Welcome to Newberry, where the only thing hotter than the June sun is the competition on the dirt. The PGF Show Me The Money is back, and from 14U to 18U, Champions Park is bracing for a storm of elite talent, relentless energy, and the kind of pressure-packed softball that separates the talkers from the doers. This isn’t a warm-up. This is a measuring stick.
Across all divisions, rosters are loaded with next-level players and organizations built to win now. Some teams roll in with gaudy records and expectations. Others come in quiet but dangerous, ready to shake things up. Every pool has its own dynamic—favorites trying to hold serve, challengers looking to break through, and plenty of coin-flip matchups that could tip the bracket in unexpected ways.
We’ve broken it down pool by pool, team by team. No fluff. Just context, momentum, and what to really watch for. Whether you’re here to track stars, scout surprises, or ride the ride with your squad, this preview gets you ready for one of the toughest weekends on the summer circuit. Let’s get into it.14U
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Pool A
Carolina Elite SC Johnson/Drotar (Florence, SC)
This marks their first event of the summer, and they’re looking to reset after an 8-11-1 fall. Their offense has shown promise, but how quickly they shake off the rust could determine whether they hang around or fall behind early.
Fury Platinum X Higdon/Huckabee (Chattanooga, TN)
At 6-1-2 this summer, they’ve been swinging hot bats and piling up runs. Their pitching staff has matched the energy, making them one of the top contenders in the pool.
Georgia Impact Premier ’11 – Cleghorn (Loganville, GA)
With a strong 22-7 mark, they’ve looked dangerous on both sides of the ball. Their pitching has been especially sharp lately, and when the offense gets rolling, this team can bury you fast.
Santa Fe Inferno Humphrey 14U (Gainesville, FL)
They’re 37-10-1 for a reason. This is a team that shows up every game, plays aggressively, and knows how to adjust to any opponent. Don’t be surprised if they steal the top spot.
D1Vision (California, CA)
An unknown out of California, which always makes them dangerous. With little data, it’s tough to peg them, but teams would be wise not to take them lightly.
Alabama Sparks Elite 2011 (Huntsville, AL)
They went 17-6 in the fall and have a roster loaded with talent. Not a team you want to see in a must-win game—they compete hard and have the depth to make noise.
Prediction: This is a heavyweight pool. The trio of Fury, Impact, and Inferno look like top dogs, but there’s enough depth here that someone’s going to be disappointed on Sunday.
Pool B
Atlanta Vipers Gold – 2010 – Lynch (Cumming, GA)
At 18-7 against a tough schedule, they’ve proven they can hang with quality opponents. A well-balanced squad that doesn’t rely on one area to win.
Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier 2029 Whitaker (Hoover, AL)
Their 20-6-1 fall record backs up the eye test—this is a deep and talented team. Pitching is a strength, and they don’t beat themselves.
Carolina Cardinals National 2k11 (Lancaster, SC)
A 23-5 record this spring tells the story. They’ve looked confident at the plate and tough in the circle, and their aggressive offensive approach could catch some teams flat-footed.
Florida Storm Curry 28/29 (Mascotte, FL)
Don’t be fooled by the 4-2 start—they’ve been punching up in 16U and holding their own. Expect them to be right in the mix as the weekend progresses.
Fury Platinum X Helton (Chattanooga, TN)
They’ve taken some lumps at 12-12, but their schedule’s been no cupcake. If the pitching steadies, they’re capable of making a run.
Ohana (Oviedo, FL)
At 37-9 this spring, they’ve consistently found themselves at the top. One of the most fundamentally sound teams in the group—don’t expect them to give away anything.
Prediction: There’s no true weak link here, but the Bolts get the slight edge heading in. The Cardinals and Ohana are right there, and Florida Storm could easily disrupt the order.
Pool C
Atlanta Vipers Murphy 2011 (Brunswick, GA)
With a 22-10 spring behind them, the offense has done its job. When the pitching clicks, they become a real threat—consistency is key.
Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier Brashers (Birmingham, AL)
They’ve gone 13-7-2 against some of the nation’s top teams. Experience at the 16U level should pay off here, especially in high-leverage spots.
Unity Schultheis/Johnson (Clearwater, FL)
They’ve gone 4-3 while playing up in 16U, and the results show a team that doesn’t rattle easily. Pitching and defense are their foundation, and they’ve got just enough pop to win tight games.
Mojo Lovelace 28/29 (Harrisburg, NC)
At 5-4, the bats have shown up, but this pool will test their pitching depth and ability to adjust. They’ll need to bring their best to avoid falling behind.
EC Bullets Travis Held (Florida, FL)
A 3-0 start suggests potential, and early signs point to solid arms and legit bats. This is a team that could break out if they get off to a fast start.
Santa Fe Inferno Hooper (Florida, FL)
They’ve logged 50+ games already, so they’re as battle-tested as anyone. If they can tighten up on defense, they’ve got enough firepower to hang around.
