Following  a pair of victories to start the PACWEST season, the Thompson Rivers University WolfPack men’s soccer team hits the road this weekend. The WolfPack will travel to Vancouver to take on the Douglas College Royals on Saturday (Sept 14) and the Kwantlen Polytechnic University Eagles on Sunday (Sept 15).

The WolfPack, ranked fifth in the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association top 15 rankings will meet a Royals team who are rated 11 th.    Douglas is 1 and 1 on the season after beating Quest (3-1) but lost to Langara (1-0).   Kwantlen is 0-1-1 (losing 3-1 to Langara and tying Quest 1-1).

WolfPack co head coach John Antulov (Andrew Snucins photo)

“”We are looking forward to our first road trip,’ says WolfPack co head coach John Antulov.  “ We have two difficult games. Douglas are the defending league champs and Kwantlen played us very tough last year. Being on the road for the next three weeks, this could be a good kick start.”

Sean Wallace: WolfPack co head coach (Andrew Snucins photo)

Thompson Rivers has been working hard in preparation for these two matches.  “ We would like to see more consistent play from everyone on the field which will eliminate some of our unforced turnovers in our first two games,’ Co head coach Sean Wallace assesses. “ We need to be a bit more disciplined as far as our on field conduct goes. With our season being so short, we need to refrain from taking unnecessary cards that could hurt us further in the season.”

Oriol Torres vs UNBC earlier this year (Jesse Olynyk photo)

The WolfPack lineup  includes the   PACWEST player of the week in Oriol Torres (3^rd year, forward, Barcelona, Spain).   He leads the league with four goals and two assists.  He leads the league in scoring but he is followed closely by Louie Bocolas (Maple Ridge, BC) of Douglas with two.

Still the coaching staff believes their offense needs some tinkering: “ We will definitely be working on some finishing this week, states Wallace. “Even though we scored six goals, we feel we could have had several more if our guys had focused a little bit more around the net, especially in our game against Capilano.”

Kyle Fertile vs VIU last weekend (Andrew Snucins photo)

Antulov says some attention to defence needs to take place in preparation of the next two games. “We gave up three goals this past weekend, two of them onset pieces.

There isn’t all negativity on the club, the first two matches brought forth a lot to be positive about including Torres’ torrid start to the campaign.

Travis Froehlich (Andrew Snucins photo)

“The back line and Travis (Froehlich, 3^rd year, keeper, Revelstoke, BC) have done a great job to this point after two games,” Wallace explains. “ They are working hard to adapt to a new system and have executed well so far. Our outside backs have been getting up into the play more which allows us to get more players forward and try to get our opponents off balance in their end. We do want to put more of an effort into limiting other teams scoring chances in our defensive third.”

The WolfPack do spend the next three weekends on the road, but they feel having the last four games of the season at home will be a benefit.

Next home action for the WolfPack will be Saturday October 5 th at Hillside Stadium against the University of British Columbia Okanagan Heat.  Kick off is set for 2 pm.

THROW INS:  Froehlich is fourth in the PACWEST in goals against at 1.50.   Marc Mincieli of Douglas (Surrey, BC) is tied for second with Kwantlen’s Kevin Taheri (Richmond, BC) at 1.00.  Both of those players are likely to see the WolfPack this weekend.

Kyle Logan vs VIU (Andrew Snucins photo)

Kyle Logan (2^nd year, defender, Manchester, UK) and Justin Wallace (4^th year, midfielder, Kamloops, BC) are tied for sixth place with one goal a piece.

The WolfPack will be sending a number of their players into the community for Terry Fox Runs in the next couple of weeks including Braeden Burrows, Darren Dinsdale and Kyle Fertile (all Kamloops, BC) heading to Summit Elementary , Jason Staiger (Chiliwack, BC) and Mike Harvey (Calgary, AB) going out Kay Bingham Elementary on Friday September 20 th.

The Thompson Rivers University WolfPack women’s soccer team will get a little bonding time in this weekend as their PACWEST season continues. 
Tom McManus and his crew will hit the road for games Saturday (Sept 14) at Douglas College and Sunday (Sept 15) against Kwantlen Polytechnic University.

The two time defending PACWEST champions are tied with UBCO and Quest for first place after the opening weekend with two straight victories. Kwantlen has a loss and a tie while Douglas is winless in two starts.

WolfPack head coach Tom McManus

McManus isn’t taking the records after weekend one for granted. “ It’s hard to judge, “he says. “I think the PACWEST this year could be very tight. The scored on the first two days seem to show that. No one was blown out. I think it will be important to get the first goal in both these matches and keep things tight. “

Jaydene Radu last week vs VIU (Andrew Snucins photo)

As far as the opposition is concerned: “Both teams are good, hardworking clubs and as we know over the past few years, they have always been teams who push us a great teal.  I think 2012 was the only exception, but both always come out to play, which is great.”

