Tragic news to report out of the travel ball world as the mother of a 2029 standout player in the Beverly Bandits organization died without warning last Thursday, October 30, 2025.

Heidi Estrada, the 40-year-old mother of Lily Estrada, a talented 14-year-old infielder for the Beverly Bandits – Perry 14U travel team based on the Ohio/Pennsylvania border, was found unresponsive by her daughter and is thought to have passed suddenly from an aneurysm.

She resided in Galena, Ohio, with her husband Erik Estrada and Lily. Her middle daughter Tia is a freshman at the University of Cincinnati, and her oldest daughter Janesa is a teacher and softball coach in the Chicago area.

Heidi’s parents and sister both reside in the Chicago area as well.

“It’s been a very difficult week for the Estrada family and our team,” Head Coach Alesha Perry said.

A GoFundMe page has been set up for the Estrada family… click HERE to make a donation.

“Heidi was an absolute gem in every way. Always willing to help anyone and the biggest cheerleader for every girl on the field. She was always smiling and had an infectious personality. Heidi was a loving wife and mother to a beautiful family.”

“Her presence at the softball field will be dearly missed. Her loss has heavily impacted our team and we will continue to play for Heidi as we watch our girls learn and grow in the sport.”

“This loss has reminded all of us that this is just a game, but it’s the people that make it special. Sending all of our love and prayers to the Estrada family, especially our #33 Lily, today and every day. We find comfort in knowing that the softball community is strong and will continue to support them through this very difficult journey.”

Lily, who attends Olentangy Berlin (Delaware, Ohio) High, has been in the Bandits organization for three years. She was honored earlier this year as a member of the 2029 HOT 100 class celebrating the top players in the current freshman class.

Ranked No. 39, her player bio read:

T-39—Lily Estrada, IF, Beverly Bandits Perry/Scibelli

Lily brings “tons of speed and versatility to the field,” according to Bandits Head Coach Alesha Perry who adds: “Her smooth glove, precise footwork, and high IQ make her a lock down middle infielder. Lily takes great angles and reads balls very well off the bat allowing her to make big time defensive plays to help her Beverly Bandits team.” Lily is a speedy lefty who can play small ball or hit a gap. Her high IQ on the bases coupled with her elite speed makes her one of the best base runners in her class. She swiped 38 bases last season and scored 54 runs; she is on track to do even more this season. Last year she hit .326 with a .395 on-base percentage. Coach Perry continues: “Lily has grown a ton in a short amount of time and will continue to soar with her work ethic and determination making her a top prospect in the 2029 class.”

Coach Perry states:

“Heidi was a huge supporter of her daughters and their sports. Her daughter Tia was a gymnast for many years and Heidi was her biggest fan. Lily joined the Beverly Bandits during her 11U season and has been with us since then.”

Bill Conroy, the President of the Beverly Bandits organization, recognized as one of the top organizations in travel softball, added:

“Lily has been an integral part of the Bandits organization for the past three years and this is a devastating loss for everyone, including her team and the entire Bandit organization.”

— Brentt Eads/Line Drive Softball