OKLAHOMA CITY — USA Softball has announced coaches for the U.S. U-18 Men’s National Team (MNT) Program ahead of the 2025 WBSC U-18 Men’s Softball Americas Qualifier, set to take place later this year. Selected by the USA Softball Selection Panel and approved by the USA Softball Board of Directors, Tim Hatten and Alvaro “Mingo” Varela will lead the U-18 MNT through the 2025-2028 quadrennial cycle.
Both former men’s fast pitch players, Hatten and Varela have been involved with USA Softball in various capacities over the past decade, particularly at the grassroots level.
Tim Hatten
A native of Illinois, Tim Hatten has over 30 years of experience in coaching and athletic administration at Mississippi Valley State University, Quincy University, and Rock Valley College. He owns Hatteco Sport and Performance Analysis and has coached at various levels, including leading the RVC Clubberz Men’s Fast Pitch Team to numerous successes.
Hatten has received multiple All-American honors in men’s fast pitch softball and has set records, including a .667 batting average in the Men’s Major division. In October 2024, he was inducted into the USA Softball/ASA of Illinois Hall of Fame for his contributions to the sport.
“Being chosen as a coach for the USA Softball U-18 Men’s National Team will be the highlight of my men’s fast pitch career,” said Hatten. “I’ve spent most of my fast pitch career focusing on local grassroots development and introducing young men to this great game. This opportunity allows me to work closely with USA Softball in creating a long-term commitment to building a strong and sustainable future for the U-18 men’s program,” he added. “I am absolutely thrilled to be chosen for this leadership role!”
Alvaro “Mingo” Varela
Varela has been playing men’s fast pitch softball since 2004, starting at age 22. He progressed from Indian ball to competing at C-level USA Softball tournaments, eventually catching the attention of current U-23 Men’s National Team assistant coach, Bob Piddock. This led to an invitation to a tournament where he played for the A1 Bombers, winning the event and later signing with the team.
Over four years, he played for various teams, including A1 Power and Bloomington Stix. Now, he owns a facility offering hitting lessons and enjoys coaching while supporting his son’s baseball activities.
“Being selected to coach the USA Softball U-18 Men’s National Team program is a great honor for me,” said Varela. “I have been involved in the men’s softball community for many years, playing with various teams. Now, I have the opportunity to share my experience, knowledge, and skills while working with these young men in a sport that I truly love,” he added.
The U-18 WBSC Americas Qualifier is set to take place October 5-12, 2025, in Bahia Blanca, Argentina and will serve as a qualifying event for the WBSC U-18 Men’s World Cup in 2027. Additional event details and roster selections will be announced at a later date.
Athlete Interest
If any athlete born between 2009-2013 has any interest in being considered for the U-18 MNT, please fill out the Player Information form linked here.
Upon filling out the form, a member of the Men’s National Team coaching staff will contact you. This form is intended for players who have not yet been identified for the U-18 Men’s National Team program athlete pools. It’s important to note that some U-18 Men’s National Team players may never have played softball before but could be involved in their high school baseball team or have connections through acquaintances.
To learn more about the U.S. U-18 Men’s National Team program, visit USASoftball.com.