Team Canada World Cup Recap

09/09/2022 – U18 World Cup, Sarasota, FL

Although the Canadian Junior National Team was unable to advance to the playoff round, we are proud of the exceptional performance and passion shown by our players, and their representation of Canada and the OBJ organisation.

On the Junior National Team for the first time, Makaio Cisneros had quite the experience. His first outing with Team Canada was playing in the World Cup Tournament against Team USA. That’s a lot of pressure for a first time player! 

We asked Cisneros how it felt to wear the uniform for the first time and see “Canada” across his chest…. 

“It was an absolute honour to represent my Country and play against the best competition in the world. I learned so much from playing with all of my teammates and coaches. I am extremely blessed to wear Canada across my chest.” 

This trip was the last one for Sam White before heading off to start his collegiate career at West Virginia University. Sam has always been very productive at the plate and this trip was no different. Over 21 at bats he collected 7 hits, 5 RBI, 2BB and 8 Total Bases, ending the trip with a .333 average. 

We asked Sam what it was like to participate in his first World Cup, and last trip as a member of the Junior National Team. 

“Being able to represent Canada at the World Championship was a dream come true. It was the best experience I’ve had on a baseball field. Every athlete wants to represent their country on big stages, and I was lucky enough to have that opportunity. I couldn’t have asked for a better coaching staff and group of teammates to share it with. I’m sad my time with the Junior National Team is over, but it felt fulfilling that my two years with the team finished with the World Championship.” 

Our final Ontario Blue Jay to check in with is Myles Naylor. 

Myles slashed an impressive (.471/.625/.706) while collecting 8 hits, 6 RBI, 1 2B, 1 HR, 6 BB and 12 Runs Scored at the World Championships. 

We asked Myles how it felt to be at his first World Cup and to perform at such a high level... 

“Playing for the Junior National Team has been an amazing experience so far. Getting to play at the highest high school level and compete in the World Championships is an unreal feeling. Playing against other countries in that atmosphere and giving them my best game is why I love playing baseball. I could not be more grateful for the opportunity to play with Team Canada.” 

Team Canada’s Junior National Team heads to Mexico for their 2022 World Cup Qualifier next and look to earn a spot in the 2023 World Cup.