The Premier National Softball Championship
Every season in the Alliance Fastpitch builds toward one ultimate goal: qualifying for the Alliance Fastpitch Championship Series (AFCS). Known as the premier national championship in youth fastpitch softball, the AFCS brings together the top teams in the country to compete for the title of National Champion in each age division (10u to 18u).
But making it to the AFCS is not automatic. AFCS berths are earned on the field. With only a limited number of berths available, teams must earn their way in through AFCS qualifying events every season. Here is how the AFCS qualification process works and what it takes to reach the game’s biggest stage in youth softball.
What is the AFCS?
The Alliance Fastpitch Championship Series is more than just another event on the calendar of softball tournaments. The AFCS is the postseason culmination every youth softball team dreams about. Modeled after the NCAA format, with “Regionals,” “Supers,” an Elite 8, and best of 3 game championship series, the AFCS crowns national champions across multiple age divisions and tiers, giving players the chance to compete at the highest level, while gaining exposure to college coaches along the way. But that’s not all. There’s also a variety of outside activities that contribute to the experience, including skills competitions, a Home Run Derby, “Hat Day,” Elite 8 bracket boards, press conferences and so much more!
In previous years, the AFCS rotated host cities to create new stages for unforgettable memories and top-level competition. Now, the series has found a home in Westfield and Kokomo, Indiana, offering a one-of-a-kind experience with more than 40 turf fields within 30 miles - and over 300 college coaches in attendance each year!
For athletes, qualifying for the AFCS is about more than winning games. It’s about proving you belong on the biggest stage in youth softball and gaining invaluable experience against the best competition.
How to Qualify for the AFCS
Getting to the Alliance Fastpitch Championship Series (AFCS) starts with earning a berth. Each age division and regional league has a limited number of berths that teams must earn by competing in AFCS Qualifiers.
Member leagues are awarded AFCS berths based on their historical attendance at AFCS, paired with their League membership numbers (i.e. larger leagues have more berths to give out). For teams, there are two big factors in qualifying:
- Play in Qualifiers: Teams earn berths at designated qualifying softball tournaments hosted in their region. Win a qualifier? Earn a berth! Note some Qualifiers may award multiple berths per age division meaning you have to finish amongst the highest teams to earn a berth. Visit our AFCS Qualifiers page to find an AFCS Qualifier in your league.
- Earn Points: Every game matters. Teams collect points all season long in the Alliance Rating System by scoring and streaming with AthletesGoLive. Team points help determine AFCS seeding once teams qualify. Some Alliance Leagues may also award AFCS Berths based on the highest point totals for their League.
From your regional qualifiers all the way to Nationals, every step of the journey matters. To dive deeper into the process, view official qualification details, and to learn more about Tiers of Competition, visit the AFCS info page.
Quick Tips for Teams Trying to Qualify
Qualifying for the Alliance Fastpitch Championship Series (AFCS) takes planning, consistency, and knowing where to focus your efforts throughout the season. While every game and every tournament matters, these quick tips can help your team stay on track for a berth at the most prestigious event in youth fastpitch softball.
- Start early: Register for AFCS Qualifiers in your league so your team has multiple opportunities to earn a berth.
- Track your points: Coaches can use your Digital Dugout and Team Profile to monitor how your performance impacts your Team Rating. Every game contributes to your overall standing.
- Stay updated: Check your League Schedule often for berth tournaments and use the Qualifier Search to find upcoming opportunities.
- Ask questions: Reach out to your League Administrator to learn about additional AFCS berth opportunities or regional qualifiers.
The Alliance Fastpitch Championship Series represents the ultimate reward for a season of hard work, determination, and teamwork. It is where champions are crowned, players showcase their talent, and the fastpitch community comes together for an unforgettable experience.
Reaching the AFCS is about more than qualifying. It is about earning your place among the best in youth fastpitch. By earning points, competing in league events, and securing a berth, your team can take its place at the most prestigious event in youth fastpitch softball.
Your road to the AFCS starts today.
Visit our national tournament schedule and start planning your journey. Filter by AFCS Qualifier to find qualifiers in your league.