USSSA and 4Flames Partner for 11U/12U Elite Exposure Series
USSSA’s Jimmy Greer is leading a new initiative to provide elite exposure for the youngest travel ball age groups. The 2026 combine series aims to identify top talent in the 11U and 12U divisions early in their developmental cycles.
A new partnership between USSSA and 4Flames Athletics is set to change the landscape for younger travel ball athletes. Spearheaded by USSSA’s Jimmy Greer, the Elite Exposure Combine series is specifically targeting the 11U and 12U age groups. These events are designed to introduce younger players to the world of scouting and metrics-based evaluation in a high-energy, professional environment. By collecting early data on hitting and pitching velocity, USSSA hopes to create a more robust pipeline for their future All-American teams.
The combines will feature a mix of skill-specific drills and competitive games, allowing scouts to see how players perform under pressure. For parents, the events include recruiting talks and educational sessions about the long-term journey of travel softball. This focus on early development comes as college coaches increasingly look for younger prospects who demonstrate a high 'softball IQ' and elite foundational mechanics.
Organizers emphasized that while the events are about exposure, they are also deeply rooted in development. The 4Flames coaching staff will provide real-time feedback to participants, helping them identify areas for improvement before they hit the major recruiting years of high school. The 2026 series is expected to visit multiple states, including Texas, Florida, and California, ensuring a wide net is cast for the next generation of softball stars.