April Abeyta

How did you get into slowpitch?
After college, it was something to with friends and family

When did it become competitive for you?
It started out as something I did for fun with friends, but as I gained experience and my skills improved, I wanted to challenge myself by playing against stronger competition. After a couple of seasons, I started joining more competitive teams and playing in tournaments. That's when I realized how much I enjoyed the higher level of competition, the strategy, and the commitment it takes to be successful.

What got you hooked?
What got me hooked was the combination of competition and teamwork. I started playing because it looked fun, but I quickly realized I enjoyed challenging myself to improve and competing alongside people who all shared the same goal.

What slowpitch means to you beyond wins and losses?
Softball has given me a lot more than wins and losses. It's taught me discipline, resilience, and how to be part of a team where everyone has to trust and support each other. Some of my closest friendships have come from the game, and I've had the opportunity to travel, compete alongside and against some of the best in the game, and meet people I never would have otherwise. It's also been an outlet that challenges me mentally and physically. For all of that, I am forever grateful.

What keeps you motivated year after year?
No matter how long I've been playing, there's always something I can improve, whether it's my swing, my defense, or my mental approach to the game.

When did you first swing a slugger bat?
USSSA Native Worlds 2023. I had the opportunity to swing the Ironman and I could not put it down. I was hooked from there.

What does the brand represent to you?
For me, Slugger represents more than just great equipment—it represents believing in athletes and giving them opportunities. They gave me a chance, and that's something I'll always appreciate. Being a sponsored athlete isn't something I take for granted, and it motivates me to represent the brand the right way every time I step on the field. I want people to see not only the quality of the equipment, but also the character, sportsmanship, and passion that Slugger stands for. I'm proud to be part of a brand that invested in me, and I hope I can pay that forward by supporting teammates, encouraging new players, and helping grow the game.

What do you love about the bats?
I love the durability, feel, and LOOK.

Off the field, I'm someone who values growth, consistency, and relationships. A big part of my career is helping people navigate challenges and supporting leaders in making thoughtful decisions. I enjoy learning, setting goals, and finding ways to improve, whether that's in my career or in softball. I also believe in showing up for the people around me—my family, my friends, my teammates, and my coworkers. At the end of the day, I want to be known as someone who's dependable, works hard, and treats people with respect.

Advice for new players?
Be patient with yourself and stay consistent. Improvement doesn't happen overnight, but every game and every rep is an opportunity to learn.

Advice for competitive players chasing the next level?
Work hard, be a great teammate, and remember to have fun. The game will challenge you in more ways than one. Believe in yourself and trust your ability to put in the work and perform