07/27/2026
KBs take 12u Gold Division 1st place, going undefeated(8-0) at El Gigante in Las Cruces, NM….and with only 9 girls during multiple days of extreme heat.
What a redemption tour for our organization that was tested early this month at the Colorado Sparkler. We’ve shown that adversity truly does make us stronger, if we embrace it, learn from its tough lessons, and then apply what we’ve learned. Adversity, though painful in the moment for all, is the best teacher.
Our unfortunate showing(1-5 record) at the CO Sparkler forced some tough reflection on: our purpose, organizational goals, team goals, and most importantly team dynamics between player-player and coaches-player. Pieces were out of alignment. Some exited. Those remaining came together, reflected, talked, listened, and adjusted. The girls, parents, coaches bought in and knew we had to get back on the horse.
What we(I) learned from the girls when we just listened:
1. They are listening! These girls know the game.
2. They want to compete against the best!
3. They welcome challenge!
4. They have great belief in themselves and each other that they can beat anybody!
After hearing this, we(I) simply had to get out of their way….and the results took care of itself.
I’m thankful for our steady handed parents that maintained belief and brought constructive feedback from both their experience as parents and extensive experience from their respective professional fields.
Finally, congrats to our KB organization for an amazing 2026 season highlighted by:
- 72 win season,
- #1 USSSA Power Ranked team in NM,
- 2nd place finish at the AZ State Championship,
- 1st trip to major national tourney, Colorado Sparkler,
- capping off the season with an elusive 1st place in Las Cruces!