Alanna Bekkering vs VIU (Andrew Snucins photo)

The WolfPack will be led by PACWEST Player of the Week Alanna Bekkering (5^th year,midfield,, Kamloops, BC)who is tied for the league lead in scoring with two goals in two games.    While she and fellow co co captain Bronwyn Crawford (4^th year, midfield, Kamloops, BC) got a lot of media attention for their efforts, McManus says there were others who stood out.  “ I thought we had a lot of people standing out, Alanna and Bronwyn were obvious but Marlie (Rittinger, 2^nd year, midfield, Ashcroft, BC) was great on Sunday for us. Vanessa (Zilkie, 3^rd year, defender, Kelowna, BC) had two good days, Jaydene (Radu, 3^rd year, forward, Calgary, AB) came on and right away caused problems for their defense. Katie Sparrow (3^rd year, forward Kamloops, BC) showed great spark and again upset them. Courtney (Daly, 2^nd year, forward, Kamloops,BC) and Kelsey  (Martin, 2^nd year, middle, Kamloops, BC) were inspirational and unlucky not to have scored a few goals each. The goals will come.”

Courtney Daly outruns VIU player (Andrew Snucins photo)

With such a strong team, one would think that the WolfPack keepers will be forgotten about.  Emily Edmundson (4^th year, Kamloops, BC) was there this past weekend to keep the opposition frustrated. “ Emily pulled off a couple of outstanding saves and was showing great confidence,” says  McManus. “ Do you mean long, boring afternoons with little action? I would be happy with that but I know she is very confident in whatever she will face,” says McManus. “ She has grown so much as a keeper that everyone is fully confident.”  Edmundson is third in the PACWEST in goals against after the first weekend with 1 goal against in both games.

Emily Edmundson (Andrew Snucins photo)

McManus has set down a challenge for his troops this weekend. “ I want the players to score first and score early. It is going to be a tight league so all games will be good.  The recruits have also looked good so far and I am confident in putting them in.”

Vanessa Zilkie (Andrew Snucins photo)

The WolfPack don’t return home until Saturday October 5 th when they entertain the University of British Columbia Okanagan Heat.  Kick off is noon.

Posted with Permission of Kamloops Daily News

September 12, 2013

By MARK HUNTER
Daily News Sports Reporter

A work permit brought Oriol Torres to Canada, but soccer kept him here.

Torres, a native of Barcelona, Spain, was named the Pacific Western Athletic Association male soccer player of the week after helping the TRU WolfPack to two season-opening victories. The 24-year-old midfielder scored two goals in each of the WolfPack’s home games – a 2-1 victory over the Capilano Blues on Saturday and Sunday’s 4-2 victory over the Vancouver Island Mariners – and assisted on one other.

Oriol Torres goes for a header vs VIU (Andrew Snucins photo)

Over two-plus seasons with the WolfPack, Torres has been asked on numerous occasions how he ended up here. It’s kind of a long story, but it began with a work permit.

Oriol Torres (Andrew Snucins photo)

“I worked for a year, but my passion is (soccer),” said Torres, a big fan of his hometown Barcelona FC. “I kept playing with teams, and somehow I ended up in Kamloops. I was playing in the (Pacific Coast Soccer League) in the summer and the TRU coaches saw me. They gave me the opportunity.”

The WolfPack is to hit the road to the Lower Mainland for a Saturday game with the Douglas Royals and a Sunday contest with the Kwantlen Eagles.

Torres in game action last year (Allen Douglas photo)

When Torres left home, he knew he wanted to go somewhere he had to speak English. He didn’t want to go to the United Kingdom, which has a strong Spanish community, or the U.S., whose Mexican community also speaks Spanish. So he came to Canada.

“I couldn’t speak any English, so it was a challenge at first,” Torres said. “But I wanted to come to a country where I actually had to learn a language. It was between Australia and Canada . . . I chose Canada because my mother had been (in Saskatchewan) two or three years.”

Torres vs VIU last weekend (Andrew Snucins photo)

However it happened, the WolfPack certainly is glad Torres is here. His speed is an important asset for a team hoping to improve on its bronze-medal finish in 2012.

In his first two seasons with the WolfPack, Torres had three goals (2011) and five goals (2012) as he was content to be a set-up man.

WolfPack co head coach John Antulov (Andrew Snucins photo)

“Oriol has always done really well for us, and was probably more of a set-up man before,” said WolfPack co-head coach John Antulov. “He’s been gaining confidence and taking advantage of the opportunities when he gets them.”

Torres goes for a run vs UBCO (Robert Clark photo)

Torres doesn’t feel as though his play has changed much – he’s doing the exact same thing he always has.

Torres gets kneed against Langara last year (Allen Douglas photo)

“To be honest, I just always work for the team,” Torres said. “I don’t care if I score or not, as long as the team does well. If we win the game, I don’t even care if I score.”

Teammates help Torres celebrate after his first goal against VIU (Andrew Snucins photo)

With that attitude, Torres will enjoy a nice career with the WolfPack, which is scheduled to join the CIS in 2014. He is enrolled in business administration, quite the change from when he first crossed the pond, when he was working landscaping to simply “survive.”

Torres attacks in a match last year (Robert Clark photo)

In his past three conference games, including the 2012 provincial bronze-medal game, Torres has scored seven goals. He currently leads the conference in goals.

Not bad for a guy who didn’t think he would be playing competitive soccer once he left Spain.

Torres helps out at the Terry Fox Run at David Thompson Elementary in Westsyde last year

“I didn’t expect anything – I just came here to work for a year,” he said. “My situation changed suddenly. I didn’t expect to play college or anything like that.

“Now that I’m here, I’m happy to help my team.”