Prediction: Unity and Brashers lead the pack, but don’t sleep on the Vipers or EC Bullets. This one could come down to who stays hot at the plate.
Pool D
Carolina Elite SC National RWZ/Drotar (Florence, SC)
Undefeated at 10-0-1 and they’re scoring in bunches. Add in a stingy pitching staff, and they look like the early favorite to take this pool.
Fury Premier 2028 – Winchell (Marietta, GA)
They’ve played 47 games already, and that experience could be huge. When the offense heats up, they can put pressure on anyone.
Future 14U Ralph (Orlando, FL)
Still searching for their first win this summer. They’ll be tested quickly in this deep pool.
Lead Your Journey Castillo 14U (Land O Lakes, FL)
Their record says zero, but this is a name change, not a fresh start. Expect a competitive squad that will challenge every inning.
LLG 14U Kirkland (W. Columbia, SC)
At 1-5, they’ve had a rough go so far. They’ll need to find consistency at the plate if they want to keep pace.
SoCal Athletics 2028 Premier – Brown (McCalla, AL)
A 17-9 fall shows promise, and they’ll rely on a potent lineup to stay competitive. If they can get enough outs, they’ll be in games late.
Stars National Hannigan (Arlington, VA)
Not much available yet, but unknowns can be dangerous. If they’ve got travel ball pedigree, this could be a sleeper.
Tampa Mustangs Bedenbaugh (Riverview, FL)
3-3-1 might not wow, but they’ve notched a few eye-opening wins lately. This is a gritty, scrappy group that doesn’t go away.
Team NC Yates (14U) (Charlotte, NC)
Coming off a 22-11 fall, they’re just now kicking off their summer slate. If they carry that momentum, they could find themselves in the mix by Sunday.
Prediction: Carolina Elite and Fury Winchell have the résumé, but this is the most unpredictable pool. Don’t be shocked if one of the lesser-known teams makes a statement.
By the time the dust settles on Monday, we like these four to be the last ones standing: Georgia Impact Premier ’11, Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier 2029 Whitaker, Unity Schultheis/Johnson, and Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier Brashers.
Georgia Impact Premier ’11 has been one of the most complete teams all season long, with a lockdown pitching staff and an offense that can flip a game in a single inning. If they keep playing clean behind the ball, they’ll be a problem deep into bracket play.
Thunderbolts Whitaker brings a championship-caliber blend of depth and discipline. They don’t get rattled, and their pitching can go toe-to-toe with anyone in the field. In a tight game, they’ve got the arms and approach to grind it out.
Unity Schultheis/Johnson may be flying slightly under the radar, but don’t mistake that for a lack of talent. They’ve been sharpening their teeth playing up in 16U, and they’ve got the kind of defensive edge and timely hitting that wins on Sunday.
Thunderbolts Brashers round it out as the battle-tested bunch that’s seen elite competition and lived to tell the tale. They don’t light up the stat sheet every game, but they know how to win when it counts—and that matters more than anything come bracket time.
Plenty of teams have the firepower to crash the party, but if you’re asking us to call it now, this is the quartet we trust to be playing for hardware.
16U
Pool A
D1VISION SOFTBALL 16U National
Coming off a 12-6-3 fall, D1Vision has faced high-level competition and held their own. Their offense showed flashes of explosiveness last season, and if they can find their rhythm early, they’ll be a tough out. With this being their summer debut, how quickly they settle in will be key.
Rock Gold Conrad Premier 09
Off to a strong 3-0 start, this group brings a well-balanced game plan with quality pitching and a steady offense. They don’t try to do too much, but they execute. Their early-season form suggests they’re ready to compete at a high level.
SC Stars Fastpitch Waugh/Gleason 16U
This team went .500 in the fall at 10-10-1, and enters the summer looking for more consistency, especially in the circle. They’ve got bats that can produce, but will need steadier pitching to stay competitive in a deep pool. If they put it all together, they’ll be a sleeper.
SO CAL ATHLETICS JAMES 26 NATIONAL
This is their first event of the summer, but they had a strong 2023 and will look to build off that experience. They’ve shown they can compete with bigger names, and their coaching staff is no stranger to big weekends. This group knows how to stay in games.
Southern Steal Powell 16U
They’re 5-2 so far this summer and have leaned heavily on a strong pitching staff. The offense does just enough to support the arms, and they don’t give away much defensively. If they stay sharp, they’ll be in the mix on Sunday.
Athletics Gold Tamborra/Hamilton
Riding a 10-game win streak, this 19-4-1 squad has been one of the hottest teams entering the weekend. Their offense delivers in key spots, and they have shown real power through the middle of the lineup. They’re a confident group right now and playing like it.
