Matthew Kutnikoff (far right) was named to Team Canada for the 2023 WBSC U23 Men’s Softball World Cup in Argentina later this year. (Matthew Kutnikoff/Facebook)

By Logan Lehmann

donning the maple leaf

Local softball player named to U23 Men’s Softball World Cup team

Jan 22, 2023 | 2:20 PM

A Prince Albert softball player will get to live out his dream later this year when he represents Team Canada at the 2023 WBSC U23 Men’s Softball World Cup.

Matthew Kutnikoff was one of five late additions to the team to complete the 16-man roster that is set to go for U23 World Cup gold in Parana, Argentina in April.

When he first heard the news that he was selected for the team, Kutnikoff said that he was ecstatic and ready to get to work.

“Obviously excitement right away,” he said. “I’ve been playing ball my whole life so I’m very excited to have made the National Team.”

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Since Kutnikoff was a late add to the squad, the coaching staff had to hand-pick the remaining five players to join the team. When asked about what it meant for the coaches to pick him over the others, he said is nice to see his hard work pay off.

“I’m very grateful to have been selected,” he said. “It’s just a great opportunity and I can’t wait to get going.”

With this being his first time playing in a major international event, the softball star added that he’s excited to get to know all the new faces on the team.

“It’s gonna be a great experience to see another part of the world,” he said. “Obviously meeting all the new teammates. There’s some guys on the team that I don’t know too well so when we get together in early April, it’s gonna be fun.”

The U23 Men’s Softball World Cup gets under on April 15 and a champion will be crowned on the 23.

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logan.lehmann@pattisonmedia.com

Twitter: @lloganlehmann