Building Strong, Confident Female Athletes. On and Off the Field.
Where It All Began
Level Up Softball was founded by former collegiate athletes Jade and Natalie, who know firsthand what it takes to pursue the game at the highest level. From early mornings in the gym to late nights in the classroom, they experienced the sacrifices, setbacks, and triumphs of chasing a dream. Their shared vision was clear: create a program where young athletes are not only trained to perform but also supported to grow as confident, resilient individuals.
More Than a Game
Our programs are designed to challenge girls to move beyond their comfort zones and reach their highest potential.
We prioritize not only enhancing athletic skills but also building mental resilience and confidence. By integrating mental performance strategies with foundational training, we create an environment that encourages athletes to overcome obstacles, develop mental toughness, and set ambitious goals.
At Level Up Softball, we believe that nurturing both physical and psychological strength helps shape well-rounded athletes who excel both on and off the field.
Mental Performance
Training
Nutrition
Leadership
Experienced Mentors, Passionate Leaders
Jade Blackhurst
West Virginia State University 2010-2014
Co-founder/Director of Operations
With expertise in movement and athletic performance, Jade helps athletes build strong foundations that enhance performance and support long-term development. As a Master of Kinesiology (MSK) candidate, she combines evidence-based practice with performance training to help athletes move efficiently, reduce injury risk, and reach their full potential.
Natalie Voortman
The Ohio State University 2002-2005
Co-founder/Director of Softball Operations
Having played and coached at the collegiate level, Natalie combines her on-field experience with a gift for mentorship. Known for her ability to push athletes while providing steady encouragement, she is dedicated to developing both skill and confidence in every player.
Kelsey-Ann Ramirez
Nutraphoria School of Holistic Nutrition
Director of Holistic Programs
A certified mental performance coach and holistic nutritionist, Kelsey brings a holistic approach to athlete development. She equips athletes with practical tools for mental resilience, stress management, and recovery - helping them stay confident under pressure and perform at their best while avoiding burnout.
What We Stand For
Growth Mindset.
Relentless.
Attack every pitch, every play, and every inning relentlessly.
Intentional.
Tough.
Trained to outlast adversity, outwork opponents, and own the big moments.
What Parents and Athletes Say About Us
During my college years, me and Jade had worked together on my mobility through yoga. I never did yoga before I met her and it truly changed the way I move everyday and how I can play the sport I love. Thanks to her, I have been able to continue my career past college and stay healthy along the way!
Cohen Achen
Professional Athlete, Baltimore Orioles (MiLB)
My daughter has been training with Natalie & Jade for almost a year doing both one-on-one and group sessions through their academy program. I can honestly say that they are masters at their craft! Whether it is breaking down and rebuilding a swing, working with pitchers on increasing speed, learning new pitches or teaching catchers blocking, framing or how to call a game, they have done it at a very high level, and more importantly truly understand how to COACH. They take a very holistic approach, focusing on all aspects of being an athlete. If you are looking to help your softball player to be more complete, Jade & Natalie are amazing!!
Paul Broks
Parent, Calgary, AB
Level Up Performance has been a great resource for our team in terms of mental performance, nutrition, strength and conditioning, and recovery. The LU coaching staff has helped me navigate through my injuries and learn how to take care of my body and mind. The journal prompts we are provided each week help us reflect and work through the challenges we face in softball and life. I’m grateful to feel supported by this staff while continuing to grow on and off the field with their guidance.
Kadence Pettit
Athlete, West Liberty University (NCAA Division II)
Not only are Jade and Natalie amazing at teaching the game of softball, but they also instill important life lessons. They have taught Anneke the value of perseverance, grit and resiliency. They have encouraged Anneke to know her value above everything else. As parents we are so thankful for not only the technical expertise, but how she is learning the important big life lessons in a safe space and with the wisdom of two fierce women.
Amy Webster
Parent, Calgary, AB
Training at Level Up gave me the confidence, discipline, and work habits that made transitioning into college life so much easier. Without the preparation we received from Coach Natalie and Coach Jade, I never would have had the confidence to reach out to a coach and ask to be a redshirt. I was able to get through my first practice with the university team because every session at Level Up was designed as a university/college level practice making it both a hardworking and fun environment. Coach Natalie and Coach Jade didn’t just help me grow as an athlete - they helped me grow as a person.
Devyn Redl
Athlete, University of Saskatchewan