Hollister teen will represent U.S. at softball world championship

Local standout softball player Mia Mead has been selected to play for the All-American softball team and will represent Team U.S.A. at the world championships in Puerto Rico in November. The 14-year-old Hollister resident received an offer to join the team after her performance at the EXACT X1 showcase in June, which was attended by National Collegiate Athletic Association and National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics softball coaches. Austin College head softball coach Brandon Johnson coached Mead at the showcase and said in the short time they worked together, he took notice of her work ethic and athleticism. “She’s got just so much talent and she’s so coachable that it’s not surprising at all. She’s going to do great things,” Johnson said. Johnson said that he and other college coaches are looking to recruit well-rounded athletes, and he considers Mead a natural. “I really enjoy being able to play softball,” Mead said. “I don’t know how to explain it. It’s a part of me, I just feel like I have to play.” Mead said her love for the game came early in life, and it has grown through the years. She has played for Hollister Heat recreation teams, Hollister Heat and Hollister Blackjacks travel teams. Her current team is Firecrackers Bay Area based in Morgan Hill.