Bronwyn Crawford

Number: 18
Height: 5’10”
Position: Midfield
Hometown: Kamloops, British Columbia
Highschool: South Kamloops Secondary
Year: 4th year
Studying: General Studies
Parents name: Ila & Mike

“Bee” returned to the WolfPack in 2012 and promptly scored in her first match back (Sept 6 at home vs Douglas). She was named a first team PACWEST All-Star this past season. Bronwyn was a BC College Athletic Association 2nd team all-star in 2009. Three years ago, she was co-captain of the WolfPack. Bronwyn grew up playing minor soccer with Alanna Bekkering and former TRU teammate Blair MacKay. Bekkering is her biggest influence saying: “She is so talented and helps motivate me to work my hardest. I love being able to share the field with her and always love getting to assist one of her goals.” She loves painting and drawing and her favorite sports moment came last year at Quest when TRU beat UBCO to go to Nationals. Entering this season, Bronwyn has appeared in 51 matches for TRU scoring three times.

Coach McManus says: “One of our other team captains. Bee had a great season last year, returning from McMaster University to come home and be a strong leader on and off the field.”

Braeden Burrows

Number: #8
Hometown: Kamloops, BC
Highschool: Sa-Hali Secondary
Height: 6’0”
Position: Midfield
Year: 4th year
Area of Study: Arts
Parents: Lynn & Will

Burrows sat out the 2012 season with an injury after appearing in all of the WolfPack’s matches in the previous three years. He scored his first PACWEST goal Sept 10, 2010 in a 1-1 tie with Kwantlen. Burrows has appeared in 35 league and four playoff matches in his career with TRU. His biggest achievements in sports were a third and a fourth place finish at the high school provincials in 2007 and 2008. Burrows would like to play soccer in Europe in the future. His brother Jason played five years for the WolfPack, graduating in 2008.

Kyle Fertile

Number: #4
Hometown: Kamloops, BC
Highschool: Sa-Hali Secondary
Height: 6’0”
Position: Midfield
Year: 4th year
Area of Study: Computer Science
Parents: Sandra & Kevin

Fertile played in all 14 league and two playoff matches in 2012, scoring a goal in the bronze medal win over Kwantlen. Entering this season, he has appeared in 37 league and four playoff matches and has two goals (the first came on Sept 19, 2009 in a home game vs. Douglas). His father Kevin was a player at Cariboo College and later coached the UCC Sun Demons women’s program. He is Kyle’s greatest influence.

The WolfPack men’s volleyball team doesn’t have their first exhibition match for a couple of weeks, but as you can see they are hard at work in practice. The Team will head to McQueen Lake this weekend (Sept 14-15) for a retreat.

The WolfPack women’s basketball team has a number of exhibition games coming up including a trip to Ontario. Here they are practicing hard on a Thursday afternoon (Sept 12) at the Tournament Capital Centre. Their regular season opener is set for Friday November 1 st at the TCC against the University of Saskatchewan Huskies. Tip off is 6 pm. Tickets are on sale now by coming to the WolfPack office on the 2nd floor of the Tournament Capital Centre during business hours.

The WolfPack men’s basketball team’s CIS regular season opener isn’t until November 1st. But that doesn’t mean they are idle. They have been working hard in two a day practices this week at the Tournament Capital Centre. The ‘Pack have a number of exhibition games including one October 19 th at the TCC against the Vancouver Island University Mariners of the PACWEST. Tip off is 8 pm.

The Thompson Rivers University WolfPack men’s soccer team is putting the capper on their short 2013 pre season.

The WolfPack, who finished third in 2012 in the PACWEST league, will be heading north to Prince George BC. They will be taking on the Canada West University of Northern British Columbia Timberwolves in matches Friday and Saturday (Aug 30-31).

WolfPack co head coach John Antulov (Andrew Snucins photo)

“They are a CIS squad so they should be  tough,” said WolfPack co head coach John Antulov.  “ From a coaching perspective, we will use these games to fine tune for the upcoming season.”

Ashley Raynes was a PACWEST all-star last season (Andrew Snucins photo)

Antulov says its nice to have all of his players back in Kamloops for workouts this week.. “ we have all our injured and  players who were out of town working back now.  We have so many returning players that there hasn’t been that many real surprises so far.

Nolan Wallace: the 2012 PACWEST Rookie of the Year is Back (Andrew Snucins photo)

UNBC is entering its second season in the CIS.  After finishing in the basement their first year, Antulov figures the Timberwolves should be vastly improved. ‘ Alan Alderson has had a full year to recruit so we are assuming they will be much stronger and the matches will be difficult.”

Corey Wallis is expected to be solid on the back line (Andrew Snucins photo)

The WolfPack will open their 2013 PACWEST season on Saturday September 7 th against the Capilano University Blues. Kick off is 3:15 pm.

Fans of the Thompson Rivers University WolfPack women’s soccer team will get a chance to see the 2013 version a lot this holiday weekend. The two time defending PACWEST champions will play their only exhibition matches of the year on Saturday and Sunday( Aug 31 and Sept 1).

The  WolfPack will meet up with the University of Northern British Columbia Timberwolves  of Prince George, BC.   The Timberwolves  play out of the Canada West—a place where the WolfPack will be next year.

