LEXI MCDANIEL NAMED HFL PLAYER OF THE MONTH FOR FEBRUARY

As part of the Alliance Fastpitch Player Recognition Program, we are excited to announce the Heart of America Fastpitch league (HFL) Infielder, Lexi McDaniel of Aces Fastpitch 18U as the Senior Player of the Month.

McDaniel accumulated a .550 batting average this fall with 14 runs, 5 doubles, 2 triples, 4 home runs and 20 RBIs. The 2025 posted an impressive slugging percentage of 1.075.

Tell us a bit about your softball story! How’d you get started in the sport?

I started playing tee ball at the age of four. Gradually from there I have went to coach pitch, machine pitch, and then began fastpitch at the age of eight. At the age of 11, I began playing for Aces Fastpitch. They definitely took a chance on me, because I was a lot younger and less experienced than almost all of the girls there. Now, I have played on the Aces for Ryan and Taylor ever since, and they have helped shaped me into the player and person I am today.

What has been your favorite softball memory?

My favorite softball memory was taking 5th at Alliance Fastpitch Championship Series. We collectively played hard and the competition was very good. I also enjoyed the Alliance player’s experience.

Who is your favorite softball player?

My favorite softball player is Tiare Jennings. She is a great person who always strives to be the best player she can.

What do you like to do outside of softball?

Outside of softball, I like spending time with family and friends. I also really enjoy traveling. When traveling, I like going to the beach and do water activities.

What are some of your current goals – both on and off the field? (Softball, school, other athletics, related, etc. all welcomed!)

Softball – I want to continuously be a better player of the game, both mentally and physically. School – Maintain 4.0 or higher GPA throughout my high school years. Outside softball – Grow stronger in my faith, and spend quality time with family and friends.

Coaches Feedback (Ryan Taylor)

Tell us a bit about your athlete? As a player, person, etc.

Lexi is one of the hardest workers we’ve had come through our program. She embodies the Aces culture as a learner. Willing to use new resources to improve her craft. A true program kid that’s been in the system for four years. Her play on the field speaks for itself. Light hearted kid with high character. A genuine person her teammates enjoy being around.

Do you have a favorite memory or moment of this athlete?

When Lexi first came to the team she didn’t have a phone. Throughout the year Taylor did several different competitions, requiring regular check-ins with teammates to acknowledge completed tasks. Without a phone players had to call Lexi’s Mom at all hours of the day. Needless to say she got a phone.

What is the Alliance Fastpitch Player Recognition Program?

The Player Recognition Program was built to recognize and spotlight our individual players in each Member League. Each month, registered Alliance Fastpitch coaches can nominate a player from their age division. League Leadership will review nominations and a monthly stats report from AthletesGoLive (AGL) to determine the League’s Player of the Month.

Following the announcement of each League’s Players of the Month, the Alliance Fastpitch will recognize a National Player of the Month. To be considered for Player of the Month, your team must score League games in AGL so your stats will be included in the League’s monthly report.