TEAM NC Huss
First event of the year, but they come from a program known for showing up prepared. You can expect solid fundamentals and a team that knows how to win close games. They could fly under the radar early but be a factor late.
Pool A Outlook: This is a wide-open group with multiple legitimate contenders. Rock Gold has started fast, and Athletics Gold is one of the most in-form squads coming in. D1Vision and Team NC are the wildcards, capable of shaking things up if they start strong. Southern Steal’s pitching and So Cal’s pedigree add even more parity to the mix. The team that comes out of this pool likely does it by winning tight, low-scoring games and avoiding the early upset trap.
Pool B
Atlanta Vipers 09 Gonce
They posted a 21-8-1 record in the fall and were one of the highest-scoring teams in their region. When they get rolling offensively, they can be hard to stop. This is their first run of the summer, but don’t expect them to ease into it.
Carolina Elite 16 Smith/Owens
No public data, but this organization is always competitive and typically well-coached. Their teams don’t give away runs, and they usually find ways to manufacture offense. If they stay within striking distance, they tend to hang around into late bracket play.
Impact Gold 08 GA
At 21-13 this spring, they’ve taken on a steady schedule and come out stronger for it. This team doesn’t rattle, and they’ve got the bats to match up with just about anyone. They’ll need to clean up their defense a bit, but the ceiling is high.
Lady Dukes Mayfield
They’ve gone 11-11-2 this spring and have been inconsistent over their last few outings. When their bats are working, they’re competitive, but they’ll need to find a rhythm to advance. Look for them to make adjustments quickly.
Rogue FC Voak/Malgradi
Their 8-13-2 fall record suggests they’re still finding their identity, and they’ve gone 2-2 to start the spring. They’ve struggled to keep opponents off the scoreboard at times. Finding some stability in the circle would go a long way.
NC Challengers Premier Renzi 16
They’re off to a sharp 5-1 start and look composed in both phases. Their pitching has been a strength early, and they’re swinging the bats with confidence. This team is gaining momentum and could be a dark horse this weekend.
Pool B Outlook: Vipers Gonce and Challengers Renzi both look poised to lead the charge here. The Vipers have a history of strong tournament play, and the Challengers have the early-season results to back them up. Impact Gold has the talent to steal the pool if they play clean and hit to potential. The rest of the group will need a fast start and clean execution to stay in the race. Look for this one to come down to the final round of pool games.
Pool C
Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier 2026/2027 Chaney
After a 17-6-1 fall and a tough schedule, the Bolts come in battle-tested. Their pitching gives them a chance in every game, and the offense has shown the ability to break things open. If they shake off the summer rust quickly, they’ll be in the top tier.
Fury Platinum X Hutchins
They went 16-9-3 last fall and didn’t duck anyone on the schedule. This team thrives when the bats are hot, and they’ve pulled off some impressive wins against strong competition. Consistency on defense will be key if they want to move past pool play.
Georgia Impact Premier O’Neal
At 27-3-1, they’ve had one of the most dominant springs in the region. They combine elite pitching with steady offense and crisp defense. The real test comes now against deeper national competition.
Tampa Mustangs Rene-Pynes
They’re 7-0 and have looked sharp all around. Strong pitching and defense form their backbone, but they’ve also shown they can hit for power and average. One of the more complete teams in the pool.
Unity Amsler/Johnson
A strong 18-4-1 fall shows they’ve got talent and depth. Their lineup has real power, and they bring multiple arms to the circle. If they click early, they’ll be in contention throughout.
Team NC-Pritchard
A 4-0 start adds to a strong fall resume. This team has explosive offensive potential and knows how to finish games. Expect them to play with confidence, especially if they’re ahead late.
Pool C Outlook: This may be the deepest and most balanced pool of the tournament. Every team has a path to the top, and even small mistakes could swing a game. Mustangs and Unity look particularly strong, but they won’t get anything easy with Impact and Team NC right on their heels. Bolts Chaney and Fury Hutchins are capable of stealing games if they catch fire early. Expect bracket-quality softball from the first pitch.
Pool D
Atlanta Vipers 08 – Vaughn
Sitting at 18-9-2, the Vipers have already posted some impressive wins this season. Their offense can carry them, and when they’re clean defensively, they’re tough to beat. The question will be consistency against top-tier pitching.
Fury Platinum X Pickett
They went 13-13 last fall, showing flashes of brilliance but also inconsistency. When their offense is locked in, they’re a threat to anyone. Their summer debut could go a number of ways depending on how they start.
Ga Bombers Gold 27/28 Edwards
A 13-8-1 record this spring shows a team that can compete but needs to limit mistakes. They can score runs in bunches but sometimes struggle to close games. If they can string together quality innings, they’ll be a handful.
Team Mustangs Langston
They’ve started 3-1 and are known for playing clean, efficient softball. Their defense keeps them in every game, and they’re opportunistic at the plate. A team that grinds and finds ways to win.
