Saturday, June 14, 2025
Melina Serra, 13, played baseball long before she could read a full chapter book or write a paragraph.
Inspired by her older brother, the four-year-old Serra joined a T-ball league: replicating the moves the pair practiced in their lawn at home.
“I remember watching my brother play, and thinking it was interesting,” Serra said.
Now an eighth-grader at Lynbrook South Middle School, Serra has been selected to participate in the 2025 Trailblazer Series, a baseball event for young girls hosted by USA Baseball and Major League Baseball.
The event, set for April 10-13 in Vero Beach, Florida, provides opportunities for female players to showcase their skills, receive training and learn from professionals in the sport.
Serra’s selection comes on the heels of another achievement—becoming the first female to play on the Lynbrook boys’ baseball team.
Serra’s mother, Michela Argento-Serra, said she remembers her daughter’s elated expression after the news.
‘The grin she came home with when she knew she made the boy’s team was just priceless,” Argento-Serra said.
While first base is her favorite position, Serra also plays center field and pitcher, and practices three to four times a week.
She said players who want to be trailblazers, regardless of the industry, should have the tenacity to evolve and succeed.
“Just try your best,” Serra said.
She plays for the Lynbrook Knights, Junior and Little Leagues.
“And hopefully, soon-to-be Owls for middle school,” she said.
Serra said she looks forward to the opportunity to train alongside other girls at the Trailblazer Series.
Argento-Serra, who managed her son’s Little League team, said watching Serra and her brother grow in the sport has been a rewarding experience.
“There's so many proud moments, it’s hard to choose one,” Argento-Serra said. “But, just watching them grow and get more skillful in their positions is rewarding.”