WolfPack head coach Tom McManus (Andrew Snucins photo)

“I am looking forward to seeing the girls up against UNBC,” says WolfPack head coach Tom McManus, the two time PACWEST coach of the year.  “We have had some intrasquad games which have looked good but the real thing is the real thing. UNBC is going to come out very hard against us. “

McManus is hoping that the two matches will set the stage for a rivalry next year. “ UNBC, when  they were in the college league with us, we had some good matches.  I believe it is going to be a good rivalry. We already have one with UBCO so this will make things even better.”

Former player Natasha Little has joined the program as an Associate Coach (Andrew Snucins photo)

“I  am looking for quality in passing,” the WolfPack coach says as far as expectations go for the matches. “ That and possession play and a lot of goals. It is something every coach hopes for. “

McManus says for a lot of his players: It is trial by fire with the PACWEST season and home opener a week later (Sept 7) against the Capilano University Blues.

Megan Baird of Cloverdale, BC is one of the top recruits this year for TRU (Andrew Snucins photo)

“What I have told the players this week is that we were starting how the season unfolds.  We trained Tuesday through Thursday with set plays for Friday. The girls have to get used to it.”

Alanna Bekkering is the only fifth year player on the WolfPack this year. She was a CCAA All-Canadian in 2012 (Andrew Snucins photo)

The WolfPack have a lot of veterans back.  McManus says they are ahead of the game in the area of cohesiveness. “ They have got along great. The Seniors have been  outstanding—Laura Smylie (150 Mile House, BC), Bronwyn Crawford  and Alanna Bekkrering (Kamloops, BC). They are such great people that they take every body in and made the rookies  feel good.”

The Timberwolves were winless in their initial CIS season: losing nine and tying three.  Three of their losses were in double digits.

Terri Publicover of Whitehorse was a red shirt last year but made the 25 person roster this year (Andrew Snucins photo)

TRU has formed their 25 person roster and features  14 returnees along with two others—Emily Oliver (Kamloops, BC) and Terri Publicover (Whitehorse, YK)  who were red shirts last season.

Shalayna Isakson is one of three keepers with TRU this year (Andrew Snucins photo)

Match times are 5 pm on Saturday and 2 pm on Sunday at Hillside Stadium.

The Thompson Rivers University WolfPack men’s soccer team opened up a two match exhibition series in Prince George the right way. The WolfPack, members of the PACWEST took down the host University of Northern British Columbia Timberwolves, members of the Canada West 2-0.

The match was played Friday (Aug 30).

WolfPack co head coach Sean Wallace (Andrew Snucins photo)

“It was our first match as a team and I thought we had a lot of positives,” said WolfPack co head coach Sean Wallace.  “ We had a lot of the possession.”

The WolfPack got on the board early on.

Justin Wallace (Andrew Snucins photo)

Justin Wallace (4^th year, forward, Kamloops, BC) took the ball and made a run to the corner. After the UNBC defender kicked it out.  His ensuing corner kick wound up on the head of Dion Gouldsborough (2^nd year, forward, Summerland, BC).

Dion Gouldsborough (Andrew Snucins photo)

Gouldsborough cashed in on the rebound at the eight minute mark.

Kyle Fertile (Andrew Snucins photo)

The other marker for TRU came in the 75 th minute when Wallace again started the play off and beat numerous UNBC defenders to get inside the box where he passed it off to Kyle Fertile (4^th year, midfielder, Kamloops, BC) who made no mistake beating Timberwolves keeper Mitch MacFarlane (Prince George, BC)

Travis Froehlich (Andrew Snucins photo)

Travis Froehlich (3^rd year, keeper, Revelstoke, BC)  went the distance in the nets for TRU.

“He was solid when he had to be,” said Wallace, pointing to a great UNBC chance in the first half when one of their players got behind the WolfPack defence but was stoned point blank by Froehlich.

Oriol Torres vs UNBC (Jessie Olynyk photo)

The team sides play again Saturday (noon).

The WolfPack kick off their PACWEST regular season on Saturday September 7 th when they meet up with the Capilano University Blues.  Kick off is 3:15 pm at Hillside Stadium. It is alumni day…where there will be special ceremonies and events honoring former WolfPack, University College of the Cariboo Sun Demons and Cariboo College Chief players.

It looked like a preseason match for the two time defending PACWEST champion Thompson Rivers University WolfPack women’s soccer team.  The ‘Pack kicked off a two game weekend series against the CIS University of Northern British Columbia Timberwolves  with a 1-1 tie at Hillside Stadium.

WolfPack head coach Tom McManus (Andrew Snucins photo)

“We played well for our first match,” said WolfPack head coach Tom McManus, the two time PACWEST coach of the year.  “ But our shooting was off.”

Marlie Rittinger (Andrew Snucins photo)

The WolfPack got the lion’s share of the chances early including a penalty shot in the ninth minute from Marlie Rittinger (2^nd year, midfielder, Ashcroft, BC).  She was stoned by Timberwolves keeper Jordan Hall (3^rd year, Prince George, BC).

Courtney Daly (Andrew Snucins photo)

Hall had to be sharp throughout the contest and made her best saves in the last 10 minutes of the first half point blank by WolfPack forward Courtney Daly (2^nd year, Kamloops, BC) in the 40 minute mark just before the end of the half when PACWEST MVP Alanna Bekkering (5^th year, midfielder, Kamloops, BC) moved into the middle of the park, dished it off to Bronwyn Crawford (4^th year, midfielder, Kamloops, BC) who sent it ahead to Daly who couldn’t get her foot on the ball.

