Clearwater, FLA.– CFY’s funded softball program, the Clearwater Bullets pitch their views on youth sports and the impact that the game of softball has had on their athletes.
The Clearwater Bullets is a nonprofit organization centered around fastpitch softball. They hold multiple teams that are based out of Eddie C Moore in Clearwater, Florida. The Bullets 18 & under coach David Patton believes that youth sports are essential for children as it helps them learn how to work together and turn their differences into strengths that ultimately benefit the team.
Coach Patton shares that “Coming to practice is the most important part of their day…it teaches them how to be a part of a team and operate collectively as a unit… Overall, it’s important for all youths to play a sport, no matter what it is!”
The Bullets athletes also reflect on the role youth sports have played in their lives and how softball has shaped their personal journeys. Clearwater Bullets athletes believe that softball has taught them the importance of friendship and teamwork. Playing sports keeps them determined and disciplined, which ultimately translates to other important aspects of their life such as school.
These player quotes highlight the powerful influence of softball and youth sports in shaping their personal growth.
Mackenzie Crerand | Committed to College of the Holy Cross | “Playing softball growing up shaped me as a person… it taught me how to work in a team and with other people and that has helped me in many aspects of life, especially in school…Thank you to Clearwater For Youth for supporting softball programs all around the Clearwater area!”
Shelise Johnson | Class of 2026 | “Softball is important to the youth…It teaches them life lessons, keeps you very busy, and ultimately helps in the long run.”
Lennox Ullrich | Committed to The University of Tampa | “Playing softball has helped translate to my classwork. It keeps me dedicated, shows me discipline, and teaches resilience. Thankful for CFY and their support in the Clearwater Bullets.”
Karlee Salisbury | Committed to The University of Tampa | “Playing softball growing up has taught me how to work hard, stay disciplined, and has given me so many friendships along the way!”
Clearwater for Youth is forever grateful for youth programs like the Clearwater Bullets. We are very proud of the success that this program has developed, and we wish all their athlete’s good luck as they move forward into the collegiate level! Thanks to the generosity of our donors and supporters, we’re proud to be funding a wide range of youth programs throughout Clearwater, St. Petersburg, and Pinellas Park!
Established in 1972, CFY proudly supports youth athletics programs and organizations with an emphasis on skill-building activities, reaching over 15,000 Pinellas County youth annually and expanding. Funding efforts are aimed at providing the children of Pinellas County the opportunity to participate in their chosen activity unhindered by costs. CFY’s Endowment allows that every dollar that is donated goes 100% to supporting a child. CFY continues to grow as we focus on three core areas: Youth Athletics Grants, Education and Water Safety.