There are moments in this game that remind you just how much relationships matter.
Today, we're incredibly excited to officially announce that our team is making the transition from Athletics Mercado to the Louisville Lady Sluggers organization.
First and foremost, we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to Dave Mercado for believing in us and allowing the Athletics Mercado brand to grow from its California roots into Tennessee. It has been an incredible opportunity to represent one of the most respected names in travel softball, and we're grateful for the trust and support throughout the journey.
We also couldn't be more proud of what we built under the Athletics Mercado banner. Together, we created far more than a softball team—we built a family. We assembled an outstanding group of talented young ladies who compete the right way, support one another, and represent themselves, and their families with class. The memories, friendships, and success we've shared under the Athletics Mercado name will always be a special part of our story.
As our players continue to grow, so do the opportunities in front of them. Moving to the Louisville Lady Sluggers is the right step at the right time.
As we enter the age divisions where college recruiting becomes a major focus, this move provides tremendous advantages.
With a roster made up of athletes from Kentucky and across the Southeast, aligning with an organization that is geographically positioned near Nashville and deeply connected throughout the region simply makes sense.
Combine that with the Lady Sluggers' consistent success on the national stage, their presence in the biggest recruiting events, and the respect the organization has earned from college coaches across the country, and it's easy to see why we're so excited about this next chapter.
A special thank you to Jim Huecker for believing in this group and giving these young ladies the opportunity to wear the iconic red and black. We don't take that opportunity lightly, and we're committed to representing the Louisville Lady Sluggers organization with pride, passion, and excellence every time we step on the field.
To our players and families—thank you for trusting the process and believing in the vision. The logo on the jersey may have changed, but our mission remains exactly the same: develop outstanding softball players, even better young women, and provide every opportunity possible for them to achieve their dreams.
Here's to new beginnings, bigger stages, and the next chapter.
Louisville Lady Sluggers 2030 Wicks... let's get to work. 🔴⚫🥎