The ongoing growth in women’s college softball continues with the announcement today of a sixth regional league in the American Collegiate League (ACL) that will consist of four teams to battle over a month in the Summer of 2026.

The Midwest Gem Collegiate League (“MGCL”) will launch next summer in Kansas City and will be managed by two successful softball programs located in the “City of Fountains:” Top Gun Events and KC Fastpitch, a non-profit focused on youth fastpitch development.   

“Top Gun Events is thrilled to host the Midwest Gem Collegiate League in Kansas City during the Summer of 2026,” Jeremy McDowell, the Co-Owner and Founder of Top Gun, said.

“This league gives collegiate athletes the opportunity to sharpen their skills, compete at a high level and create unforgettable memories. With Kansas City also serving as a host city for the World Cup, these athletes will experience a once-in-a-lifetime summer.”

The MGCL’s teams that will compete in a rotation of 25 games. including playoffs and an All-Star Game next summer are:

• the Amethyst Avengers
• the Midwest Moonstones
• the Ruby Sluggers
• the Prairie Pearls

With the establishment and launch of the league, the next step is to fill the rosters.

The owners of the Midwest Gem Collegiate League are now extending the invitation for qualified college softball players to be considered.

*** Click HERE to complete a Player Application

“The MGCL will blend its brand of competitive fire with the unique spirit of the Midwest,” McDowell continued, “making every game both meaningful and memorable.”

“The League is designed for serious college athletes who want elite competition, unmatched exposure, and unforgettable experiences.” 

The Midwest Gem Collegiate League will join the five previously announced ACL regional that will see top-level college softball played from coast to coast:

• Florida Gulf Coast League (Bradenton & Sarasota, Fla.)
• Lone Star State Collegiate League (Austin, Texas)
• Scenic City Collegiate League (Chattanooga, Tenn.)
• Golden Bay Collegiate League (Mission Viejo, Calif.)
• New England Collegiate League (Boston, Mass.)

Kansas City, known for its great blend of music and barbecue, is also a strong backdrop for women’s sports.

Next year, the entire world will be watching as the city hosts the FIFA World Cup in soccer.

KC also fields a pro women’s team in softball (the Kansas City Diamonds) and in soccer (the Kansas City Current).

It’s also the city where history was made with the construction of the world’s first stadium built exclusively for women’s pro sports, CPKC Stadium, a seven acre site located near downtown Kansas City which opened in March of 2024.

‘When you join the MGCL, you’re stepping into a city that champions women’s sports at every level,” McDowell adds. “

“You’ll train hard, compete against top talent from across the country, and experience the best of Midwest hospitality. This will be your chance to sharpen your skills, showcase your talent and be part of something groundbreaking in the heart of America.”

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HOW TO APPLY: If you’re a player interested in playing in the Midwest Gem Collegiate League, go to the league’s website to complete a Player Application.