Alanna Bekkering (Andrew Snucins photo)

In the second half,  UNBC took advantage of a rookie laden WolfPack back line. 

Jamie Wheeler (Andrew Snucins photo)

They opened the scoring when Jessica Erickson (1^st year, forward, Prince George,BC) threw the ball in for Tianni Puis (1^st year, midfielder, Prince George, BC).  Her shot fooled WolfPack keeper Jamie Wheeler (3^rd year, Richmond, BC) who couldn’t hold onto the ball.  That goal coming at the 68 th minute.

Erickson had the chance to put the Timberwolves up by two in the 72 nd minute as she broke down the right side but couldn’t get enough power on her kick.

Courtney Daly goes up for header vs UNBC (Andrew Snucins photo)

TRU reinserted Bekkering and Daly late in the contest and it paid off.  

Jaydene Radu (Andrew Snucins photo)

In the 89 th minute, a scramble with Hall out of the goal resulted in the ball coming to Jaydene Radu (3^rd year, forward, Calgary, AB) of the WolfPack in the slot. She fired but it was saved by the UNBC defender.

Bronwyn Crawford was the McDonalds/TRU Bookstore “Leader of the Pack” player of the game (Andrew Snucins photo)

In injury time, Bekkering  streaked down the left side on a brilliant run and it resulted in a corner kick. On that kick, Bekkering put the ball into the far side of the box where Crawford, the McDonalds/TRU Bookstore Leader of the Pack player of the match,  headed the ball.  A hand ball was called in the box, giving TRU a penalty kick with one second left.

Bronwyn Crawford in air vs UNBC (Andrew Snucins photo)

Crawford took it and scored low left hand side of the net.

“It was a good result for us,” said UNBC coach Andy Cameron, whose squad was playing their third pre season tilt. “ After where we finished last year (0-9-3 in the Canada West) we are much improved.

McManus felt one of the strengths on his side in the veteran inside midfield play of Rittinger and Crawford. “ They were both solid throughout.”

Jordi Hamer Jackson (Andrew Snucins photo)

And on his rookie laden line up in the second half, McManus stated: “ I thought Jordi Hamer Jackson (1^st year, defender, Kamloops, BC) and Jodi Hutton (1^st year, sweeper, Kamloops, BC) were superb.  All of the rookies learned today what it takes to play at this level.’

Jodi Hutton (Andrew Snucins photo)

The WolfPack and Timberwolves play again Sunday (Sept 1) at Hillside. It’s a 2 pm kick off.

Emily Oliver outsprints UNBC player (Andrew Snucins photo)

Thompson Rivers begins defence of their PACWEST title on Saturday September 7 th at Hillside Stadium. The opposition is the Capilano University Blues.  Game time is 1 pm.  Its Alumni day where former players of the Cariboo College Gold Rush, UCC Sun Demons and WolfPack will be honored.

The Thompson Rivers University WolfPack men’s soccer team will enter their final season in the PACWEST on a two game winning streak.
The WolfPack swept a pair of matches from their future Canada West opponent: the University of Northern British Columbia TimberWolves on the weekend. After beating the Timberwolves 2-0 on Friday (Aug 30), the ‘Pack downed the host UNBC squad 3-1 on Saturday (Aug 31).

The WolfPack will join the Timberwolves in Canada West in 2014.

WolfPack co head coach Sean Wallace (Andrew Snucins photo)

“We continued our strong play from yesterday,’ said WolfPack co head coach Sean Wallace. “The opposition pressured us and we got behind early.”

UNBC opened the scoring in the 15 th minute on a chip shot by Cherona Edzerza (Prince George, BC).

Justin Wallace (Andrew Snucins photo)

A minute after that goal, Justin Wallace (4th year, midfield, Kamloops, BC) drove to the UNBC net and was hauled down by the Timberwolves keeper without getting a penalty call.

Kyle Fertile (Andrew Snucins photo)

But in the 24 th minute, Wallace got his revenge. he scored on a tough angled shot after starting and finishing a three way play involving Kyle Fertile (4th year, midfield, Kamloops, BC) and Dion Gouldsborough (2nd year, forward, Summerland, BC)

Corey Wallis vs UFV in pre season (Allen Douglas photo)

.
Then in the 35 th minute, Wallace’s shot hit the cross bar which resulted in a corner kick. On that kick, UNBC tried to clear the ball and Corey Wallis (3rd year, defender, Enderby, BC) scored on what Coach Wallace called a “cracker of a shot” to make it 2-1 at half time.

Dion Goldsborough vs UBCO last year (Robert Clark photo)

In the second half, Gouldborough was hauled down in the box resulting in a penalty kick. Justin Wallace scored his second of the contest to make the final 3-1.

Justin Wallace runs towards sidelines vs UFV

“It was great to get everyone back and the boys are really starting to adapt to our changes,” Sean Wallace said. The WolfPack have decided to play the ball more on the ground. “That is one of our strengths. We hope we have short term success starting next week.”

The WolfPack finish their exhibition season with two wins and a loss against CIS competition. They open their 2013 PACWEST season on Saturday September 7 th. The opponents are the Capilano University Blues. Kick off is 3:15 pm at Hillside Stadium. It is alumni day.

