Knights add local flavour
The Niagara Knights women’s soccer program has added Thorold native Kaitlyn Pressley to their roster for the 2019-20 season.
Pressley, a product of Thorold Secondary School and the St. Catharines Roma U21 club, brings the Knights versatility as she has experience playing as both a defender and a striker.
“We noticed Kaitlyn while scouting the local high schools,” head coach Rob Lalama said. “We’ve developed a connection with her and have been watching her for the past two years. She’s a very talented player and was an obvious invite to our annual High School Showcase, which she has attended the past two years.”
The 17-year-old Pressley will make an impact with the Knights both offensively and defensively as she can both attack and defend with great skill.
“She’s a quick, aggressive player who gets to the ball first,” Lalama said. “She can defend and attack which makes her so valuable to the team. She also has the ability to play with both feet.”
Pressley will be studying in the electrical engineering technology program, something she claims impressed her and helped solidify her decision to attend Niagara College and play for the Knights.
“I chose Niagara College because it is close to home, has great facilities and looked to be an overall friendly environment,” Pressley said. “I was also really impressed with the electrical engineering program.”
Pressley also says that the growing reputation of the women’s soccer program was undoubtedly a huge factor in her decision. The Knights are coming off of a 7-3 season and a trip to the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association championship.
“What initially peaked my interest in Niagara was their soccer program. The dedicated coaching staff have put together a great team and environment for the players.”
While Lalama is already impressed by what they’ve seen from her on the pitch, he says her potential to make an impact at the collegiate level is still growing.
“Over the years, her soccer skills have improved significantly,” he said. “And for that reason, her ceiling in collegiate soccer is extremely high. We see her as someone who has the potential to make a significant difference to our team and a player who can make an impact at the collegiate level.”
Pressley has set clear goals for herself on and off the pitch, and will look to fulfill them from day one as a Niagara College student-athlete.
“I want to show my passion for the game and make improvements on my speed, endurance and footwork,” she said. “Off the pitch, I want to excel in my studies and follow through to my third year where I will hopefully pursue a job in the hydro field of work.”
The women’s soccer program return to the pitch beginning on Aug. 15 when training camp opens for the 2019-20 season. The season will officially begin with a home match on Friday, Sept. 6 at Youngs Sportsplex against the Humber Hawks.
Coverage of the Niagara Knights is made possible with the support of the Niagara College Department of Athletics & Recreation. For more information, please visit www.goknights.ca
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