Bandits 14U Head Coach Alesha Perry had a successful softball playing career as she competed in the Big East for St. John’s and then was on the Greek National Team for two years.

After getting her master’s degree and becoming a teacher in Northern Ohio, Perry started her Bandits team five years ago and has great success going from 10U up the 14U age division where the highly successful team now competes (and has also played up at 16U and impressed).

You’ll be hearing a lot about this squad over the next several years as it’s made up of many of the top 2029’s (and one 2030) in the country.

Here’s more on the team’s history and philosophies that have made the successful program that it is today…  

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When did the team/program start and how/why did it come to be?

The Beverly Bandits organization has been around for a long time. The organization is well known in the Midwest for developing top talent and putting players into collegiate programs.

This particular team was started at the 10U level and has grown over the past 4-to-5 years to include some of the top 2029 talent in the Midwest OH/PA region. 

Where are you based and where do your athletes come from?

Our team is based out of Northeast Ohio with athletes coming from Ohio (10 players) and Pennsylvania (3). All of our athletes are within three hours of each other ranging from Columbus, Ohio to Pittsburgh, Pa. 

What was the purpose of creating the team (to showcase, win titles, develop skills?

This team was created to develop top talent from the Midwest region with the ultimate goal of playing softball at the collegiate level.

The goal of the team is to play at the highest level while still maintaining a close-knit chemistry within the team.

I’ve been with the team and organization for five years and 12 of our 13 players have played with the Bandits organization for three or more years.

The team has won plenty of top-level events, but what makes i special is the players’ chemistry. They meet weekly to practice and continue to develop elite skills. They have proven themselves as one of 2029s top groups and will continue to compete with the best. 

What do you think are the strengths of the team?

This team is built on pitching, speed, versatility, and athleticism. The pitching staff which includes Abby Lint, Mila Hamley, and Makenna Perry have proven themselves to be one of the top batteries in the country.

They, along with catchers Leah Miller and Ella Lewis, work together as a unit allowing the team to make deep runs in tournaments while competing in top events every weekend.

You can’t teach speed and there is not a team out there that is faster than Beverly Bandits – Perry! This group has some elite speed and is known for putting pressure on the defense through small ball, aggressive baserunning, and high game IQ.

The way our players run the bases is just different, and Assistant Coach Matt Hamley has been a huge influence on the team’s style of play the last three seasons. After stealing over 550 bases during their 12U season, the Bandits continue to be a threat every time they get on base and are always looking for the next 60 feet.

There is a ton of versatility within the team both offensively and defensively. With multiple players able to play different positions, three deadly slappers in the lineup, and elite athleticism all over the field, the Bandits are a tough team to beat when firing on all cylinders. 

What is your primary focus or goal with this group of players?

The primary goal with this group is to help them reach their goals of playing softball at the next level. Oftentimes, though, the road to that “ultimate goal” forces players, parents, and coaches to lose sight of what’s truly important in this game.

My ultimate goal for these very talented student athletes is to walk away from this incredible journey with life-long memories and friendships that will continue to be a part of them forever.

They all have the talent to play college softball… my job has always been to lead them on their journey giving them the best possible preparation and experience to get to where they want to be.

I’d like to think that my influence has been far more than just teaching the game of softball, but rather teaching them how softball can make them strong young women who have the confidence and ability to achieve any goal they set for themselves.

The primary focus for Beverly Bandits Perry is the fact that we are a true softball family.

Our players and parents are some of the best around and we will continue to move forward with a team first mentality while giving our players the best opportunities to reach their goals and grow in their journey. 

Has there been a key moment or defining experience in the team’s history?

This team has had many defining moments on the field, but the most impactful experience came this past fall when the team suffered the loss of Heidi Estrada.

Heidi was a mother of one of our players, Lily Estrada, who is in her third season with the Bandits.

The loss of Heidi was extremely difficult, and it brought the players and families together. It reminded us all of just how precious life is and how strong our bond together has become.

The team’s ability to come together during that very difficult time shows our resilience and unwavering support for each other. 

What have been some of your successes in terms of winning or placing at events this past year?

This team has seen a ton of success playing at the national level as well as playing up age divisions regionally. Some of our best early memories were made at Jeff Mac PGF events.

The team has won a total of 13 glass trophies from 10U to 13U with the most notable finishes being at the PGF Championships.

Our players improved their performances at this national event each year, placing 8th (10U), 6th (11U), 4th (12U), and 2nd (13U) facing top teams from all over the country.

During our 13U season we made incredible memories by winning Fire in the Sky, which is a premier 14U event in Orville, Ohio that is unlike any other.

The team also placed 2^nd in the 14U division at the Laser Nation Showcase as a 13U team last summer and 3^rd at the 14U TC Southeast Nationals.

This past fall, the team won the D1 DeMarini Fall Brawl 16U division taking out some top older teams along the way.

The team has some big plans for 2026 with trips to Kansas City, Colorado, and Chicago where they will play in top national recruiting events to gain exposure and experience. 

