The spotlight continues to find the Crusaders.

Skye James, a member of the Crusaders Select National Showcase 16U team, was recently featured by Prep Softball as one of five “2029 Prospects Worth Following Closely.”

The national feature, published August 2, highlighted five players who caught the attention of Prep Softball during the summer season. Of the athletes selected, three were from Illinois, one was from Delaware and Skye was the only player from the Southeast. Prep Softball also selected Skye’s photo as the featured image for the article.

That makes the recognition especially meaningful—not only for Skye, but also for the Crusaders and softball throughout North Carolina.

Prep Softball recognized Skye as a talented and versatile athlete who contributes at multiple positions. Primarily a shortstop and second baseman, she also possesses the athleticism to play in the outfield and impact the game in several different ways. The publication also specifically recognized Skye as a leader for the Crusaders Select National Showcase 16U team.

Skye attends Jack Britt High School in Fayetteville, North Carolina, where she carries a weighted 4.0 GPA. Her commitment in the classroom reflects the same discipline, work ethic and determination she brings to the softball field.

As a program, we are incredibly proud to see Skye receive this national recognition. We are even more proud of the work behind it—the practices, extra reps, competitive innings and continued commitment to becoming a better athlete, teammate and leader.

Prep Softball expects Skye to continue building upon an already impressive skill set as she gains additional experience. With three full high school seasons still ahead of her, this recognition represents another important step in a journey that is only beginning.

Skye has already demonstrated that she can compete at a high level, contribute at multiple positions and lead within a national showcase program. Now, she has been identified as the only player from the Southeast among a select group of 2029 athletes worth following closely.

Congratulations, Skye. Your Crusaders family is proud of you, and we cannot wait to see what comes next.