Jack Besgrove: The Future of Aussie Pitching Is Here
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. Since then, his journey has taken him to the pinnacle of men’s fastpitch, highlighted by earning the Leyor Zimmerman Award as the Most Outstanding Pitcher at the Surrey 2024 ISC Men’s Fastpitch World Tournament.
Early Beginnings and Influences
Growing up in a softball-loving family, Jack found the sport a natural fit. “My family already had a connection to fastpitch,” he says, “so it was a given I’d get involved. I loved the speed, intensity, and that family atmosphere you feel from day one.” A proud product of the Sydney Tropics youth program, he credits Australian legend Andrew Kirkpatrick—affectionately nicknamed “Cheese”—for mentoring him. “Andrew helped me tremendously in my first year playing in the ISC. The experiences and lessons I gained from being around him will stay with me forever.”
Challenges and Triumphs
Leaving loved ones behind to play in North America is no small feat. “The lengthy period of time away from family is the hardest challenge,” Jack admits. Yet the sacrifice has paid off in spades: he not only made his ISC debut but also helped propel his team to a 2023 ISC Tournament victory—all in his very first season. Those achievements peaked in 2024, when he claimed the Most Outstanding Pitcher award in Surrey. “Winning the Leyor Zimmerman Award was surreal,” he says. “It’s an honor I’ll never forget.”
A Young Star with Big Goals
Jack sees 2025 as another huge step forward—both for himself and the Gremlins. “Every team’s goal is to win the ISC, and for us, it’s no different,” he says. “We got so close again, so we’re eager to get back to the top.” As one of the younger players on the squad, he’s focusing on building his skills—physically and mentally—while soaking up wisdom from the team’s veterans. “One day, I want to be the one guiding younger guys. For now, it’s about becoming a better version of myself every year.”
In Jack’s view, the Gremlins’ success hinges on their tight-knit bond. “We’ve been together a couple of years—some of us much longer—and we really trust each other. In tough situations, that connection can be the difference between winning and losing.”
The ISC Experience
Growing up in Australia, Jack dreamed of playing in the ISC World Tournament. “Watching Andrew and Adam (Folkard) when I was young, all I wanted was to get to their level,” he says. The reality surpassed even his lofty expectations. “The ISC competition rivals any world cup—it might even be tougher. Each team has a player who can turn the game around in an instant. There’s no such thing as an easy matchup.”
He believes the key to thriving on such a stage is preparation. “Do the work before you arrive—hit the gym, refine your pitches, study the hitters. That way, when it’s game time, you can just trust yourself and compete.” His advice to first-timers? “Enjoy it. Listen to the veterans, learn everything you can, and don’t forget why you started playing in the first place.”
The Future of Fastpitch
When asked about where he sees men’s fastpitch in the next five to ten years, Jack is optimistic. “I think it’s growing in a lot of countries. You see tournaments with big crowds, and it’s only getting bigger. Hopefully, we’ll see more teams, higher levels of competition, and continued support from organizations like the ISC to keep it accessible and exciting for everyone.”
As a bartender and pitching coach off the field, Jack brings a unique blend of people skills and athletic insight to the game. He believes fastpitch thrives on community and mentorship, the same qualities he’s benefited from throughout his career. “That’s what keeps me motivated—knowing I’m part of a global family that’s always pushing the sport forward.”
Follow Jack Besgrove
To catch up with Jack’s latest adventures—both in the circle and beyond—be sure to follow him on social media:
- Instagram: @jbesgrove_
- Facebook: Jack Besgrove
With a lethal mix of talent, passion, and a willingness to learn from the greats, Jack Besgrove is poised to be a defining force in men’s fastpitch for years to come. Keep your eyes on the young Aussie as he continues to make waves—and chase more hardware—on the sport’s biggest stage.
