Bringing Men’s Fastpitch to the West Coast: An Interview with Blair Setford
In the heart of Surrey, British Columbia, the International Softball Congress (ISC) Men’s Fastpitch World Tournament is poised to make its mark once again. Ahead of the 2024 edition, we had the opportunity to sit down with Blair Setford, a stalwart in the world of Men’s Fastpitch, to glean insights into the significance of this tournament and its impact on the sport at large.
Blair Setford: Administrator, Broadcaster, and a Fixture in the Men’s Fastpitch World
With over two decades of dedication to the ISC, Blair Setford stands as a beacon within the Men’s Fastpitch community. Hailing from St. Catharines, Ontario, Setford’s role as both an administrator and broadcaster has cemented his status as a respected figure in the sport.
Setford reflects on the upcoming tournament with palpable excitement. “It’s a tremendous opportunity for the ISC to come back to the west coast – it’s been since 1997,” he remarks. The event holds special significance as it showcases the pinnacle of Men’s Fastpitch on the renowned stage of Softball City, captivating audiences with top-tier athleticism and skill.
For the uninitiated, Setford simplifies the essence of the ISC World Tournament: “It is the men’s club team world championship. Fastball is baseball – but faster!” With this succinct explanation, the allure of the tournament becomes accessible to all, beckoning newcomers to witness the intensity of Men’s Fastpitch firsthand.
Setford envisions a lasting legacy from the 2024 ISC World Tournament, one that inspires budding athletes to strive for excellence. “I hope the legacy is something that keeps players in the game,” he expresses. Moreover, he anticipates that the tournament’s success will pave the way for future editions, bolstering the sport’s presence in Canada and beyond.
The unique allure of Softball City lies in its ability to unite players and fans in a single venue. Setford lauds the facilities, foreseeing an electrifying atmosphere that will enhance the tournament experience for all involved.
The ISC World Tournament serves as a melting pot of talent from around the world, with players representing nations far and wide. Setford emphasizes the importance of international exposure in nurturing Fastpitch athletes, underscoring the role of the tournament in spotlighting these stars and driving the sport’s expansion.
In Setford’s eyes, this year’s tournament promises nothing short of exhilarating competition. With a field characterized by parity and unpredictability, he anticipates riveting clashes that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.