The two time defending PACWEST champion TRU WolfPack women’s soccer team saw their first game action of the 2013 season on Saturday (Aug 31). They played the CIS University of Northern BC Timberwolves to a 1-1 tie at Hillside Stadium.

Here are some images of the match as taken by Sports Information Officer Larry Read.

The WolfPack women’s soccer team wound up an exhibition weekend against the University of Northern BC Timberwolves on Sunday (Sept 1) with a 3-1 victory. Here are some action shots courtesy of Sports Information Officer Larry Read.

The Thompson Rivers University WolfPack  will enter the 2013 PACWEST season unbeaten.  The WolfPack got three of a possible four points from a weekend exhibition series with the CIS University of Northern British Columbia Timberwolves.  The score on Sunday (Sept 1) at Hillside Stadium was 3-1 for the two time defending PACWEST Champions.

Both head coaches felt that it was a completely different type of game than their match up on Saturday (Aug 31) when the teams played to a 1-1 tie.

WolfPack head coach Tom McManus (Andrew Snucins photo)

“I think it was just having some game time experience under our belt,” said Thompson Rivers’ Tom McManus. “ Yesterday, I played everybody.  Today, I started what I believe will be our 11 starters. In the second half, I put players on to give them some experience.”

“I think the heat and fatigue had something to do with it,” said Timberwolves bench boss Andy Cameron about the different style of play. “  Both teams were a little bit tired and there was less pressure.  But it was good on both sides. We got all of our players in today. That was our objective.”

Nadine Netelenbos (Andrew Snucins photo)

The WolfPack took it to the Timberwolves right from the opening whistle. In the 18 th minute,  TRU got on the board. Following a free kick, there was a scramble in front of Timberwolves keeper Kat Hartwig-Clay (3^rd year, Shawinigan Lake, BC).  The ball squirted out where Nadine Netelenbos (2^nd year, midfield, Calgary, AB)  tapped it into the yawning cage.

Netelenbos is a newcomer to the WolfPack after playing NCAA Div II soccer in New Mexico last season.

Alanna Bekkering hits turf vs UNBC (Andrew Snucins photo)

TRU went up 2-0 at the 31 minute mark.  Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association All-Canadian Alanna Bekkering (5^th year, Kamloops, BC) showed why as her great speed left a UNBC defender in her tracks as she broke down the left side.  Hartwig-Clay had no chance.

Megan Baird goes to the air vs UNBC (Andrew Snucins photo)

McManus thought it was a great first half for his team’s possession game. “  That is the way we like to play. That is what we have been working on since training camp.  The girls are doing a great job.”

In the second half, UNBC replaced keepers putting in Jordan Hall (3^rd year, Prince George, BC).  She too was peppered by TRU. 

Katie Sparrow pressures UNBC (Andrew Snucins photo)

Only Katie Sparrow (2^nd year, Kamloops, BC) was able to beat  her in the 60 th minute.

Emily Edmundson (Andrew Snucins photo)

UNBC got their lone goal in the 90 th minute.  A defensive breakdown allowed Sidney Roy (2^nd year, forward, Burnaby, BC) to move in and deke WolfPack keeper Emily Edmundson (4^th year, Kamloops, BC) and had little difficulty putting it home.

The WolfPack got solid performances in this one from their leaders, but other players are starting to pick up their games too.  McManus says those ‘ unsung heroes’ are making their presence felt. “ Everyone is getting along together so well.  They are boosting each other out. The chemistry is great. I think the girls are boosting and encouraging each other to do well.”

The WolfPack now prepare for the PACWEST season opener Saturday September 7 th at 1 pm at Hillside Stadium. The opponent will be the Capilano University Blues.  It is alumni day.

McManus believes they will be ready.  “I am happy how we look. I think we could have dominated again yesterday if we kept our strong players on. But it is training camp and we need to give everyone a look.  I would have liked to see a couple of more goals but we didn’t finish them off.”

The Timberwolves kick off the Canada West season Friday in Abbotsford against the University of Fraser Valley Cascades.

Bronwyn Crawford steps by UNBC defender (Andrew Snucins photo)

Cameron said that he was able to evaluate his entire roster after their four pre season matches. “  I wanted to get some of the extra players on the park. I am pleased on the weekend as a whole.  We need to get our reserve players to press our starters and that’s what I thought we created today.”

Katie Harding shields ball vs UNBC (Andrew Snucins photo)

GOAL KICKS:  The WolfPack rested sweeper Laura Smylie (4^th year, 150 Mile House, BC) and Katie Harding (1^st year, Salmon Arm, BC).

Vanessa Zilkie was named the McDonalds/TRU Bookstore “Leader of the Pack” (Andrew Snucins photo)

Vanessa Zilkie (3^rd year, defender, Kelowna, BC) was the TRU Bookstore/McDonald’s “Leader of the Pack” player of the game.  It was her finest effort since joining TRU.  “  She was all over the place,” said McManus. “ I told her at half time to limit her runs or she would be worn out. She did a great job. She has great speed . I was very proud of her.”

Marlie Rittinger in today’s game (Andrew Snucins photo)

With TRU joining the Canada West next season, Cameron is looking forward to more matches against the WolfPack. “ I hope we do get a rivalry going, “he says. “ I have known Tom for years and I hope we can have a good go at each other.”

The University of the Fraser Valley Cascades captured the 2013 Coquihalla Challenge Golf event held at the Dunes in Kamloops.

