Danyka Wadley is off to Las Vegas.
The 17-year-old won’t be in Nevada next September, but will be in a city of the same name two states to the east, attending New Mexico Highlands University to study and play soccer in the NCAA’s (National Collegiate Athletic Association) Rocky Mountain Conference.
Wadley, a five-foot-11 defender currently attending Burnsview Secondary School, recently signed a letter of intent to join the New Mexico Cowgirls in the fall.
“She is a good leader in the back-line,” said Cowgirls coach Justin Wagar. “She is smart and reads the game well and is patient to win the ball.”
Wadley played high school soccer for five years with the Burnsview Griffins, helping the team qualify for the B.C. championship tournament for the first time in 2009, and two consecutive championships in the following years.
“She is a strong, athletic, fierce competitor in any game she plays. Danyka plays great defence but loves to get forward on any chance.” said Burnsview coach Mary Ferguson. “She is great in the air, and not afraid of the hard work it takes to go the distance.”
An honour roll student, Wadley is also a provincial champion at the club team level, and is the current captain of her under-18 team.
“She is aggressive and athletic and makes good decisions,” Wagar continued.
“Danyka has the potential to be a solid contributor and integral part of our defense for years to come.”
Wadley will join three other Fraser Valley players on the New Mexico roster for next season, a lineup that includes Holy Cross Regional High School graduate Keenya Pierre, who recorded three assists in three starts as a freshman midfielder last season.
Wadley is just one of several Burnsview players who will play at the collegiate level next season.
Elexis Schlossarek has signed with the University of Idaho, while two teammates will play locally. Julie Devriendt will play for the Simon Fraser University Clan, and Michelle Knowlan will suit up for the Kwantlen Eagles.
