After 703 days, outdoor soccer will finally return to Redeemer University's campus. This Saturday, September 18, the Women's and Men's Outdoor Soccer teams will take the field against the Niagara Knights at 4:00 and 6:00 pm.
The Women's Soccer team is looking to improve on their last season in 2019 – 2020, having wrapped up with an overall record of 1 – 8. Head coach
Meaghan Rudd says, "we want to accomplish many things, but the overarching goal is to build trust within our team. With such a short and different season, I really want our team to come together and build results by relying on each other."
Rudd spoke of some of the key players on the women's soccer roster this year; third year
Avery Johnston (Pickering, ON) is "reliable and strong both defensively and offensively. She takes control in the middle of the field and is strong on the ball." Along with Johnston, fourth year
Leanna Meinders (Smithville, ON) adds to the defensive line. "Her timing in tackles and winning the ball is unmatched. And her even keel temperament helps keep her teammates calm." Joining Meinders on the defensive line is freshman
Leah Sloots (Ottawa, ON). "Leah is not afraid of contact and is able to see and very effectively get the ball to her teammates." Supported by a team of seasoned returning players and promising recruits, the team is looking forward to the return to play and a promising season.
The Men's Soccer team is also looking to improve on the 2019 – 2020 season, having finished with an overall record of 1-8.
"Entering such an unknown, shortened season, what I want for us to accomplish is to grow into a confident team that feels that they can play with anyone in the OCAA," states Head Coach,
Gad Espinosa. We want to "focus on the process; to get better each any every game."
Espinosa took the time to reflect on some key returning players for the Royals.
Gavyn Pols (Wainfleet, ON)Â is a gifted offensive player who combines a great work ethic with leadership qualities. He will continue on the tradition of great character athletes Redeemer Men's Soccer has had.
Matthew Walraven (Burlington, ON) is the Royals strongest two-way player. Matthew has a great sense of the game and can provide quality minutes anywhere on the field. Lastly,
Joshua Sloots (Carp, ON), entering his final season as a Royal, has been a pillar of the Royals defense since his rookie season. Joshua's experience and quality will be invaluable to our backline. Along with these key returning players, the Men's Soccer roster will be topped up with a full slate of freshman athletes ready to take on prominent roles on the team.
Saturday's home opener gets underway at 4:00 pm.
