Izzy Rueda of USA Athletics Gold-Rogers 18U was selected for a Line Drive Media player spotlight, where she discussed her experience with the Southern California-based organization and her upcoming college career.
"USA Athletics is an amazing organization," Rueda told the publication.
"I was lucky enough to be a part of this organization for most of my travel career and I wouldn't have wanted to end it with anyone else."
Rueda specifically praised the program's comprehensive approach to player development.
"The training facility is one of a kind and has helped me get prepared for the D1 level," she said. "USA feels like home and will always be a part of me."
The Lakewood High School senior credited USA Athletics mental performance coach Jeff with introducing her to "Mind Gym" by Gary Mack.
"This book made me realize how much your mind influences your athletic performance and taught me techniques on how to calm the mind," Rueda explained.
Her statistics reflect that paradigm shift: .495 batting average in summer travel ball and a perfect 1.000 fielding percentage across three seasons.
The Grand Canyon commit now operates her own hitting instruction business.
"Instead of tearing young players down, I do my best to uplift them," Rueda said in the interview.
View the complete feature: Line Drive Media