Tane Mumu: Rising Star on the Global Fastpitch Stage

Brian Eradus • April 9, 2025

At just 21, Tane Mumu is already making waves in men’s fastpitch. When he’s not patrolling the middle infield for the New York Gremlins, you’ll find him representing Hutt City United back home in Wainuiomata, New Zealand. A dynamic shortstop and second baseman (wearing jersey #2), Tane has quickly become a reliable force for one of the most competitive teams in the sport.


A Family Affair

Tane’s journey into fastpitch started at age seven, when he tagged along with his siblings to practice. “They were playing, so I decided to give it a try,” he explains. As it turns out, he never looked back. “I played multiple sports growing up, and balancing them all with school was challenging. But softball always stood out—it was fun, fast-paced, and something I could see myself doing for a long time.”

Four mentors helped mold Tane’s early career: Joel Evans, Rhys Casley, Craig Wallace, and Trevor Evans. “They showed me how to train and stay focused,” he says. “Having role models like that from the start really made me believe I could compete at higher levels.”


Living Between Two Worlds

Splitting his time between Hutt City United in New Zealand and the powerhouse New York Gremlins, Tane admits it’s a balancing act. “In New Zealand, I get to hone my skills year-round and work on the fundamentals. When I come over to the Gremlins, I’m tested by some of the best players in the world. It’s an incredible experience.”

One thing that keeps him grounded is his life outside the diamond. He’s a landscaper by profession and enjoys golfing, hitting the beach, and spending time with family and friends. “It helps me relax,” Tane says. “Having that mental break is crucial—otherwise, I’d be living and breathing softball 24/7.”


Goals for 2025

After falling one game short in a recent campaign, Tane and his Gremlins teammates are hungry for redemption in 2025. “We want that championship—no question,” he states firmly. “I plan to make the most of every opportunity I get and not waste a single moment. I’m getting older and more experienced, so I need to be a reliable source for the team, both offensively and defensively.”

Asked about specific improvements, Tane points to raw strength. “I’ve been hitting the weights, working on my explosiveness. Hard work is non-negotiable if we want to keep pace in this league.”


Embracing the ISC World Tournament

For Tane, the ISC World Tournament is “the best comp in the world.” The competition, he says, is top-tier, featuring the game’s elite. “Winning last year was unbelievable. We had such a great season, and everything clicked at the right moment,” he recalls. “To prepare, I trust myself and my abilities. I don’t let the moment get too big. Plus, having good teammates behind me helps.”

His advice to a first-timer? “Get amongst it and have fun. At the end of the day, we all play softball because we love it. Don’t lose sight of that.”


Role Models and Rivalries

If Tane had to pick one player he admires, it’s Ben Enoka. He’s also had the opportunity to face off against or play alongside many of his idols. “Nick Mullins is someone who pushes me to up my game,” he notes. “In fact, everyone on my team drives me to be better. We feed off each other’s energy—that’s why I love playing for the Gremlins.”

When it comes to the future of men’s fastpitch, Tane is confident. “It’s taking off, and the ISC is a big part of that,” he says. “With more publicity and global reach, this sport can go to the next level. We just need to keep investing in the youth and providing top-notch competitions.”


Training and the Mental Game

According to Tane, the three most important skills for young players are mental focus, teamwork, and commitment. “You can’t overlook the basics—fielding, hitting mechanics, footwork—because those are your foundation. Once they’re second nature, push yourself with drills that challenge you. If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you.”

Mental training, he adds, can be just as crucial as physical training. “Confidence, composure, and a positive mindset can make the difference between an average player and a great one,” Tane says. “Don’t change what’s already working, but always look for ways to refine your game.”


Follow Tane’s Journey

Want to keep tabs on Tane’s rise in the fastpitch world? Follow him on his social media channels:

With his eyes set on another championship run in 2025 and the determination to keep growing as a player, Tane Mumu is poised to become one of the brightest young stars in fastpitch. Keep an eye out when the Gremlins step onto the field—you won’t want to miss what this talented middle infielder does next.

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.”

Mathieu Roy: A Force in Left Field

By 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.