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Choosing the right fastpitch softball glove isn’t just about grabbing the shiniest option on the rack; it’s a strategic investment in your performance, confidence, and longevity on the field. For competitive players, where split-second reactions and flawless execution determine outcomes, the glove becomes a critical extension of the body. A premium glove offers the perfect blend of responsiveness, durability, and feel that cheaper alternatives simply can’t replicate under the intense pressure of championship play. It’s the difference between a routine out and a costly error when the game hangs in the balance.
While the initial price tag of a top-tier fastpitch glove might give pause, savvy players and coaches understand this is where true value lies. Think beyond the sticker shock: a well-crafted glove, properly maintained, can serve you loyally for multiple grueling seasons, outlasting several lower-quality replacements. More importantly, it provides the consistent pocket formation, superior ball retention, and reduced sting on hard-hit shots that directly translate to better defense. Investing in premium gear signals your commitment to the sport and empowers you to perform at your absolute peak, game after game, season after season.
Top 10 Fastpitch Softball Gloves for Competitive Players
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Franklin Sports Fastpitch Pro Series Softball Gloves
Overview:
This youth-focused fastpitch glove prioritizes comfort and ease of use for developing players. Engineered specifically for fastpitch softball’s demands, it features a narrow wrist opening and lightweight construction ideal for younger athletes seeking agility and confidence in the field.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The standout element is its lightweight technical mesh body, reducing hand fatigue and promoting quicker transfers—a rarity in entry-level gloves. The soft pocket material ensures an almost immediate break-in, while the adjustable wrist strap delivers a secure, customizable fit critical for growing hands. These features collectively address common youth pain points like heavy gloves and long break-in periods.
Value for Money:
Priced accessibly for beginners, it offers exceptional value by eliminating the need for costly break-in oils or time-consuming conditioning. While premium leather alternatives exist at higher price points, this glove’s synthetic mesh construction delivers reliable performance without the steep investment, making it a smart starter choice.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Extremely lightweight, quick break-in, adjustable wrist for growth, comfortable mesh breathability, youth-specific narrow fit.
Weaknesses: Mesh may lack the long-term durability of leather, limited weather resistance, and the soft pocket might wear faster under heavy use.
Bottom Line:
An excellent, budget-friendly entry point for young fastpitch players. Its comfort, adjustability, and immediate usability make it highly recommended for beginners prioritizing ease of play over ultra-longevity.
2. Franklin Sports Fastpitch Softball Glove - Field Master Fastpitch + Softball Mitt - Womens + Girls Righty Glove - Adult + Youth Gloves - Right Hand Throw - 12.0" - White + Grey
Overview:
The Field Master Fastpitch glove targets women and girls seeking a durable, low-maintenance option. Crafted with synthetic leather, it bridges the gap between affordability and performance, offering a reliable mitt ready for game action without extensive preparation.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Its premium synthetic leather shell is the key differentiator, mimicking genuine leather’s feel and resilience while bypassing the notorious break-in period. The hand-formed pocket minimizes errors by securing catches instantly, and the adjustable wrist strap ensures a locked-in feel crucial for confident fielding across youth to adult sizes.
Value for Money:
This glove presents strong value for intermediate players who want leather-like durability without the wait or upkeep. It undercuts genuine leather gloves significantly while outperforming cheaper vinyl alternatives in longevity and pocket retention, justifying its mid-tier price for serious recreational use.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: No break-in required, durable synthetic leather, secure adjustable wrist, consistent hand-formed pocket, versatile sizing (youth/adult).
Weaknesses: Synthetic material may not develop the same personalized pocket as leather over years, slightly stiffer initially than mesh gloves, less breathable than fabric-backed options.
Bottom Line:
A practical, performance-oriented choice for players tired of lengthy break-ins. Highly recommended for those wanting reliable, game-ready performance at a reasonable price point.
3. Rawlings | R9 Series Fastpitch Softball Glove | Basket Web | 12’ | RHT | Grey
Overview:
The Rawlings R9 12" glove is a premium youth fastpitch model designed for select players aged 10+. Built with elite input, it combines traditional craftsmanship with performance-focused features, targeting serious young athletes transitioning to competitive play.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The all-leather shell delivers a premium, game-ready feel uncommon in youth gloves, while the Basket Web design naturally forms an optimal pocket for secure catches. Approved by elite players, it offers pro-level construction scaled for smaller hands, enhanced by thoughtful protection elements like the padded thumb loop and reinforced palm.