The Cascades beat the host Thompson Rivers University WolfPack  6.5 to 5.5 in match play on Sunday (Sept 1).  The match play followed a skills competition held on Friday night and Saturday (Aug 30-31).  Both schools are preparing for the 2013 PACWEST golf season.

Bill Bilton Junior: WolfPack head coach (Robert Clark photo)

“I was really pumped about our performance,” said WolfPack head coach Bill Bilton Junior. “ In years past, we didn’t come close to Fraser Valley. I think that the talent on our team has opened their eyes about what sort of season we will have.

In women’s play, Fraser Valley beat the WolfPack.  No scores were made available.

Brett Pound (Andrew Snucins photo)

In honor of the the late Connor Richey of Fraser Valley, the two schools have named a ‘man of the weekend’ award in this event moving forward.  The award goes to the golfer who wins the most matches and the skills competition. This y ear, there was a tie between Aaron Pauls of Fraser Valley and Brent Pound of TRU.   Richey lost his life last month in a tragic accident. He is the twin brother of WolfPack men’s volleyball player Stuart Richey. Both were born in Gibsons, BC.

Stuart Richey of WolfPack men’s volleyball (Andrew Snucins photo)

Says UFV head coach Chris Bertram: “Connor was a great young man who exemplified dedication to improving his golf game. His smile and his love of life were contagious, and he always loved to laugh. The Connor Richey award is meant to go to players who share these attributes and certainly Brent Pound (TRU) and Aaron Pauls (UFV) fit the bill”

“The Coquihalla Cup proved to be a stern test for all the players this year. I came in expecting big things from our UFV men and women, and while we came out on top in the end, Bill had the Wolf Pack ready to play. Kudos to the great things he is doing with the golf program at TRU.”

The WolfPack and Cascades open the PACWEST season next weekend in Nanaimo.  Vancouver Island University is hosting the tournament at the Morningside course.

TRU is fielding a team of six men and two women this year.  Bilton was especially pleased with the play of two first year players: Matt Rittinger of Ashcroft, BC and Matt Davis of Delta, BC this weekend.

Blake Gozda (Robert Clark photo)

The WolfPack have three returning players from the squad  in 2012-13: Nic Corno, Blake Gozda  (Kamloops, BC) and Natasha MacKenzie (Kelowna, BC).

Natasha MacKenzie (Robert Clark photo)

MacKenzie and Brittany Riehl (Burlington, ON)  will make up the female component of the WolfPack golf team this year.

Unfortunately for TRU, they will not host a PACWEST tournament in 2013.

GOLF

The University of the Fraser Valley Cascades captured the 2013 Coquihalla Challenge Golf event held at the Dunes in Kamloops.

The Cascades beat the host Thompson Rivers University WolfPack  6.5 to 5.5 in match play on Sunday (Sept 1).  The match play followed a skills competition held on Friday night and Saturday (Aug 30-31).  Both schools are preparing for the 2013 PACWEST golf season.

“I was really pumped about our performance,” said WolfPack head coach Bill Bilton Junior. “ In years past, we didn’t come close to Fraser Valley. I think that the talent on our team has opened their eyes about what sort of season we will have.

In women’s play, Fraser Valley beat the WolfPack.  No scores were made available.

In honor of the the late Connor Richey of Fraser Valley, the two schools have named a ‘man of the weekend’ award in this event moving forward.  The award goes to the golfer who wins the most matches and the skills competition. This y ear, there was a tie between Aaron Pauls of Fraser Valley and Brent Pound of TRU.   Richey lost his life last month in a tragic accident. He is the twin brother of WolfPack men’s volleyball player Stuart Richey. Both were born in Gibsons, BC.

UFV head coach Chris Bertram said: “Connor was a great young man who exemplified dedication to improving his golf game. His smile and his love of life were contagious, and he always loved to laugh. The Connor Richey award is meant to go to players who share these attributes and certainly Brent Pound (TRU) and Aaron Pauls (UFV) fit the bill”

“The Coquihalla Cup proved to be a stern test for all the players this year. I came in expecting big things from our UFV men and women, and while we came out on top in the end, Bill had the Wolf Pack ready to play. Kudos to the great things he is doing with the golf program at TRU.”

The WolfPack and Cascades open the PACWEST season next weekend in Nanaimo.  Vancouver Island University is hosting the tournament at the Morningside course.

TRU is fielding a team of six men and two women this year.  Bilton was especially pleased with the play of two first year players: Matt Rittinger of Ashcroft, BC and Matt Davis of Delta, BC this weekend.

The WolfPack have three returning players from the squad  in 2012-13: Nic Corno, Blake Gozda  (Kamloops, BC) and Natasha MacKenzie (Kelowna, BC).

MacKenzie and Brittany Riehl (Burlington, ON)  will make up the female component of the WolfPack golf team this year.

Unfortunately for TRU, they will not host a PACWEST tournament in 2013.

MEN’S SOCCER

The Thompson Rivers University WolfPack men’s soccer team will enter their final season in the PACWEST on a two game winning streak.

The WolfPack swept a pair of matches from their future Canada West opponent: the University of Northern British Columbia TimberWolves on the weekend.  After beating the Timberwolves 2-0 on Friday (Aug 30), the ‘Pack downed the host UNBC squad 3-1 on Saturday (Aug 31).

