Following the untimely passing of Ward Gosse at the young age of 56 in January, the ISC is announcing that, with the blessing of the Gosse family, the Legends Most Valuable Player Award will be named in his honor starting this year. “Ward meant so much to the Legends division with the contributions that he made during his playing days,” said ISC Legends Tournament Director Keith Erkenbrack. Ward was a two-time Legends MVP – in 2018 and 2022 – leading the Sudbury Relics to both their titles. “We are very appreciative that Ward’s family has agreed to let us honor his memory.” Ward finishes with 14 wins in his Legends career, and has the three highest total strikeouts in a tournament in division history. Prior to his Legends participation, Ward threw a no-hitter in 1994 for St. John’s and was named to the ISC Second All-World Team with Fargo in 2006. In 2012, he was a member of the Parry Island Hawks team that captured the ISC II Championship and was named Tournament MVP and Most Outstanding Pitcher. The 2025 ISC Legends tournament will take place over the final days of the ISC World Tournament at Caswell Park in North Mankato, MN July 26 – August 2.

When you think about fastpitch softball’s global reach, Enzo Chiaramonte is the perfect example of how the sport transcends borders. At 27 years old and wearing jersey #2 , he’s a versatile utility player for the Georgian Bay Giants —the same team he’s represented since 2024 and will continue with into 2025. Off the field, Enzo works as a physical education teacher , guiding others to develop their own athletic abilities. Here’s a glimpse into his story. Growing Up with the Game Enzo’s passion for fastpitch started in 2009 in a small Argentine town called América, where his father, Pablo, fielded a local team. “It was different from the usual sports in Argentina,” Enzo recalls. “My friends were playing too, and we had a good junior team. It just clicked for me.” Inspired by Germán Bonaccorsi , a head coach and player at Fénix (National University of La Matanza), Enzo steadily built his skills. “He helped me see the game in new ways,” Enzo explains. “I grew to love the intensity and the sense of family within the sport.” Playing Style and Mindset As a true utility player, Enzo’s role can vary from one game to the next. “I’m focused on becoming more psychologically strong, refining my swing technique, leg balance, and explosive power,” he says. “The mental part is just as important as the physical. I’m trying to improve in every way to meet the demands of the ISC.” Before each game, Enzo centers himself by listening to music, visualizing plays, and staying positive. He also loves soccer, CrossFit, electric guitar, and rooting for his favorite Latin American soccer club, River Plate . “I need these hobbies to keep my mind fresh,” he says with a laugh.

1st Annual Cinco de Mayo Tournament

We're pleased to present the schedule for the 2025 ISC Canada East Qualifier June 13-15 in Mitchell, Ontario. We have three divisions this year: White & Red in ISC along with Legends. With the unique nature of the 2025 season, we're utilizing pool play rather than our traditional double knock-out format to maximize games and play for teams, players and fans. This will undoubtedly be one of the best tournaments this summer! We look forward to seeing you in Mitchell and we're happy to have Softball Premier streaming every game from Diamond A over the course of the weekend!

At 25 years old, Megwan Muswaggon has already become a household name in fastpitch circles across Northern Manitoba. Pitching and playing first base for the Can-West Thunder , Megwan brings power, precision, and pride to the game every time he takes the field—carrying the hopes of his hometown, Cross Lake , wherever he goes. Carrying on a Family Legacy For Megwan, fastpitch isn’t just a sport—it’s a way of life. “I was about 7 or 8 when I started pitching,” he says. “My father, David, was a pitcher himself and introduced me to the game. I grew up watching him and always wanted to be like him.” That influence became even stronger over time, with Megwan also spending three summers training under Canadian fastpitch legend Darren Zack . Fastpitch has deep roots in his community. “It’s the top sport in Cross Lake. We have over 25 youth teams, eight women’s teams, and up to 18 men’s teams. Fastpitch is alive and well in Northern Manitoba.” From Local Diamonds to the World Stage Transitioning from community games to the global fastpitch scene hasn’t always been easy. “Early on, learning the mechanics of pitching was a challenge. But later, the biggest test became mental—adjusting from reserve ball to the world stage,” Megwan explains. Now entering the prime of his career, Megwan sees himself as a key piece of the Can-West Thunder roster. “Without pitchers, your team falls apart,” he says candidly. “So I know I’ve got a big job—keeping the score close and giving my team a chance to win.”