Value for Money:
Positioned at a higher price point, it justifies cost through genuine leather durability and professional-grade features. While pricier than synthetics, its longevity and superior feel offer better long-term value than entry-level options, especially for dedicated players committed to the sport beyond a single season.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Genuine leather durability, elite-approved pattern, excellent hand protection, customizable pull-strap fit, forms a reliable pocket.
Weaknesses: Requires break-in time, higher initial cost, leather demands more maintenance, 12" may suit only specific positions (infield/pitcher).
Bottom Line:
A top-tier investment for serious youth players. If budget allows and the player is committed, this glove’s quality and performance make it a standout recommendation for ages 10+.
4. Rawlings | R9 Series Fastpitch Softball Glove | Basket Web | 12.5’ | RHT | Grey
Overview:
This R9 Series glove is a slightly larger counterpart to the 12" model, tailored for fastpitch players needing extra hand space. Retaining the elite R9 pedigree, it’s ideal for select youth or transitioning players aged 10+ seeking a balanced blend of control and reach.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The critical distinction is the 12.5" pattern, offering more coverage for outfielders or players with larger hands while maintaining infield agility. Like its sibling, it features game-ready all-leather construction, a pro-designed Basket Web pocket, and comprehensive hand protection, but the half-inch increase significantly impacts usability for specific positions and hand sizes.
Value for Money:
Priced comparably to the 12" R9, it offers identical premium quality. The value shines for players needing the larger size, as alternatives often sacrifice leather quality or pattern optimization. It’s a worthwhile investment if the 12.5" fits the player’s position and hand size, avoiding costly mid-season upgrades.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Premium all-leather durability, versatile 12.5" size for multiple positions, elite pocket formation, adjustable fit, excellent protective padding.
Weaknesses: Break-in period required, premium price, 12.5" may feel bulky for smaller infielders, similar maintenance needs as leather gloves.
Bottom Line:
An exceptional choice for players requiring a 12.5" fastpitch glove. Highly recommended for serious youth athletes where hand size or position demands the extra length without compromising on quality.
5. Wilson 2026 A500 Siren 12" Infield/Pitcher Fastpitch Softball Glove - Right Hand Throw, White/Seafoam/Purple
Overview:
The Wilson A500 Siren targets youth infielders and pitchers with a 12" pattern, blending style and performance. Featuring top-grain leather and Wilson’s proprietary wrist technology, it’s designed for players seeking a snug, responsive feel right out of the box.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The Quick-Fit Wrist system is revolutionary, using elastic to dynamically hug the wrist for unprecedented security and reduced slippage—a game-changer for quick releases. Combined with rolled dual welting for structural integrity and top-grain leather for lightweight durability, it offers a uniquely modern, performance-driven fit.
Value for Money:
Competitively priced within the mid-range leather glove market, it delivers innovative tech (Quick-Fit Wrist) typically found in higher-end models. While requiring minimal break-in, it offers better longevity and support than synthetics, making it a strong value for players prioritizing fit and responsiveness over pure budget savings.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Exceptional Quick-Fit Wrist comfort/security, durable yet lightweight leather, rolled welting for shape retention, stylish design, ideal 12" infield/pitcher size.
Weaknesses: Limited color options beyond featured scheme, top-grain leather still needs basic maintenance, may feel tight initially for very large hands.
Bottom Line:
A standout for players craving a secure, custom-like fit. The innovative wrist system and reliable construction make it a top recommendation for youth infielders and pitchers seeking performance and comfort.
6. Rawlings | Sure Catch Series Fastpitch Softball Glove | Purple/Grey/White | RHT | 12'
Overview:
This youth-focused 12-inch fastpitch glove targets players aged 4–11, designed as a versatile utility option for infielders, outfielders, or pitchers. Its Basket Web pattern and youth-specific sizing prioritize ease of use for beginners learning the fundamentals of softball.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Rawlings’ Sure Catch Technology ensures immediate usability, eliminating lengthy break-in periods—a major plus for young athletes. The lightweight all-leather shell with padded finger linings offers comfort for growing hands, while the Basket Web is optimized for softball sizing, enhancing ground ball scoops and fly ball catches with confidence.
