Brad Kilpatrick: A Fastpitch Journey from Sydney, Australia to Team USA
At the age of 24, this Australian-born pitcher has become a known force on the plate. Kilpatrick’s journey from a local team in Sydney, Australia to the global stage is a testament to where passion and hard work can lead.
Kilpatrick’s love for Fastpitch sparked in the vibrant fields of Sydney, Australia, where he first joined St Christopher’s Softball Association in 2004. “My family was the one to introduce me to Fastpitch, and that first team experience planted the seeds for my future in the sport,” he recalls.
When asked about the influences on his career, Kilpatrick emphasizes the communal nature of the sport. “It’s the coaches, the senior players, and the spirit of the game that have all played a part in shaping me,” he says. The pitcher highlights the importance of embracing a collective wisdom that can propel players to great heights.
Brad believes that success in Fastpitch goes beyond physical strength. “An open mind is crucial. Absorbing knowledge from every source and synthesizing it into your unique approach is what separates the good from the great,” he advises. Kilpatrick’s methodology is one of continual learning and adaptation, a philosophy he encourages young players to adopt.
The pinnacle of Kilpatrick’s career thus far was his performance in the 2022 WBSC Bronze Medal game. Pitching for Team USA, he showcased the prowess and poise that have become his hallmarks. “That game was a highlight, a moment where all my experiences in Fastpitch coalesced,” he shares with a sense of pride.
Looking to the future, Kilpatrick sets his sights on the 2024 Surrey ISC Men’s Tournament. He expects it to be a gathering of titans, with competitive teams from across the globe vying for supremacy. For him, it’s an exhilarating opportunity to prove his mettle.
Fastpitch has granted Kilpatrick more than just trophies and accolades; it’s provided a world of opportunity. “This sport has given me memories, friends, and a chance to travel the world,” he says. His commitment to Fastpitch is unwavering, as evidenced by his move to the U.S. and his involvement in collegiate softball. Kilpatrick aspires to remain a part of the softball fabric for as long as possible.
To the young and eager Fastpitch hopefuls, Kilpatrick offers a simple yet profound piece of advice: “Persist in your practice and surround yourself with success.” This guidance is a cornerstone of his philosophy, reflecting a belief in the transformative power of dedication and the right company.
Brad Kilpatrick’s story is more than an athlete’s biography; it’s a narrative that underlines the essence of Men’s Fastpitch. It is a sport that fosters growth, demands tenacity, and rewards those who approach it with an earnest and open heart. As Kilpatrick continues to blaze trails on the diamond, his journey serves as a beacon, illuminating the path for the next generation of Fastpitch enthusiasts.
