HAMPTON, Va. (Oct. 3, 2023) Softball Coaches Alyssa Rivera and Monique White won the first ever Women's Professional Fastpitch Championship Series as members of the Texas Smoke back in August.
 
Rivera plays outfield for the Smoke and smashed a home run in game two of the finals to clinch the championship 14-2 over the USSSA Pride. White serves as an assistant head coach for the team. In the postseason, Rivera recorded a .500 batting average with two RBIs and one home run.
 
Throughout the season, Rivera competed in 26 games and scored five times with 11 hits (.234%). In the outfield, she totaled 17 putouts and an assist.
 
The Texas Smoke posted a record of 22-14, which earned them the first seed in the postseason tournament. They defeated the SIS Vipers in the first round in three game (0-2, 6-4, 2-1) and then the USSSA Pride in two games in the championship (5-4, 14-2).
 
"To be a WPF champion, regular season champion, and receive Coaching staff of the Year honors all in Texas Smoke's inaugural year is a humbling experience," said Coach White. "Of all the honors, the most fulfilling was being a part of a minority owned organization coached by three black women, who are all head coaches at prestigious HBCU's. Coaching under Tori Tyson's leadership has been invaluable both personally and professionally. Being able to grow the sport is what this is all about." 
 
The Texas Smoke
 
According to thetexassmoke.com, "At The Texas Smoke, we believe that putting our community first is the key to success both on and off the field. We strive to create a safe and inclusive environment where all players feel empowered to reach their full potential."
 
The Texas Smoke are focused on making an impact on and off the field, especially in the community. This includes providing the players with fair and equitable pay along with access to professional development, health and wellness resources and community outreach opportunities.
 
They are owned by Brandon Phillips, a World Series Champion with the Red Sox in 2018. He has 17 years of Major League experience including being a 3-time All-Star, 4-time Golden Glove Winner and Silver Slugger winner. Alongside Phillips is Jade Cargill, an entrepreneur who also is a professional wrestler who holds the longest AEW TBS Championship (508 days).
 
Women's Professional Fastpitch
 
Women's Professional Fastpitch (WPF) is the official professional softball league in the United States, founded by USA Softball, USSSA, and Smash It Sports. WPF showcases the best athletes in softball, provides a world-class experience for fans, and connects young fans to their idols.
 
It consists of four teams, the Texas Smoke, the Smash It Sports Vipers, the USSSA Pride and the Oklahoma City Spark.