Shane Boland: Leading by Example on the Road to Another Title
At 33 years old, Shane Boland has already left an indelible mark on men’s fastpitch. As the shortstop and vocal leader for the Hill United Chiefs, he wears jersey #91 and boasts a storied career filled with clutch hits and championship moments. Yet, when he isn’t patrolling the infield, you might find him enjoying a midday meal and hot tub session, playing hockey, or spending quality time with family. A native of Goulds, Newfoundland and Labrador, Shane proudly represents his roots, both on and off the field. Off the diamond, he’s a Police Officer—nicknamed “Sarge.”
From the Ballpark to the Family Bond
Shane’s introduction to the sport came at the tender age of four. With his parents both playing fastpitch, it was inevitable he’d grow up at the ballpark. “I always wanted to play with my brother, who was four years older, so I really had to hone my skills to keep up,” he recalls. That motivation—and support from his dad—pushed him to develop into one of the game’s elite shortstops.
A Leader on the Field
As a key player for the Hill United Chiefs, Shane embraces his role as a leader. “I try my best to steer the ship,” he says. “No one is bigger or better than anyone else on the roster. We all chip in, and the team rolls together.” Those leadership qualities are what make him an integral piece of a roster always gunning for top honors.
For Shane, goals are simple: “Win everything. Personal awards are a bonus, but this is a team sport, and everyone doing their job leads to success.” Shane also quotes sports legend, Ricky Bobby “If you’re not first, you’re last.”
Keys to Continued Success
Never one to rest on his laurels, Shane believes in perpetual growth. “Everything can be improved—there’s always room,” he emphasizes. “Team morale, bonding together like a family, having a blast while playing the game we love—these are the keys to success.”
He prepares physically year-round, keeping in shape through workouts, running, and even playing hockey. Mentally, he focuses on staying in the moment. “You control your game. When training gets hard, go harder. Live in the moment and trust yourself.”
ISC and Championship Memories
Ask Shane about the ISC World Tournament, and his eyes light up. “It’s the best of the best—the pinnacle of men’s fastpitch,” he explains. “It’s extremely tough, but it’s also the most fun I’ve ever had playing ball.” One particular memory stands above the rest: hitting a walk-off home run in the 2016 ISC final to secure the world championship. “That moment felt surreal. It’s something I’ll carry with me forever.”
Advice for ISC Newcomers
“Look around, enjoy it, learn from it,” he advises. “Ask as many questions as possible. There are so many great players willing to help.” Shane is quick to name-check those he admires: Nick Shailes (the GOAT, in his words) and Bradley Ezekiel, among others. “I’ve been lucky enough to play alongside Nick for many years, and he pushes me to keep improving every step of the way.”
The Future of Fastpitch
As for where men’s fastpitch is headed, Shane sees growth on the horizon, though he’d love to see more TV exposure. “Showcasing our top players and highlight-reel moments is the best way to attract fans. Keep doing what we’re doing, but take advantage of every media platform.”
He encourages young players to develop physical fitness, leadership, and teamwork skills—qualities that have propelled him to the top of the sport. “Get as many reps as possible,” he says. “When it’s time to train or play, go all in.”
Follow Shane Boland
While Shane doesn’t share much on social media, you can follow glimpses of his journey here:
- Instagram: @shaneboland
- Facebook: Shane James
From a four-year-old dreaming of playing with his older brother to leading the Hill United Chiefs and launching a memorable walk-off homer at the ISC, Shane Boland epitomizes what it means to chase success, respect your teammates, and stay hungry for more. Keep your eyes on “Sarge” as he looks to guide his squad to another championship—and savor every pitch along the way.
