The Carolina Elite 16U – Herring team is led by Head Coach Andy Herring and Assistant Head Coach Brianna Herring and Brian Hartsell and is based in Mount Pleasant, N.C. with players from multiple cities throughout North Carolina

This team was established in August with approximately 60 participants trying out over a two-day period.

How did Head Coach Herring put together the current team?

“The coaching staff was undoubtedly challenged,” Herring says. “However, I placed my complete trust in them to make the appropriate decisions.”

The result, he adds, has been tremendously successful.

“The players and the families believe in each other,” Herring continues. “It is truly something special. They have become not only the best of friends, but family and the players’ families have been so supportive of each other throughout this season.” 

The head coach says the team’s philosophy involves improving his players on and off the softball fields.

“We aim to prepare the girls for higher education by instructing them on how to compete effectively, achieve success, and trust the process.”

Today, the coaching staff’s primary objective is to facilitate the participation of the Carolina Elite – Herring team in showcases where they will be scouted by a diverse range of coaches from Divisions 1, D2, D3, NAIA, and junior college programs.

This initiative aims to provide the players with exposure to all levels of competition and assist them in identifying the most suitable opportunities.

“This team was established based on fundamentals, teamwork, commitment, and the love of the game,” Herring states. “We do not emphasize winning, but, instead, focus on development.”

And both wins and player improvement have been evident.

“Victories have occurred and the players have attracted notice.”

This Fall, the Carolina Elite 16U – Herring team has competed in the following events:

• Upstate friendly
• PGF Diamond Direction 25K
• Diamond Classic
• Carolina Elite showcase

Much of the team’s success has been due to each of the trio known his or her role.

“Each assistant has a designated role aimed at ensuring the team’s success,” the head coach explains.”

The head man has extensive experience leading teams over the years and brings knowledge of the game and recruiting expertise to assist the players who are uncommitted.

Herring says the staff of three works in unison.

“All three of us coaches concur on a fundamental philosophy: that the team’s foundation should be built upon integrity and high character, traits that are occasionally not readily apparent in the competitive realm of sports.”

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History of the Team

Andy Herring began his involvement with the Lady Tigers, which was initially established by Dave Maddaluna, founder of the Lady Tigers travel organization in Mount Pleasant, N.C.

Herring started an 8U team in the Lady Tigers program and over the subsequent years, the organization underwent a merger with Carolina Elite Fast Pitch.

Despite the change in team name, the fundamental objectives and team culture remained intact. Coach Herring led two teams that would rank in the Top 50 of their age groups.

Herring subsequently coached his eldest daughter, Brianna, progressing through the ranks from 8U to 18U.

Brianna advanced to play at the collegiate level with Lander University and Catawba College.

Following this, Herring continued coaching his youngest daughter, Caylin (KK), from 14U to 18U, after which she proceeded to compete at the collegiate level with Coastal Carolina University and Queens University.

In November 2023, Herring elected to step back from coaching to focus on supporting his daughters’ collegiate athletic pursuits. Nonetheless, he remains engaged in providing hitting and pitching lessons during his spare time.

In August of this year (2025), Brianna approached her father to inquire if he was interested in returning to coaching.

Herring responded that he’d love to.

“With the girls I was giving lessons to, I wanted to see them excel in the sport we love and if there was any way I could help, I was going to do it.”

At the same time, Herring would be able to spend more quality time with his own kids by coaching alongside them and learning from their experiences.

“I believe that, through my experiences with my kids, our recruitment endeavors, and my collaboration with Brian (Hartsell), we have the potential to establish something exceptional.”

