The 2025 Eastern Elite Fall Tournament brought serious competition to Chattanooga, Tennessee, on October 18 and 19. Programs from across the region arrived ready to compete, showcase their skills, and secure the first Alliance Fastpitch Championship Series (AFCS) berths of the year.

This event marked the first major recruiting weekend of the Fall, bringing a surge of opportunity and momentum for athletes and families who were eager to get back on the field in front of college coaches.

Eastern Elite: Chattanooga’s Fall National Qualifier

Held October 18–19 in Chattanooga, Tennessee, Eastern Elite set the tone for a high-stakes season opener. As an AFCS National Qualifier, the event featured a competitive bracket format with five games guaranteed, giving teams multiple opportunities to battle for AFCS berths. Programs from across the Southeast arrived with one goal: earn their way to Indiana in summer 2026.

For many teams in the Connect Sports community, Eastern Elite is the place to build early season momentum. Setting the tone in October can define confidence and trajectory heading into the weeks ahead. As one of the earliest qualifier tournaments, teams are vying to secure their spot at the very start of the Fall season. The competitive energy was electric, and the fight for AFCS tickets did not disappoint.

Celebrating All-Tournament Performances & National Qualifiers

Following the weekend, All-Tournament Teams were announced for each age group, highlighting athletes who elevated their game and made an impact throughout bracket play. The recognition posts generated major excitement across social media, with teammates, coaches, and families celebrating the honorees.

Check out the full All-Tournament Team highlights on Instagram:
14U All-Tournament Team
16U All-Tournament Team
18U All-Tournament Team

The weekend also concluded with several teams earning their berths to AFCS, clinching their place in championship competition later this season. Congratulations to every program that punched their ticket and proved they belong on the national stage!

Qualifying Teams:

• Athletics Gold Tamborra/Vallery
• EC Bullets Premier Matt 16U
• EC Bullets Premier Matt 18U
• Fury Platinum X 18U
• Fury Platinum X Higdon/Helton
• Fury Platinum X Pickett
• Fury Premier 2029 Woodard
• Louisville Lady Sluggers Green
• Louisville Lady Sluggers Huecker/Norwood
• Louisville Lady Sluggers Huecker/Peyton

Fueling the Fall Softball Season

Eastern Elite set the tone for a strong Fall softball season. As Connect Sports strives to elevate experiences each year, plans are already underway to expand the number of fields for Eastern Elite and host even more programs in 2026, creating greater opportunity for both competition and exposure.

Thank you to every athlete, coach, umpire, parent, and staff member who contributed to another incredible weekend in Chattanooga.

Want to relive the highlights?
Check out the full photo gallery from Eastern Elite on Facebook. Follow along on Instagram for more All-Tournament features and upcoming event coverage!