2027-2028 Unity Softball fastpitch team competing in regional & national events. Head Coach, Matt Russel unityrussel@gmail.com
Chesapeake, VA
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- Following 3,927
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Unity-Russel Softball retweeted
Not the results we had hoped for, but it was great getting back on the field with my girls 💜🧡 Fun part for me - I got to play all 4 INF positions! Below are some stats and videos from the weekend. @VAUnitySB @UnityRussel
AVG: .625 (5 for 8 with 1 HR and 1 2B)
OBP: .667
OPS: 1.792
SLG: 1.125
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Unity-Russel Softball retweeted
Not my best outing with the bat, but I was surely locking in pitching!! Excited to be back on the field this fall with @UnityRussel!! Next tournament in VA in two weeks, but for now here are some clips below ⬇️⬇️
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@ToriBaldino broke out the 💣BOOM💣 stick this weekend leading the team in RBIs, doubles, and this homerun. This high academic stud is starting the fall season on 🔥fire!!!
#UnityStrong #UnityRussel #BuiltNotBorn #RaiseTheStandard
@VAUnitySB @UnityCoachJosh @AshVanBoxmeer4 @ExtraInningSB @los_stuff @LineDsoftball @PrepSoftball @softbalamerica @DiamondAddicts @SBRRetweets @CoastRecruits @IHartFastpitch @fastpitchwatch @tagupSoftball @D1Softball @d2softball @DIISoftball @D3Softball @SoftballDown @Softball_Home @fastpitchwatch @TopPreps @sbsportsnetwork @AppStorms48176 @ondecksoftball @CAASoftballAdv @EASRecruiting @SunilSportsNews @MaxPreps @BradyVernon @UncommittedUsa @DirectRecruits @KaylaLombardo11 @coach_emmag
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Unity-Russel Softball retweeted
It took a little time to knock the rust off after not playing a tournament in 2 months but we were firing on all cylinders by games 3 & 4! Great to be back with my Unity girls!
@D_nucks1 @Bh2osoftball @UnityRussel
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Unity-Russel Softball retweeted
It was great getting back on the field with my @UnityRussel girls! We knocked some rust off and are looking forward to a great fall season! In the circle, I gave up some hits, including 1 bomb, but also racked up 16 K’s in 7.2 IP. I’m proud of how my rise ball was working this tournament after I made some adjustments from the summer. At the plate, I batted .400 with some solid contact.
@VAUnitySB @SBRRetweets @DiamondAddicts @DIISoftball @D1Softball @d1fastpitch1 @LineDsoftball @SoftballDown @PrepSoftball @ExtraInningSB @SoftballPortal @SBRRetweets @UnityRussel
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Turn the key & fire up the engine b/c it’s time for softball!! Week #1 of our 2026 Fall Season is in Greensboro, NC for the @USASBCarolinas @USASoftball #KnockoutsFallClassic. 5 of our crew are already committed & the rest are ready to shine this weekend. Big opportUNITY!
#UnityStrong #UnityRussel #BuiltNotBorn #RaiseTheStandard
@VAUnitySB @UnityCoachJosh @AshVanBoxmeer4 @ExtraInningSB @los_stuff @LineDsoftball @PrepSoftball @softbalamerica @DiamondAddicts @SBRRetweets @CoastRecruits @IHartFastpitch @fastpitchwatch @tagupSoftball @D1Softball @d2softball @DIISoftball @D3Softball @SoftballDown @Softball_Home @fastpitchwatch @TopPreps @sbsportsnetwork @AppStorms48176 @ondecksoftball @CAASoftballAdv @EASRecruiting @SunilSportsNews @MaxPreps @BradyVernon @UncommittedUsa @DirectRecruits @KaylaLombardo11 @coach_emmag
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Unity-Russel Softball retweeted
I had a great weekend @SoftballRider I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to spend the day with the team, tour the school and dinner with the coaches! This was truly once in a lifetime. Although my nerves got the best of me at camp, it was still a 10 out 10 experience.
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Unity-Russel Softball retweeted
Had a wonderful time with @mitsoftball! So happy to be back on campus and be able to play on the new turf field. So glad the weather held up. Huge thanks to @coach_trotman, @KraytenbergE, @CoachMichaelaR, and Coach Zambello for hosting such a great camp!🦫
@VAUnitySB @UnityRussel
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⛳️🥎 IT’S BACK! The 9th Annual Rebellion Golf Classic presented by Unity757 Softball is Friday, Oct. 9 at Sleepy Hole Golf Course!
