February 12, 2025 – The Alliance Fastpitch community is heartbroken by the loss of Nataly Metheny, a 2025 Catcher from the FFS Premier organization in Oklahoma who recently signed to play college softball at Oklahoma Panhandle State University.

Nataly was a cherished member of the Alliance Fastpitch Player Advisory Committee (PAC) the past two seasons. Nataly’s impact on her local softball community and our national community was significant. In her PAC application, Nataly stated that her proudest athletic moment was “helping pass my love and knowledge of the game on to the girls I give lessons to and the girls I help coach.”

Nataly joined the PAC in the 2024 Season. In her application, Nataly stated she wanted to join the PAC because she “wants to help make a difference and help promote the game I love in the softball community for the upcoming players.”

Coach Cory Underhill, Nataly’s High School Head Coach, shared this in his letter of recommendation for Nataly, “I have seen her grow and mature in her abilities as a player and as a leader amongst her peers. Nataly’s work ethic and punctuality are unmatched and she has become a tremendous asset to our school and softball program.” On the field, Nataly was an All-District Catcher and Gold Glove award winner in high school. Coach Underhill stated, “[Nataly] has shown the determination and drive needed to compete against the best talent in the country.”

Nataly’s dad Shawn coached her for 12 seasons in her travel ball journey. Being a catcher, communication was one of Nataly’s greatest gifts including her ability to communicate and get the best out of her teammates. “Nataly is a leader by example and she is able to effectively lead her team on the field by communications strategies to her teammates….her strong willingness to help new players become more comfortable and learn the ropes is outstanding.” Nataly’s assistant high school coach, Jarrett Standridge stated, “Nataly brings a calming presence to our infield and commands the game from behind the dish.”

Nataly gave lessons to young players in her local community and helped coach a younger travel ball team. In her PAC application, Nataly suggested the Alliance Fastpitch could better serve youth players by “providing more opportunities for smaller prospect camps and more virtual discussions on recruiting. Also, weekly drill ideas from older players that young players can do at home.”

Nataly’s legacy of mentorship and service will continue to inspire us all. Thank you Nataly for embodying our core values and actively serving your community! We will continue to serve your mission of helping make the game better for the kids that are coming up.

We extend our deepest condolences to Nataly’s family, teammates, coaches, and friends. Rest in peace, Nataly.