Matej Ryšavý: Czech Catcher Chasing Greatness on the ISC Stage
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.
A Family Game from the Start
Matej’s journey began when he was just nine years old, following in the footsteps of his father, who also played the game. “I just fell in love with it,” Matej says with a smile. His development was shaped early by his first coach and teammates on his home team in Czechia. “They believed in me and helped me take that first big step toward adult competition.”
Like many young athletes, balancing school and sports posed early challenges, but the love for the game kept him grounded. “It’s been 15 years now, and the fire is still burning strong.”
ISC Dreams Turned Reality
Matej describes playing in the ISC World Tournament as the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. “It’s the highest level of fastpitch in the world,” he says. “I’m proud to say this will be my third time playing in the ISC. The experience is everything I imagined and more.”
A standout moment? Winning the ISC II Championship in his rookie season, capped off by being named Newcomer of the Year. “It was surreal,” he reflects. “That moment showed me that anything’s possible if you keep working hard.”
Goals for 2025 and Team Role
Matej is all about personal progression and team success. “My goal is simple—be better than last year,” he says. “I’m working on refining my game plan both offensively and defensively. That means making smarter decisions behind the plate, calling the game, and executing in key moments.”
As for his team, the Giants are pushing for their best ISC finish yet. “I’m here to do whatever it takes to help us win. We’ve got a strong group, and the focus is on consistency and discipline.”
Mindset and Preparation
Despite the pressure that comes with the ISC, Matej keeps his cool. “I try not to overthink it,” he says. “I take it one step at a time and treat it like just another game—another chance to grow.”
He sticks to a light-hearted pre-game ritual, putting on eye black and all the ‘cool stuff’ to set the tone. But make no mistake, when the mask goes on, it’s all business.
Role Models and Rivalries
Matej credits older teammates like David Mertl and Tomas Klein from his home club Spectrum Prague for inspiring him early in his journey. “They set the standard for what it meant to be a top-level player,” he says.
He also finds motivation in his competition. Facing Michal Holobradek and Jonas Hajny, two fellow Czech standouts, always brings out his best. “I feel like I need to hit another gear when I go up against them. They keep me sharp.”
Growing the Game
Matej sees fastpitch growing on the international stage but believes there’s still work to be done. “We need more publicity across continents,” he says. “There’s so much talent outside of North America. The more we showcase these players and leagues, the more the sport will expand.”
He believes the ISC can lead the way by sharing stories of players and teams from lesser-known regions and increasing coverage through social media and digital storytelling.
Advice to Young Players
His message to younger athletes is rooted in fundamentals and mindset:
- Discipline
- Glove work
- Consistency
“Don’t try to do too much,” he advises. “Just be consistent in what you do. Train like it’s game day and work on the little things every day.”
Follow Matej Ryšavý
- Instagram: @matejrysavy_
- Facebook: Matěj Ryšavý
From the ballfields of Prague to the brightest stages in North America, Matej Ryšavý is a shining example of where dedication and love for the game can take you. Keep your eyes on the Czech catcher as he continues to rise—one pitch, one inning, and one dream at a time.
