Passing of Hall of Famer Jay Bob Bickford

Blair Setford • July 27, 2022

Bickford was 1980 MVP & Top Pitcher

The ISC is saddened to hear of the passing of Hall of Famer Jay Bob Bickford.


Jay Bob pitched from 1962 to 1987 for some of Arizona’s finest teams. He played on 13 Arizona State Championship Teams and was voted to the ASA All- American Team in 1971. He was named to the ISC All-World Team in 1977 and 1980 and was named as the ISC Most Outstanding Pitcher as well as the Most Valuable Player in the 1980 World Tournament pitching for Phoenix, AZ 7th Avenue Auto Parts  He was also the Arizona State Travel League MVP in both 1977 and 1980. He was inducted into the Arizona Softball Hall of Fame in 2000.


Jay Bob was one of the most dominating fastpitch softball pitchers in Arizona history. He played for a number of years on the premier teams in the state and nation, including the Turquoise Kings from 1974-1978. During those years the Kings won five ISC Travel League championships and placed second at the ISC World Tournament in 1974. After the Kings, he played for the 7th Avenue Auto Parts, again finishing second in 1980.


We extend our condolences to the Bickford family.

Scott McDonald: Veteran Leader on the Mound for the Walton Brewers

By Brian Eradus • May 27, 2025
At 40 years old , Scott McDonald is the definition of a seasoned competitor. A pitcher for the Walton Brewers , Scott has spent decades around the game, and in 2025, he’s not just lacing up his cleats—he’s helping guide the next generation of talent in one of fastpitch’s most storied tournaments: the ISC World Tournament . A Life Built Around the Game Scott’s journey in fastpitch began before he even truly understood it. “My parents took me to games from a young age—my dad Rick McDonald played,” he recalls. “I was just five years old when I started.” Following in his father’s footsteps, Scott found himself drawn to the competitive fire of the sport. Over the years, that competitive nature helped him thrive on the mound and build a reputation as a player who not only performs under pressure but also leads with purpose . A Pitcher, Mentor, and Builder of the Game Now one of the most experienced players in the Brewers’ dugout, Scott sees his role shifting. “I’m doing less playing and more coaching ,” he says. “I want to grow the team , help develop younger players, and pass on what I’ve learned.” He’s focused on teaching the finer points of the game—especially how to approach challenges mentally and tactically. His on-deck routine and superstition—“ Right cleat on first ”—might be a small detail, but it represents the kind of structure and preparation he instills in others.

Weekend Recap: Grass Valley Greens and Pueblo Bandits Win ISC Qualifiers

By Brian Eradus • May 26, 2025
This past weekend, two major ISC qualifier tournaments took place — showcasing top-tier talent, fierce competition, and memorable moments on the road to the ISC World Tournament. Clark Evans Memorial ISC Qualifier (US West Qualifier) Location: Newberg, Oregon The Clark Evans Memorial saw a strong field of competitors battling for the top spot. After a weekend of intense matchups, the Grass Valley Greens emerged victorious, edging out K-Club in a tense 1-0 final. Pitching and defense ruled the day, as both teams put on a masterclass of tight, disciplined play. Final Standings: 1️⃣ GV Greens 2️⃣ K-Club 3️⃣ Westside Jacks 4️⃣ NW Braves 5️⃣ MT Pine Bettles 6️⃣ MT Young Guns Congratulations to the Grass Valley Greens on their impressive tournament run! Joe Santos Memorial Tournament Location: Pueblo, Colorado In Pueblo, the Pueblo Bandits claimed the Joe Santos Memorial title with a decisive 3-1 victory over Shock . Bandits’ starting pitcher Gus Valdes was dominant, going the full six innings and surrendering only three hits. The big blow came in the third inning when catcher Alex Del Valle launched a crucial 3-run homerun , ultimately sealing the win. Shock managed to push across a single run in the fourth, but Valdes closed the door, finishing the game in style with a strikeout.  These tournaments continue to highlight the competitive spirit and talent across ISC fastpitch. Stay tuned for more qualifier results as teams battle for their place at the ISC World Tournament ! 👉 Follow all the action at: iscfastpitch.com