The 16U division at the 2024 Ray Seymour Invitational promises to deliver some of the best competition on the travel softball circuit. With deep pitching rotations, explosive offenses, and teams that have been battle-tested throughout the summer, this year’s tournament is set to provide plenty of fireworks. The tournament will take place from October 25-27 at Champions Park in Newberry, Florida, and several nearby locations.
Let’s break down the pools and highlight the teams you should watch as they compete for the top spot.
Note: All records are as of October 14, 2024.
Pool A: Elite Pitching and Tough Competition Right Out of the Gate
Pool A features some of the top teams in the country, and each of them brings a unique combination of pitching, defense, and timely hitting. This group is loaded with talent, making it one of the most intriguing pools to watch.
Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier 2027 Alford/Rocky
This will be the Thunderbolts’ first tournament of the fall, but after a successful 31-13-4 record over the summer, they are expected to be sharp. Their lineup is deep, and their defense and pitching have traditionally been strong, making them a team to watch in Pool A.
Fury Platinum X Hutchins
Also entering their first tournament of the fall, Fury Platinum comes off a 31-12 summer campaign where both their pitching and hitting looked sharp. With a win over Tampa Mustangs Pynes last summer, Fury Platinum has already proven they can compete at the highest level, and they should be one of the frontrunners in this group.
Indiana Magic Gold 16 Bennett/Goddard
Indiana Magic Gold is off to a 6-1 start this fall, outscoring opponents 39-7. Their explosive offense will go head-to-head with some elite pitching in this pool. They could make a serious run for the top spot if they continue swinging hot bats.
Starz 2027 National
This will be their second tournament of the fall, but there’s not much data on them yet. However, the Starz organization has a strong tradition, and this will be our first real opportunity to see what they bring to the table in 2024. Expect them to be competitive as they face some tough teams in Pool A.
Top Gun 16 National
Top Gun will play their first tournament this upcoming weekend, but they have a reputation as one of the tougher teams at the national level. Known for their strong bats and elite pitching, Top Gun is sure to be tested in Pool A. Look for them to challenge for a top spot.
Tampa Mustangs Rene-Pynes 16U
The Mustangs are off to a 6-0 start this fall, and they’re moving up from being one of the top 14U teams last season. They have plenty of arms to choose from, and their defense has been solid. Although they’ll face a step up in competition in this pool, the Mustangs have proven they belong among the best and should be right in the mix for the top spot.
Pool A Prediction:
This is a tough pool where nearly every team has a legitimate chance to finish on top. While Fury Platinum might have a slight edge based on their summer performance, the Mustangs, Thunderbolts, and Top Gun will be close behind, with Indiana Magic and Starz also poised to make some noise. Expect this group to be tightly contested.
Pool B: A Battle of Heavy Hitters
Pool B is packed with teams that bring a balance of offense and pitching. This pool will be highly competitive, with several teams capable of taking the top spot.
LLG Elite Corn
This will be their first tournament of the fall, but LLG comes off a solid 36-15-1 summer. They’ve faced some of the top teams in the country and have the talent to win Pool B. Expect LLG to be right in the hunt for the top spot with their national-level experience.
Tampa Mustangs Fowler
With a 7-3 start to the fall, the Mustangs Fowler squad has shown they can play with the best. They’ve been competitive on the national stage and bring solid bats and pitching to the table. Look for them to be a tough out in this pool.
Fury Platinum X Pickett
Fury Platinum X will make their fall debut at this tournament. While their summer was decent, they’ll need consistency from their pitching staff to make a run in this pool. Their offense has some pop, but they’ll need their arms to step up in this tough group.
Indiana Magic Gold 16U Moore
Indiana Magic Gold comes in with a perfect 7-0 record, having outscored opponents 48-2. Their pitching has been dominant, but they’ll face a step up in competition in Pool B. They could easily be in contention for the top spot if they continue their hot start.
Santa Fe Inferno 09 Donalson
This is Santa Fe Inferno’s first event of the fall, but they bring a deep and strong pitching staff. They’ve won numerous tournaments over the summer and have both speed and power at the plate. Santa Fe Inferno is a legitimate contender to win Pool B.
