Maple Leafs superfan Grayson Haire became a social media sensation this week with his impressive Auston Matthews costume.
The young fan from Trenton, Ontario, dressed as a life-sized version of Matthews’ hockey card, caught the internet’s attention when his family posted a TikTok video that quickly went viral, surpassing 1.4 million views. Hoping to make his dream of meeting Matthews a reality, Haire’s family shared the video widely.
Haire’s wish came true as he watched a practice session from the stands, accompanied by Maple Leafs president and alternate governor Brendan Shanahan. Overwhelmed by the experience, the excited superfan FaceTimed his grandmother to share the news.
“Nana, I met Auston Matthews,” Haire exclaimed while walking through Scotiabank Arena, decked out in his full Maple Leafs outfit.
As thrilled as he was to meet the two-time 60-goal scorer, Auston Matthews wasn’t the only Maple Leafs player young Grayson Haire got to interact with.
“Let’s drop the gloves,” Haire boldly challenged veteran NHL enforcer Ryan Reaves.
“Drop the gloves? Okay,” Reaves replied, playing along. “But you gotta drop them first. I don’t drop first.”
Haire didn’t back down, insisting that Reaves go first. After some lighthearted banter, they both “dropped the gloves,” grabbing each other’s jerseys and throwing playful punches—much gentler than what Reaves is used to.
Adding to Haire’s unforgettable day, Reaves jokingly mistook him for the Maple Leafs captain. “Go get a nap in, okay?” Reaves teased. “We need you out there. See you later, Auston.”
As the Maple Leafs prepare to take on the Kraken on Thursday, Haire’s interactions with Matthews and Reaves have left him with memories he’ll never forget—regardless of the outcome.