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Fishers Magazine July 2026

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PURE PHARMACY ELEVATES PERSONALIZED

CARE

6 THE LATEST HOMETOWN HAPPENINGS AROUND FISHERS

8 PURE PHARMACY ELEVATES PERSONALIZED CARE

12 NONPROFIT OF THE MONTH Hailey’s Army for Children 16 THIS IS FISHERS

18 A PASSION FOR PATIENT CARE

Dr. Samantha Shuttleworth Brings A Patient-Centered Approach, a Commitment to Lifelong Learning and a Passion for Comprehensive Care to Fishers Dental Care

22 FROM BACKYARD TO BIG LEAGUES 28 HAMILTON SOUTHEASTERN HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2026

FISHERS HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2026

PUBLISHER

ALISON GATZ alison@townepost.com (317) 829-6670

KEY CONTRIBUTORS

ANTHONY ACQUISTO WADE CARIGNAN LARRY LANNAN RENÉE LARR AMY PAYNE

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. FOUNDER, CEO TOM BRITT tom@townepost.com (463) 842-1488

PRESIDENT JEANNE BRITT jeanne@townepost.com (317) 810-0011

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER ERIN TURK CREATIVE DIRECTORS VAL AUSTIN TONI EADS

EDITOR JOSH BROWN

DIGITAL CONTENT MANAGER ERIC NEER

DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL ENGAGEMENT SKYLAR ANDERTON

TOWNE POST NETWORK, INC. 8800 North Street, Suite 117 Fishers, IN 46038 Phone/Text: (317) 810-0011

CONTACT THE PUBLISHER

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Larry IN FISHERS

THE LATEST HOMETOWN HAPPENINGS AROUND FISHERS

SR 37 PROJECT COMPLETE AS 141ST STREET ROUNDABOUT OPENS

The State Road 37 project in Fishers reached the finish line May 26 with a grand opening of the roundabout at 141st Street and SR 37, featuring Governor Mike Braun, Mayor Scott Fadness, county officials and other dignitaries. The governor praised how Fishers carried out the plan, which took more than eight years. With work now complete at the 126th, 131st, 141st and 146th Street east-west corridors, SR 37 through Fishers is free of traffic obstructions. The next phase moves north to Noblesville, where city leaders are weighing how to redesign their stretch of SR 37.

FISHERS RANKED NO. 2 BEST PLACE TO LIVE IN THE NATION

The City of Fishers has again earned national recognition for quality of life, claiming the No. 2 spot on U.S. News & World Report’s 2026-2027 Best Places to Live rankings. Fishers also ranked No. 2 among Indiana communities, behind only Carmel.

U.S. News evaluated more than 850 cities nationwide, with 250 making the final list. The rankings weigh how well communities meet residents’ expectations across four categories: value, job market, desirability and quality of life.

COUNCIL OVERHAULS RULES FOR E-BIKES, SCOOTERS AND ‘E-MOTOS’

The Fishers City Council has approved a sweeping overhaul of the city’s regulations for bicycles, e-bikes, scooters and other motorized devices, consolidating them into a single ordinance aimed at improving safety on roads, sidewalks and trails. The ordinance sets updated definitions and operating rules for e-bicycles, e-scooters, mobility devices such as Segways and hoverboards, and electric dirt

bikes or motorcycles termed “E-Motos.” After first-reading discussion, the council adopted amendments tightening restrictions on E-Motos, which are now prohibited on the Nickel Plate Trail, Geist Greenway Trail, all multi-use trails, sidewalks and bicycle lanes, and may operate only on roadways. Operators must be at least 15, carry identification, wear helmets, obey traffic laws and ride near the right edge of the roadway except when passing or turning left. Speed is capped at the posted limit or 35 mph, whichever is lower.