📣 Teams fill FAST!!!
🏌️ $400/foursome
🔥 Contests, prizes & on-course fun
🍗 BBQ & fried chicken dinner
🤝 Sponsorships starting at $100
🥎 Proceeds directly benefit our players
🤝 SPONSORS — WE NEED YOU TOO!
This is a GREAT opportunity to put your company and brand in front of golfers, families, coaches and supporters while helping an incredible group of young women pursue their softball goals. Sponsorship opportunities range from a $100 Hole Sponsor all the way through Bronze, Silver and Gold corporate sponsorships, plus opportunities to sponsor the dinner, beverage cart, driving range, Batter Up Station, Hydration Station and more. Business sponsorships are tax deductible.
For registration or sponsorship information, contact:
📱 Mikki: 757-449-0210
📧 mikki.russel@gmail.com
PLAY. SPONSOR. SUPPORT OUR PLAYERS.
#UnityRussel #RebellionGolfClassic #GolfForACause #SleepyHoleGolf @UnityTownsend @VAUnitySB
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🥎 2026 FALL SCHEDULE 🥎
The road is set. Our talented collection of 27s & 28s are ready for a competitive fall filled with high-level softball, outstanding competition, and opportunities to compete in front of college coaches throughout the East Coast and Southeast.
Our 2026 Fall Schedule includes:
📍 Sept. 26–27 — Knockouts Fall Classic Showcase | Burlington, NC
📍 Oct. 17–18 — USA • Legendary Showcase Showdown | Va Beach, VA
📍 Oct. 24–25 — East Coast Fall Showcase | Pennsville, NJ
📍 Nov. 7–8 — TCS Veterans Tribute Showcase | Atlanta, GA
📍 Nov. 20–22 — TCS Florida Fall Showcase | St. Petersburg, FL
Five weekends. Five showcase events. One goal: compete, develop, and create opportunities. We’re excited about this group and ready to get back on the field. Time to go to work.
#UnityStrong #UnityRussel #BuiltNotBorn #RaiseTheStandard
@VAUnitySB @UnityCoachJosh @AshVanBoxmeer4 @ExtraInningSB @los_stuff @LineDsoftball @PrepSoftball @softbalamerica @DiamondAddicts @SBRRetweets @CoastRecruits @IHartFastpitch @fastpitchwatch @tagupSoftball @D1Softball @d2softball @DIISoftball @D3Softball @SoftballDown @Softball_Home @fastpitchwatch @TopPreps @sbsportsnetwork @AppStorms48176 @ondecksoftball @CAASoftballAdv @EASRecruiting @SunilSportsNews @MaxPreps @BradyVernon @UncommittedUsa @DirectRecruits @KaylaLombardo11 @coach_emmag
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📸ROSTER ALERT📸 We are excited to welcome @jaidalong22 of Newton, NJ. Jaida is a multitalented 2027 attending Newton High School. This standout athlete dominates in the pitching circle as a RHP, on the corners as an infielder, and brings power & consistency at the plate. We can’t wait for the season to start to get on the field with Jaida and her @UnityRussel teammates!!!
