Underdog Teams That Made Big Runs At Nationals
Every summer at PGF Nationals, powerhouse programs are typically expected to make deep runs. However, what truly makes the tournament special are the underdogs who defy the odds. This year was no exception. Several teams without a long history or national spotlight stepped up, defeating well-known organizations and proving they belong among the best. Through impressive performances and successful tournament runs, these teams demonstrated exceptional skill and determination.
Mafia Athletics 2028 Premier
Mafia Athletics 14U Premier made a strong impression at this year's PGF Nationals by competing in the elite 14U Premier bracket and securing a top-10 finish. Despite initial doubts about their ability to compete at such a high level, they proved their skill and determination, concluding a remarkable summer. Their bats stayed hot all week, stacking up 63 hits, including 23 for extra bases, and pushing across 42 runs against some of the best teams in the country. Defensively, they were just as tough, giving up only 19 earned runs the whole tournament. With six rising sophomores, five freshmen, and two eighth graders, this group showed both grit and growth and proved they're a team worth watching on the national stage.
Cal Panthers Premier-Perez
Cal Panthers Premier Perez 16U displayed remarkable determination at PGF Nationals. After a closely contested first bracket game that ended in a loss, they bounced back with five consecutive victories, outscoring their opponents 28-5. Their bats were on fire, and they were willing to do whatever it took together to continue to win. They then faced another tough game, ending in a 6-3 defeat, which placed them in the top 13 of the tournament. The team poured their hearts into every game, exhibiting relentless energy and spirit. Co-head coaches Danielle Perez and Karen Roman, who both played in the PGF Platinum 16U Championship in 2014, instilled a fight-until-the-last-pitch mentality that defined this team's impressive run.
Sparks Softball Red-Bailey
Spark Softball Red-Bailey 16U showcased their hustle and confident playing style, which created challenges for their opponents. The team performed exceptionally well that week, achieving a 9-2 record, scoring a total of 73 runs, and accumulating 102 hits. In the circle, Jessica Noga (2026, uncommitted) pitched 39 innings with a 3.02 ERA, while Megan Marusco (2027, uncommitted) contributed 20.2 innings with a 2.37 ERA. The offense excelled with a .379 team batting average. Key performances included Zoe Trunk (.559), Taylor Lane, Ava Jacklin (.463), Elle Holstrom (committed to St. Louis University), and Byrkleigh Kraft (.433), all from the 2026 class. With a mix of power, resilience, and relentless energy, this team delivered one of the program's best showings at PGF yet, placing third in the Platinum bracket.
The Valley Waves
Valley Waves 16U concluded an outstanding summer by reaching the PGF Nationals championship game, finishing as the runner-up in the 16U Platinum bracket. The team showcased “Waves softball” throughout the week, characterized by strong pitching, solid defense, and timely hitting. They achieved a remarkable 7-1 record in bracket play, scoring 32 runs while limiting their opponents to a combined ERA of just 1.45. Their undefeated journey through bracket play, out of 94 teams, highlighted their composure and consistency under pressure. This group stands out for its strong bond, with many players having played together since age six and currently attending the same high schools, achieving a team GPA of 4.2. Their journey to the national stage was a significant milestone and a cherished memory.
LK Black Hawaii
LK Black HI 16U had another exceptional performance at PGF Nationals, finishing with a record of 4-3-1, while going 3-2 in elimination play. The team's offense was exceptional throughout the tournament, boasting an impressive .465 batting average. Standout hitters included Kahiau Aina, Hinano Bautista, Maddy Sagapolutele, and Liulani Martin. In the circle, Bautista and Presley Gibson led the staff, with Bautista delivering three consecutive seven-inning shutouts. The determination and fight this team displayed were outstanding. Sagapolutele provided power at the plate, leading the team in home runs. Finishing in the top 25 in the Premier bracket is the third-highest finish for an LK Black Hawaii 16U team in the past few years.
AZ NXT Thundercats 18U
AZ NXT Thundercats 18U had an impressive run in the Platinum bracket at PGF Nationals, finishing with an overall record of 11-2. They fought their way deep into bracket play, ultimately pushing the eventual champions, Unity Meadows, to extra innings before losing in a thrilling 10-inning game. The senior pitching duo of Audri Elias and Taty Vega had a heavy workload, combining for over 1,000 pitches throughout the week. The defense supported them well, boasting a .928 team fielding percentage. Offensively, the Thundercats were equally strong, achieving a .360 team batting average and a .421 on-base percentage. Each win showcased a complete team win, and their performance exemplified the program's core values.