Value for Money:
Priced accessibly for entry-level gear, it delivers exceptional value by combining durability (via full-grain leather) with ready-to-play functionality. Cheaper synthetic alternatives often lack breathability and longevity, making this a smarter long-term investment for developing players.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Effortless break-in, lightweight comfort, versatile utility design, vibrant color options, and reliable shape retention.
Weaknesses: Limited size range (not suitable beyond age 11), and the Basket Web may trap dirt more easily than closed-web designs.
Bottom Line:
An ideal starter glove for young fastpitch players, offering comfort, ease of use, and versatile performance at a fair price. Highly recommended for beginners aged 4–11 seeking a durable, game-ready option.
7. Easton | ELITE SERIES Fastpitch Softball Glove | Morgan Stuart Model | 11.5" | Pro I-Web | Right Hand Throw | Camel / White
Overview:
Crafted in collaboration with pro player Morgan Stuart, this 11.5-inch infield glove targets serious fastpitch athletes. Built for precision and control, it features premium materials and tailored design elements suited for competitive play.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The Diamond Pro Steerhide leather ensures immediate game-readiness without sacrificing durability. Easton’s Quantum Closure System provides a locked-in fit, while the Flex Notch enhances squeeze responsiveness—critical for quick infield transfers. The supple lining elevates comfort during long games.
Value for Money:
Positioned at a premium price point, it justifies cost through pro-grade materials and performance. Comparable elite gloves often require extensive break-in; this model’s ready-to-play design saves time and effort, offering strong ROI for dedicated players.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Exceptional steerhide durability, secure adjustable fit, responsive Flex Notch, pro-endorsed design, and superior comfort lining.
Weaknesses: Higher cost may deter casual players, and the 11.5" size limits utility for outfielders.
Bottom Line:
A top-tier choice for competitive infielders seeking pro-level performance and immediate usability. Worth the investment for serious athletes prioritizing precision and reliability.
8. Rawlings | Liberty Advanced Fastpitch Softball Glove | 12.25’ | RHT |
Overview:
This 12.25-inch utility glove caters to advanced pitchers and infielders, from high school to professional levels. Engineered for rapid break-in and enduring pocket formation, it balances performance with protective features.
What Makes It Stand Out:
Poron XRD palm and index finger padding drastically reduce sting on hard hits—a standout for pitchers facing line drives. The full-grain leather ensures durability while maintaining a soft feel, and pull-strap closures guarantee a personalized, secure fit for dynamic play.
Value for Money:
Mid-to-high priced but delivers pro-level protection and materials. Cheaper gloves often compromise padding or leather quality, making this a cost-effective upgrade for players needing impact resistance without sacrificing longevity.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Excellent impact protection, quick break-in, durable full-grain leather, customizable fit, and versatile utility sizing.
Weaknesses: Poron XRD adds slight stiffness initially, and the size may be too large for younger players.
Bottom Line:
Highly recommended for serious pitchers and infielders who prioritize hand protection and rapid readiness. A reliable workhorse glove for competitive play.
9. Rawlings | PLAYER PREFERRED Glove | Softball | Right Hand Throw | 13" - Pro H-Web
Overview:
A 13-inch adult glove designed for recreational baseball and slowpitch softball outfielders. Its Pro H-Web pattern and focus on comfort cater to casual players seeking reliability without elite price tags.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The Pro H-Web offers versatility for outfield catches, while Zero Shock palm padding absorbs impact effectively. Full-grain leather construction ensures durability, and the adjustable wrist strap accommodates varying hand sizes—key for shared or recreational use.
Value for Money:
An affordable option that avoids the pitfalls of budget synthetics. Durable leather and thoughtful padding provide better longevity than entry-level gloves, making it a sensible pick for league play under $100.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Comfortable Zero Shock padding, durable full-grain leather, versatile Pro H-Web, adjustable fit, and great value.