At 36 years old , Mathieu Roy stands as a seasoned presence in left field—sporting jersey #16 . Having played for the New York Gremlins in 2024 and playing for the newly named Bear Creek Gremlins next season, this St-Gervais, Québec native has crafted a storied career that’s still going strong. Off the field, he’s a strength and conditioning coach , as well as a baseball and softball coach, using his expertise to guide the next generation of athletes. Early Start and Family Ties Mathieu’s fastpitch journey began at an incredibly young age—he was swinging at a tee by 18 months old and playing organized softball by the time he was four. The main inspiration? His dad, Jean Roy , who played fastpitch and passed on his love for the game. Growing up in a hotbed of softball, Mathieu quickly discovered his passion for the sport’s high intensity and sense of community. Rising Through Challenges When Mathieu first started playing in ISC-level competition, he noticed a significant gap in pitching velocity during local practices—few pitchers could throw over 75 mph. Still, he found ways to adapt. “I worked on my arm strength in the offseason, and I gained two or three miles per hour,” he explains. “At my age, that’s a big win.” He also aimed to increase his hitting power, recognizing that consistent performance at the plate would help anchor the top of his team’s lineup.

At 36 years old , Yusuke Morita is an experienced outfielder with a sharp mind, a calm presence, and a competitive spirit that runs deep. Now a member of Bear Creek Express , after suiting up for Glow Worm in 2024, Yusuke continues to prove that age is just a number when you play with heart, preparation, and purpose. Born and raised in Susaki, Kochi, Japan , Yusuke has grown into an international competitor while staying true to his roots—and his deep respect for the game. A Lifelong Commitment to the Game Yusuke’s fastpitch journey began in elementary school , when he joined his local softball team. With few other options for sports in his area, fastpitch quickly became his focus. His father, who also served as a coach, helped instill a strong work ethic early on. “He taught me the importance of thinking through the game and practicing with intention,” Yusuke says. That foundation served him well—both as a player and as a person. “There were never any major problems when I started,” he says. “It was always about learning, improving, and enjoying the sport I loved.” Leading with Focus and Family Values While many athletes get pumped up with noise and energy before a game, Yusuke takes a different approach: meditation . “I imagine myself in the game—both succeeding and making mistakes—so I can focus completely. It helps me give my best in training and stay centered during competition.” Outside of softball, Yusuke spends his time with his family. That balance—between intense athletic focus and peaceful personal time—has shaped him into the calm and consistent player he is today.

**Tournament Details:** Clark Evans Memorial Tournament Date: Memorial Day weekend (May 24-25, 2025) Location: Darnell Wright Sports Complex, 303 W Foothills Dr, Newberg, OR Host Team: NW Braves Shayne Arndt 541-561-1613 Tournament Director: Zak Hedgecock UiC: Rich Silva and four other umpires have committed. ISC Rep: Keith Erkenbrack This is a US West Qualifier for the 2025 ISC World Tournament Team Update: 1 NW Braves of Oregon - Shayne Arndt 2 Montana Young Guns - Bob Shaffer 3 Seattle K-Club - Brandon Dixon 4 Grants Pass Falcons - Mike Duffy 5 Westside Jacks - Jeff Hannan 6 Grass Valley Greens - Bobby Alvara 7 PNW Naturals - Mark Seward 8 CR Brewers - Roger Jones 9 California LUFTSHOOTSEED - Eric 10 Renegades 11 CA Wololok - Kenneth Swearinger Jr 12 Free Agents - contact Shayne Arndt to be added to the roster. Considering: 13 Seattle Interbay Door - Charlie Bendock 14 Boise Riverdogs - Greg Alder 15 MT Pinebettles - Frank Hendrix III