#UnityStrong #RaiseTheStandard
@VAUnitySB @UnityCoachJosh @AshVanBoxmeer4 @ExtraInningSB @los_stuff @LineDsoftball @PrepSoftball @softbalamerica @DiamondAddicts @SBRRetweets @CoastRecruits @IHartFastpitch @tagupSoftball @D1Softball @d2softball @DIISoftball @D3Softball @SoftballDown @SoftballHome @TopPreps @sbsportsnetwork @MaxPreps
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📸ROSTER ALERT📸 We welcome 2027 @MeghanBoring27 of Norfolk, VA. Meghan is a speedster lefty, All-Region Outfielder from Granby High School. She covers a lot of ground in outfield and makes a lot of noise at the plate. Excited to have you in the 🟣&🟠 with us!!! 💪🏻🥎
#UnityStrong #RaiseTheStandard
@VAUnitySB @UnityCoachJosh @AshVanBoxmeer4 @ExtraInningSB @los_stuff @LineDsoftball @PrepSoftball @softbalamerica @DiamondAddicts @SBRRetweets @CoastRecruits @IHartFastpitch @tagupSoftball @D1Softball @d2softball @DIISoftball @D3Softball @SoftballDown @SoftballHome @TopPreps @sbsportsnetwork @MaxPreps
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🥎ROSTER OPENING🥎 P & OF🥎
2027 / 2028 PITCHER & OUTFIELD
We have an opening for a premier pitcher and a premier outfielder from the 2027 or 2028 class to complete our roster for the upcoming 26-27 season. Contact Coach Russel for more information via:
📲 Text or call (404) 386-9330
📧 unityrussel@gmail.com
✅ Top exposure event schedule
✅ Proven college recruiting network
✅ Elite player development
✅ Distance / location not issue
✅ +A/Premier level players only
✅ 100% college committal in 26 class
Come find your opportUNITY! 🙌
#UnityStrong #UnityRussel #BuiltNotBorn #RaiseTheStandard #2027uncommittedpitcher #2028softball
@VAUnitySB @UnityCoachJosh @AshVanBoxmeer4 @ExtraInningSB @los_stuff @LineDsoftball @PrepSoftball @softbalamerica @DiamondAddicts @SBRRetweets @CoastRecruits @IHartFastpitch @fastpitchwatch @tagupSoftball @D1Softball @d2softball @DIISoftball @D3Softball @SoftballDown @Softball_Home @fastpitchwatch @TopPreps @sbsportsnetwork @AppStorms48176 @ondecksoftball @CAASoftballAdv @EASRecruiting @SunilSportsNews @MaxPreps @BradyVernon @UncommittedUsa @DirectRecruits @KaylaLombardo11 @coach_emmag
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⚠️ROSTER OPENING - P & OF⚠️
2027 / 2028 PITCHER & OUTFIELD
We are looking to round out an already amazing bullpen and highly-talented roster of athletes with the addition of a premier pitcher and a premier outfielder from the 2027 or 2028 class to complete our roster for the upcoming 26-27 season.
✅ Top exposure
✅ Proven college recruiting network
✅ Elite player development
✅ Distance / location not issue
✅ +A/Premier level players only
✅ 100% college committal in 26 class
Contact Coach Russel for more information via:
📥 DM us on X
📲 Text or call (404) 386-9330
📧 unityrussel@gmail.com
Come find your opportUNITY! 🙌
#UnityStrong #UnityRussel #BuiltNotBorn #RaiseTheStandard
@VAUnitySB @UnityCoachJosh @AshVanBoxmeer4 @ExtraInningSB @los_stuff @LineDsoftball @PrepSoftball @softbalamerica @DiamondAddicts @SBRRetweets @CoastRecruits @IHartFastpitch @fastpitchwatch @tagupSoftball @D1Softball @d2softball @DIISoftball @D3Softball @SoftballDown @Softball_Home @fastpitchwatch @TopPreps @sbsportsnetwork @AppStorms48176 @ondecksoftball @CAASoftballAdv @EASRecruiting @SunilSportsNews @MaxPreps @BradyVernon @UncommittedUsa @DirectRecruits @KaylaLombardo11 @coach_emmag
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We put a bow on a great 2026 summer season and the travel ball careers of our 26s. We are so proud of our the work these ladies put into the season and so excited for the future ahead!!!
All eight 26s committed & heading off to their college teams in a couple weeks. Four of our 27s already committed to their dreams schools - with many more to come. And our 28s ready to make big moves come 9/1.
Congratulations, ladies!!! Both your success and your reputation is well deserved. Looking forward to an even better year over the 2026-2027 season!!!
#UnityStrong #UnityRussel #BuiltNotBorn #RaiseTheStandard
@VAUnitySB @UnityCoachJosh @AshVanBoxmeer4 @ExtraInningSB @los_stuff @LineDsoftball @PrepSoftball @softbalamerica @DiamondAddicts @SBRRetweets @CoastRecruits @IHartFastpitch @fastpitchwatch @tagupSoftball @D1Softball @d2softball @DIISoftball @D3Softball @SoftballDown @Softball_Home @fastpitchwatch @TopPreps @sbsportsnetwork @AppStorms48176 @ondecksoftball @CAASoftballAdv @EASRecruiting @SunilSportsNews @MaxPreps @BradyVernon @UncommittedUsa @DirectRecruits @KaylaLombardo11 @coach_emmag
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Today marks the end of our summer season… and for our Class of 2026, the end of their travel softball journey.