Jersey Intensity BOD/KOD
Jersey Intensity is off to a 2-0 start this fall. They’ve traditionally been a solid team, and while they may fly under the radar, they shouldn’t be an easy game for anyone in Pool B.
Pool B Prediction:
Expect a battle between Santa Fe Inferno, LLG Elite, and Indiana Magic Gold to be in the top spot. Santa Fe Inferno has the depth and pitching to come out on top, but LLG’s experience and Indiana Magic’s impressive start will make this a tight race. Do not overlook the intensity squad, which could surprise you in this spot.
Pool C: A Well-Balanced Group with No Clear Favorite
Pool C is full of teams that have the potential to come out on top. This group doesn’t have a clear front-runner, making it one of the most unpredictable pools in the tournament.
Birmingham Thunderbolts Premier 2026 Chaney
The Thunderbolts will be playing their first event of the fall, but they posted a 16-13-1 record last summer. They’ve shown they can score runs in bunches, but their pitching will need to be sharp if they want to contend in this competitive pool.
Tampa Mustangs-Klein 09
With a 3-3 start to the fall, the Mustangs have the potential to be competitive, but they’ll need more consistency from their pitching staff. If they can tighten things up on the mound, they have the offensive firepower to make some noise.
Texas Blaze (FL) 16U Morris/Johnson
The Blaze are off to a 2-4 start this fall, with solid pitching but inconsistent hitting. If their bats can get going, they could be a dark horse in Pool C.
Jersey Intensity 16U KOD/KP
Coming off an 8-21-2 record last summer, Jersey Intensity will be looking to turn the page on a new season. They’ll need to show improvement if they want to compete with the top teams in this pool.
Team North Carolina (Tucker/Benson)
Team North Carolina is off to a strong 6-1-1 start this fall, and they’ve shown solid pitching and live bats. They’re one of the favorites in Pool C and should be considered a serious threat to win the pool.
TN Mojo 2027 Pardue
This will be Mojo’s first tournament of the fall, but they’ve traditionally been a solid team. It’s hard to count out Mojo in any competition, and they should be competitive in Pool C.
Pool C Prediction:
Team North Carolina looks like the early favorite, but with so much balance in this pool, it could go any number of ways. Expect a competitive battle with Team North Carolina, Thunderbolts, and Mojo all having a shot at the top spot.
Pool D: A Group of Offensive Powerhouses
Pool D features several teams that can put up big offensive numbers, which should make for some exciting, high-scoring games.
Bombers Gold 16U FL Banister
Off to a 2-0 start this fall, the Bombers have scored 24 runs in just two games, and their pitching has looked sharp. They’ll be in the mix for the top spot in Pool D if they can keep their hot start going.
Tampa Mustangs Langston
With a 2-0-2 record so far this fall, the Mustangs have looked solid on the mound and have played strong defense. They’ll need to continue that level of play to contend for the top spot in Pool D.
Atlanta Vipers 09 Gonce
The Vipers are 5-3-1 this fall, and their bats have been providing plenty of firepower. They seem to be improving with each game and could surprise some teams in Pool D.
Carolina Elite Fusetti 16U National
This will be their first event of the fall, but they had a solid summer, finishing with a 23-13-2 record. Their offense is their strength, and they play an aggressive style of softball that could make them a tough opponent.
EC Bullets 09 Lyons
Also entering their first event of the fall, the EC Bullets had a 24-13-2 record last summer. They ended the season on a strong note, often scoring in double digits. They’ll need that offensive firepower to contend in this group.
Team North Carolina Gaddis
Off to a 3-1 start this fall, Team North Carolina has outscored their opponents 20-4. They’re another team that has shown strong pitching early on and should be a tough team to beat in Pool D.
Pool D Prediction:
Team North Carolina looks sharp to start the fall, but the Bombers and Mustangs are also in strong form. Expect a close race between these three teams, with Team North Carolina holding a slight edge based on their early performance.
Pool E: Offense Meets Defense in a Battle for Supremacy
Pool E brings together teams that have demonstrated their ability to score runs and strong defensive skills. With several teams off to hot starts this fall, this pool will feature some serious competition for the top spot.
EC Bullets Cornett/Garza
With an 8-1 record this fall, EC Bullets Cornett/Garza has been dominant on both sides of the ball. They’ve only allowed more than two runs twice this season while racking up 65 runs of their own. Their balanced combination of strong pitching and potent offense makes them one of Pool E’s toughest teams to beat.
