Livingston Parish, LA – EA Softball, the newly rebranded fastpitch program formerly known as the Louisiana Hornets, has officially announced tryouts for its 2025 competitive season. Athletes born between 2010 and 2012 are invited to showcase their skills at two tryout events scheduled for June 8 and July 27 in the Livingston/Hammond area.
The announcement comes on the heels of a historic moment for EA Softball alum Brilee Ford, whose walk-off single lifted Southeastern Louisiana University (SLU) to its second consecutive Southland Conference Championship and an automatic bid to the NCAA Softball Tournament. Ford’s game-winning hit capped a dramatic three-run rally in the bottom of the seventh inning, sealing a 6-5 victory over top-seeded McNeese State and etching her name into SLU softball history.
“Brilee is everything we want our players to become—fearless in big moments, relentless in preparation, and a true teammate,” said Brian Ford, Director of EA Softball and father of Brilee Ford. “To see her come full circle—from a little girl grinding in travel ball to walking off a conference championship on ESPN—is a reminder of why we do this. EA Softball isn’t just about winning games. It’s about building athletes who are ready when their moment comes.”
Image Courtesy of Southeastern Softball
Ford wasn’t the only standout for the Lady Lions. Chloe Magee, who was named Tournament MVP, delivered a clutch RBI single to tie the game moments before Ford’s walk-off. SLU’s rally came with two outs and their backs against the wall, showcasing the grit and composure that defined the team’s championship run.
Other EA Softball-connected or Louisiana-based players making an impact included:
- Cydnee Schneider, who plated two key runs in the sixth inning
- Maria Detillier, Macie LaRue, and Lainee Bailey, all named to the All-Tournament Team alongside Ford
- Shelby Morris, whose seventh-inning RBI double reignited the rally after a close video review reversed an initial out call
“These girls are the blueprint,” said Coach Jonathan Seal, Assistant Coach at EA Softball. “We train our players to think one pitch ahead, to bounce back from setbacks, and to lead by example. You look at what Brilee, Chloe, and that SLU squad just did—down to their last out, and they refused to quit. That’s the culture we’re building here at EA.”
2025 TRYOUT INFORMATION
- Dates: June 8 & July 27, 2025
- Location: Livingston/Hammond area (exact site TBA)
- Eligibility: Birth years 2010–2012
- Experience Required: Minimum two seasons of travel softball or equivalent
- Focus Areas: Pitching, catching, utility, coachability, and competitive mindset
Tryouts will be run by a coaching staff with more than 20 years of combined experience in youth and travel softball, college exposure development, and athlete mentorship. Players can expect structured assessments of fundamentals, softball IQ, athleticism, and team fit.
WHY EA SOFTBALL?
EA Softball’s transformation from the Louisiana Hornets represents a new commitment to elite-level development, competitive travel schedules, and character-building through sport. The program emphasizes:
- Player-first training environments
- High-exposure tournaments in USSSA and FASA circuits
- Team cohesion and accountability
- Mentorship from coaches who develop both athletes and people
“Our athletes don’t just learn how to field a ball or hit a change-up—they learn how to lead, how to handle adversity, and how to rise when it counts,” added Ford. “Brilee’s story proves that what we do here has real impact when they move on to the next level.”
NEXT STEPS
Players interested in trying out should visit the team’s website to register. Space is limited, and positions will be filled based on skill, coachability, and team needs. Questions can be directed to [email protected] or by calling (985) 247-3919.
EA Softball congratulates Brilee Ford and the entire Southeastern Louisiana University team on their incredible tournament run and wishes them continued success in the NCAA Regionals.
About EA Softball
EA Softball is a competitive youth fastpitch program based in Livingston Parish, Louisiana. Formerly known as the Louisiana Hornets, EA Softball is operated under Elite Athletics Sports Academy LLC, founded by longtime coach and mentor Brian Ford. The organization provides year-round training, elite tournament play, and leadership development designed to prepare players for success on the field and beyond. With a mission rooted in discipline, accountability, and growth, EA Softball develops athletes built for high school, college, and life.
Contact:
EA Softball
(985) 247-3919
[email protected]
https://easoftball.com
