UPEI Women’s Soccer Panthers add scoring punch in midfielder Hannah Loeb

The UPEI Women’s Soccer Panthers have secured a commitment from Campbell River, British Columbia native Hannah Loeb for the 2023–24 season.

Loeb’s unique path to the UPEI Panthers is a source of pride for her. Throughout her life, she rarely shied away from a challenge, especially on the soccer field. Over the past five years, she played for the under-18 Campbell River Thunder boys’ team, where she emerged as a leader and one of its best players.

“Living in a fairly small town, I didn’t have many local opportunities to play at a high level,” Loeb explained. “Being given the chance to play on the boys’ rep team really challenged me, as it forced me to change my style of play and the way I saw the game.”

Loeb also captained the senior girls’ team at Carihi Secondary and helped guide them to a sixth-place finish at the 2022 provincial championship. The 19-year-old midfielder was the team’s top scorer, notching six goals and one assist in five games.

“I think I can help the Panthers through my playmaking skills both on and off the ball,” said Loeb, who will be pursuing a major in physics at UPEI. “I also hope to support the team with defending, coming from the midfield.”

The Panthers need an offensive spark after scoring 10 goals last season, and head coach Lewis Page hopes Loeb can be the connecting piece that helps the team generate more scoring opportunities.

“We’re thrilled to add Hannah to our roster. She’s an exciting attacking midfielder who can score and set up others. She gives us another great attacking option on that side of the field,” Page said.

After travelling over 5,500 km to join the Panthers, Loeb said, she’s committed to making a positive impact on the team.

“I will do whatever I can to help the team,” she said. “I’m pushing for a starting position so that I can hopefully help get us to the playoffs.”