TN MOJO 09 Paducah
MOJO has started their fall season at 4-1, and their bats have been scorching hot, scoring 53 runs over just five games. Their offense will pose a serious challenge for opposing pitchers, and if they continue this pace, they’ll be tough to contain. MOJO will certainly be in the mix for the top spot in this pool.
Unity Luke 26/27
Undefeated at 4-0 to start the fall, Unity Luke is a well-coached team known for their solid defense. They’re also skilled at applying pressure on opposing pitchers, which makes them a consistent threat. Expect Unity Luke to be a tough contender in this pool, with their discipline and strategy setting them apart.
Carolina Elite SC Drotar
Carolina Elite comes into the tournament with a 9-4 record and a lot of momentum, having won seven of their last eight games. Their bats have come alive recently, and their pitching has been steady. If they can keep this balance, they’ll be in the hunt for the top spot in Pool E.
Fury Premier 2027 Robinson
This will be Fury Premier’s first tournament of the fall, but they’re coming off a summer in which they finished with a 19-15-2 record. They’ve played a tough schedule and are known for being competitive in every game. If their pitching staff can set the tone early, they’ll be a factor in this group.
NC Challengers 16U Elite/Altiers
The NC Challengers are off to a rough start this fall, with a 4-6 record against a challenging early schedule. They’ll be looking to get back on track in Pool E, and if they can find some consistency, they could pull off an upset or two.
Pool E Prediction:
This pool is packed with talent, but EC Bullets Cornett/Garza holds a slight edge due to their consistent pitching and ability to put up runs. TN MOJO and Unity Luke will be right behind them, and any of these three teams could take the top spot. Expect a tightly contested pool, with every game holding weight in determining the winner.
Pool F: A Clash of Defensive Powerhouses and Rising Stars
Pool F is shaping up to be a competitive group, with teams bringing both strong pitching and some hot bats to the field. Expect to see tight games with plenty of strategic play.
Bombers Gold 16U FL – Collaro
Off to a 2-1-1 start this fall, Bombers Gold already have a win over SFL Intensity, showing that they’re ready to compete in this tough pool. Their pitching and defense have looked sharp early, but they’ll be put to the test against some strong competition.
EC Bullets-Jackson-Randy 16U National
With a 3-1-2 record so far this fall, EC Bullets-Jackson has been solid in the circle. They tied a tough Miami Stingrays team 1-1 earlier this season. Their well-coached squad is known for sharp pitching and disciplined play, making them a team to watch in Pool F.
Miami Stingrays 16U Gator
The Miami Stingrays are off to a 5-2 start this fall, and their pitching has been their calling card. They’ve also shown strong defensive play, which will be critical as they face off against the other top teams in the pool. The Stingrays are a contender for the top spot.
SFL Intensity KOD/DP
SFL Intensity has struggled out of the gate with a 1-7 record, but they’re a well-coached team that could find their footing in this pool. They’ll be looking to turn things around and could play spoiler if they can regain their confidence.
Team NC Bowman
At 9-1 this fall, Team NC Bowman is one of the favorites in Pool F. They’ve already beaten some tough opponents, and both their bats and pitching have looked strong. They’ll be the team to beat in this pool, and it’s hard to see them slowing down.
Unity Hagen 2027
Unity Hagen has started the fall season at 3-2, with their pitching performing well. They’ll be tested in this group, but if their pitching staff can continue to deliver, they could be in the mix for a top finish.
Pool F Prediction:
Team NC Bowman appears to have the early edge, thanks to their dominant start this fall. Miami Stingrays and EC Bullets-Jackson will also be strong contenders, but Bowman’s balanced attack should give them a slight advantage. Expect a close race between these three teams, with the rest of the pool looking to play spoiler.
Pool G: A Battle of Offensive Firepower and Strategic Play
Pool G features a mix of offensive juggernauts and teams that rely on strategic, disciplined play. With a couple of standout teams, this pool could see some high-scoring affairs.
Team NC Huffman 26/27
Team NC Huffman is off to a slow 1-2-1 start this fall, but they have a solid lineup with some good bats. If they can get their offense going, they’ll look to get back on track in Pool G and put some pressure on the top teams.