As coaches, we begin today’s day of competition the same way we always have—with three simple priorities: Growth. Accountability. Love. But we know this day will end unlike any other.
To our 2026s: We couldn’t be more proud of you. You committed yourselves to becoming more than great softball players. You became compassionate, resilient, hardworking young women who understand the value of sacrifice, gratitude, and being part of something bigger than yourselves. In just a few weeks, you’ll begin the next chapter as college student-athletes. We have no doubt you’re ready to make an impact—not only on the field, but in your classrooms, your locker rooms, and the communities you’ll join. Keep chasing excellence. Keep believing in yourselves. Never forget where you came from. And know that no matter where life takes you, you’ll always have us coaches cheering you on from afar. We can’t wait to celebrate everything that’s ahead for each of you.
To the parents of our 2026s: Thank you for entrusting us to be a part of your daughters’ journey. They are prepared for what’s next because of the love, support, and sacrifices made by many along the way.
Like today, the next few weeks will bring every emotion imaginable. When those moments come, remember: “A boat is safest in the harbor. But that’s not why we build boats.”
It’s time to let them set sail.
Once a 🧡💜Unity/❤️💙Rebellion 🥎 player, always family.
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This young athlete is a total STUD!!! @EmilyFinks29 is a 2027 TRUE Utility player and workhorse!!! #2027uncommitted #2027softball #2027prospect
#UnityStrong #UnityRussel #BuiltNotBorn #RaiseTheStandard
@VAUnitySB @UnityCoachJosh @AshVanBoxmeer4 @ExtraInningSB @los_stuff @LineDsoftball @PrepSoftball @softbalamerica @DiamondAddicts @SBRRetweets @CoastRecruits @IHartFastpitch @fastpitchwatch @tagupSoftball @D1Softball @d2softball @DIISoftball @D3Softball @SoftballDown @Softball_Home @fastpitchwatch @TopPreps @sbsportsnetwork @AppStorms48176 @ondecksoftball @CAASoftballAdv @EASRecruiting @SunilSportsNews @MaxPreps @BradyVernon @UncommittedUsa @DirectRecruits @KaylaLombardo11 @coach_emmag
I can’t believe our @UnityRussel18u summer season is already over. I’m already missing my teammates and coaches, can’t wait for the fall season to start!!!!!
My stats were:
GP- 28
PA- 71
AVG- .442
OBP- .559
RBI- 14
R- 28
SB-12
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We are lacing up the cleats in Salem, VA this weekend for the #DCFastpitch #StarCitySummerShowcase. Two great venues, stellar competition, superior college, and premier softball makes for one fantastic weekend to open doors and create opportUNITY! We are excited to hit the field and make some noise in VA mountains!!!
#UnityStrong #UnityRussel #BuiltNotBorn #RaiseTheStandard
@VAUnitySB @UnityCoachJosh @AshVanBoxmeer4 @ExtraInningSB @los_stuff @LineDsoftball @PrepSoftball @softbalamerica @DiamondAddicts @SBRRetweets @CoastRecruits @IHartFastpitch @fastpitchwatch @tagupSoftball @D1Softball @d2softball @DIISoftball @D3Softball @SoftballDown @Softball_Home @fastpitchwatch @TopPreps @sbsportsnetwork @AppStorms48176 @ondecksoftball @CAASoftballAdv @EASRecruiting @SunilSportsNews @MaxPreps @BradyVernon @UncommittedUsa @DirectRecruits @KaylaLombardo11 @coach_emmag
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“O Captain! My Captain!” We are STOKED and incredibly proud of @RRivera2027 on her commitment to @CNUcaptains & @CNUSoftball Christopher Newport University to continue her academic and softball career! ⚓🥎 We are so excited for you, Ry, and your impact on the college softball landscape. You’re destined for great things!!! Congratulations, Ryleigh! Your Unity family is proud of you—today and always.
