Mathieu Roy: A Force in Left Field

Brian Eradus • April 25, 2025

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.

Goals and Team Success

A frequent competitor on the international stage, Mathieu has set his sights on winning another ISC title, the WBSC, and the World Games. “Our goals are the same—team or personal,” he says. “We need to be ready to make quick adjustments and get hot at the right moment.” Whether he’s tracking a fly ball in left field or stepping into the batter’s box, Mathieu strives to bring consistency and leadership to every game.


The ISC Experience

For Mathieu, playing in the ISC World Tournament is a thrill every time. “You’re facing the best of the best from around the globe,” he notes. “The top five teams have a skill level comparable to Double-A or Triple-A baseball.” His most cherished memory is winning his first ISC title with the Gremlins—an achievement he says was made even sweeter by the great friendships formed along the way.

In preparing for such a high level of play, Mathieu structures his year-round training:

  • November to March: 2–3 softball practices per week, plus 3–4 gym sessions.

  • April to June: 3–4 practices/games per week, 2–3 workouts.

  • June to September: 5–7 games per week, plus 1–2 workouts.


Advice for Newcomers

Mathieu’s best tip for ISC newcomers is to give yourself time to settle in. “It’s tough, but it’s also so much fun—on and off the field. Get to know your teammates, opponents, and everyone involved. You’ll meet a lot of great people.” He has long admired hitters like Colin Abbott, Ryan Wolfe, Brad Rona, and Mark Sorenson, as well as modern standouts like Remaki, Ochoa, Enoka, and Ezekiel. Facing or playing alongside these elite athletes pushes him to keep improving.


Looking Ahead

Although he sees growth for fastpitch on the international scene, he hopes there will be better media coverage and more opportunities for international players on the ISC circuit. “I’d love to see challenges on close calls at major tournaments and more highlights shared online. That’s how we’ll attract new fans,” he says.

His parting words for aspiring players focus on hand-eye coordination, speed, and mastering proper mechanics. “You don’t have to swing for the fences every time—just get the barrel on the ball. And remember, mental training is huge. I do meditation, visualization, and keep a book on pitchers and catchers to stay prepared.”


Follow Mathieu Roy

From big wins on the world stage to intense off-season workouts, Mathieu Roy remains a force in men’s fastpitch—demonstrating that hard work, consistency, and a lifelong love for the game can keep an athlete at the top of his craft, season after season.

Megwan Muswaggon – Pride of the North on the Mound

By Brian Eradus • April 29, 2025
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.”

Yusuke Morita: Zen-Focused and Ready to Compete for Bear Creek Express

By Brian Eradus • April 22, 2025
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.