Shamrocks National – Keister
The Shamrocks are off to a strong 5-1-1 start, scoring 50 runs in those seven games. Their pitching has been solid as well, making them a well-rounded team that could be one of the top contenders in Pool G. If they can keep the offensive momentum going, they’ll be tough to beat.
Unity 16U Amsler/Johnson
This will be Unity Amsler/Johnson’s first tournament of the fall, but they posted an impressive 43-13 record last summer. Known for their strong pitching and solid bats, they are the team to beat in Pool G, especially with their depth and talent.
Santa Fe Inferno Thornton 27/28
Santa Fe Inferno is making their fall debut at this event, but they had a strong 16-10 summer and have since added some arms and bats to their lineup. They’ll be looking to make some noise and could surprise some of the bigger teams in this pool.
Florida Bombers Gold 16U-Gunkel
The Bombers are playing their first tournament of the fall, coming off a 10-20-3 record last summer. They’re a balanced team but will need to elevate their game to compete with the top teams in Pool G.
SFL Intensity KOD/Pascual 16U
SFL Intensity is off to a tough 0-5 start this fall, but they’ve played some close games against tough opponents. They’re a well-coached team that could push some of the stronger squads in this group, even if they don’t take the top spot.
Pool G Prediction:
Unity 16U Amsler/Johnson enters as the favorite, given their success last summer and their depth in both pitching and hitting. The Shamrocks and Santa Fe Inferno will be right there with them, but Unity’s experience and talent give them the edge. However, expect Shamrocks Keister to also make a serious push for the top spot.
Pool H: A Balanced Pool with Strong Defenses and Clutch Offenses
Pool H features a group of teams that all have the potential to take the top spot. With strong pitching and defense as key strengths for many of these teams, this group should see some tight games.
Clearwater Bullets Vigue
Off to a 7-5 start this fall, Clearwater Bullets Vigue is well-coached and has relied on strong defense and solid pitching to keep them in games. If they can continue to shut down opposing offenses, they’ll be a tough team to beat in Pool H. Their experience and organization give them an early edge in this group.
Team NC Summer
Team NC Summer has a 4-2-1 record this fall and is known for their ability to put up runs in bunches when they’re on. However, this pool will test their consistency. If they can keep their offense clicking, they’ll be right there in the hunt for the top spot.
Georgia Academy Power
Starting their fall season at 5-3, Georgia Academy Power came out of the gates hot with a 5-0 run. Their strength lies in their offense, and they’ll need to rely on their bats to compete in this pool. If they can keep their hitting up, they could challenge for the top of Pool H.
Fury Platinum Bianco
With a 10-8 record this fall, Fury Platinum Bianco has shown they can compete in tight games. They’ve already battled against some tough teams, including Rock Gold, and should be considered a strong contender in this group. If they can get consistency from both their pitching and offense, they’ll be in the mix.
Rock Gold Conrad Premier 09
Sitting at 8-4 so far this fall, Rock Gold has demonstrated good balance in both pitching and hitting. This well-rounded team could be a dark horse in Pool H, especially if they continue to perform at both ends of the field. They’ll be a tough out for anyone they face.
Shamrocks Jenkins
With only one event under their belt this fall, Shamrocks Jenkins is off to a 1-4 start. They’re still finding their footing but will look to improve in this tournament. They could surprise a few teams and play spoiler if they can make some adjustments.
Pool H Prediction:
This is a balanced pool, and Clearwater Bullets Vigue stands out as the early favorite due to its strong defense and solid coaching. However, Team NC Summer and Rock Gold will be close behind, with Georgia Academy Power also having a chance if its bats stay hot. Expect a tight race for the top spot, with any of these teams capable of making a run.
Pool I: A Wide-Open Field with Plenty of Upside
Pool I is one of the most unpredictable groups in the 16U division. Several teams are looking to make their mark early in the season, and there’s no clear frontrunner, which makes for an exciting set of matchups.
Team North Carolina (Kobziak)
This will be Team North Carolina’s first event of the fall, but they are coming off a solid summer with a 22-16 record. Known as a strong program, they’ll be looking to set the tone early in Pool I. Expect them to be tough, with solid fundamentals across the board.
