Today is the 10th of July, 2026, and there’s a buzz in the air around Bonifay. The Florida Elite 12U softball team, a regional travel squad, has been making waves this summer, showcasing the incredible talent from across the Panhandle. Based in Panama City Beach, these young athletes hail from various towns, including Ponce de Leon, Bonifay, and Vernon. It’s a melting pot of skills and aspirations, all driven by a shared love for the game.
Leading the charge is Rick Green, a retired high school softball coach with an impressive track record spanning over 40 years. Green isn’t just any coach; he’s a mentor who knows how to connect with the hearts and minds of 12- and 13-year-olds. Player Rylee Hess describes him as both strict and supportive, honing in on their strengths while also helping them tackle areas that need improvement. It seems Green’s coaching style has transformed to fit the dynamic needs of his young players. Harleigh Henderson, another key player on the team, shares an interesting family twist—Rick Green is her grandfather! Talk about a built-in communication advantage on and off the field!
The Team’s Aspirations
The Florida Elite 12U team isn’t just playing for fun; they’ve got their eyes set on serious competition. Inspired by former player Michaela Edenfield, who has made a name for herself as a professional softball catcher, these kids are dreaming big. Michaela, hailing from Sneads, Florida, was drafted in the second round of the 2025 college draft after an impressive college career at Florida State University. Her stats are nothing short of remarkable—she started in 239 out of 243 games during her college tenure, boasting a .313 batting average and ranking third in home runs in Florida State history with 54! The inspiration that Michaela provides to the current players is palpable.
But it’s not just about competition; it’s also about growth. Green believes that many of the players on his team harbor aspirations to play at the collegiate level, and he’s committed to helping them get there. Rylee Hess acknowledges the tough competition they face, yet credits Green for aiding them in building resilience, which is crucial in any sport. The intensity and effort he demands mirror his high school coaching style, creating a challenging yet supportive environment for these young athletes.
Coaching Techniques and Resources
To help these aspiring stars hone their skills, the team might benefit from resources like “Coach’s Guide to Game-Winning Softball Drills” by Michele Smith, a two-time Olympic gold medalist and Hall of Fame pitcher. This insightful book offers over 250 drills aimed at developing essential softball skills for players aged 8-18. It covers everything from footwork mechanics to strategic base running, making it a fantastic tool for both coaches and parents. The goal? To nurture both offensive and defensive skills, ensuring that young players are well-rounded athletes.
As the Florida Elite 12U team wraps up its tournament play this weekend, the excitement is palpable. With Rick Green at the helm and a roster filled with talent and determination, the future looks bright for these young athletes. In the world of Florida softball, this team is definitely one to watch!