Phoenix College commit Cameron Kasid puts Yuma on the map at national tournament

Kasid represents Yuma at world's largest youth fastpitch tournament before beginning college careerPhoenix College commit Cameron Kasid puts Yuma on the map at national tournament

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Former Cibola standout Cameron Kasid wrapped up her travel softball career on one of the sport's biggest stages before preparing to begin her collegiate career at Phoenix College.

Kasid competed for the second consecutive year with Arizona Rising in the Colorado Sparkler 4th of July Tournament, widely recognized as the world's largest youth fastpitch softball tournament. The annual event features more than 1,100 teams, approximately 16,000 players and hundreds of college coaches from across the country.

As the lone player from Yuma on Arizona Rising — and one of the few athletes from the area competing in the tournament — Kasid said the experience was one she never imagined growing up.

"Just being part of that was also a blessing because, me personally, I didn't think I was going to be a girl from Yuma being on this Phoenix team," Kasid said. "Girls can do it. Girls, you have to believe in yourself to be the person who you want to be."

Arizona Rising finished the tournament with a 6-1-1 record, continuing to build momentum throughout the event.

"We just kept getting better and better," Kasid said. "That's the number one thing that I love about this team, our chemistry."

Kasid contributed as one of the team's versatile defenders, playing second base and third base during the tournament. Throughout her high school career at Cibola, she embraced a utility role, seeing time at nearly every infield position.

"My coaches had me playing catcher, shortstop, first and third," Kasid said. "I accept everywhere except the outfield."

Beyond the competition, Kasid said one of her favorite parts of the trip was spending time with both her teammates and family during the 15-hour drive to Colorado.

"I think just being with my teammates and having a little vacation with my family, too," Kasid said.

She credits the team's close-knit culture for its success on and off the field.

"We all rely on each other," Kasid said. "Whenever we need something, we can always go to each other. Being teammates with these people is a blessing. I couldn't ask for better teammates."

With her travel softball career now complete, Kasid is shifting her focus to the next chapter. The Phoenix College commit is set to report to campus in a little more than a month as she begins her collegiate softball career.