From First Swing to the National Stage
Some players grow into the game. Others dive in headfirst and never look back.
That’s exactly the story of Mary Bernyk — our very first #PlayerOnDeck winner back in September and one of the original 12 finalists in the BULLPEN Originals West Texas Brand Ambassador contest.
Mary represents exactly what BULLPEN Originals is all about: love of the game, fearless energy, and showing up ready to compete every time she steps on the field.
Where It All Started
Mary’s softball journey began in 2022 when she was just seven years old.
She mentioned to a close family friend that she wanted to try softball. That simple conversation turned into a birthday gift that changed everything — her very first starter kit. Soon after, Mary joined recreational softball through the city of Goldsboro, North Carolina. For many kids, rec ball is where the story ends.
For Mary, it was just the beginning.
She returned that fall season even more determined — and that’s when opportunity knocked. Two travel softball coaches saw something special and offered her a shot to play travel ball.
Mary didn’t hesitate.
In Spring 2023, Mary joined Carolina Rage, officially stepping into the world of travel softball.
That year alone, she competed in 19 tournaments, gaining:
- Game experience
- Confidence under pressure
- A deeper love for competition
Travel ball demands more.
More work. More competition. More grit.
Mary was all in.
Soon after that season, Mary’s family received new military orders and relocated to San Angelo, Texas.
But Mary kept doing what ballplayers do — she kept grinding.
New state. New teams. New competition.
Over the past two seasons in Texas, she has competed in 53 tournaments, including major events like:
- National All State Tournament
- Jenny Finch World Series
- All American Games
- Softball Fest in Panama City Beach
Today, Mary plays for West Texas Heat San Angelo, coached by Connor Jost — and her schedule isn’t slowing down anytime soon.
Her current season already includes invitations to:
- Road to the Show – Oklahoma City
- All American Games – Houston
- Softball Fest – Panama City Beach (Softball Youth Elite)
Not bad for someone who picked up the sport just a few years ago.
This season, she’s aiming to:
- Compete hard at Road to the Show in Oklahoma City
- Show out at the All American Games in Houston
- Throw out 20 runners before the military takes her family on their next adventure
Dreams Bigger Than the Diamond
Ask Mary where she wants to play someday, and she doesn’t hesitate.
Florida State. If you follow college softball, you know why.
One of her biggest role models is Michaela Edenfield — known for dominating behind the plate at FSU with confidence, power, and personality. Mary embraces that same energy.
And here’s something many people don’t know: She’s an artist, too.
Whether she’s singing “Last Night” in front of a crowd at Softball Fest in Panama City Beach or experimenting with makeup inspired by Edenfield, Mary isn’t afraid to express herself.
Her #PlayerOnDeck Moment
Mary holds a special place in BULLPEN Originals history.
She was our very first #PlayerOnDeck winner.
Her entry earned her a pair of limited-edition Bruce Bolt x Big League Chew “Slamming Strawberry” batting gloves.
When Mary received the gloves, she sent us a thank-you video showing off the gear and her excitement. That kind of energy is exactly what keeps the #PlayerOnDeck community growing.
Built for Ballplayers
Mary Bernyk’s journey is exactly why BULLPEN Originals exists — to celebrate the players, the grind, and the stories unfolding in dugouts all over the country.
From the first swing to national tournaments, every athlete has a story worth telling.
Mary’s is just getting started.
And we’ll be watching.
Want Your Shot at #PlayerOnDeck?
Every BULLPEN Originals Box includes a #PlayerOnDeck card inside the lid.
Here’s how it works:
- Scan the QR code
- Submit your stats
- Upload your photo
Prizes include:
- Limited-edition gear
- Exclusive collaborations
- Some seriously cool surprises
We turn it into your own digital baseball or softball card, feature it on social media, and enter you in our monthly drawing.
Because at BULLPEN Originals, we believe every player deserves their moment.
You can get a box here:
- Custom Player Boxes
- Team Boxes
- Award Boxes for MVP and Clutch Players
