Academy Notebook: Four Rangers softballers invited to Breakthrough Series; Buckner International Fall programs begin

Destan Burks, Gio Frias, Ana Gonzalez, Hailey Zuniga invited to Breakthrough Series

Four Texas Rangers softball All-Stars, Destan Burks, Gio Firas, Ana Gonzalez and Hailey Zuniga, were invited to attend the MLB Develops Breakthrough Series this weekend.

Following impressive performances at June’s Elite Development Invitational in Kansas City, Mo., the four Academy athletes were among 32 participants selected to travel to Vero Beach, Fla., and train at the Jackie Robinson Training Complex.

The Softball Breakthrough Series promotes the sport as a viable collegiate option for youth from underrepresented and underserved communities, with all costs underwritten by Major League Baseball and USA Softball.

Athletes will train with U.S. Olympians, former National Team members and coaches for three days of scrimmages and high-level instruction that includes on and off-field development.

Buckner International Fall programming to begin Aug. 29

The Texas Rangers Youth Academy non-profit partner Buckner International will begin its fall Youth Enrichment programs on Tuesday, Aug. 29.

Since 2017, Buckner International has operated its West Dallas Family Hope Center inside the Youth Academy’s Globe Life Training Center, providing educational and family services to Texas Rangers Youth Academy athletes, their families and residents from surrounding neighborhoods.

Students 7-18 years old can register for Buckner’s free fall programs, including Youth Enrichment classes every Tuesday evening through Nov. 14, which teach students life skills through fun and interactive activities.

Buckner’s Academic Enrichment program will begin Sept. 7 and be held every Thursday evening through Nov. 16. Those who register will receive homework assistance, access to the Quick Trip Computer Lab in the Cole Hamels Classrooms, and participate in fun and educational experiments.

To kick off its fall programs, Buckner International is hosting a Back to School Bash on Thursday, Aug. 31. The event is free to attend for those who register in advance and will include inflatable games, a video game truck, food, music and prizes.