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

📍 Hometown: Cross Lake, Manitoba
🧢 Team: Can-West Thunder
👤 Facebook: Megwan Muswaggon
👨‍🔧 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.

< Older Post

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.

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.