With the Sept. 1 deadline approaching for 2026 players to communicate with college coaches, Line Drive Softball reached out to some talented 2026 players from around the country to answer some questions:

“What does Sept. 1st mean to you?” and “Do you have a story that describes your recruiting experience?”

Here’s how they responded:

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Ahzia Garcia, 2026, C/1B, Strykers National-Esparza:

“I see September 1st as a new beginning/chapter that is approaching. With it just right around the corner, it’s also motivating to keep putting work in and that I am one step closer to the dream I’ve always dreamt of.

“Following with the recruiting process, I do wish that I was part of a big, strong organization a lot sooner. In my opinion, I really do think it’s important who you play for. I started on a small organization named Texas Shock and even though it was fun winning tournaments while I was young, once I hit 12U, I knew if I wanted to play at the next level, I had to move somewhere with coaches that knew coaches at the next level. I played for both Hotshots National 2025 and Texas Bombers Gold National 16U once I started my recruitment process, and the looks I got from coaches was rewarding.

“Now, with September 1st coming this Sunday, I am excited to see my hard work get noticed and find somewhere I can call home!”

Sasha Pham, 2026, MIF/OF, Athletics Mercado-Cook:

“September 1st seemed so long ago. I’m nervous and excited because it’s a day every young softball player has dreamed of, but here I am my junior year. I’m nervous and excited to see what God has planned for me.

“The recruitment journey is stressful, but fun because I get to go through this my teammates. A few things that have been helpful is stay up to date with my Sports Recruits page. I’m able to upload my skills videos, schedules and email coaches, attending college camps, which gives me the opportunity to meet the coaches, tour the campus and see the surrounding cities, which is important to me.

“One important thing my coaches have instilled is that everyone’s journey is different, so don’t compare yours to others. I’m enjoying the experience and I can’t wait to see what the future has in store for us all. I want to wish the class of 2026 good luck!”

Boo Herber, 2026, RHP, Birmingham Thunderbolts:

“This year, during my recruiting process, I have had to overcome two injuries, sitting out this past fall. I knew coming into this summer, it would be big for me. Coach Jenny and coach Rock did a great job of keeping us focused on our game and not focused on who was in our stands.

“I gave my team my all this summer and with every college scheduling a camp on the last weekend of August, I went with my first invite. This school saw me at my highs and lows and still wanted me through it all. That meant a lot to me and they gave my time in return.

“I left everything I had on the field this summer along with a lot of dedication to get me here. I am so grateful to be where I am today and thankful I never gave up on myself. My future is now in God’s hands.
September 1 is just the beginning!”