Unity TJ 2027/2028
A 4-1 start has shown off their pitching depth. This will be a jump in competition, but they’ve looked sharp early. If they can maintain their level, they’ll be in the fight late.
Santa Fe Inferno 09 Donlason
This group has depth and experience, and they’ve started 4-1 while scoring at a high clip. Their pitching staff has kept them competitive and fresh. If they bring both sides of the game this weekend, they’re a real threat.
Pool D Outlook: Inferno, Vipers, and Fury should form the top tier here, but none are safe. Inferno’s balance gives them a slight edge if they keep the bats rolling. The Vipers have the firepower to run away with games, while Mustangs and Unity bring a style that forces opponents to earn every run. This pool could come down to tiebreakers, and every run will matter. Expect close finishes and at least one upset.
Pool E
EC Bullets 09 – Lyons
They’re off to a 2-3 start, but their bats came alive in their last two games with 18 combined runs. If they carry that momentum, they could play spoiler. They’ll need to shore up their defense to contend.
Force Elite 2027
At 8-10-1 this summer, they’ve been up and down, dropping three of their last five. The offense has gone cold at times, but this team can grind. They’ll need to rediscover their spark to make waves here.
So Cal Athletics Marianakis / Kennedy 26 Premier
After a 12-6-1 fall, they’re making their summer debut. This team had some solid wins last season and plays with poise. They should contend for the pool if they can start fast.
Stars National Scott-GA 16U
Off to an 8-3 start, this group is powered by a strong pitching staff. They’ve already collected a few statement wins. If their bats come alive, they’re dangerous.
Windermere Wildfire O’Brien
They’ve started 2-3 and are known for never backing down from tough competition. They’ve hit a bump early but have the grit to bounce back. Watch for them to play with urgency.
Stars Nat SG
They posted a 9-6-1 fall record and are just starting their summer. The offense can be explosive, and they’ve got the arms to compete. This team could fly under the radar.
Pool E Outlook: This pool is more wide-open than most. The Stars National squads both bring depth and talent, while So Cal Athletics has the upside to win it all. EC Bullets could be a sleeper if they stay hot, and Wildfire is always capable of a gritty performance. Look for this one to come down to which team gets hot with the bats early. Pitching may decide the top two spots, but this one could get chaotic quickly.
Pool F
Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier 2027-Alford/Rocky
They went 14-11-1 last fall and played one of the tougher schedules around. Strong arms and a seasoned offense make them a real contender. This team won’t back down from anyone.
EC Bullets Jackson/Randy 16U Nat
Sitting at 3-3, they’ve been competitive but inconsistent. The talent is there, and the pieces are in place for a deep run. They’ll need to be sharp every game in a stacked pool.
Mojo Lewis
Coming off a 23-2 fall, this team is loaded. They dominate in the circle and punish mistakes at the plate. If they play to form, they’re the team to beat.
Top Gun 16 National
A 15-10-3 record so far reflects a deep roster with good arms and power bats. They’ve been tested and can adjust mid-game. This is a team built for bracket play.
Unity Luke 26/27
Off to a 5-1-1 start, they’re well-balanced and fundamentally strong. Defense is a strength, and they know how to win close games. Expect them to compete in every inning.
Tampa Mustangs Fowler
A 27-10-1 fall record shows this group knows how to win. They’re athletic, aggressive, and dangerous at the plate. This team is built to make deep runs.
Pool F Outlook: This is one of the toughest pools in the bracket. Mojo Lewis enters as the favorite with the most complete resume, but the Mustangs and Bolts have the talent and experience to challenge. Unity Luke and Top Gun could make things interesting if they get hot early. The Bullets are talented but must show more consistency to survive this group. Expect tight games and a few surprises.
Pool G
Atlanta Vipers Gold 09 Crenshaw
At 23-2-1, this group has been dominant to start the season. They’ve got power bats and a lockdown circle, making them dangerous on both ends. They’re the clear frontrunner here.
Bombers Gold 16U FL – Banister
Off to a 2-0 start with a 25-0 run differential, they’ve proven they can overwhelm teams quickly. Balanced in all phases, this team is ready to contend. If they sustain the pressure, they’ll challenge the top.
D1VISION SOFTBALL 16U Premier
They finished 5-13 in the fall and are looking to reset this summer. Early struggles may have taught them some hard lessons. They’ll need to find their rhythm quickly.
Fury Platinum FL – Don
They’ve gone 4-7-1 with inconsistent results so far. Offense is their lifeline, and when it shows up, they can put pressure on anyone. Pitching must hold up if they’re going to contend.
Fury Premier 2027 Robinson
A 13-7-1 fall record speaks to their upside. They’ve seen quality competition and know how to manage close games. Pitching will be the difference-maker for this squad.
