For over 30 years, Wayne was a dominant five tool player who could hit for average and power, run, throw and play defense. During his career in Giroux, he was named MVP six times, led the team in home runs five times, runs batted in five times, and had the lowest pitcher’s ERA on several occasions. He was named both League All-Star Pitcher and All-Star Shortstop twice from 1970-1972. Wayne was a switch hitter and once while participating in a Red-Boine Senior Baseball game went 4-4, hitting home runs back-to-back from both sides of the plate. An elite player of his generation, he was picked up to play on numerous occasions by other teams participating in provincial championships. In 1978, he was the winning pitcher for Team Manitoba in the Western Canadian Championships in Nanaimo, BC. Wayne continued his dominant play into his 50’s and three times he competed with the Red Deer Red Sox in the 50 and over World Championships of Senior Baseball in Phoenix, Arizona. One of his greatest compliments came from an opposition player who noted while referencing Wayne’s red hair, “He may be a carrot top, but he can sure throw peas!”
