Mr. McGrayne was recruited to the U23 Men’s National Team to play at the 2026 World Championships in Colombia.

But while Team Canada boasted a 5-1 record at the 12-team tourney at Estadio Eduardo Porras Arrazola in Sincelejo, Colombia this spring, a tough eighth inning against Mexico proved to be Canada’s undoing in the placement round. 

Mr. McGrayne took that in stride.

Canada opened the top of the eighth with three runs to take a 6-3 lead, only to watch the Mexicans storm back with four runs, pushing Canada outside of the medal round.

“There was definitely a mix of pride and disappointment,” Mr. McGrayne said of his experience. “We were only one hit away from making the Super Round, so it was tough knowing how close we were to contending for a medal.”

Canada had a sweet send-off to close out the tournament, besting the hosts 5-2. The entry finished 8th overall.

Primarily a catcher, Mr. McGrayne made the squad as a utility player. He caught pitchers Dale Schweyer and Brad Barker in a three inning 20-0 romp.

 He also played second base and even filled in at the hot corner. Mr. McGrayne hit .278 for the tournament and committed just one error in a dozen fielding chances.

Skipper Doug Allin told the Gazette that Mr. McGrayne’s versatility set him apart when it came time to select his team.

“Nic provided much needed depth and this is what set him apart from other athletes when it came to selecting the team,” Coach Allin said. “His performance was what we expected and asked of him. He was always ready to get into the game, he hustled hard, and he represented the national team with dignity and demonstrated a great team attitude.”

Every game was sold out. Mr. McGrayne called the atmosphere “electric.”

“The horns in the crowd were nonstop, which made it really unique and exciting to play in. It was also very hot, so the environment was definitely a challenge at times,” Mr. McGrayne recalled. 

“Getting to compete against the best players in the world alongside my friends and brothers made it even more special.

“More than anything, it was an honour to wear the maple leaf and represent Canada on that stage,” he added.

The player was joined in Colombia by his parents Bob and Stacey who cheered their son on from the stands.

After his international debut, Mr. McGrayne will again suit up with the Toronto Batmen this season as that squad looks to defend its 2025 Canadian Fast Pitch title.