Nationals Batts/Garner 16U
At 3-2, their pitching has been lights out in wins. They’ll need more consistent run support to keep climbing. Quiet team that can sneak into the bracket.
Pool G Outlook: The Vipers are the team to beat with their dominant start and two-way balance. Bombers Gold looks strong early and could pose the biggest threat. Robinson’s group and Nationals have the pitching to keep games close and pull off an upset. If Fury Don’s bats show up, they could be a spoiler. Expect Vipers to control the pace, but second place is wide open.
Pool H
Carolina Elite SC Drotar/Genovese
At 5-4-1, they’ve been competitive but not quite consistent. They’ve shown solid hitting and could be a bracket sleeper. Execution will be key.
Fury Premier 2028 – Wall
They’re just 1-3, but they’ve played some tough teams already. Expect them to compete hard and look sharper this weekend. They’ll need a fast start to stay in it.
Rock Gold Manetta Gabriele 16U
Sitting at 6-1, they’ve shown both power and pitching. They’re a real contender to win the pool. If they keep rolling, they’ll be hard to stop.
Unity Lanier
Off to a 4-1 start, they’ve impressed with stingy pitching and some timely power. They play a complete game and know how to finish. Definitely in the hunt.
EC Bullets – Bilz
A 13-6-1 record reflects their ability to win in different ways. Offense can take over, but they’ve also won tight games. Expect them to push for the top.
SFL Intensity KOD/Pascual
At 1-4, the record doesn’t show their potential. They’re well-coached and won’t be easy to put away. If they clean up the little things, they’ll hang around.
Pool H Outlook: Rock Gold and Unity Lanier enter as the top dogs, but EC Bullets Bilz has the résumé to make a push. Carolina Elite could be a surprise if they put together a complete weekend. Intensity and Fury Wall both have work to do but could play spoiler. This one could come down to run differential and head-to-head tiebreakers.
Pool J
Tampa Mustangs-Klein 09
Coming off a 22-14 fall, this team is fundamentally sound and tough at the plate. They know how to manufacture runs and play clean defense. If they get hot early, they’ll be a bracket threat.
Team North Carolina Gaddis
A 13-4-2 fall record included multiple shutouts thanks to dominant pitching. Their offense has pop too, making them dangerous in all areas. This is a high-ceiling team that could win it all.
TN Thunderbolts Premier 2027 West
At 3-3, they’ve seen a tough early schedule and should be sharper for it. Their offense is solid, but they’ll need to avoid big innings against stronger lineups. A good weekend puts them in the mix.
St. Louis Chaos 16U National Perone/Beatty
With a 6-1 start and a tough schedule already behind them, this team is rolling. Their lineup can do damage from top to bottom. If the pitching holds up, they’re going deep.
Virginia Unity – Johnson
A 20-3-1 fall record puts them in the top tier coming in. They’ve got one of the most complete teams in the field with pitching, defense, and timely hitting. They’re the favorite in this pool.
Pool I Outlook: Virginia Unity enters as the favorite, but St. Louis Chaos and Team NC Gaddis both have enough firepower to take the top spot. The Mustangs are scrappy and experienced, while the Thunderbolts could be a surprise if they put it all together. Unity’s balance gives them the edge, but this pool has high-level matchups all over it.
Pool K
SoCal Athletics Marianakis/Justice
Coming off a 14-7 fall, this team is ready for a breakout summer. They’ve played smart, clean softball and have weapons on both sides of the ball. A real contender.
Stars National Walker
No results yet, but this organization always brings quality teams. Expect a disciplined group that plays hard. They’ll be tough even without a long resume.
SWAT 08/09
With 28 wins already this spring, SWAT comes in hot. Their offense can go off at any moment, and they’ve been in a lot of close games. They’ll push everyone in this pool.
TN Mojo 2027 Pardue
At 13-5-1 in the fall, they’ve played a tough slate and picked up impressive wins. This group has power and a deep rotation. Expect them to challenge for the top.
Lady Dukes Mayfield
Little data is available, but history suggests they’ll be ready. If they’re anything like past versions, expect a tough out. Keep an eye on them to surprise.
Pool K Outlook: Mojo Pardue is the team to beat based on track record and depth. SWAT’s offensive production will make them dangerous, and SoCal has the potential to steal the show. The Stars and Dukes are question marks but capable. Expect tight, competitive games with more than one upset brewing.
In The End
There’s no clear path through this bracket, only potholes. The 16U field at PGF Show Me The Money is as layered and unpredictable as it gets, with a dozen teams capable of making a run to Monday. The ones who do won’t just be talented—they’ll be the ones who adapt, outlast, and deliver in high-leverage moments. And when you break it down, a few squads check every box.
Georgia Impact Premier O’Neal has been steady and dangerous, powered by elite pitching and a smart, pressure-tested offense. Unity Amsler isn’t far behind, with a roster deep in arms and pop, and a track record that suggests they’ll be tough once the games start to really matter. Mojo Lewis may have the most complete blend of power, poise, and presence—this is a team built for bracket play, plain and simple.