Adel Heat
Also entering their first event of the fall, Adel Heat finished last summer with a 22-19-1 record. They have a strong offense, and their bats will be key to their success in this group. If their hitters can rise to the occasion, they’ll be competitive in Pool I.
Clearwater Bullets Kermit
With a 6-7 record so far this fall, Clearwater Bullets Kermit has shown flashes of offensive power. If they can continue to hit well, they could shake things up in this pool. Their defense will need to step up to help them make a serious push.
Santa Fe Inferno Young
At 5-6 this fall, Santa Fe Inferno has shown they can score runs. If they can put it all together during this tournament, they have the potential to surprise a few teams and make a run for the top spot.
Firecrackers FL Don
With a 4-10-1 record so far, the Firecrackers have faced some tough competition. They’ll be looking to get back on track in Pool I, and if they can find their rhythm, they could pull off an upset or two. This group is wide open, so anything can happen.
Virginia Thunderbolts Cassedy – 2026
The Thunderbolts are playing their first tournament of the fall after finishing last summer at 16-15-1. Their strength lies in their offense, and they’ll look to use their bats to make an impact in Pool I. They’ll be a team to watch if they can get timely hitting.
Twisters 16U
There’s limited data available on the Twisters, but they’ll need to be ready to compete in this deep pool. This tournament will be a great opportunity for them to showcase their skills and see where they stack up.
Pool I Prediction:
This pool is truly wide open, with no clear favorite. Team North Carolina has the experience and solid foundation to make them the early pick, but Adel Heat and Clearwater Bullets Kermit both have the offensive firepower to challenge. It will come down to who can get hot at the right time, but expect a competitive group overall.
Pool J: A Clash of Strong Pitching and Explosive Offenses
Pool J brings together teams that have shown the ability to score runs in bunches, paired with some strong pitching performances. This pool could see some high-scoring games, with several teams capable of making a deep run.
Bandits Elite Premier Weddington
With a 14-4-2 record this fall, Bandits Elite Premier has had a strong start to the season. Their strong pitching and consistent run-scoring make them one of the favorites in Pool J. They’ll be a tough team to beat, and they have a real shot at topping the group.
Athletics Mercado 16U Wicks
Off to a 1-3 start in just their second event, Athletics Mercado will look to improve in this tournament. They have the talent to compete, and if they can find their form, they could challenge some of the top teams in Pool J. Keep an eye on them as a potential sleeper.
Miami Stingrays 27/28
At 2-1-1 so far, the Miami Stingrays are always a tough opponent. Their aggressive play on the bases makes them dangerous, and they’ll be looking to use that to their advantage in Pool J. Despite an early loss to SWFL Elite, they’re capable of bouncing back and making a run.
Santa Fe Inferno Becker
Santa Fe Inferno has a 4-8-4 record this fall but has shown they can compete with anyone. Their lineup features some strong bats, and if they can get some timely hits, they could surprise a few teams in Pool J. Look for them to be in the hunt.
TCAA Wildcats
At 5-5-1, TCAA Wildcats have proven they can score runs. If they can keep their offense clicking, they’ll be a team to watch in this group. They have the potential to make some noise and disrupt the favorites.
Firecrackers Mueller 26/27
Off to a strong 4-1 start, the Firecrackers have looked good on the mound and at the plate. Their pitching has been particularly impressive, and they’ve been scoring runs consistently. They’re one of the top teams to beat in Pool J, and they have the potential to take the top spot.
SWFL Elite
With a 5-5 record this fall, SWFL Elite has some hitters to keep an eye on, as well as a few arms that could make a difference. They’ve shown flashes of brilliance, and if they can put it all together, they’ll be right in the mix for Pool J supremacy.
Lady Sharks 16U
There’s limited data available on the Lady Sharks, but they’ll need to come prepared to face some tough competition in Pool J. This will be their opportunity to prove themselves in a competitive field.
Pool J Prediction:
The Firecrackers look like the favorite based on their strong start, but SWFL Elite and Bandits Elite Premier will also be right there with them. Miami Stingrays can’t be overlooked either, especially with their aggressive style of play. This pool is packed with talent, so expect some high-energy games and possibly a surprise or two.
