UPEI Women’s Soccer bolster defence with homegrown talent Olivia James

The UPEI Women’s Soccer Panthers have secured a commitment from rookie defender Olivia James for the 2023–24 season.

Ever since Lewis Page took over the head coaching duties for UPEI Women’s Soccer, his teams have excelled on defence. And that end of the field is now stronger with the addition of Olivia James from North Bedeque, Prince Edward Island.

James joins the Panthers after three years at Three Oaks Senior High School where she was recently named the school’s top athlete after the 2022–23 season. She also plays club soccer in the summers with Winsloe Charlottetown Royals Football Club.

The 18-year-old also represented PEI at the 2022 Canada Games in Niagara. That soccer team finished seventh overall, which was the highest-ever finish for a women’s soccer team from the Island.

“I learned what it takes to play a high level of soccer—the training, dedication, and hard work that needs to be put in on and off the field to perform against the best players in the country,” James said. “Overall, it was a great experience to play for my home province on such a big stage.”

It’s evident that James has been a significant contributor everywhere she has played, and she’s hoping to do the same with the Panthers this fall in front of the hometown crowd.

“I’m looking forward to honouring the green and white kit and playing for the Panthers,” said James, who will be studying kinesiology at UPEI. “Coming in, I’m looking to earn a starting position wherever Coach Page feels is best for the team and will help us reach the playoffs.”

Page said James was the top Island recruit, and he was determined to keep the homegrown talent on home soil.

“We think Olivia will play a significant role for our team,” Page said. “Her composure in possession of the ball and natural defending instincts will allow her to be a threat on both sides of the ball for us.”