Weaknesses: Less structured pocket than position-specific gloves, and leather requires moderate break-in.
Bottom Line:
Perfect for recreational outfielders wanting a durable, comfortable glove without overspending. Ideal for slowpitch leagues or casual baseball.
10. Rawlings | R9 Series Fastpitch Softball Glove | First Base Mitt | Modified Pro H-Web | Grey | 12.5’ | RHT
Overview:
This 12.5-inch first base mitt is engineered for youth select players (10+), featuring a Modified Pro H-Web approved by elite fastpitch athletes. It prioritizes pocket formation and hand protection for reliable scoops and catches.
What Makes It Stand Out:
The game-ready all-leather shell forms a deep, consistent pocket essential for 1B play. Adjustable pull-straps ensure a snug fit across hand sizes, while reinforced palm/thumb padding and finger liners significantly reduce impact—critical for backhand digs and hard throws.
Value for Money:
Competitively priced for a specialized youth mitt. Cheaper alternatives often skimp on padding or web structure, leading to premature wear. This mitt’s durability and pro-inspired design offer solid value for growing athletes.
Strengths and Weaknesses:
Strengths: Excellent impact protection, customizable fit, durable leather, optimized pocket depth, and youth-specific sizing.
Weaknesses: Limited to first base, and the 12.5" size may outgrow younger users quickly.
Bottom Line:
A standout choice for youth fastpitch first basemen needing reliable protection and a game-ready pocket. Highly recommended for select ball players aged 10+.
Understanding Premium Fastpitch Glove Construction
The Critical Role of Leather Quality
The foundation of any exceptional fastpitch glove is the leather. Premium gloves utilize top-grain steerhide or specialized kip leather, known for its exceptional density, durability, and ability to form a reliable, game-ready pocket. This isn’t the thin, easily stretched leather found on budget models; it’s thicker, more resilient, and withstands the constant impact of line drives and hard-thrown balls without prematurely breaking down or losing its shape. High-quality leather also offers superior water resistance and maintains its integrity through varying weather conditions.
Stitching and Reinforcement Techniques
How a glove is sewn together is paramount to its lifespan and structural integrity. Look for double or triple-stitched seams, particularly in high-stress areas like the pocket, thumb, and index finger crotch. Premium gloves often feature reinforced lacing channels and strategically placed padding or overlays at impact points. This meticulous construction prevents common failure points like lacing tearing out or the pocket collapsing prematurely, ensuring the glove maintains its intended shape and performance characteristics season after season.
Lacing Materials and Methods
Lacing isn’t just decorative; it’s structural. Premium gloves use high-tensile synthetic laces or premium leather laces that resist stretching, fraying, and rotting far longer than standard materials. The lacing pattern itself is crucial – intricate patterns like the I-web or modified trapeze often require more lacing and precise tensioning, which premium manufacturers execute with expertise to ensure consistent pocket depth and stability. Strong, durable lacing directly contributes to how well the pocket holds its form during play.
Palm Padding and Shock Absorption
While fastpitch gloves generally have less padding than baseball gloves, strategic padding in the palm is essential for comfort and performance. Premium models incorporate advanced foam or mesh padding systems designed specifically to absorb the significant sting from hard-hit balls without adding excessive bulk. This padding is precisely placed and contoured to protect the hand while still allowing the player to maintain essential feel for the ball, a critical factor for quick transfers and clean catches.
Key Performance Features for Competitive Play
Position-Specific Design Nuances
Fastpitch gloves are meticulously engineered for specific defensive roles. Infielders benefit from smaller, shallower pockets and tighter closures for rapid ball retrieval and quick transfers essential for turning double plays. Outfielders require deeper pockets and longer patterns to securely catch high fly balls and provide extra reach. Catchers need extra padding and a unique, oversized design for blocking and handling frequent, hard-thrown pitches. Premium gloves excel in optimizing these position-specific geometries for maximum effectiveness.
Web Style Impact on Functionality
The web design significantly influences a glove’s utility. H-web styles offer excellent visibility for pitchers to conceal the ball and are favored by middle infielders for quick ball access. Trapeze and modified trapeze webs create deeper, more secure pockets ideal for outfielders and first basemen. I-webs provide a balance of visibility and pocket depth, popular with pitchers and utility players. Premium gloves use these web styles not just aesthetically, but to enhance the glove’s functional purpose for the intended position.
