Ava Phillips (2027); RHP; Firecrackers Select Rico/Brashear 18U

Who are you?
Hi! I’m Ava Phillips, a 16-year-old right-handed pitcher from Glendora, California. I attend Rosary Academy in Fullerton, California, where I’ve been the starting varsity pitcher since my freshman year. I also play travel ball for Firecrackers Select Rico/Brashear 18U, and this summer, I’m super excited to represent Team Spain in the TCS International Challenge!

Outside of competing, I work as a pitching instructor at The Range Pitching Academy in Anaheim, where I help mentor younger athletes and share what I’ve learned along the way. I’ve been in Girl Scouts for 11 years—earned my Silver Award and now I’m working on my Gold Award, which focuses on building a sustainable mental performance training program for young female athletes. It’s all about giving back and helping the next generation mentally and physically grow in this sport I love so much.

How did your softball journey begin?

I didn’t start playing softball until my second year of 8U! Before that, I trained and competed in Jiu Jitsu for about four years. But once I watched my little sister, Olivia, out on the field, I told my parents I wanted to give it a shot too. From the moment I stepped onto that field, I was hooked. Interestingly, our main pitcher got hurt near the end of the season, and my coach asked if anyone was willing to step in for her. I had never pitched before, but something in me said, “Go for it,” and I’ve never looked back since. 

What are your greatest strengths as a softball player?
My biggest strengths are my work ethic, mental preparation, focus, and love and passion for the game. I train physically and mentally relentlessly every week, but I know it’s not just about me—it’s always about the team. I’ll do whatever it takes to help us win, whether that means starting a big game or picking up a teammate. I want to compete, improve, and strengthen the team. Team success is the most important thing to me!



What is your favorite sports memory and greatest achievement?
Definitely winning the 2024 PGF 14U Premier National Championship with Athletics Mercado Tidd 09. We beat Breakers Lab Keusch with a combined no-hitter, and I was credited with the win. But honestly, it was such a team effort, as everyone brought great energy and fought hard the entire tournament. I pitched 16.1 scoreless innings that week—going 5-0, striking out 18, and only allowing five hits total, all while limiting opposing hitters to a .091 batting average – all against very competitive teams, such as Birmingham Thunderbolts Alford/Rocky, Hotshots Nelson, Unity Amsler/Johnson, Atlanta Vipers Crenshaw, and Breakers Lab Keusch. 

FUN FACT: Over the past two summers at PGF Nationals, I’ve tossed 47.1 innings without giving up a single earned run. During my 2nd year 14U season, I finished 29-1 with 14 saves, a .784 ERA, and a .177 BAA—against top national teams.   

But honestly, it’s not just the big wins, the stats, or even the National Championship—I love all the friendships I’ve made along the way and being able to give back by mentoring younger players at The Range Pitching Academy. These connections and memories mean so much to me.

“Ava Phillips is truly one of a kind. She’s the type of athlete coaches are lucky to work with — someone I’d put in that top one percent. Her work ethic is unmatched, and I often find myself using her as an example of the kind of dedication and attitude I hope to see in every player, including my own kids. What makes Ava even more special is the way she brings joy to the game. She shows up with a smile, works incredibly hard, and finds that perfect balance between having fun and staying focused. Her commitment is starting to pay off in a big way, and I couldn’t be prouder of the player — and person — she’s becoming. The sky is truly the limit for Ava, and I can’t wait to see where the game takes her,” 

- Dani Martinez, Pitching Coach



How do you handle adversity and even failure?

Softball is a game built on failure, so it’s all about perspective and how you respond; that’s what builds character. I’ve learned to focus on what I can control and let go of everything else. Failure isn’t the end—it’s just feedback. I view failure as an opportunity to learn, grow, and reflect on the processes I can control to put myself and my team in the best position to win. 

Coach Tony Rico and Holly Pearce [Firecrackers Organization | The Range Pitching Academy] have instilled in me the importance of focusing on what I can control—my routine, my breathing, my preparation, and my competitiveness. They’ve helped me realize that the process matters much more than the outcome, which is often beyond my control. My mental performance coach, Coach AB, also taught me to always give 100% of what I have daily. Some days, I feel at 100%, and others, I may only feel at 80%, but I consistently give 100% of what I have. This mindset has made me a stronger player, person, and better teammate. 

“Ava is a true student of the game. Her work ethic and commitment to development are on another level.

We are excited for what the future holds for her.” 

