To all those dads, grandads or other fatherly figures who are positive role models and influencers in the softball world, we wish you a Happy Father’s Day!

Below are a pair of young softball players who detail how much impact their dads have in their lives and the many things these parents—like so many others we encounter–do for their young athletes.

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First, though, we’d like to share a beautifully expressed sentiment that was shared this weekend by Kevin O’Donnell of the Intensity organization based in New Jersey.

It perfectly represents how we at Line Drive Media feel also about those who make their families, this sport and our world a better place:

Happy Father’s Day to All Our Intensity Dads!

Today we celebrate the fathers, grandfathers, stepfathers, and father figures who make so many sacrifices behind the scenes.

Thank you for the early mornings, long drives, late nights, countless practices, tournament weekends, and unwavering support.

Thank you for believing in your daughters, encouraging them through adversity, and teaching them the values of hard work, perseverance, respect, and integrity.

Your impact goes far beyond the softball field. The lessons you teach, the example you set, and the love you give help shape these young women into strong athletes and even stronger people.

May God bless each of you and your families with health, happiness, strength, and countless memories together. We are grateful for everything you do for our athletes and our Intensity family.

Happy Father’s Day!

“A father is someone you look up to no matter how tall you grow.”

The Intensity Family 💙💚🥎

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Everybody knows that one of my dad’s greatest loves is basketball; he (Will Wilson) played his entire life and even played professionally overseas.

My dad had three chances to raise a basketball player who would follow in his footsteps and there was even a little bit of hope when I played both basketball and softball for a year.

I remember one day, we rushed back and forth between two big softball and basketball tournaments that were an hour away from each other.

We ended up winning both tournaments, but as he watched me play in the championship basketball game with dirt in my hair, my long softball socks still on, and eye black on my face, I think he realized that eventually I would have to choose.

What makes my dad so special is that he never tried to make that choice for me. Instead of holding onto his dream of having a basketball player in the family, he made my dream of playing softball his dream, too.

He never pushed me toward basketball or made me feel like I was disappointing him.

My dad is one of my biggest supporters. He works a full-time job and picks up any extra work that he can to help me pay for my softball expenses. He gives up playing in his own basketball league and spends countless hours driving me to clinics, lessons, games—all on top of my other extra-curricular activities.

He even volunteers with me when I do community service, though I know he’s really tired. 

My dad showed me that real love sometimes means supporting someone else’s dreams, even when they are different from your own.

I love my dad to the moon and back!

Samantha Wilson, 2031, SS/UT, BSC Bengals Briggs 12U

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My dad (Jessee Estevez) is my biggest supporter and the reason I believe in myself.

He has sacrificed countless hours, traveled everywhere for my games, and has always been there whether I have a great day or a tough one.

He teaches me that hard work, respect, and perseverance matter more than anything.

Even on the days he’s tired after working, he still finds the time to help me get better and put in the work.

He never complains and always makes sure I have every opportunity to chase my dreams.

He celebrates my successes, helps me learn from my failures, and reminds me to always play with confidence.

No matter what, I know I can count on him.

I’m so thankful to have a dad who loves me unconditionally and inspires me to be the best version of myself every day. I wouldn’t be the player or person I am without him.

I love you, Dad… thank you for allowing me to chase my dreams. Happy Father’s Day!

— Aleiah Estevez, SS, 2030, Firecrackers Brashear Thornburg 2029