COMMUNITY SURVEY SHOWS RESIDENTS HIGHLY SATISFIED

Results from the city’s 2026 Community Survey show residents remain highly satisfied with life in Fishers, citing strong marks for public safety, schools and city services. Nearly 3,000 residents participated, with 94 percent rating Fishers positively as a place to live and 99 percent reporting a positive overall quality of life. “These results reflect a community that is moving forward together,” Mayor Scott Fadness said. “As a mayor, there’s nothing more fulfilling than to see survey results with overwhelmingly high numbers in support of everything from city services to quality-of-life amenities.”

GOLF CARTS ALLOWED ON NEIGHBORHOOD STREETS — BUT ONLY UNDER STRICT RULES

As warm weather returns, residents are seeing more golf carts in their neighborhoods, but the city’s ordinance permits them only under limited conditions. Under Fishers City Code Section 94.02, golf carts may operate on citymaintained neighborhood streets only after the city determines they can be used safely, the homeowners association or developer holds a vote, at least 75 percent of all lot owners vote in favor, the result is certified to the city, and city-approved signs are posted designating where they are allowed.

RIVERSIDE MATH TEACHER NAMED DISTRICT TEACHER OF THE YEAR

On May 21, Hamilton Southeastern Schools officials gathered at Riverside Junior High School to honor Jordan Teeple, a mathematics teacher named the 2025-26 HSE Teacher of the Year during a surprise ceremony attended by students, family, administrators and district leaders. Teeple has taught in HSE Schools for a decade, but his influence reaches beyond the classroom. He serves on Riverside’s School Improvement Plan leadership team, co-sponsors the Student Council, coordinates the annual Camp Tecumseh program and supports a range of student activities.

SCHOOL BOARD APPROVES NEW TEACHER EVALUATION SYSTEM

Recent controversy over Reduction in Force (RIF) notices in Hamilton Southeastern Schools has renewed attention on how teachers are evaluated — a critical factor under Indiana law when staffing cuts are necessary. After several months of work, an internal committee of administrators and teachers produced a new system, which the school board unanimously approved. Administrators say it simplifies the process while placing greater emphasis on classroom instruction and professional practice.

DIXON’S PRIMARY WIN ALL BUT SECURES SHERIFF’S OFFICE

Republican voters in Hamilton County have effectively chosen their next sheriff. With no Democrat filing for November, Dustin Dixon’s GOP primary victory Tuesday all but assures he will become the next Hamilton County Sheriff. Dixon captured more than 62 percent of the vote, defeating John Lowes, who finished with about 37 percent. The race drew considerable local attention: Dixon was backed by former Hamilton County Sheriff and Indiana State Police Superintendent Doug Carter, while Lowes earned the endorsement of incumbent Sheriff Dennis Quakenbush.

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PURE PHARMACY ELEVATES PERSONALIZED CARE

Writer / Anthony Acquisto
Photographer / Amy Payne

While the world at large continues to evolve, one thing remains essential: access to reliable, quality health care. The right pharmacy support can make all the difference in how we live, feel and thrive. That’s where Pure Pharmacy steps in, elevating health across Hamilton County with personalized, specialized care designed to help people feel their best every day.

Pure Pharmacy, which recently expanded from a 6,000-square-foot space in Carmel to its new 21,000-square-foot home in Fishers, is led by Linda Hayes, CEO and director of pharmacy, and Ryan Hayes, chief operating officer. Linda, whose daily responsibilities range from clinical duties to formula and compound development, has been a pharmacist since 2005. Ryan, who has more than two decades of experience in manufacturing and operational supervision, provides oversight and support for a team of licensed pharmacists and technicians.

“WHEN SELECTING A COMPOUNDING PHARMACY, TRUST IS ESSENTIAL. BUT TRUST ALONE IS NOT ENOUGH. EVERY COMPOUNDED PREPARATION UNDERGOES RIGOROUS TESTING TO CONFIRM POTENCY, STERILITY AND THE ABSENCE OF ENDOTOXINS. THIS COMMITMENT TO QUALITY IS A KEY REASON PROVIDERS AND PATIENTS CHOOSE PURE PHARMACY.”

