It’s Brentt of Line Drive Softball...

There’s no doubt that fastpitch softball is growing internationally and, while the U.S. still dominates, it’s exciting to see the sport we love building across the globe.

You’ve seen our growing coverage of Canada players and teams who are making their presence known—in some cases signing to play to play here in America at the collegiate level—and we’ll soon have some stories coming in from Mexico too.

We’re even seeing traction as far away as Australia and today’s player spotlight is a fun one as we meet an outstanding young player who is lighting it up there while following us stateside… and hyping to play her in the Continental United States someday.

Here’s an e-mail I go recently from this outstanding freshman who is one of the best in her country… don’t be surprised if you see her in a few years playing collegiately, probably at a P4 program!

*****

Line Drive Softball:

I hope this email finds you well.

My name is Lola Joffee, I’m a 15-year-old softball player from Sydney, Australia, in the Class of 2029.

As a longtime follower of Line Drive Media, I have been following your coverage of up-and-coming athletes, and I wanted to reach out with an update on my recent progress in the sport.

Building on my experience representing Australia at the U15 WBSC Softball World Cup in Italy last year—where I started in five out of eight games—I’ve had some exciting milestones this season.

I played for the New South Wales U16 All-State team, and we proudly won the Australian U16 National Championships.

Additionally, I represented the U16 Australian National Team in a four-game series against the U18 New Zealand National Team, which was an incredible challenge and growth opportunity.

These experiences have honed my skills as a left-handed power hitter, slapper, and speedy outfielder, and I’m eager to continue pushing my limits.

For more details on the nationals, including my stats, team celebration photos with the trophy, and my individual award, here’s a recent update on X:

You can also check out highlights and snapshots on Instagram:

View this post on Instagram

I believe stories like mine—balancing international competition with the drive to excel at a young age—align well with the inspiring features Line Drive often highlights.

If you think my journey could make for an engaging article, I’d be thrilled to provide more details, quotes, or even connect for an interview.

Thank you for your time and for the great work you do in showcasing softball talent.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Best regards,

Lola Joffee
Class of 2029
X.com/LolaJoffee2029

*****

Of course, we had to follow up and learn more about Lola, what she’s done to this point and what she wants to do moving forward.

I asked her some questions about her background and her goals moving forward… here’s what the talented Aussie had to say:

Line Drive Softball: How did you get into softball initially?
Lola Joffee: I got into softball because of my dad and my sister. My dad played baseball when he was younger (and still plays), and my sister plays softball as well, so I kind of grew up around it. I also play all-star soccer and touch (non-contact) rugby, so I’ve always loved being active and I’m pretty competitive.

LDS: What are some of the highlights and key achievements you’ve had so far in the sport?
LJ: Softball has been such a huge part of my life. It’s given me opportunities like overseas travel and even playing in a World Cup, which still feels crazy to say. It’s also brought me friendships all over Australia and even internationally, like Team USA and Team Puerto Rico… people I never would have met without the sport.

LDS: What’s the state of softball where you’re at compared to other sports?
LJ: In Australia, softball isn’t as popular as cricket, rugby, or soccer—those sports definitely get most of the attention–but even though it’s smaller, the community is really strong and passionate. There’s so much talent here, and a lot of people are working hard behind the scenes to grow the sport and give it more recognition.

LDS: Where do you see yourself playing at the next level or in the future?
LJ: After I graduate high school, I’d love to come to the U.S. and play college softball. The level of competition and exposure there is something I really want to experience, it’s the most elite pathway in the world. My parents say I have to come back to Australia after college… 😀 but we’ll see! If I do come back, I’d definitely want to use what I’ve learned to help grow the game here.

LDS: What excites you about how fastpitch is growing there in Australia?
LJ: Softball in Australia might not always get the spotlight, but we have a really strong international history, competing in World Cups and Olympics. Hopefully we can qualify for the LA 2028 Olympics, and it would be amazing if softball is included in the Brisbane 2032 Games. In the meantime, Brisbane is hosting the Women’s World Cup in 2027, which is really exciting for the sport here.

— Brentt Eads/Line Drive Softball