Don Battles On Returns with Major College Exposure | Nov 20-22

At Extra Inning Softball, we are always looking for the events that bring together elite competition, meaningful recruiting opportunities, and a deeper connection to the sport’s history.

One tournament that consistently checks all three boxes is the Don Battles On fastpitch tournament, set to return to Southern California from November 20–22, 2026.

Hosted by Triple Crown Sports, the annual event continues to grow in both participation and national reputation. Entering its 13th year, the tournament honors the legacy of longtime coach and mentor Don Minard, whose impact on the softball community inspired the event’s creation.

With divisions ranging from 12U to 18U, the tournament attracts hundreds of teams from across the United States and Canada, providing a high-level competitive environment and one of the final recruiting opportunities of the fall softball season.

For athletes and programs looking to close their fall schedule with exposure, competition, and development, Don Battles On has become a staple on the national fastpitch calendar. For more tournament coverage view HERE.

Honoring a Legacy in Softball

The Don Battles On tournament was created as a tribute to Don Minard, a respected coach and mentor whose contributions to the softball community left a lasting impact.

Tournament organizers continue to honor that legacy by bringing together teams that value development, competition, and leadership. According to Fastpitch Event Director, Kaitlin Flynn, the tournament reflects the same values that Minard promoted throughout his coaching career.

Each year, the event provides a platform for athletes to compete at a high level while celebrating the mentors and leaders who helped grow the sport.

As the tournament enters its 13th year in 2026, its mission remains the same: bring the fastpitch community together while continuing to elevate opportunities for young athletes.

A Key Recruiting Opportunity

One of the defining features of Don Battles On is its position on the recruiting calendar. The tournament serves as the final recruiting weekend of the year, making it a critical opportunity for athletes still seeking college exposure.

The 18U Diamond Division is specifically structured for players pursuing collegiate opportunities, particularly within NCAA Division II, Division III, NAIA, and JUCO programs.

Tournament officials anticipate more than 30 college coaches in attendance, creating a valuable environment for athletes who are actively working toward playing at the next level.

The Open Divisions also provide opportunities for players to showcase their abilities in front of college recruiters while competing against strong club programs from around the country

For many athletes, this final recruiting weekend can provide an important chance to make connections with college programs before the recruiting cycle moves forward.

Road to the Rockies Opportunity.

Another exciting feature of the event is the Road to the Rockies divisions for 12U and 14U teams.

Teams competing in these divisions have an added incentive: the champions receive a paid entry into the Power Pools at the Colorado 4th of July event, one of the premier fastpitch tournaments in the country.

This opportunity allows younger athletes and teams to build momentum heading into the summer tournament season while gaining valuable experience in a competitive national environment.

For developing programs, the Road to the Rockies divisions offer both competition and a pathway to future exposure events.

College Camp Adds Development Opportunity

The weekend also begins with a College Instructional Camp on Friday, designed to help athletes refine their skills while working directly with college coaches.

The camp gives players a rare opportunity to:

• Receive instruction from collegiate coaches
• Learn advanced techniques and strategy
• Gain early visibility before their teams begin tournament play

This instructional environment allows athletes to not only improve their game but also build relationships with coaches before the weekend’s competition begins.

For many players, the camp can serve as a critical bridge between development and recruiting exposure.

Closing the Fall Season in Style

With strong competition, meaningful recruiting exposure, and a mission rooted in honoring softball leadership, the Don Battles On tournament continues to stand out as one of the most anticipated late-fall events in club softball.

By bringing together elite teams, college recruiters, and developmental opportunities, the event provides athletes with a memorable way to close their fall season.

For programs seeking competition, exposure, and the chance to compete on a national stage, Don Battles On remains a must-attend event on the fastpitch calendar.

Teams interested in participating can learn more or register through the official tournament page. Find more playing opportunities HERE!

Tournament Details

Tournament: Don Battles On
Location: Southern California
Dates: November 20–22, 2026
Divisions: 12U–18U
12U Entry Fee: $875 (Road to the Rockies)
14U–18U Open Divisions: $1,750
18U Diamond Division: $1,900

Register HERE

At Extra Inning Softball, we are proud to spotlight tournaments that elevate the game and create meaningful opportunities for athletes to compete and be seen. Events like Don Battles On continue to strengthen the fastpitch community while providing players a powerful platform to close the fall season and pursue their next level dreams.

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