-- Tony Rico, Firecrackers Organization Owner/Head Coach

“Ava is one of the hardest-working pitchers I’ve seen in my three decades of high school experience. She works on her physical and mental game every day; she is both a student and a fan of the sport. Ava is an amazing teammate; cheering every at-bat and every great play made behind her. She seems like a nice, friendly kid off the field, but she's deadly when you put her in the circle,” 

-- Tom Tice, Rosary Academy Head Coach



How would your teammates and friends describe you?
My teammates and friends would describe me as an outgoing person who enjoys life and likes to have fun, both on and off the field. I can be goofy and loud in the dugout; however, they would also describe me as a fierce competitor. In the dugout or between innings, I love to laugh and have fun, but once I step into the circle, my competitive nature takes over, and I am all business—it's me against the batter! 



Who is your role model and or idol, and why?
God is my biggest role model—He’s my foundation in everything I do. After Him, it’s definitely my parents. They’ve sacrificed so much to support me and my goals, from driving me everywhere to helping me stay on track, and they set the example of what an amazing work ethic looks like. I wouldn’t be where I am without them.



If you could spend a day with any softball player, former or current, who would it be and why?
That’s tough! But I’d have to say Jala Wright, Jordy Bahl, and NiJaree Canady. I look up to all three because they’re fierce competitors with fearless mindsets, especially in the biggest moments. I’d love to pick their brains about how they stay locked in and structure their daily routines for success.

NiJaree Canady (Photo Cred: Texas Tech Athletics Department)



What is important to you when deciding what college you want to attend and play for?
I want to play for a program that believes in me as a player and a person. Culture is huge to me—I’m looking for a team that’s mentally tough, pushes each other, and feels like family. I want to grow, compete at the highest level, and leave a legacy beyond my four years.

What is your softball dream/goal?
I want to play at a Power 4 school, win a National Championship, and be part of a team that makes history. I dream of pitching on the biggest stage at the Women’s College World Series. I want to be around teammates who are as driven as I am and coaches who challenge me to reach my full potential. That’s the dream.



What is your favorite jersey number, and why did you choose it?

My number is 31. I started wearing number 2 in travel ball, but when I switched teams for the first time, that number was taken. I chose 31 randomly—but it stuck, and now it feels like mine. I’ve worn it ever since.

What other hobbies do you have to balance out softball and your personal life?
Outside of softball, I love spending time with my family, hanging out at the beach, chilling by the pool, shopping with friends, and attending church. My faith and close circle of family and friends mean everything to me. But if I’m being honest, I’m happiest when I’ve got a softball in my hand and dirt under my cleats.



Who would you like to thank for your softball achievements and support?
There are so many people I’m thankful for. First, God—He’s the center of it all. Then my parents, who have supported me through everything. I’ve also had some amazing coaches and mentors: Johnny and Deanna from Fastpitch Professionals [@thefastpitchprofessionals], my Firecrackers Select Rico/Brashear coaches—Tony Rico, Sean Brashear, and the whole staff—Holly Pearce from The Range, Coach Dani [@pitchwdani], Coach AB from Fearless Fastpitch [@fearlessfastpitch], Coach Greg Hernandez [@alpha_sports_performance], and my Rosary Academy [@rosary_softball] coaches—Coach Tom, Coach Nicola, Coach Gerry, and Coach Sergio. They’ve all believed in me and helped shape me into the player and person I am today.

“Seeing Ava's success unfold is no surprise to her inner circle. She has worked relentlessly both physically and mentally to prepare for any situation. Her mentality is intentional, and it comes from years of implementing her mental skills to be ready when opportunities arise. She's calm, gritty, locked in out there, and you can see it. Her hard work is paying off, and she's shining as a leader on and off the field! Proud of her!!!” 

-- Amanda Schaefer, Mental Performance Coach

Additional Information About Ava

Walk-up Song: N/A
Favorite Food: Pasta
Favorite Song: Someone New by Hozier
Favorite Music Artist: Zach Bryan
Favorite Sports Team: Los Angeles Dodgers
Favorite Sports Celebrity: Kobe Bryant
Favorite Movie: Hardball or A League of Their Own
Favorite Sports Movie: The Sandlot
Favorite TV Show:  Grey’s Anatomy
Favorite Book:  The Fault in Our Stars
Favorite Travel Spot:  Hawaii
Favorite Bible Verse: Jeremiah 29:11 – For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Softball Ick: Wearing a fielder’s mask in the outfield

By: Emily Jackson, Legacy & Legends Softball, 25 April 2025

www.legacyandlegendssoftball.com