The Mustangs Pynes and Mustangs Fowler bring two different styles but the same dangerous potential. Pynes controls tempo and rarely beats themselves. Fowler thrives on energy and athleticism, and they’ve got the weapons to shake up any bracket. Unity Johnson is polished across the board and built for long weekends, and Atlanta Vipers Gold 09 Crenshaw comes in with the kind of dominance you can’t ignore—few have looked sharper early.
Then there’s Santa Fe Inferno 09 Donlason, who bring a quiet toughness and the kind of pitching that travels well in pressure games. They may not overwhelm you with flash, but they keep teams in check and find ways to win late. Stars National Scott is another group that pitches well enough to steal games, while Thunderbolts Alford and Athletics Tamborra have both taken steps forward and shown they can go toe-to-toe with just about anyone.
The separation between the Final Four and the next four might come down to a single play. With this kind of parity, it’s not about who looks best on paper—it’s about who holds up when everything tightens. And in this field, there are no freebies.
18U
Pool A
Atlanta Vipers 07 Maldonado
Sitting at 4-3, the Vipers have had an uneven start, but there’s potential. Their lineup features some legitimate power threats, and when they’re locked in, they can produce in bunches. The key will be finding more consistency at the plate.
Clearwater Bullets Patton 18U
At 2-3 to start the season, they’ll be looking to reset in Newberry. Their offense has struggled to get going early, and that will need to change quickly in this pool. When they’re aggressive, they’re far more effective.
Colorado Softball Academy 18 Gold-United
Boasting a 28-6 record this spring and summer, this team comes in red hot. They can flat-out mash, scoring runs at a high clip. If the pitching holds up, they’re a real threat to take the pool.
Fury Premier 18U
Despite an 0-6 start, they’ve faced some of the toughest teams early. Their offense has shown flashes, and this pool may be a better fit for them. They’ll be looking to turn the corner here.
Georgia Impact Premier Holcombe
At 25-3-1, they’ve been dominant against strong competition. Their pitching has been a real asset, consistently keeping teams in check. If they keep executing, they’ll be the ones to beat.
Rock Gold Manetta
8-7 doesn’t tell the full story—this team plays fast and pressures defenses with speed and savvy. They’re opportunistic and can swing momentum quickly. They’ll be a tough matchup for anyone.
Team North Carolina Huss
Coming off a solid 15-6-1 fall, they’re making their summer debut. Known for being well-balanced, their pitching often gives them an edge. Expect them to be steady and competitive.
Pool A Outlook: Georgia Impact Holcombe is the favorite on paper, with a proven combination of power and pitching. Colorado Softball Academy brings a dynamic offense that could push them, especially if they get into high-scoring affairs. Rock Gold has the tools to disrupt things with pressure and tempo, and Team NC Huss is always steady. The pool could turn quickly if one of the mid-tier teams gets hot early.
Pool B
Florida Gold Lopez/Santana
At 3-6-1, the early results haven’t been great, but they’ve shown flashes with the bats. If they can string together some run support and clean up the defensive miscues, they can stay in games. This is a team that could sneak up on someone.
EC Bullets Bagarose/Schnute
Off to a 2-3 start, but the record doesn’t reflect how competitive they’ve been. Their pitching has shown promise against good lineups. If the offense can pick up the slack, they’ll be right in the mix.
Impact Gold 07 – Doggett
A strong 11-3-1 fall shows what they’re capable of when clicking. They’ve got a balanced attack with power bats and a capable pitching staff. Expect them to be among the top contenders in this pool.
LLG Premier
Another team entering off a solid 12-8-1 fall. They’re known for being tough outs with strong two-way talent. If they bring their usual grit, they’ll challenge for the top.
Ohio Hawks National 18U Joseforsky
They went 12-13-1 in the fall, showing they can hang but struggled with consistency. Their pitching usually gives them a chance. If the bats come alive, they’ll be a tough matchup.
Santa Fe Inferno Nowling – 18U
They’ve burst onto the summer scene at 7-0. Young arms have been impressive, and the offense has generated runs with consistency. They’ll be right there when the pool shakes out.
Pool B Outlook: This is shaping up to be a showdown between Impact Gold Doggett and Santa Fe Inferno Nowling, both of whom bring complete rosters and recent momentum. LLG Premier is more than capable of stealing a spot with their grit and veteran presence. EC Bullets and Ohio Hawks are wildcards who can grind out close games. Inferno’s pitching and Doggett’s balance give them the early edge, but it’s not a done deal.
Pool C
Birmingham Thunderbolts 18 Premier
With a 16-4-1 fall behind them, the Bolts enter as one of the most polished and talented teams in the field. They’ve got strong arms, disciplined bats, and tournament experience. Expect them to be in the hunt for bracket positioning.
