New York Gremlins ranked #1 in May rankings
Blair Setford • June 1, 2023
Gremlins, followed by Stompers, Express and Chiefs at top of ISC May Rankings
We are excited to announce the ISC May Rankings. The Rankings Committee has selected 15 rankers from all over the United States and Canada. The group is comprised of Players, Coaches, Administrators, and Associates of the ISC.
Ranking all the teams attending the ISC is a daunting task, so if a ranker was unfamiliar with a team and chose not to rank them, then the average of the other rankers was used.
A total of 26 teams received consideration from the Rankers. Teams that didn't submit rosters by the May 15 deadline were not considered for the May rankings, but will be included in future releases.
- NY Gremlins, Clifton Park, NY – 18 Points
- Niagara Stompers, Niagara Falls, ON – 38 Points
- Bear Creek Express, Chippewa-on-the-Thames, ON – 56 Points
- Hill United Chiefs, Oshweken, ON – 61 Points
- JB, Agoura Hills, CA – 68 Points
- Circle Tap Dukes, Denmark, WI – 80 Points
- Grande Prairie Pirates, Grande Prairie, AB – 119 Points
- AWP Lumberjacks, DuQuoin, IL – 134 Points
- Kegel Black Nights, Fargo, ND – 161 Points
- Glowworm, San Antonio, TX – 182 Points
- Monterrey, Mex Omma Tigres
- Lake Crystal, MN Ostrander Norsemen
- Fond du Lac, WI A.H.I. Reapers
- Greenleaf, WI Wander Springs Chippers
- Oshweken, ON Oshweken Redmen
- Bainbridge, OH Bombers
- Elmira, ON Expos
- Lancaster, PA Nates Automotive (Fishers)
- Burlington, ON Waterdown Hammer
- Kingston, ON Axemen
- Winnipeg, MB Peguis Redmen
- Appleton, WI The Bar Buzz
- Olympia, WA Lacey A's
- Grand Valley, ON Expos
- Pendleton, OR NW Braves
- Auckland, NZ Blue Sox Academy
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.
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.