What’s your softball background and how did you get to the point of leading the team?

Softball has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember.

My first experience with the game came from playing boys coach pitch baseball. I quickly fell in love with the game and moved on to softball around age 9.

I began playing travel softball for a local organization starting at 11U and moved into the national scene at 15U. I played for the Ohio Maddogs until moving on to collegiate softball.

I played four years in the Big East Conference at St. John’s University 1999-2003 as a second baseman and in 2002 I became a member of the Greek National Softball Team and played internationally for two years leading up to the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, Greece.

After graduating from college, I became a high school math teacher and started coaching JV softball. This would be the start of a 20-plus stint at the high school level. I currently hold the Assistant Softball Coach position at Howland High School in Warren, Ohio.

I began playing slowpitch softball shortly after finishing my Master’s Degree with a very competitive local women’s team. I played for about 15 years before retiring after a hamstring tear.

I helped coach both my son and daughter’s local youth teams during the early years. I started coaching 8U travel softball in 2017 for Silver Creek where I developed some amazing little ballers that are still thriving in the game today.

In 2021 I began coaching for Beverly Bandits at the 10U level and have been a part of the organization ever since.

I have a total of 20-plus years of coaching experience at all levels of the game including youth leagues, high school, and travel softball. Some of my very best friends and life-long memories have come through my experiences with playing and coaching softball.

I have been extremely blessed to be surrounded by great families and amazingly talented players during my years as a softball coach. I am constantly learning and growing as the game changes. 

What makes the organization unique?

The Bandits organization is unique because of its focus on quality over quantity.

With no more than two teams in any age division, the Bandits always put quality talent on the field. The organization is well known across the country for developing top talent in the Midwest and helping players reach their goals of playing D1 softball. 

How many teams are there in the Bandits organization overall?

There are a total of 16 teams in the Bandits organization ranging from 9U to 18U.

If there is one thing you would say that separates you from other club programs, what would it be?

The thing that separates our team from other club programs is our chemistry.

Most teams at the national level have a lot of turnover making it tough for players to develop consistent bonds with their teammates. Our team competes at the national level but is made up of regional talent.

The close proximity of our players allows us to be together a ton and—whether it’s weekly practice, team picnics, or weekend tournaments—we are always together making memories and building our team chemistry.

Over the years we have been able to maintain a mix of performing at the highest level while also keeping a close-knit family feel within our team making our bond stronger year after year. 

Anything else interesting or fun that to portray your team as a top organization?

One of our favorite traditions as a team is getting a Coach Matt (Hamley) selfie after every tournament win.

We also love jamming to Coach Ashley (Banner)’s playlist to keep us playing loose.

This team knows how to have fun, and it shows every time they take the field together! They also love to pray together after every game. 

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Here is the Bandits 14U – Perry roster (listed alphabetically by last name)…

Brianna Banner (2029, OF/UT)

Brianna is an elite athlete that uses her strength and speed in all parts of her game. Brianna is also a veteran of the team in her 5th season as a Bandit. Brianna has high-level arm velocity that is valuable in the outfield. She has also contributed at third base and even in the circle when needed. Brianna is a very dangerous offensive player who has extreme power and the ability to steal a base at any time. She has sent many balls in the gap and over the fence in her young career. She is an explosive hitter and aggressive baserunner that opposing teams hate to face. Brianna is also a vocal leader on the field who brings energy to her team. 

Hannah Ecksmith (2029, IF/UT)

Hannah is a quiet sniper on both sides of the ball. She converted to the left side of the plate just a year ago and has worked her way right to the top of the lineup serving as the leadoff hitter this season. She lays down bunts, slaps, and hits for power while posing as a threat to steal every time she’s on base. Hannah flat out flies and is smooth as butter in everything she does on the field. Hannah is a defensive specialist playing mostly infield, but her skills make her a true utility player who can contribute anywhere the team needs her. Her smooth glove, slick footwork, quick release, and high IQ are utilized at multiple positions. 

Lily Estrada (2029, 2B/OF)

Lily has grown a ton since joining the Bandits during her 11U season. Her smooth glove and high-level arm slot throws have made her a staple at second base. Lily has also developed into a well-rounded lefty slapper. She has elite speed and the ability to find ways to get on base and score runs for her team. Her baserunning is smooth and aggressive making her a threat every time she reaches safely. Lily has been a key contributor to the team both offensively and defensively and is always working extremely hard to improve her game. She is a fierce competitor and is extremely hard on herself. Lily expects perfection and doesn’t settle for anything less.  

Amira Evans (2029, MIF)

Amira is the youngest player on the team, but her physique would suggest otherwise. She is an extreme athlete with speed, power, and finesse. Amira has thrived in the high level environment since her arrival to the team and she continues to grow as a player both offensively and defensively. Amira has always hit at the top of the lineup and has led the team in numerous offensive categories every year. She is an offensive powerhouse that brings consistent production to the Bandit lineup. Amira plays middle infield and possesses a smooth glove and precise foot work along with high-level arm strength. Her power, athleticism, and explosiveness is impressive and she attracts attention every time she takes the field. 

