT Greenwood, 1st Platoon commander

1LT Kimbrell

1LT Hugo, 1st Platoon XO

2LT Gortarez

2LT Jorge, 1st Platoon adjutant

2LT Ryan

2LT Maston

MSGT Gianelloni, company first sergeant

SFC Meidlinger, 1st platoon sergeant

SSGT Baum

SSGT Reynolds

SGT Martinez

SGT Lansdell

SGT Jennings

SGT Albayati

SGT Kaplan

CPL Velez

CPL McFadden

CPL Picardo

CPL Jennings

CPL Berger

CPL Johnson

CPL Fonesca

PFC Aldrich

PFC Benach

PFC Schaber

PFC Sneddon

PFC Coria

PFC Calvet

The 2019 contingent, also being activated, was as follows:

1LT Hay, 2nd Platoon CO

1LT Schaber

2LT Paulovich

2LT Tsujikawa

SSGT Bazzano, 2nd Platoon Sergeant

SSGT Hanscom

SSGT Durham

SGT Schroeder

SGT Womack

SGT Cobb

CPL Gibbs

CPL Zimmerman

CPL Haberstich

CPL Blunt

SPC Hamilton

PFC Schutte

The 2018 contingent also being activated - per an addition to the letter - would be composed of:

1LT Diaz

1LT Corrella

1LT Baca

SSGT Cobb

SSGT Baltzell

SGT Reynolds

SGT Borders

SGT Piagno

SGT Sneddon

SGT Curtis

CPL Diaz

CPL Christie

CPL Purser Collins

CPL Estocado

MAJ Alex Oglesby would be reassigned to 1st Battalion as part of its staff while the roles of the rest of the command officers of the 2019 and 2021 contingents would come later. The 2017 and 2016 contingents would later be announced as the basis of the company's 3rd platoon.

"Is that all that will come here?" Asked 1LT Fowler. Captain Arrietta said yes, stating that they will be the first to arrive to form C Company and more will be arriving there.

The captain knew that it would be a matter of time before C Company would be activated, and soon the rest of 1st Battalion will be formed up from cadre status while the 2nd Battalion is being activated. Also he added that there would be more slated to arrive to reinforce the unit and they would be undergoing refresher training.

Then SSGT Reynol Mendoza arrived alongside 1LT Kylee Lahners - who would be potenially promoted to being a captain. Part of the women's mobilization units of the years before, she was appointed C Company's new CO and had began to tour Camp Lasorda as part of her preparations for the refresher course before the company would be activated. Reynol, part of the 2021 mobilization team, had to be recalled as part of company staff.

"Afternoon gentlemen," she said, as B Company staff stood at attention.

"Welcome back, Kylee," Jake responded. "And hello, sir, and welcome to Camp Lasorda."

"It's a pleasure, captain," Reynol responded. The two were among the first to be acquainted - once more - to their surroundings in Camp Lasorda alongside those other officers and NCOs who arrived to the camp that week as part of the mobilization process already ongoing. They are by now getting set to prepare to answer the nation's call to service at any cost.

"What brings you here to B Company mess?" 1LT Brian Barden asked.

Kylee responded, "I'm here because I'm set to formally begin taking over command of C Company in days and to prepare for its active duty tour. I and the many women who were trained here are now being asked to return to fill its ranks by now."

"Captain," Reynol added, as one of those who are assigned to the women's contingents, it has been a great duty to help these ladies. Now that the call for mobilization is upon us, I thank the 78th Brigade command for trusting us to help the women be ready for combat operations in the future possibly in Eastern Europe."

Major Gall then suprised them with word from the battalion. Come their Ukrainian deployment he would be promoted LTC possibly if the brigade would be OK with, because his long time leadership skills as part of territorial companies and battalions in the USA and his reassignment in 2013 as part of 46th Command's HQ have been noticed by LTG Gaski who is looking for a potential successor to him he may be starting to be training to. However he would be assigned to either Kyiv to study in the National Defense University, not at the Command and General Staff College in Fort Leavenworth, if the deployment to Ukraine may proceed, or to Bulgaria at the Rakovsky Command and GS Academy, or to the UK's Joint Services Command and Staff College. Thus he may miss more time with the rest of his men from 2008 in preparation for command positions.

"You're now a major?" Asked Kylee.

"Yes I am. Preparing to be ready for my first full command duty in the future. Right now, I may be set to leave B Company to join 1st Battalion staff," he replied.

"I cannot believe you're leaving Bravo Company," Jake added.

"I'm sure to miss you guys. But I will never forget those days wherein I trained to fight with this outfit," Gall replied.

"Will cherish those damn days in Beijing, major," added 1LT Fowler. "But never forget that all of us have an oath to defend this nation from her external and internal enemies. Remember always that no matter where you go, the memories of your time in Cary will help you be ready to go to greater heights. You will always carry in your uniform your brigade insignia as a reminder of your duty to help defend this nation no matter what the cost, for one day you may be appointed to lead this outfit and soon be at the helm of the legendary 46th."

"Same as well," added 1LT Strasburg. "No matter what may happen, the Beijing Boys will always remember you being a part of that group. Remember always, you have a country to represent and help defend no matter where you may go."

"Good luck Major Gall," Kylee said. "Your battalion and company will miss you for now but know that you will always be a soldier of this nation and a part of the legendary 46th Command and the great 78th Brigade Combat Team. Don't you always forget your calling."

"Same for me here," added SSGT Mendoza.

"Add my greetings, added SFC LaPorta. "I am damn proud of how you grown since we deployed. I wish you the best."

Gall replies, "Thanks everyone. I have made it so far to this point thanks to all of you. My departure has not yet been set, and I don't know where I can study my courses, but I will always keep you in my thoughts while I'm away."

"Major," CPT Arrieta informed him, "we have a word first. D Company is being activated under 1st Battalion in weeks."

"Has Battalion command been informed?"

"Yes but no final roster for its 1st Platoon. We will find out who will be CO, adjutant and Company 1st Sgt in days, but we have a company XO: 1LT Travis Swaggerty."

"Who's that captain?"

"Part of 2017 national collegiate mobilization unit. He's from the 82nd Pittsburgh and has been informed yesterday that he's being recalled."

"Noted. All of us in the battalion will make sure he will feel welcomed back by this week."

"Thanks Major Gall. I am sure he and others will be ready to prepare to answer the nation's call and the pleas of the Ukrainian people and those of Eastern Europe."

"He will better be," Jake replied. "The brigade needs him to take his place now."

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