#Committed #CNU #CNUSoftball #ChristopherNewport #CollegeCommitment #UnityStrong #UnityRussel #BuiltNotBorn #RaiseTheStandard
@VAUnitySB @UnityCoachJosh @AshVanBoxmeer4 @ExtraInningSB @los_stuff @LineDsoftball @PrepSoftball @softbalamerica @DiamondAddicts @SBRRetweets @CoastRecruits @IHartFastpitch @fastpitchwatch @tagupSoftball @D1Softball @d2softball @DIISoftball @D3Softball @SoftballDown @Softball_Home @fastpitchwatch @TopPreps @sbsportsnetwork @AppStorms48176 @ondecksoftball @CAASoftballAdv @EASRecruiting @SunilSportsNews @MaxPreps @BradyVernon @UncommittedUsa @DirectRecruits @KaylaLombardo11 @coach_emmag
I am beyond honored and excited to announce my commitment to Christopher Newport University to continue my academic and athletic career!
I owe it all to God for opening doors and guiding me through such an important chapter of my life.
I want to thank my mom and the rest of my family for their constant support, sacrifice, and involvement throughout my softball career. I am also so thankful for my teammates and friends for surrounding me with such a positive and competitive environment over the past 13 years.
A special thank you to Coach Parr and his coaching staff for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to become a Captain. I am incredibly grateful for your confidence in me, and I can’t wait to be a part of the CNU family.
Lastly, thank you to my current coaches, Matt, Bart, and Chris, and my school ball coaches, Coach B and Larry, as well as my former coaches, Q and DJ, for pushing me, believing in me, and developing me into the player I am today.
I am so grateful for everyone who has been a part of this journey, and I cannot wait to see what the future holds.
Go Captains! 💙🤍
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We are celebrating as loud and proud as we can in our congratulations to you @Hayden_Russel18 on your commitment to @RoanokeCollege & @RoanokeSoftball!!! You knew it the moment you stepped on campus and we couldn’t think of a better home for you to continue growing as a player and person. Truly, celebrate this accomplishment as you are one of the few who gets to call themselves a “college athlete”. Fly high with the Maroons!
#UnityStrong #UnityRussel #BuiltNotBorn #RaiseTheStandard
@VAUnitySB @UnityCoachJosh @AshVanBoxmeer4 @ExtraInningSB @los_stuff @LineDsoftball @PrepSoftball @softbalamerica @DiamondAddicts @SBRRetweets @CoastRecruits @IHartFastpitch @fastpitchwatch @tagupSoftball @D1Softball @d2softball @DIISoftball @D3Softball @SoftballDown @Softball_Home @fastpitchwatch @TopPreps @sbsportsnetwork @AppStorms48176 @ondecksoftball @CAASoftballAdv @EASRecruiting @SunilSportsNews @MaxPreps @BradyVernon @UncommittedUsa @DirectRecruits @KaylaLombardo11 @coach_emmag
I am beyond grateful to announce my commitment to continue my academic and athletic career at Roanoke College!
This journey wouldn’t have been possible without so many incredible people who have supported me along the way. Thank you to my mom, dad, and the rest of my family for always believing in me, encouraging me, and making countless sacrifices.
A huge “THANK YOU” goes to my Unity coaches: Coach Bart, Coach Larry, & Coach Marion for pushing me to become a better player and person, and for always challenging me to be the best I can be. A very special thank you to my dad, Coach Matt, who has been by my side for every step of my softball journey. Our countless hours on the field, road trips, late night dinners, and “lessons” are memories that have made me a leader both on and off the field. I know I’m prepared for college softball - and life - because of all of you.
To my teammates at Unity, I love you all!!! Thank you for every practice, game, and laugh. I’m so grateful for the friendships we’ve built and everything we’ve accomplished. We raised the bar together.
To Coach Turner, thank you for all the time and dedication you’ve put into helping me improve at the plate & beyond.
To my Grassfield teammates and coaches, thank you! We have made our mark in the history books and I am looking forward to one more season together.
Finally, I’d like to thank the Roanoke College Softball program for believing in me and giving me the opportunity to continue playing the sport that I love at the collegiate level. I’m incredibly thankful to Coaches Mitchell, Mays, Lauria, and Defava for welcoming me into the program. I can’t wait to get to work and begin this next chapter.
Go Noke!
@UnityRussel @VAUnitySB @UnityCoachJosh @RoanokeSoftball @RoanokeCollege #committed #GoNoke #RoanokeCollege #MaroonBound
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