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Meet the Team

Coaches:

• Head Coach: Andy Herring
• Coach: Brianna Herring
• Coach: Brian Hartsell

Players

Comments from Head Coach Andy Herring

Audrey Barnhill, 2028, OF/P
Audrey began playing softball at the age of six in a local recreational league, quickly developing a passion for the sport. By the age of eight, she transitioned to competitive travel ball, where she refined her fundamentals and gained valuable experience against stronger teams. Audrey, as a freshman, was named “Freshman of the Year” at Cox Mill (Concord, N.C.) High School. Audrey has trained with experienced coaches, enhancing her mechanics, defensive skills, and offensive consistency. Currently coached by Head Coach Andy Herring, she has participated in top-tier tournaments and showcases including the 2024 Scenic City and Atlanta Legacy. Her dedication is evident through year-round training, which includes agility and strength workouts, pitching and hitting lessons, and high-level tournament play—all aimed at promoting long-term growth. Her coaches often describe Audrey as an exceptional leadoff hitter opponents find challenging. She demonstrates excellent bat control and regularly reaches base via slap, bunt, or power hits, supported by her straight-line speed. “Her role at the top of the lineup boosts our offensive strategy and makes her a strong defensive outfielder, capable of chasing down most hits.” Additionally, she has developed into a skilled pitcher, utilizing her spins and control to cover the corners of the plate. “She is an essential part of this team, and I’ve enjoyed watching her progress throughout this fall season.”

Abby Hartsell, 2029, C/2B/3B
Abby serves as a catcher and a versatile utility player, capable of playing in all positions. She boasts exceptional arm strength, able to throw out runners from any base. Her speed and defensive skills behind the plate often cause confusion for opponents. Abby also plays catcher and utility roles at second base and third base. She has participated in several national tournaments, including The Maverick, Bownet Sweet 16, and Kentucky Chrome. Furthermore, Abby has attended multiple college camps, such as Carolina Elite. “We are very proud of Abby, and she has a promising future in the recruiting field.”

Haley Havner, 2028, 3B/SS
“Haley not only contributes talent to the team but also brings a lot of joy.” She is a skilled shortstop who transitions seamlessly to third base when needed. A true team player, Haley, always prioritizes the team’s needs. She was named the 2024 Defensive Player of the Year, is a varsity starter in both softball and volleyball, and had impressive freshman statistics including a .400 batting average and a .907 fielding percentage. “She plays third base and center field for us.” Haley also leads the Ryzer Leaderboard for 2028 grads in categories like home-to-first, overhand velocity, and tee hitting. Throughout club ball, Haley has competed in top tournaments including Scenic City, Nashville National USSSA tournament, Tier One Showcases and the Summer Nationals. “She is a pleasure to coach and her teammates hold her in high regard.”

Harleigh Hopkins, 2027, OF
Harleigh has made a significant contribution to the success of the team’s elite outfield. “We take pride in maintaining an outfield that facilitates our pitchers’ performance, and Harleigh has consistently fulfilled this role.” She is capable of effectively covering the right or left side and takes ownership of her responsibilities. Harleigh exhibits resilience under pressure and readily accepts challenges. “Offensively, she aspires to be the one with the bat in her hand during critical moments, and her teammates hold her in high regard and trust her abilities.”

Ellie Lambert, 2030 P/SS
Ellie is a right-handed pitcher with a diverse set of pitches. “She enjoys throwing all her pitches; however, her change-up is her favorite—and ours as well. Despite her considerable talent, we love watching her pitch but also value her at shortstop.” Ellie’s ability to track a ball with a reliable glove is definitely a strength as a middle infielder. She played varsity softball as a 7th grader and was one of nine players from her conference to earn the Carolina State Athletic Association 1^st Team All-Region award. Ellie ranked third in pitching in the Scenic City Tournament among over 80 teams. “Ellie has not yet reached her full potential and continues to improve, gaining strength and increasing her speed with each game, and we are optimistic about her future.” She has demonstrated exceptional performance this fall season, leading the team in strikeouts. Additionally, Ellie possesses a powerful swing that can make a significant impact. “As a 2030 graduate, she has attracted early interest, and we are committed to her recruitment.”

Shana Miller, 2029, 3B/1B
Shana is a standout corner player for the Carolina Elite 16U – Herring team. “She possesses the competitive drive and game-winning mindset of a true leader, paired with a superior understanding of the game.” She recorded a .329 batting average, 40 RBI’s, numerous home runs, and an OPS of 1.158 this year. Shana was previously with Team NC and had achieved many highlights during her previous seasons including 2024 Kentucky Chrome Champion, Top 4 in the PGF Atlanta Vipers Invitational, runner-up in the 2025 PGF Tennessee Mojo Invitational and a .500 batting average in the Sweet 16 in Shawnee, Kansas. Her achievements continued into her school season where she was named 2025 All-Conference, 2025 All-Tournament, and 2025 Conference Champions as well as April 2025 Athlete of the Month. Shana wishes to pursue a degree in nursing and has begun the process of attending prospect camps, as well as joining the school’s Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) chapter.

