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Madi Mendoza just wrapped up her sophomore season as the starting shortstop for UTEP, where she’s known for her elite defense, nonstop energy, and undeniable presence on the field. But her path has been anything but easy.
In this open and honest conversation, Madi reflects on the growth she's made as a player and person — from battling early struggles with hitting to earning Defensive Player of the Year honors. She shares how living on a couch her freshman year, missing her mom, and adjusting to the speed of D1 softball tested her limits but also revealed her resilience.
She dives into the decision to enter the transfer portal, why she's seeking a new softball environment, and the inner drive that fuels her — especially her desire to make her mom and grandma proud. She opens up about her mental approach, leadership on the field, love for the grind, and even her Air Force aspirations.

If you’ve ever doubted yourself, struggled to find your place, or wondered what it really takes to level up — this episode will hit home. Madi doesn’t just talk about the game. She lives it.

Instagram: madi.mendoza8
Facebook: MadRai Mendoza
Tik Tok: mad.money08

Produced by Yael Martin and Dalton Fisher, Fisher Multimedia LLC
FisherMultiMedia.com

#podcast #caughtup #athlete #coaches #collegesoftball #travelball #clubsoftball #metrics #recruiting #hitting #playermindset #coach

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Brooke Denton is a 2026 middle infield prospect from Centennial High School in Peoria, Arizona — and her sights are set firmly on Division 1 softball. Driven, disciplined, and fiercely competitive, Brooke shares her journey of becoming the player she is today.

Growing up in a family where sports were a way of life, Brooke was surrounded by role models who taught her the value of hard work and persistence. From playing multiple sports to finding her true passion in softball, she reflects on what pushed her to stand out — including the bold decision to switch to left-handed hitting mid-career to take full advantage of her speed.

In this inspiring conversation, Brooke opens up about battling doubt, blocking out critics, and betting on herself — even when others said it couldn’t be done. She talks about how mentorship, family support, and relentless work ethic have shaped her approach on and off the field. From leadership lessons to mental toughness, Brooke’s story is about more than softball — it’s about resilience, belief, and loving the grind.

Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or parent, Brooke offers valuable insights on chasing dreams with clarity, confidence, and heart.

Produced by Yael Martin and Dalton Fisher, Fisher Multimedia LLC
FisherMultiMedia.com

#podcast #caughtup #athlete #coaches #collegesoftball #travelball #clubsoftball #metrics #recruiting #hitting #playermindset #coach

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Mandy Gardner, the dynamic head coach now leading Miami (OH) softball into a bold new era, shares her journey from elite pitcher to respected D1 leader. Raised in a Southern California sports powerhouse family — her dad coached NBA players like Klay Thompson and James Harden — Mandy’s story is packed with purpose, passion, and persistence.

She opens up about her path through top-level travel ball, an early commitment to Michigan, her transfer to Maryland, and how those experiences shaped her coaching style. Mandy also reflects on the mentors who impacted her most — from Olympic athletes to coaching legends like Tony Bennett — and how her faith and family continue to guide her leadership.

Now in her first year at Miami, she talks about the challenge and reward of building a new culture from the ground up, why she values character over numbers, and what it means to truly connect with her players. Honest, energetic, and full of insight, Mandy offers a masterclass in leadership — on and off the field.

Twitter- mandygardner24

Website for our team: https://miamiredhawks.com/sports/softball

Produced by Yael Martin and Dalton Fisher, Fisher Multimedia LLC
FisherMultiMedia.com

#podcast #caughtup #athlete #coaches #collegesoftball #travelball #clubsoftball #metrics #recruiting #hitting #playermindset #coach