Closure Systems for Optimal Fit and Security
A secure, customizable fit is non-negotiable for competitive play. Premium gloves feature advanced closure systems beyond basic elastic. Look for adjustable wrist straps with multiple hook-and-loop (Velcro) points, sliding buckles, or intricate lace-lock systems. These allow players to fine-tune the fit snugly around the wrist, preventing the glove from shifting or rotating during dynamic movements like diving for a ball or making a quick throw, ensuring consistent hand placement within the pocket.
Finger Stall Construction and Comfort
Comfort and protection in the fingers are vital. Premium gloves often include padded finger stalls, sometimes with breathable mesh lining, to cushion the fingers from impact and reduce blisters during extended use. The stalls themselves are precisely shaped and reinforced to maintain their structure, preventing fingers from sinking too deeply or becoming cramped, which can hinder dexterity and feel. Proper finger stall design contributes significantly to overall hand comfort and glove control.
The Fit and Feel Imperative
Hand Measurement and Sizing Accuracy
Getting the correct size is fundamental. Unlike baseball, fastpitch glove sizing is generally smaller for the same age/position due to hand size differences. Relying solely on age or position charts is insufficient. Competitive players must measure their dominant hand accurately – from the base of the wrist to the tip of the middle finger – and consult the specific brand’s detailed sizing chart. A glove that’s even slightly too large will hinder control and reaction time, while one too small restricts movement and causes fatigue.
Break-In Process Expectations
Premium leather requires a proper break-in period to reach its optimal performance state. Understand that a high-quality glove won’t be game-ready straight out of the box; it needs consistent, patient conditioning. This involves applying recommended conditioners sparingly, shaping the pocket through manual manipulation and catch sessions, and avoiding excessive moisture or heat (like leaving it in a hot car). While some premium gloves boast “quick-break-in” technologies, a truly durable, well-formed pocket develops gradually through correct use.
The Subjective Element of “Feel”
Beyond objective specs, the intangible “feel” is paramount for elite players. This encompasses how the glove conforms to the hand, the responsiveness of the pocket when catching the ball, and the overall sense of connection between player and equipment. Premium gloves, made with superior materials and craftsmanship, consistently offer a more refined, consistent, and trustworthy feel. This sensory feedback is crucial for making split-second adjustments on difficult plays and builds immense player confidence.
Customization Options for Personalization
Many premium manufacturers offer extensive customization, allowing players to tailor their glove to personal preferences. This can include selecting specific leather types (softer for quicker break-in, firmer for longevity), choosing web styles, picking padding levels, and even adding personalized embroidery. While customization increases cost, it ensures the glove is optimized specifically for the player’s position, hand size, and performance priorities, maximizing the investment.
Long-Term Value and Maintenance
Durability as a Cost-Saving Factor
The upfront cost of a premium fastpitch glove is justified by its significantly longer usable lifespan compared to lower-tier options. High-quality leather and construction resist wear, tear, and weathering far better. A well-maintained premium glove can easily last 3-5 seasons or more for a dedicated player, whereas cheaper gloves may need replacing annually due to broken laces, collapsed pockets, or leather deterioration. Over time, the cost-per-season of a premium glove becomes highly competitive.
Essential Care Routines for Longevity
Protecting your investment requires consistent maintenance. After every game or practice, remove dirt and moisture with a clean, dry cloth. Periodically clean the leather with products specifically designed for glove care (never saddle soap on modern gloves). Apply a small amount of quality conditioner to keep the leather supple, especially in dry climates. Store the glove in a cool, dry place, ideally with a ball secured in the pocket using a glove wrap to maintain its shape. Neglecting care drastically shortens even the best glove’s life.
Repairability of High-End Models
A significant advantage of premium gloves is their repairability. Due to the quality of materials and construction, issues like broken laces, minor tears, or worn wrist straps can often be professionally repaired, extending the glove’s life considerably. Many manufacturers offer repair services, or skilled local craftsmen can handle fixes. Budget gloves are often not worth repairing, as the materials themselves degrade, making the premium glove a more sustainable investment.