Pure Pharmacy’s specialty is its personalized pharmaceutical experience, providing unique compounds and medications for its customers in collaboration with prescribers. In such a delicate and important industry, the team at Pure Pharmacy places great emphasis on developing close relationships with its customers, as well as its vast network of prescribers throughout the area.

“When selecting a compounding pharmacy, trust is essential,” says Linda. “But trust alone is not enough. Every compounded

preparation undergoes rigorous testing to confirm potency, sterility and the absence of endotoxins. This commitment to quality is a key reason providers and patients choose Pure Pharmacy.”

As is the nature of health care, the ultimate way to earn the trust of a patient is for that patient to see meaningful results from prescriptions and medical care. Pure Pharmacy understands this unique aspect of the industry while also working to provide top-notch customer service.

“In addition to getting the patient the outcome from quality medication, there’s also a strong focus on service,” says Ryan.

“It’s having the medication ready and accessible, and having the capacity to compound it and dispense it on demand as the prescription comes in.”

Pure Pharmacy’s new, much larger location provides space for patient consultations with its clinical team and knowledgeable pharmacists, creating a welcoming environment that helps build customer relationships. At the same time, Pure Pharmacy is committed to respecting the “triad” of patient, prescriber and pharmacy, another unique facet of health care.

“I don’t think it’s very common in other fields, really,” says Ryan. “Usually you have

purely vertical supply chains. I think it’s a fascinating arrangement for effective collaboration and, ultimately, getting the best outcome for the patient.”

Pure Pharmacy specializes in a wide array of services, from men’s and women’s health to dermatology, regenerative health and weight management. The company ships to more than 40 states across the country, another testament to its flexibility and dedication to meeting patient needs wherever they may be.

With the health care industry as competitive as ever, Pure Pharmacy has developed a mission and identity through its approach to pharmacy, working toward becoming the compounding pharmacy of choice for patients in central Indiana and across the nation. The team has found its new home in Fishers and looks to continue providing top-notch compounding services to its expanding customer base while helping patients achieve exceptional health outcomes.

Reashea is a concept design jeweler with a passion for creating meaningful, one-of-a-kind jewelry designs that reflect each client’s unique story and personal style. She believes exceptional jewelry begins with truly listening. By taking the time to understand her clients’ expectations, aesthetic, and everyday lifestyle, Reashea is able to thoughtfully develop custom concepts that feel both timeless and deeply personal.

Her approach to design is centered around connection, creativity, and intention. Every piece begins as a collaborative vision, carefully curated to blend beautifully into a client’s jewelry wardrobe while still making a distinctive statement. From modern heirloom designs to refined everyday luxury, Reashea focuses on creating concepts that feel effortless, wearable, and uniquely tailored to the individual.

For Reashea, the most rewarding part of the design process is helping clients bring their vision to life through jewelry that feels authentic to who they are.

HAILEY’S ARMY FOR CHILDREN

When Beau and Ronya Buzbee tragically lost their daughter, Hailey Buzbee, they experienced every parent’s worst nightmare. Yet amid unimaginable grief, they also witnessed something extraordinary: a community that rallied around their family with compassion, determination and support.

That experience became the foundation for Hailey’s Army for Children, a nonprofit organization established in February to honor Hailey’s life while working to better protect children and support families.

“Ronya and I had such an abundance of support while we were trying to find Hailey,” says Beau, president of Hailey’s Army for Children. “We also saw how much work is needed to better protect our families and children.”

The organization was created with a mission centered on advocacy, education, family support and community engagement. Through those efforts, the Buzbees hope to transform awareness into action while helping families navigate an increasingly complex world.