The WolfPack will join the Timberwolves in Canada West in 2014.

“We continued our strong play from yesterday,’ said WolfPack co head coach Sean Wallace.  “The opposition pressured us and we got behind early.”

UNBC opened the scoring in the 15 th minute on a chip shot.

A minute after that goal, Justin Wallace (4^th year, midfield, Kamloops, BC) drove to the UNBC net and was hauled down by the Timberwolves keeper without getting a penalty call.

But in the 24 th minute, Wallace got his revenge. he scored on a tough angled shot after starting and finishing a three way play involving Kyle Fertile (4^th year, midfield, Kamloops, BC) and Dion Gouldsborough (2^nd year, forward, Summerland, BC).

Then in the 35 th minute, Wallace’s shot hit the cross bar which resulted in a corner kick. On that kick, UNBC tried to clear the ball and  Corey Wallis (3^rd year, defender, Enderby, BC) scored  on what Coach Wallace called a “cracker of a shot” to make it 2-1 at half time.

In the second half, Gouldborough was hauled down in the box resulting in a penalty kick.  Justin Wallace scored his second of the contest to make the final 3-1.

“It was great to get everyone back and the boys are really starting to adapt to our changes,” Sean Wallace said.  The WolfPack have decided to play the ball more on the ground.  “That is one of our strengths. We hope we have short term success starting next week.”

The WolfPack finish their exhibition season with two wins and a loss against CIS competition.  They open their 2013 PACWEST season on Saturday September 7 th. The opponents are the Capilano University Blues.  Kick off is 3:15 pm at Hillside Stadium.   It is alumni day.

WOMEN’S SOCCER

The Thompson Rivers University WolfPack  will enter the 2013 PACWEST season unbeaten.  The WolfPack got three of a possible four points from a weekend exhibition series with the CIS University of Northern British Columbia Timberwolves.  The score on Sunday (Sept 1) at Hillside Stadium was 3-1 for the two time defending PACWEST Champions.

Both head coaches felt that it was a completely different type of game than their match up on Saturday (Aug 31) when the teams played to a 1-1 tie.

“I think it was just having some game time experience under our belt,” said Thompson Rivers’ Tom McManus. “ Yesterday, I played everybody.  Today, I started what I believe will be our 11 starters. In the second half, I put players on to give them some experience.”

The WolfPack took it to the Timberwolves right from the opening whistle. In the 18 th minute,  TRU got on the board. Following a free kick, there was a scramble in front of Timberwolves keeper Kat Hartwig-Clay (3^rd year, Shawinigan Lake, BC).  The ball squirted out where Nadine Netelenbos (2^nd year, midfield, Calgary, AB)  tapped it into the yawning cage.

Netelenbos is a newcomer to the WolfPack after playing NCAA Div II soccer in New Mexico last season.

TRU went up 2-0 at the 31 minute mark.  Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association All-Canadian Alanna Bekkering (5^th year, Kamloops, BC) showed why as her great speed left a UNBC defender in her tracks as she broke down the left side.  Hartwig-Clay had no chance.

McManus thought it was a great first half for his team’s possession game. “  That is the way we like to play. That is what we have been working on since training camp.  The girls are doing a great job.”

In the second half, UNBC replaced keepers putting in Jordan Hall (3^rd year, Prince George, BC).  She too was peppered by TRU. 

Only Katie Sparrow (2^nd year, Kamloops, BC) was able to beat  her in the 60 th minute.

UNBC got their lone goal in the 90 th minute.  A defensive breakdown allowed Sidney Roy (2^nd year, forward, Burnaby, BC) to move in and deke WolfPack keeper Emily Edmundson (4^th year, Kamloops, BC) and had little difficulty putting it home.

The WolfPack got solid performances in this one from their leaders, but other players are starting to pick up their games too.  McManus says those ‘ unsung heroes’ are making their presence felt. “ Everyone is getting along together so well.  They are boosting each other out. The chemistry is great. I think the girls are boosting and encouraging each other to do well.”

The WolfPack now prepare for the PACWEST season opener Saturday September 7 th at 1 pm at Hillside Stadium. The opponent will be the Capilano University Blues.  It is alumni day.

McManus believes they will be ready.  “I am happy how we look. I think we could have dominated again yesterday if we kept our strong players on. But it is training camp and we need to give everyone a look.  I would have liked to see a couple of more goals but we didn’t finish them off.”

GOAL KICKS:  The WolfPack rested sweeper Laura Smylie (4^th year, 150 Mile House, BC) and Katie Harding (1^st year, Salmon Arm, BC).

Vanessa Zilkie (3^rd year, defender, Kelowna, BC) was the TRU Bookstore/McDonald’s “Leader of the Pack” player of the game.  It was her finest effort since joining TRU.  “  She was all over the place,” said McManus. “ I told her at half time to limit her runs or she would be worn out. She did a great job. She has great speed . I was very proud of her.”

With TRU joining the Canada West next season, Cameron is looking forward to more matches against the WolfPack. “ I hope we do get a rivalry going, “he says. “ I have known Tom for years and I hope we can have a good go at each other.”

Members of the WolfPack women’s soccer team were at Riverside Park on Labor Day. For the fourth year in a row, the WolfPack were on hand as part of the Kamloops and District Labor Council’s Labor Day picnic. Heres what it looked like: