Academy Notebook: Texas Rangers Youth Academy Youth of the Year; Fall 18U Baseball & Softball programming; Ximena Zamarron named Youth of the Year
Ximena Zamarron named Youth of the Year
Ximena Zamarron was announced as the Texas Rangers Youth Academy’s 2022 Youth of the Year on Friday. The Youth of the Year title is awarded annually to the top performing athlete on and off the field at each of the 10 Major League Baseball Youth Academies across the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
Zamarron, a 2022 Irving Nimitz High School graduate, was selected by Rangers Youth Academy staff for her outstanding work ethic, team spirit and overall hustle as a long-time Academy athlete. Senior Director of the Youth Academy and Baseball Development, Juan Leonel Gárciga, said, “Ximena is everything that embodies the Texas Rangers Youth Academy, and her involvement has positively impacted the way the program is perceived in the softball community.”
This year the Texas Rangers Youth of the Year award includes a $20,000 college scholarship for Zamarron, generously donated by the Coleman Family.
“Winning Youth of the Year really warms my heart because I've put in so much work, and it's finally paying off,” said Zamarron. “I'm so honored to have a Youth Academy that I live near in case I ever need them for anything, even if it's not related to softball, they always welcome me with open arms. It means so much to me and encourages me to keep pursuing my passion.”
Additionally, as part of her Youth of the Year honors, Major League Baseball will provide an all-expenses paid trip for Zamarron and a guest to Game 2 of the World Series, where she will be recognized during pre-game ceremonies.
Ximena expressed her excitement to attend the game and is predicting she’ll be in Los Angeles, watching the Dodgers take on the Astros.
During her five years at the Youth Academy, Zamarron was selected to participate in four MLB and USA Softball development events and was on the roster for three Jennie Finch Classic teams and three Rangers RBI Regional All-Star teams. Additionally, Zamarron was a member of the Mexico 18U Junior National team that took silver at the 2021 Junior Pan American Games in Columbia last year.
“It's honestly a blessing to have the Rangers Youth Academy right around the corner in Dallas,” she said. “I never take it for granted because I know not everybody gets this opportunity, but I have, and it means a lot to me. The Youth Academy has helped me up my game, and I'm grateful for everything I've accomplished with them.”
Following her recognition at the MLB World Series later this month, Zamarron will return to Texas to continue preparing for her first college softball season at Paris Junior College.
Fall 18U Baseball & Softball programming
Fall baseball and softball programming for high school athletes will officially begin next Tuesday, Oct. 18, at the Texas Rangers Youth Academy.
Participants will be designated into training groups for specialized coaching based on age and skill level as assessed by Youth Academy coaches and staff. Trainees will work to expand their skills and knowledge of the game throughout the session by focusing on drills that improve offense, defense, and mental skills.
Athletes can participate in 18U programming at no cost every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday evening through Nov. 17. Registration for 18U fall programming will remain open throughout the session.
To register your child for Texas Rangers Youth Academy fall baseball and softball programming, visit texasrangers.com/academy.