One of the nonprofit’s primary focuses is advocacy. Hailey’s Army works alongside coalitions, community leaders and lawmakers to strengthen protections for children and families. As conversations continue at both the state and federal levels, the organization aims to help shape policies that address modern safety challenges, particularly those involving online risks.

Education is another cornerstone of the nonprofit’s work. Through workshops, presentations and family-centered programming, Hailey’s Army provides practical tools for parents and children to learn about online and physical safety together.

“We try to take a unique approach,” Beau says. “We want families to learn together and make these topics easier to discuss.”

Recent programs have included parent education nights focused on the mental health impacts of social media. Participants created family activity bags while listening to psychologists discuss healthy digital habits and communication strategies. The nonprofit is also launching a program called Shielded, designed for middle and high school girls, that combines online safety education with physical safety awareness and self-defense techniques.

Another initiative currently in development is a Parent Preparedness Binder. The resource will help families organize important information about their children so they can respond more quickly in an emergency.

“We hope it never has to be used,” Beau says. “But it’s better to be proactive.”

In addition to prevention and education, Hailey’s Army also supports families experiencing the trauma of a missing child. The organization helps connect families with trusted resources and offers encouragement during some of the most difficult moments imaginable.

The nonprofit also extends its work beyond safety initiatives. Through scholarships awarded to students at Hamilton Southeastern and Fishers high schools, Hailey’s Army celebrates young people who demonstrate kindness, character and service to others.

“We know the smallest act of kindness can be life-saving,” Beau says. “Great communities are built on those acts of kindness.”

Looking ahead, the organization’s goal is to establish sustainable programs that can grow throughout Indiana and

beyond. Community members can support the mission by attending events, participating in educational programs, following the organization’s work, advocating for stronger protections for children and helping expand these efforts.

For Beau and Ronya, every initiative is rooted in the qualities that made their beloved daughter Hailey special.

“The way she cared for others is what inspires me every day,” Beau says. “By sharing who Hailey was, I hope those qualities continue to inspire others, too.”

Through Hailey’s Army for Children, her legacy lives on — not only in remembrance but in meaningful action that seeks to make children safer and communities stronger.

For more information and to see upcoming events, visit haileysarmyforchildren.org.

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THIS IS FISHERS HAPPENINGS FROM THE CITY OF FISHERS

MONTHLY HIGHLIGHTS

Best Place to Live

Fishers was just ranked the #2 Best Place to Live in America by U.S. News & World Report, and summer is the perfect time to see why Our latest community survey shows 99% of residents rated their quality of life in Fishers positively.

With concerts, festivals, parks, trails, and community events all season long, Fishers continues to shine as a safe, welcoming, and vibrant place to call home Learn more at FishersIN.gov/2026Survey.

Road Construction Update

Great news for Fishers drivers: SR 37 is complete and fully open! Road improvements continue across the city, including work at Allisonville Road and 116th Street and the Southeastern Parkway and Olio Road roundabout The Southeastern Parkway and Olio Road roundabout remains open, with lane restrictions only at this time. Nearby businesses also remain open and accessible Stay updated and subscribe to the Drive Fishers newsletter at FishersIN.gov/DriveFishers and follow @DriveFishers on X.

Cul-de-sac Drills Return

Cool off with the Fishers Fire Department as Cul-desac Drills return to local neighborhoods this summer! Firefighters will spray water, roll out the hose, and give kids the chance to run through the spray or try th h li Vi d t d i hb h d t

Spark!Fishers, Presented by Meijer

Fishers’ annual festival returns! Check out the lineup below and learn more at SparkFishers.com

Wednesday, June 24: 5K & Firecracker 1 Mile, Presented by IU Health

7 PM | NPD AMP | Register at SparkFishers com

Friday, June 26: Concert + Drone Show 8 PM | NPD AMP | Free

Saturday, June 27: Street Fair, Parade + Fireworks Street Fair: 4-10 PM | Parade: 7 PM | Fireworks: 10 PM Nickel Plate District | Free

Citizen Academies Open for Registration

Mayor’s Youth Academy

Applications are open for the 2026-2027 Mayor’s Youth Academy! This year-long program gives high school juniors and seniors a behind-the-scenes look at local government while exploring careers and real policy issues. Apply by July 24 at FishersIN.gov/MYA.