Travel Suggestions for Players Coming Into the US

At 28 years old, Blaine Milheim is no stranger to the grind. A tenacious competitor, sharp third baseman, and respected presence in the Northeast Drillers’ lineup, Milheim brings more than just raw talent to the fastpitch diamond—he brings purpose. Whether he’s flashing leather at the hot corner or delivering clutch at-bats, Blaine is driven by one goal: helping his team bring home an ISC World Tournament championship . And after already tasting victory with the Hallman Twins in 2022 , he knows what it takes to get there. From Family Ballparks to ISC Podiums Milheim’s fastpitch story began in Eaton Rapids, Michigan , rooted in family tradition. “I grew up watching my dad play the men’s game, my sister play softball, and eventually my brother after college,” he shares. “Once I was old enough, I jumped in.” He started at 15, playing for the Wrightway Tree company, l and quickly found that fastpitch offered the adrenaline, pace, and global camaraderie that made it irresistible. “I loved the pace. It’s intense and quick. And the friendships you form through this sport are unmatched.” Adapting to the Game—and Rewriting His Swing Transitioning from baseball wasn’t easy. One of the biggest hurdles Blaine faced was learning to hit the rise ball—especially after spending nearly two decades with a baseball swing. “It took a complete overhaul,” he admits. “But it’s been worth it.” As a former catcher and college outfielder, Milheim has also had to embrace a new role at third base. “It was a steep learning curve, but I’ve always been a utility guy,” he says. “Now I’m doing what it takes to help the team wherever I’m needed.”

22-Man Blue Crew for #ISCWT2025

Tournament Name: Tijuana Fast Pitch Location: Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico Dates: May 16,17 and 18 Entry fee: 350 Dollars Tournament format: 2 Groups A and B, 5 teams each group, Round Robin easy group, 4 games each team, the first 3 in the standings of each group plays on Sunday Championship Bracket, the first place of each group goes ahead to play the semifinals, the winner between 2 Group A and 3 Group B plays number 1 of group B, and the winner between 2 group B and 3 group A plays number 1 of group A and the winners go ahead to the finales. UIC Name and contact information: Renzo Ruiz Tournament Director: Jesús Montero Jorge Marquez ISC Representative: Chris Santos

At just 21, Tane Mumu is already making waves in men’s fastpitch. When he’s not patrolling the middle infield for the New York Gremlins, you’ll find him representing Hutt City United back home in Wainuiomata, New Zealand. A dynamic shortstop and second baseman (wearing jersey #2), Tane has quickly become a reliable force for one of the most competitive teams in the sport.

At 33 years old, Shane Boland has already left an indelible mark on men’s fastpitch. As the shortstop and vocal leader for the Hill United Chiefs, he wears jersey #91 and boasts a storied career filled with clutch hits and championship moments. Yet, when he isn’t patrolling the infield, you might find him enjoying a midday meal and hot tub session, playing hockey, or spending quality time with family. A native of Goulds, Newfoundland and Labrador, Shane proudly represents his roots, both on and off the field. Off the diamond, he’s a Police Officer—nicknamed “Sarge.”

At just 24 years old, Matej Ryšavý has already made his presence felt on the international fastpitch scene. Donning jersey #00 for the Georgian Bay Giants, the Prague, Czechia native is entering his third consecutive ISC World Tournament, bringing energy, grit, and a relentless work ethic behind the plate. Off the field, Matej is a student with a love for hiking, cars, and exploring new places—always keeping life as exciting as his game.

At just 21, Jack Besgrove has already carved out a name for himself in the fastpitch world. Pitching for the Gremlins (both in 2024 and continuing into 2025), this Australian phenom hails from Orange, New South Wales—where he first picked up a softball at the tender age of four.

Men's fastpitch softball will be one of the featured sports at this year's Masters Indigenous Games being held in Ottawa, ON August 14-17. The Masters Indigenous Games (MIG) provides Indigenous adults, aged 20 years and older, the opportunity to compete against their peers in a variety of contemporary and traditional sporting activities. MIG is an opportunity to get physically active, engage with community and participate in competition. The Games bring together thousands of Indigenous athletes from around the world to compete in sport competitions, celebrate Indigenous wellness and showcase the rich diversity of cultures and traditions of the world’s Indigenous Peoples. For more on MIG25, see their website at the link below. https://mastersindigenousgames.com/

With a baseball background and a hockey stick in one hand, Tony Wark stumbled onto the fastpitch diamond at age 12—and hasn’t looked back since. Now 25, he’s a mainstay at 1B for the Midland Explorers, where he proudly wears jersey #18. Hailing from Reese, Michigan, Tony’s early days with the Munger Firemen youth team have led him to the heights of men’s fastpitch, fueled by an unmistakable passion for the game.

At just 23, Marco Diaz is already one of the fastest pitchers on the planet, throwing blazing fastballs topping 83 mph! From his roots in Ensenada, Baja California, to his rise with the Hill United Chiefs, Marco stays grounded, focused, and hungry for victory. Learn more about Marco’s journey, his rituals, and his goals on the global stage as he gets ready to dominate at the ISC World Tournament!