Mila Hamley (2029, RHP)

Mila has established herself as one of the best in the circle. Her quiet but competitive demeanor serves her well in pressure situations. Mila works extremely hard at her craft and has developed some very successful spins this past year. She throws with high velocity and relies on her drop ball to induce weak contact and easy ground ball outs for her defense. Mila also contributes to her team at the plate where she has hit for a high average the past two seasons. 

Nevaeh Hunt (2029, OF/C)

Nevaeh spends most of her time roaming the outfield, but also helps behind the plate when needed. She is an extreme athlete with pure strength and speed and has the ability to make web gem plays wherever she is on the field. Nevaeh plays the game with a fearless mentality that you just can’t teach. She is an explosive athlete in all aspects of her game. At the plate she is very powerful and has the ability to hit the ball out at any time. On the bases she is flat out dangerous and is always looking to take an extra 60 feet. Nevaeh also brings big energy to the team with her big personality. 

Ella Lewis (2029, C/1B)

Ella is a crucial part of our pitching/catching battery and sees a ton of innings at the catcher spot. She has elite arm strength and makes runners think twice before trying to swipe a bag. Ella has really focused on improving her framing and blocking ability and is really becoming a leader behind the plate. When not catching Ella contributes at first base and at the plate. Ella’s bat is a huge part of our offensive lineup and her barrel is flat out explosive. She typically hits in the heart of the order and has the ability to hit gaps, send balls over the fence, and drive in a ton of runs. Ella has led the team in RBI’s season after season.

Abby Lint (2029, RHP)

Abby is an absolute machine in the circle and just mows hitters down. Her elite velocity and spin have made her one of the top pitchers in the 2029 class. She thrives under pressure and puts up staggering numbers year after year. Her curve ball is a killer, but also has a buckling changeup in her arsenal. She throws all of her pitches with high velocity and precision making it very tough for hitters to barrel the ball. Abby brings elite talent and composure to the circle and continues to turn heads across the country as she consistently dominates top hitters. She works extremely hard to be her best and it shows each and every time she takes the mound. 

Annabel Mikesell (2029, OF/UT)

Annabel is a Swiss army knife in all parts of the game. She has been used everywhere on the field but has recently found her home in the outfield and is shining. Annabel brings a big voice and positive energy to the team. Her leadership is invaluable. She is a versatile player with a ton of power and speed. She hits at the top of the lineup and gets things done for her team offensively. She is a fearless athlete and gives 100 percent effort all of the time. Annabel is the spark that every team needs.

Leah Miller (2030, C/UT)

Leah is new to the team this season and has made an immediate impact behind the plate. She is extremely athletic, has a cannon for an arm, and is a vocal leader on the field. Leah’s arm strength is second to none and she throws out just about every runner that tries to steal on her. She has great speed on the bases, and her lefty bat has also added power and versatility to the lineup. Leah sees time in the infield when she isn’t catching. She has a great glove and isn’t afraid to lay out for a ball at any moment. 

Makenna Perry (2029, RHP/CIF)

Makenna is a fifth year Bandit and a veteran of the team. In the circle she is known for precision, spin, and mix of speeds. She throws with high velocity working hitters inside and up paired with a nasty changeup. Makenna is extremely composed in the circle and isn’t afraid of pressure situations. She is a quiet leader who is skilled in all parts of the game. When not pitching Makenna is used at either corner where her smooth glove and quick footwork shine. Her high IQ brings leadership to the field and at the plate. She is a key hitter in the lineup who typically bats in the heart of the order with a role to drive in runs for her team. Makenna works hard to keep up with the demands of being a pitcher who also hits and plays defense at the highest level. 

Erykah Reighert (2029, OF)

Erykah has the ability to run down balls and make big time plays in the outfield. She converted to the left side of the plate during her 11U season and has developed into a triple threat hitter. She puts a ton of pressure on the defense with her elite speed and high IQ on the bases. Erykah is a pure athlete who has all of the unteachables. She has an extremely high ceiling and is a multi-sport athlete. 

Gia Vrona (2029, INF/UT)

Gia is new to our team, but not new to the Bandits organization. She played on one of our older Bandits teams for several years before moving down after the age change to play with her fellow 2029 classmates. Gia brings strong defensive skills to the field with a smooth glove, high IQ, and elite arm strength. She is a true utility player with a focus in the infield. She has played shortstop, second base, and third base primarily but can also run down balls in the outfield. Gia has extreme power at the plate and the ability to hit absolute nukes. She is also a very smart and aggressive baserunner that fits right into the Bandit style of play. Gia has very impressive metrics in both speed and power that make her a standout athlete. Gia is an impact player in all parts of the game and contributes to the team in a lot of ways. 

— Brentt Eads/Line Drive Softball