Megwan Muswaggon – Pride of the North on the Mound
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.”
Staying Grounded with Purpose
Though he’s intense on the field, Megwan finds balance off it. “When I’m not playing, I enjoy other sports, video games, and most importantly—being a dad.” He also works as an electrical apprentice in Cross Lake, proving that his work ethic extends well beyond the ballpark.
Before every game, he keeps it simple and focused. “I usually say a quick prayer after my warm-up pitches. It helps me dial in and stay locked when I’m on the mound.”
Looking Ahead to 2025
Heading into the 2025 season, Megwan has one goal in mind: improvement. “I want to boost my stats, increase my velocity, and just enjoy myself out there with my teammates,” he says. “As a team, we’re aiming to place as high as possible in every tournament we attend.”
He credits his team's success to a strong mindset: “We keep chatter going on the field, stick to our strategy, and stay positive. Win or lose, we’re still champions in the eyes of our community.”
ISC Dreams Come True
Representing Cross Lake on the world stage means everything to Megwan. “Growing up, I always dreamed of playing in the ISC World Tournament. Coming from a reserve that’s not even on the map, it’s surreal. A lot of people back home tune in to watch our games—it’s pretty special.”
His first time on the ISC mound was unforgettable. “I’ll never forget that moment. Just being there meant the world.”
To first-time ISC players, his advice is clear:
“Don’t be nervous—treat it like any other game. Give 100% every pitch, every at-bat, and enjoy the moment. You’re playing at the world stage—take it all in.”
Growing the Game from the North
Megwan hopes to see fastpitch continue to grow globally, especially in Indigenous communities like his own. “We need to show young people what’s possible. I want to prove that if you work hard, you can play anywhere—even if you come from somewhere small.”
He shares his favorite advice from mentor Darren Zack:
“Practice makes perfect—so practice, all the best.”
Training, Mentorship, and Mental Focus
Megwan trains hard leading up to each season—throwing daily and playing nearly every weekend. His mental preparation is equally focused. “I keep my body and mind ready naturally by playing often. It keeps me sharp.”
He believes young players should focus on:
- Discipline
- Pitching mechanics
- Mental strength under pressure
And most importantly—supporting each other. “I can’t pick just one teammate that pushes me—we all push each other. That’s what makes our team so strong.”
Follow Megwan’s Journey
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Hometown: Cross Lake, Manitoba
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Team: Can-West Thunder
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Facebook: Megwan Muswaggon
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Day Job: Electrical Apprentice
From a childhood dream in Northern Manitoba to competing on the sport’s biggest stage, Megwan Muswaggon is showing the world what it means to play with pride, purpose, and community behind him.