Resale Value Considerations
Well-maintained premium fastpitch gloves often retain decent resale value, especially popular models or limited editions. While not the primary reason for purchasing, this potential recoupment further enhances the long-term value proposition. Players upgrading can often offset the cost of their next premium glove by selling their current, cared-for model, something rarely feasible with mass-market alternatives.
The Psychological Edge of Premium Gear
There’s an undeniable psychological component to using top-tier equipment. Knowing you have the absolute best tool for the job instills confidence. When a player trusts their glove implicitly – confident it will hold the ball, form a reliable pocket, and respond instantly – it removes a mental barrier. This peace of mind allows the athlete to focus entirely on reading the ball, anticipating plays, and executing at their highest level, a subtle but powerful advantage in high-pressure situations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a premium fastpitch glove last with proper care? With consistent and proper maintenance, including regular cleaning, conditioning, and appropriate storage, a high-quality fastpitch glove can reliably perform for 3 to 5 full competitive seasons, sometimes longer for players with less frequent intense use.
Is a stiffer glove always better for competitive play? Not necessarily. While premium gloves often start stiffer due to high-quality leather, the ideal break-in level is personal. Some players prefer a slightly quicker break-in for immediate responsiveness, while others prioritize maximum longevity from ultra-firm leather. The key is the glove reaching a consistent and reliable pocket depth suitable for your position.
Do premium gloves require a different break-in process than cheaper ones? The fundamental break-in principles are similar (conditioning, shaping, playing catch), but premium leather often requires more patience and specific, gentle techniques. Avoid excessive oil or heat, as this can damage the superior materials. Premium leather forms a more stable, durable pocket over time with proper care.
Can I use a baseball glove for fastpitch softball? It’s strongly discouraged. Fastpitch gloves are specifically designed with smaller patterns, different web styles, and pocket depths optimized for the larger, softer softball and the unique demands of the fastpitch game. Using a baseball glove significantly hinders performance and increases error risk.
How do I know if a glove is truly “premium” beyond the price tag? Look for indicators like top-grain or kip leather construction, double/triple stitching in stress points, reinforced lacing channels, advanced closure systems, brand reputation for quality craftsmanship, and often, greater customization options. The overall feel, weight, and attention to detail during inspection are also strong indicators.
What’s the biggest mistake players make when buying a premium glove? Choosing the wrong size based solely on position or age without measuring their actual hand. A glove that doesn’t fit the hand perfectly, even if made from the best materials, will severely limit performance and confidence on the field.
Are expensive gloves worth it for high school players? For serious high school athletes committed to the sport and aiming for collegiate play, absolutely. The performance benefits, durability, and confidence boost of a properly fitted premium glove provide significant advantages during critical development years and competitive seasons.
How often should I condition a premium fastpitch glove? Conditioning frequency depends on climate and use. In dry conditions or with heavy use, condition lightly every 4-6 weeks during the season. In humid climates, less frequent conditioning (maybe once or twice a season) is often sufficient. Over-conditioning can soften leather too much and damage the glove.
Can I speed up the break-in process without damaging the glove? Gentle, consistent use is best. While specialized break-in oils exist, use them sparingly only on very stiff areas. Playing catch regularly, shaping the pocket with your hand, and using a glove wrapper are the safest methods. Avoid excessive heat (ovens, hairdryers) or soaking, which ruin leather.
Does a deeper pocket always mean a better glove? No, pocket depth is position-specific. Infielders need shallower pockets for quick ball access, while outfielders benefit from deeper pockets for securing fly balls. The “best” glove has a pocket depth perfectly suited to the player’s position and personal catching style, formed consistently by quality materials.
See Also
- 10 Premium Fastpitch Softball Gloves for Elite Players (Worth the Investment)
- 10 Premium Custom Soccer Jerseys for Competitive Teams (Worth the Investment)
- 10 Best Fastpitch Softball Gloves for Serious Players This Year
- 10 Game-Changing Fastpitch Softball Gloves for Serious Players in 2026
- 10 Expert-Recommended Fastpitch Softball Gloves for Collegiate Players in 2026