D1VISION SOFTBALL 18U National
At 15-7-1 in the fall, they’ve played quality competition and held their own. This is a team that can pitch and compete in close games. If the offense heats up, they’ll be a problem.
LLG DPS
One of the most intriguing teams here, LLG went 19-2-4 in the fall with a resume full of big wins. Their offense can explode quickly, and their confidence is high. They’re a serious contender.
Tampa Mustangs Affrunti/Hancock
Off to a 6-1 start, they’ve looked sharp in all phases. The circle has been a strength, and their bats have done damage early. This is a team peaking at the right time.
Top Gun 18 National
A 13-7-2 fall campaign featured some explosive offensive performances. Their lineup is deep, and they don’t shy away from tight games. If they stay clean defensively, they’ll be dangerous.
Unity Johnson
At 16-5-1 in the fall, Unity showed they’re one of the most balanced groups in the age division. They bring strong pitching and a consistent offense. A team you don’t want to face late in bracket play.
Pool C Outlook: This pool is thick with contenders. LLG DPS and Unity Johnson have the most complete fall resumes, but the Mustangs and Bolts bring serious momentum. D1VISION and Top Gun are the wildcards that could steal a spot if they catch fire. Expect tight margins and at least one shake-up before it’s over.
Pool D
Georgia Impact – DeMeester
They’re sitting at 16-13-3 and trending in the right direction. Their offense is finding a groove and starting to click. If they can maintain that rhythm, they’ll be a serious factor.
Southern Steal 18U Powell
They went 6-9 in the fall and will need to elevate their game to stay competitive here. There’s some talent in the lineup, but consistency has been an issue. They’ll need a fast start.
Windermere Wildfire 18U – Paulson
This group went 15-8-2 in the fall and knows how to score. They’re aggressive on offense and like to force the action. Their energy could carry them far in this pool.
Tampa Mustangs Bell
Off to a 1-5 start, but this is a well-coached team that’s better than the record shows. If their bats heat up, they’re capable of pulling off a surprise or two. Keep an eye on how they bounce back.
Top Gun 25/26 National
First event of the summer, but they’re loaded with talent. They’ve got big bats and a confident approach. If the pitching holds, they’ll contend.
GA Unity
Sitting at 11-6 so far, they’ve shown flashes of what they can be. They’ve got some power and can hang with just about anyone when things are clicking. Consistency is the question mark.
Pool D Outlook: This pool is wide open. Top Gun may be the most talented group, but Wildfire brings real urgency and momentum. Georgia Impact has been heating up and could sneak into the top spot. Don’t count out Unity if the offense gets rolling. It’s a toss-up pool that may come down to who gets hot at the right time.
Pool E
Carolina Elite Owens 18U
First event of the year, so not much data to go on. Historically a solid organization, so expect them to be prepared. This weekend should reveal where they stack up.
EC Bullets Jackson/Matt 18U Nat
At 17-14 last fall, they’ve battled through tough games and learned how to grind. Their pitching is reliable and keeps them in games. If the bats provide run support, they’ll be tough to beat.
Florida Thunderbolts Gatewood/Breadmore 25/26
Off to a 5-1-1 start, and their offense is already clicking. They’ve shown they can pile on runs and pitch well enough to back it up. This is a dangerous squad.
Hotshots National ATL
At 5-4 so far, they’re averaging nearly six runs per game. If the pitching holds up, they’ll be in every contest. This group plays with an edge.
Santa Fe Inferno Strickland
They’ve had a slow 1-3 start but have shown some offensive potential. They’ll need to tighten things up defensively. If they find a spark, they could turn some heads.
NC Challengers Premier Renzi
A 5-0 start has them trending up. Pitching has been rock-solid and sets the tone. This is a team to watch closely.
Pool E Outlook: EC Bullets, Thunderbolts, and the Challengers look like the most balanced and dangerous in this group. Carolina Elite is the mystery team and could shake things up. If Hotshots find another gear, they’ll challenge the leaders. Don’t be surprised if this pool produces one of the toughest bracket matchups.
Pool F
Atlanta Vipers Colvin
Coming off a tough 1-8 fall, they’re looking to reset. If they can find traction early, they may be more competitive than expected. This is a team trying to find its identity.
FL Firecrackers Yeary
A 2-2 start shows promise. They’ve flashed some power and play with confidence. If they can string hits together, they’ll stay in the mix.
Georgia Impact – Carver
At 19-9-1, they’ve been consistently solid this season. Their pitching keeps them in games, and the offense has been opportunistic. They’re a real threat to win this pool.
Florida Gold Torres 18U
With a 23-11 fall resume, they’ve proven they can beat quality opponents. Their pitching leads the way. If the offense finds rhythm, they’ll go deep.