Brinley Nance, 2030, 2B/SS.
Brinley has been a member of the Carolina Elite organization for some time and decided to switch teams this fall season. “She is a dedicated worker who began as one of our top infielders at second base. Brinley is among the youngest players on the team; however, her age does not reflect her proficiency in playing softball. “Having Brinley positioned on the right side of the field provides us with confidence, as we know she will fulfill her responsibilities effectively.” She has consistently demonstrated her strength at the plate, capable of hitting gaps or executing a precise bunt.

Tenley Palmer, 2030, 1B
Tenley is a highly skilled player demonstrating excellence at a high level of performance. Originally positioned as a first baseman due to her stature, it became evident as she matured that her athletic abilities could be effectively utilized across various positions on the field. “Tenley is an outstanding first baseman capable of playing any position there and takes great pleasure in challenging opponents to steal hits.” Offensively, Tenley is formidable; her height and powerful swing allow her to hit the ball with remarkable distance and consistency. “There is considerable interest in her prospects for the 2030 class and we look forward to observing her future developments.”

Reese Parnell, 2029, RHP
Reese embodies a formidable presence, distinguished as an accomplished three sport athlete also excelling in track and tennis (she’s lettered in all three) She is a right-handed pitcher enrolled at Mount Pleasant (N.C.) High School alongside her teammates Harper Smith and Lyla Smith. Reese demonstrates exceptional skill on the pitching mound and enthusiastically embraces every competitive opportunity.  She pitches from the right side but is a left-handed batter. Reese transferred from the Platinum Fury team following the Spring 2025 season. In June 2025, she was awarded the PG Tournament MVP title and attended the August 2025 Elite 80 Showcase Camp. Furthermore, she is a member of the FCA and actively participates in her church youth group.

Harper Smith, 2029, OF/UT
If you wish to discuss speed, then Harper must be addressed. She has consistently been a key member of our team in the outfield. Harper frequently patrols right field but is comfortable playing any of the outfield positions. Base runners quickly learn not to attempt extra bases when facing Harper. Additionally, she is a versatile utility player capable of playing both middle infield positions. To maximize her speed, Harper adopted left-handed batting several years ago and has evolved into a genuine triple threat.

Lyla Smith, 2029, C/3B
As a left-handed catcher, Lyla consistently shows exceptional diligence and is trusted by her teammates in both offensive and defensive roles. She is a skilled catcher, passionate about her position, and dedicated to supporting her pitchers. With a strong throwing arm, she eagerly looks for chances to stop runners from advancing. As a line drive hitter who will move runners around, Lyla reliably performs at the plate. She also competes on her school’s track and field team, where she excels.  The coaching staff is looking forward to her recruitment.

Adalie Wheatley, 2029, OF/UT
“We are pleased to have this talented outfielder as a member of our team.” Adalie has an outstanding arm allowing her to make accurate throws from any position on the field. She exhibits versatility by playing all three outfield positions and consistently performs at a high standard, supported by her speed and arm strength. “Due to some unfortunate injuries, Adalie has been absent for several games; however, we look forward to her full recovery.

Brynley Yelton, 2029, P/1B
Brynley not only contributes talent but also brings immense “happiness” to the team. She has been excellent at first base and has adapted to playing third base effectively.  Brynley is a dedicated team player who consistently prioritizes the team’s needs above her own. “She’s a joy to coach, and her teammates adore her.” Offensively, Brynley takes hitting lessons from Jason Flach, where she has learned to deliver powerful hits and has consistently stepped up with clutch home runs over this season. Her pitching coaches, Billy Gerald and Andy Herring, work diligently on all of her pitches to make her effective in the games.

— Brentt Eads/Line Drive Softball