Lander Softball Players Coach Younger Girls

Lander Softball player's Haley Foster and Natalie Smith are taking time out of their busy schedules to give back to the community.  Both girls are coaching for the Carolina Rage, a locally ran travel softball organization.   

The Carolina Rage has 10 & under, 12 & under, 14 & under, and 16 & under teams.  The girls playing for the organization are from all over the state, and spots on the team are highly competitive.  The Rage was started by Mike Ward and Jamie Reese.  Ward and Reese met through a travel ball program called the Carolina Scream.  Both of their daughters played for the Scream, along with Foster.


Two years ago, Jamie Reese approached Foster after watching a Lander Softball practice. Foster was asked to coach a 14 & under team for the Carolina Rage.  Foster accepted the offer and has been with the team both seasons since.


"I love coaching for the Rage.  I wouldn't trade it for the world," stated Foster.  Foster and Smith coach the girls during the summer, and play ball with Lander University during the school year.


On the weekends in the summer, the Carolina Rage plays in various tournaments across the state.  During the week, they hold practices in which the girls are required to attend.  It is a full time responsibility that Foster and Smith gladly accept. The two ladies work together to coach the team.  They coach at all the practices, and they travel with the girls to all tournaments.


"During the Lander season, I focus on playing ball.  After the last conference tournament, I can start to totally focus on my summer coaching.  I have to focus on one team at a time," Foster said.  

It is rare to find college students with such dedication towards helping the youth of the communities.  Having other responsibilities as college students, Foster has found a way to focus on one thing at a time so that she can better help the youth that she has the privilege of leading.


"They are the best coaches in the world.  They have taught me a lot, and are great role models on the field. We are lucky to have them," said Hannah Reese.  Reese played for Foster and Smith this past summer.