The Rochester Youth Fastpitch Softball Association is proud to announce the inagural recepients of the RYFSA Scholarship. The 2026 recipients are Ava Frost (left) and Ruby Flies (right). Congratulations! Read more about Ava and Ruby below.

Ava Frost

The Rochester Youth Fastpitch Softball Association (RYFSA) is proud to recognize Ava Frost as a recipient of the 2026 RYFSA Scholarship.

Ava’s softball journey began more than ten years ago through RYFSA recreational leagues and continued through fall ball, and the Stix program. Throughout her years in the organization, Ava demonstrated dedication, perseverance, and a strong commitment to her teammates and the game she loves.

In addition to her years as a player, Ava has given back to the softball community through several roles within RYFSA, including working in concessions, assisting with field maintenance, and helping with various program operations. Her willingness to serve behind the scenes reflects the same work ethic and team-first attitude she displayed on the field.

Ava is currently a sophomore at Iowa State University, where she is pursuing a double major in Entrepreneurship and Marketing. She has maintained strong academic success while taking on significant leadership responsibilities, including serving as Vice President of Housing and Finance for Pi Beta Phi and as a Recruitment Counselor for the Panhellenic community. Ava is also actively involved in literacy outreach programs, hospital support initiatives, and community service projects.

Through softball, Ava learned the value of teamwork, leadership, resilience, and accountability—qualities she continues to demonstrate in college and within her community. Her commitment to excellence both on and off the field makes her a deserving recipient of the RYFSA Scholarship.

Congratulations, Ava! We are proud of your accomplishments and look forward to seeing all you achieve in the future.

Ruby Flies

The Rochester Youth Fastpitch Softball Association (RYFSA) is proud to announce that Ruby Flies has been selected as a recipient of the 2026 RYFSA Scholarship.

A 2026 graduate of Lourdes High School, Ruby has been a dedicated part of the RYFSA family for many years. In addition to playing RYFSA softball for eight seasons, she has become a familiar face at the RYFSA concession stand, where she currently serves in a leadership role and helps mentor younger employees. Through her involvement both on and off the field, Ruby has developed the leadership, teamwork, and perseverance that have become hallmarks of her character. Throughout high school, she excelled academically, maintaining a 4.13 GPA while participating in basketball, cross country, track and field, student council, and numerous community service activities.

Ruby served as Student Council President, WHO Club Leader, and held several leadership roles within her school and community. She currently serves as one of the longest employees at the RYFSA concession stand, helping oversee operations and mentor younger workers while contributing to the success of the association’s programs. Her commitment to service also includes volunteering with organizations such as the Miracle of Birth Center, Dorothy Day House, and Adopt a Family.

In her scholarship essay, Ruby reflected on the lasting impact softball has had on her life, crediting RYFSA with helping her build confidence, friendships, and valuable life skills that she will carry into the future.

This fall, Ruby plans to attend South Dakota State University, where she will pursue a degree in Nursing. RYFSA congratulates Ruby on this well-deserved honor and wishes her continued success in her academic and professional journey.