City Government Academy

Get an inside look at how Fishers runs with the free City Government Academy Open to residents ages 18+, the 3-month course includes facility tours, staff presentations, and more Learn and apply by July 29 at FishersIN.gov/CGA.

THIS IS FISHERS

SAVE THE DATE

Fishers Farmers Market

Saturdays, now – September 26 | 8 a m – noon

NPD Amphitheater (6 Municipal Drive) | Free

The Fishers Farmers Market, Presented by IU Health, is in full swing with expanded vendors throughout the NPD Amphitheater, the new Breezeway Café, and fun specialty days all season long Upcoming themed days include Accessibility and Inclusion Day on July 11, Thrift-aThon on July 25, and Health and Wellness Day on August 1 Learn more at FishersParks.com/FarmersMarket.

Fishers Summer Camps: Spots Still Open!

Spots are still open for Fishers’ half and full-day camps for ages 3 - 14! Campers can explore nature in Water, Sun & Wild Things, solve puzzles in Mystery Mission, get creative in Maker Creations, and enjoy enrichment camps like Urban Air, Top Golf, Laser Flash, and Junior Lifeguard Camp at Geist Waterfront Park. Sign up at FishersIN.gov/Camps.

Don’t Miss a Beat: Ticketed Shows at the AMP

The NPD Amphitheater is bringing an exciting lineup of ticketed shows to Fishers this summer Get tickets at npdamp.com for:

Band of Horses + Dinosaur Jr on July 25

Allen Stone with Late Night Thoughts + The Band Memo on July 26

The Crane Wives on August 22

Niko Moon on September 12

VOLUNTEER AT SPARK!FISHERS

VOLUNTEER AT GEIST HALF MARATHON

Join us September 12, where volunteers can help cheer on runners as course marshals, assist with parking, and support the start/finish line by handing out medals, water, and snacks You can also volunteer on September 11 during packet pickup Apply at VolunteerFishers.com.

4th of July Fireworks

Fishers Parks offers 3 fireworks shows throughout the community on Friday, July 4. All fireworks shows will begin at dusk, approximately 10 p m Fireworks can be viewed from:

Geist Reservoir (view by boat or residence)

NPD Amphitheater + free concert featuring Groovesmash at 8 p.m.

New! HSE High School (12499 Olio Road)

Fishers

Parks’ Monsoon Madness

Saturday, July 18 | 11 a m – 3 p m for pre-purchased early access, 12 – 3 p.m. for free general admission

Holland Park

Cool off from the summer heat at Monsoon Madness with giant waterslides, a mini-monsoon area for little ones, and live entertainment Pre-registration is required at FishersParks.com/MonsoonMadness.

All

American

Ice Cream Bike Ride AMP

Tuesday, July 21 | 6 – 7:30 p.m.

Nickel Plate District | Free

Enjoy a summer evening celebrating America’s 250 with two wheels This casual, family-friendly ride begins at the NPD Amphitheater with bike decorating before heading to Holland Park to cool off with a scoop of Handel’s ice cream. The ride finishes back at the NPD Amphitheater, where you can enjoy the free Tuesday Night Concert.

New

Geist

1-Mile Race

Register for the Geist Half Marathon, 10K, and 5K, the new 1-mile race! All participants receive a race shirt and finisher medal Register before prices increase on June 24 at GeistHalf com

up to date on the latest news from the Mayor’s Office, s Parks, Police and Fire Departments, Fishers Health Department, and more Sign up at FishersIN gov/Subscribe

A PASSION FOR PATIENT CARE

DR. SAMANTHA SHUTTLEWORTH BRINGS A PATIENT-CENTERED APPROACH, A COMMITMENT TO LIFELONG LEARNING AND A PASSION FOR COMPREHENSIVE CARE TO FISHERS DENTAL CARE

When Dr. Samantha Shuttleworth joined Fishers Dental Care this spring, it felt more like coming home than starting a new job.

