September 21, 2023

By Jon Feyen
ScoutU

Talent, timing and opportunity are three major factors in the recruiting process. Kooper Barnes had the first two covered with her 62 mph fastball and joining ScoutU before high school. ScoutU provided the opportunity by getting Barnes in front of hundreds of college coaches. Now she will be playing at the highest level after committing to a NCAA Division I school (University of South Alabama).

“Kooper showed college talent at a very young age and started the recruiting process about 5 years ago,” ScoutU’s Jason Lauren said. “To see how she grew and improved each year and developed into the dominating pitcher she is today has been very cool. As a lefty pitcher with plus velocity, spin and movement, I’m sure she will have a great college career!”

Last club season, Barnes silenced opposing hitters with a 2.31 ERA and 113 strikeouts in 88 innings. She then found a school where she will be supported both on and off the diamond.

“I loved the competitive atmosphere, and I knew that I would be challenged there,” Barnes said. “I also liked how they view me as a student first, and if I ever needed academic help, they have many resources that would be able to help me. Everyone is just so nice there and willing to push you to be a better person and athlete.”

As a 6-foot-tall lefty pitcher, Barnes is used to standing out. She had at least 30 colleges interested, allowing her to choose the perfect spot to live out her dream.

“I always knew I wanted to play softball in college, and now that it’s become such a real deal, I’m so excited to keep that promise to my younger self,” she said.

South Alabama is coming off a 39-14 record last season. With Barnes on the roster for 2025 and beyond, the sky is the limit.

“Jason Lauren was always very attentive and willing to make any changes to Kooper’s website,” her mom Brooke Barnes said. “He put her videos and information in a way that was very telling of her ability and showcased her very well. The exposures and information he provided were great and caught the eye of many coaches! We’re very thankful for the exposure and reach Jason and ScoutU have for athletes! Thanks again for the work you put in, so they can further their goals and dreams.”