Greenfield Heat Softball is preparing to bring a new level of competitive youth softball to the area with plans to field both 10U and 12U teams for the 2027 spring and fall seasons. The program is led by founder and coach Bethany Schrader, who grew up playing softball and is now reliving her love for the sport through her children and the players she coaches.
Schrader originally planned to form a single team, but interest quickly grew. With her stepdaughter eligible for 12U and her daughter eligible for 10U, and with several families expressing interest, she decided to expand the program to two teams. Schrader said the goal is to give more girls the chance to play competitive softball without the financial burden often associated with travel programs.
Greenfield Heat is seeking dedicated, hardworking players who love the game and are willing to commit throughout the spring, summer and fall. Schrader said the program still has several roster spots available, with an estimated six openings per team. Coaches are looking for players who show heart, drive and a willingness to work hard. The program emphasizes conditioning, skill development and teamwork, with plans for two to three practices per week.
Affordability is one of the program’s biggest priorities. Schrader noted that many travel softball programs cost between one thousand and two thousand dollars per player. Greenfield Heat plans to charge approximately three hundred fifty dollars per player, with payment plans available over the winter. Fundraising opportunities will also help families offset costs.
The team has already held several fundraisers, including a car wash, lemonade stand and bake sale. Schrader said the girls raised about ninety percent of the money needed for their summer activities. Local sponsors also helped cover jersey expenses. She said these experiences have helped the players bond and form strong friendships, creating a family-like atmosphere within the program.
Schrader said Greenfield is the natural home for the program. She and her family were born and raised in the community, and she hopes to bring back a local softball opportunity that has been missing for many years. Interest has already spread beyond Greenfield, with families from Bainbridge and Washington Court House reaching out.
The 2027 season is expected to begin with practices in early spring, followed by tournaments beginning in mid to late spring. The program hopes to participate in at least five tournaments, which could result in fifteen to twenty-five or more games depending on bracket play. Most tournaments will be within an hour to an hour and a half of Greenfield. A fall-ball season will follow.
The coaching staff includes Schrader, Carl Cottrell and Destry Snyder. Schrader has played softball her entire life, including t-ball, all-star teams and multiple travel programs. Cottrell brings extensive softball and coaching experience, and Snyder has a strong background in baseball. Schrader said the combined experience gives Greenfield Heat a solid foundation for player development.
For the first season, Schrader’s goal is to build a strong foundation. She wants players to improve their skills, gain confidence, build relationships and find the same love for the game that she and her coaching staff share. While winning is important, she said the program’s focus is on growth, teamwork and creating lifelong memories. If the program continues to grow, she hopes to add additional age groups in future years.
Schrader said being part of the Heat family means a great deal to her. She has always envisioned herself coaching, and her daughter has had a glove in her hand since she was four years old. Seeing the program take off is more than just forming teams. It is an opportunity to give local girls a place to belong, learn and grow.
As a new and growing organization, Greenfield Heat Softball is grateful for the support of the community. The program is open to working with sponsors who are willing to help with league fees, tournament costs, equipment, uniforms and other expenses throughout the season. Schrader said every sponsorship makes a difference and helps provide players with more opportunities to learn, compete and grow both on and off the field.
Families interested in joining the program or learning more can contact Coach Schrader at 937-403-1796.