Shuttleworth already shared a connection with the team. She studied under Dr. Kevin Ward, the father of Dr. Molly Dwenger, and developed a close professional relationship with Dwenger during her time at the Indiana University School of Dentistry.

“I met Molly on day one,” Shuttleworth says. “She was my teaching assistant when I started dental school, and over the next four years, she became a mentor to me.”

That connection ultimately helped bring Shuttleworth to Fishers Dental Care, where she officially joined the practice in March. The timing was ideal. After the birth of her first child and the retirement of a previous colleague, Shuttleworth began exploring

new opportunities and reached out to Dwenger for advice.

Instead, Dwenger had an opportunity of her own to offer.

“She said she had actually been thinking about adding another doctor,” Shuttleworth says. “It ended up being a great fit.”

As Fishers Dental Care continues to grow, the practice saw value in adding another doctor to provide even better patient care.

For Shuttleworth, the move also offered the chance to work alongside dentists who share her commitment to lifelong learning and comprehensive patient care.

Originally from outside Philadelphia, Shuttleworth earned a biology degree from the University of Dayton in 2014. Before dental school, she spent two years working as a dental and orthodontic assistant, confirming her desire to become a dentist.

Her interest in the profession began even earlier.

“I had some dental issues as a child,” she says. “I spent a lot of time at the dentist, the orthodontist and the oral surgeon. I got to see firsthand the difference dental care could make in my life, and I wanted to be able to do that for other people.”

Today, that patient-centered mindset remains at the core of her philosophy. Shuttleworth understands that many patients arrive at the dental office feeling anxious or nervous. Rather than rushing into treatment, she focuses on listening first.

“It’s important to really sit down and hear what patients have to say,” she says. “Sometimes people don’t immediately share their concerns or fears. Building that relationship and understanding their goals helps us create the best plan for them.”

Her goal is to ensure every patient feels comfortable, safe and heard.

“I never want someone to feel afraid to ask questions,” she says. “I want patients to know I’m here to help them. We’re working together to achieve their goals, and I want them to feel secure throughout the process.”

Shuttleworth is passionate about helping patients understand the connection between oral health and overall wellness, focusing on long-term solutions rather than quick fixes.

That philosophy has been heavily influenced by advanced continuing education through the Pankey Institute, a nationally recognized dental education organization known for its comprehensive approach to patient care.

“It’s not just about fixing a broken tooth,” Shuttleworth says. “It’s about asking why it happened, how we got here and what we can do to prevent it from happening again.”

She has also developed a special interest in treating temporomandibular disorders, which can cause jaw pain, headaches and other facial pain symptoms. Last summer, she completed a mini-residency in orofacial pain at the University of Kentucky, further expanding her expertise in this area.

As part of that focus, Fishers Dental Care recently added Botox treatment services for therapeutic purposes. Shuttleworth and Dwenger completed specialized training to offer Botox as a treatment option for chronic migraines, jaw pain, teeth grinding and trigger-point therapy.

“It’s been exciting to bring another tool to help patients who may be struggling with those issues,” Shuttleworth says.

Beyond her clinical work, Shuttleworth has maintained a strong connection to dental education. Since graduating from dental school, she has continued teaching preclinical courses at the Indiana University School of Dentistry, working primarily with second-year students.

That dedication to learning is one of the qualities she believes aligns perfectly with the culture at Fishers Dental Care.

“I’m very passionate about continuing education,” she says. “I think it’s important that we continue learning throughout our careers. That’s one of the reasons I’m

so excited to be here. Dr. Ward and Dr. Dwenger share that same passion.”

