Wareham softball players raising funds for chance to compete abroad

Apr 3, 2018

Two Wareham High School girls softball players will have the opportunity to represent the U.S. in the Dominican Republic this summer, but they need a little help getting there.

Jocelyn Hendrix, 10th grade, and Mackenzie Pimental, eighth grade, were selected by America’s Team, an organization designed to increase players’ knowledge about other cultures through sports, to compete internationally. Both were chosen for their talent. They also compete for the Lady Sting, a travel team coached by Janelle Carlson, owner of East Coast Pitching in Wareham.

Currently, both girls are working to raise $7,600 for the trip, which will feature matches against teams from the Dominican Republic.

“We’re really looking forward to it,” said Hendrix, a utility player. “It’s going to be an experience we’ll remember for the rest of our lives.”

Mackenzie, a catcher, noted she’s been playing since third grade and has plans to continue in college. The high school’s junior varsity coach, Katie Holmes, said Mackenzie is a player to watch.

“She’s super coachable, she takes direction really well and she always helps out other players,” said Holmes. “She’s everything we’re looking for in a player.”

Nicole Henrique, the high school’s varsity coach, said having both selected for America’s Team shows the depth of talent on this year’s squad.

“The future is definitely bright here,” said Henrique. “It’s exciting.”

Right now, the girls are trying to raise $2,000 before an April 14 deadline to go toward the cost of the trip. Mackenzie has a fundraising site set up on www.gofundme.com. So far, she’s raised $450. To donate, visit www.gofundme.com/gwsym-dominican-republic.

Another fundraiser for the players, a spaghetti supper, is scheduled for April 14 at the Wareham-New Bedford Elks Lodge, 2855, Cranberry Highway. Tickets cost $10 and can be purchased from Wareham High School softball players or by calling 508-728-1516.