Cody Smith: The Aussie Utility Player with a Big Bat and Bigger Ambitions
At just 23 years old, Cody Smith is already proving he belongs on the world’s biggest fastpitch stages. A utility player wearing jersey #11, Cody enters the 2025 ISC season with The Bar Buzz, following a 2024 campaign with the Circle Tap Dukes. Hailing from Melbourne, Australia, Cody’s versatility, confidence, and team-first mentality make him a key piece of any lineup he’s part of—both on and off the field. Off the diamond, he brings that same focus and energy to his work as a primary school teacher.
From Cricket to Fastpitch
Cody’s introduction to fastpitch came by chance. “I was a 12-year-old cricketer, and a mate needed someone to fill in for his softball team,” he explains. “The moment I played, I was hooked.” What kept him around? The possibility of Australian national selection and, more importantly, the lifelong friendships he found in the sport.
From juggling softball with other sports to managing expectations at a high level, Cody has leaned on a group of mentors—including the Jansen family, Jon Hudson, Kris Kiefel, Michael Dyson and Phil Puketapu—to help guide his journey.
Taking On 2025 with The Bar Buzz
This season, Cody’s locked in on both individual and team success. “My goal is to help my team on both sides of the ball and push toward finals in our major tournaments,” he says. With a strong pitching staff in place, Cody knows early offense will be crucial. “If we can plate runs early, our arms will do the rest.”
Personally, he’s working hard to evolve into a productive top-order hitter and a reliable defensive infielder, focusing specifically on consistent slugging and defensive adaptability. “I want to be a threat at the plate and someone the team can count on in any position around the diamond.”
ISC Experience and Mental Edge
Cody describes playing in the ISC World Tournament as a humbling and empowering experience. “It makes me feel privileged to play against the best in the world,” he says. “The ISC features the most elite level of men’s softball anywhere.”
His favorite memory? A 6-run rally in the bottom of the 7th to win in extras against Tigres while playing with Circle Tap. “That kind of game shows you what the ISC is all about—grit, pressure, and the ability to deliver when it counts.”
To prepare, Cody leans on positive mental chatter and repetition. “I constantly remind myself that I belong here,” he shares. “Live at-bats, defensive reps, and conditioning help physically, but mentally, it’s about believing in the work you’ve done.”
Mentorship and Motivation
Cody’s fastpitch idols include Ryan Sinclair and Joel Southam, both of whom he’s been lucky enough to play alongside. But it’s Matthew Harrow who’s pushed him the most. “Matt leads from the front. He’s always encouraging me to reach higher. Plus, he’s one of the best blokes you’ll meet in the game.”
Where the Game Is Headed
Cody believes fastpitch has a bright future—especially with platforms like Softball Premier offering coverage—but he’s also realistic about challenges. “Participation, especially in Australia, isn’t growing right now,” he says. “But our game is highly exciting. If marketed properly, it could capture global attention faster than many other sports.”
He sees the ISC circuit as essential to that growth. “It gives players a platform. If ISC continues expanding coverage and promoting these tournaments, more people will want to get involved.”
Advice for the Next Generation
Cody’s advice for young players revolves around three key traits:
- Resilience
- Teamwork
- Dedication
Training-wise, he emphasizes quality over quantity and warns against overtraining. “Know your limits. Be smart with your reps.” For infielders, he recommends practicing in multiple positions to improve adaptability, and for everyone: live at-bats and defensive reps are a must.
Mentally, he works on positive self-talk and breathing routines, crediting these habits for helping him stay composed under pressure.
Follow Cody Smith
- Instagram: @cody.js
- Facebook: Cody Jaxon
With a balanced mix of talent, humility, and ambition, Cody Smith is one of the rising international voices in men’s fastpitch. Whether he’s turning a double play or coming through with a clutch hit, he’s always thinking one step ahead—ready to make his mark on the 2025 season.