As she settles into her new role, Shuttleworth is looking forward to building lasting relationships with patients and becoming more involved in the Fishers community.

“We’re one of the few health care providers who see patients every six months,” she says. “You get to know their families, celebrate milestones with them and watch their lives evolve over the years. That’s one of the most rewarding parts of dentistry.”

For Fishers Dental Care patients, Shuttleworth hopes her message is simple:

She’s here to listen, help and provide the best care possible.

“My biggest goal is helping patients achieve their goals,” she says. “I want them to feel comfortable, supported and confident that we’re working together to keep them healthy for years to come.”

For more information, visit fishersdentalcare.com. 11959 Lakeside Drive, Fishers (317) 943-5293 fishersdentalcare.com

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FROM BACKYARD TO BIG LEAGUES

For most athletes, the dream is to hear their name called on draft day. Few imagine that dream unfolding through a childhood backyard pastime. But for Fishers native Connor Smith, a lifelong love of Wiffle ball has led to an unexpected opportunity — one that now has him competing on one of the sport’s biggest stages.

Smith, a recent graduate of Fishers High School, was selected by the Atlanta Ballers in the Big League Wiffle Ball Draft, earning the chance to play professionally in a rapidly growing sport that is drawing national attention through ESPN and online streaming platforms.

“I couldn’t really believe that Wiffle ball would take me to a place like this,” Smith says. “Being able to say I’m a professional Wiffle ball player isn’t something I had

planned, but it’s something I’m super grateful for.”

The announcement generated excitement throughout his family and plenty of surprise among friends.

“When everyone in my circle heard I was getting the opportunity to play on ESPN and get paid, they were pretty shocked,” he says.

Like many players, Smith’s athletic journey began with traditional baseball. He spent 11 years developing the fundamentals that would later help him excel in Wiffle ball. While the sports differ in some ways, Smith says baseball provides the foundation for his swing and overall approach at the plate.

His path changed in 2020 when he

discovered the competitive Wiffle ball scene. Two years later, he competed in his first organized tournament and quickly found a new passion.

“I had a lot of stress and anxiety toward the end of my baseball career,” Smith says. “Wiffle ball never brought those emotions. Being on the Wiffle ball field is the one place where I truly stay in the moment. It’s become my happy place.”

Smith’s breakthrough came after competing in BLW tournaments. While his team struggled during a tournament in Chicago, a subsequent event in Texas told a different story. Alongside longtime teammate Cael Foreman, Smith helped lead an undefeated championship run that caught the attention of league scouts.

The Atlanta Ballers soon came calling.

“Teams were interested in Cael and me together because we’ve played with each other for five years,” Smith says. “When the Ballers reached out about selecting me 10th overall, we were ecstatic to have the opportunity to play together on the biggest stage in Wiffle ball.”

Now part of BLW’s newest franchise, Smith is helping build the Atlanta Ballers into a competitive force. The team is backed by notable owners, including rapper Nelly and former NFL player Julio Jones.

For fans unfamiliar with competitive Wiffle ball, Smith says it’s baseball with a unique twist. Pitchers throw from just 45 feet away and use an arsenal of pitches, including sliders, risers, drops and knuckleballs, that make hitting a major challenge.

Fishers residents can follow Smith’s journey through BLW and Atlanta Ballers social media channels, as well as broadcasts on YouTube and ESPN+. As for his rookie season, Smith’s goals extend beyond wins and statistics.

“Showing the league that I belong is the main goal,” he says. “But off the field, I want to make fans feel welcome. Signing autographs and taking pictures is something I never imagined doing for Wiffle ball, but it’s incredibly rewarding. I’m grateful for this opportunity and excited to see where it takes me.”

For Smith, what started as a backyard game has become a professional adventure, and he’s only just getting started.

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HAMILTON SOUTHEASTERN HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF 2026

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Cameron Cavanaugh

Henley Caylan

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