Stars Gleason 18U
Off to a 3-2 start, they’re still looking for consistency. This team has tools and could become a sleeper pick. A fast start would boost their chances.
Rock Gold DeLeon
Their 18-5-2 fall shows balance and winning habits. Strong pitching and solid at-bats make them a contender in any pool. Don’t underestimate them.
Pool F Outlook: Georgia Impact Carver, Rock Gold DeLeon, and Florida Gold Torres form a competitive triangle at the top. All have the tools to win this group outright. Firecrackers and Stars Gleason have enough firepower to pull off upsets. It’s a top-heavy pool, but one good Saturday could flip everything.
Pool G
Sparks Elite – Stewart
With a 20-2-2 fall record, they’ve shown they’re one of the elite teams in the bracket. Offense is their weapon of choice. If the pitching holds, they’re in line to do damage.
St. Louis Chaos 18U Gentile
At 5-2, they’ve looked solid early and bring a battle-tested mentality. Their bats can take over a game. A dangerous matchup for any team.
Tampa Mustangs Rene
Always well-coached and fundamentally strong. Even without recent results, expect them to play clean and competitive softball. They’re built for deep weekends.
Team North Carolina Hinde
A 13-10 fall record includes several strong wins. They’ve faced elite competition and won’t be overwhelmed. If they hit their stride, they’ll make a run.
Unity Meadows/Johnson 18U
Their 19-3-1 fall record speaks volumes. Big bats and reliable pitching make them a serious contender. Expect them to be right there on Sunday.
GA Impact Taylor 18U
A loaded 32-6-1 fall and multiple Power 4 recruits make this group the one to beat. They’re dominant on both sides of the ball. If they play their game, this pool is theirs.
Pool G Outlook: GA Impact Taylor enters as the favorite and the measuring stick. Unity Meadows and Sparks Elite are capable of pushing them to the edge. The Mustangs and Chaos both have enough to make a deep run if they catch momentum. This pool has the highest ceiling of any in the tournament.
Pool H
Bandits Elite Premier Polk/Simpson
First event of the summer with limited info available. If they live up to the Bandits brand, they’ll be competitive. Worth watching early.
Carolina Crush 25/26-Corn
A 13-9-1 fall shows they know how to score. Their offense is their strength. If they can tighten up the defense, they’ll be in the mix.
Central Florida Gold – Peterson
A 4-2 start behind solid pitching and timely hitting. This group can beat anyone on the right day. They’ve got momentum coming in.
Lady Dukes Ghent/Blackmon
A 11-8 fall team with some quality outings. They pitch well and keep things close. If the bats show up, they’ll surprise someone.
Nationals Batts/Garner 18U
A tough 14-7-2 fall slate prepared them well. They’ve logged big wins and know how to finish. Expect them to contend for the top.
SoCal Athletics Marianakis/Ammon National 2025
An 8-9 fall included some tough matchups. They’ll be looking to sharpen things this weekend. Capable of pulling off a shock or two.
Tennessee Mojo 2025 – Gregory
An 11-2-2 fall team with strong pitching and clutch hitting. This is a group that plays with swagger. Definitely one of the top threats.
Texas Blaze 18U-Johnson
At 21-11 in the fall, they’re experienced and well-coached. Their arms can carry them deep. If the offense keeps pace, they’ll be dangerous.
AP Gold 08 Stewart
With a 15-9-1 fall, they’ve shown they can hang. They’ll need to level up here, but the potential is there. This weekend will be telling.
Pool H Outlook: Mojo looks like the most complete team, but the Blaze have the pitching to match up. The Nationals are gritty and experienced. Central Florida Gold is surging, and the Crush could create chaos if their offense heats up. A lot of moving parts here—expect drama.
Final Four Watchlist – 18U
Sorting through the contenders in the 18U division is like picking a winner in a sprint where everyone has Olympic legs. A few squads rise above the fray in terms of depth, firepower, and pedigree—but this bracket is built for surprises. Georgia Impact Premier Holcombe has been one of the most consistent teams all season, pairing shutdown pitching with a lineup that doesn’t waste chances. Santa Fe Inferno Nowling has turned heads early, riding the momentum of a strong start and a circle that’s proving hard to crack.
Impact Gold 07 – Doggett and LLG DPS bring balance and veteran savvy—two traits that tend to travel well when the games start to tighten up. The Birmingham Thunderbolts 18 Premier are tournament tested, and they know how to grind their way through a bracket. Then there’s raw firepower: Sparks Elite and GA Impact Taylor can light up the scoreboard, and both have shown they’re more than just offensive juggernauts. Tampa Mustangs Rene and Tennessee Mojo 2025 round out the list with tough-nosed play and deep rosters that give them staying power in a long weekend.
It’s a tight pack at the top—and with this much talent, it may come down to who gets hot at the right time. These nine teams have all the ingredients. Now it’s about execution.
