To say that sport is just an event, spectacle or competition, is putting it lightly. Sports bring joy, challenges, and long lasting relationships. They bring successes and failures, triumphs and losses, emotion and so much more, to both those who watch it and those who participate in it. For me, that sport was softball. Softball has given me not only my favorite experiences, but also my best memories and some of my most treasured relationships.
My name is Alyssa Reina and I am the National Softball Director of Catching for Area Scouts. I am absolutely thrilled to be a part of this wonderful group of mentors and cannot wait to work with each individual that utilizes this program.
I grew up in Auburn, California and have been playing this sport since I was a little girl. After high school, I moved to Fargo, North Dakota where I played softball as a Bison for 5 years. During those years, I learned what it truly meant to work hard and stay dedicated to a goal. It was in those years that I learned what it meant to practice and train in ways that built a good foundation and prevented injury. I was lucky to be coached by a staff that encouraged individuality and determination.
After I graduated I went on to become a Volunteer Assistant Coach for a Power 5 program for 2 years. Here, my passion for the game grew even more than I imagined and I found my niche in teaching young student athletes the game that I love. During this time, I was able to learn a great deal from some of the best coaches in the sport of softball. In addition to coaching, I had the opportunity of serving as the Head Camp Director, which allowed me to work directly with aspiring softball players of all ages. It truly is something special to see the happiness these athletes show when they learn something new, no matter how big or small. While with the same softball program, I went back to school and decided to get my Master’s in Sport Management and will be graduating May of 2021.
My goal in this position is to give back, even if just a little, to the softball community through this platform. Any player can reach their full potential with true dedication and hard work. I also believe that doing the little things right all of the time is what makes certain athletes the best of the best. Focusing on the smallest details and creating muscle memory for each movement will allow consistency, accuracy and overall success. This Area Scouts platform is an incredible advantage for aspiring student athletes. It allows them to stay curious, and to develop and learn from some of the best around the nation. I am so beyond thankful to be a part of the team and can’t wait to get to work!