The UBC Okanagan Heat men’s soccer squad further bolstered its for the first of Canada West competition with the addition of Shaun Pilcher.
The 6-foot-1 centreback form Heritage Woods Secondary has been a standout on the Coquitlam Ford-Metro Barca squad during the past few years, as well as the Coquitlam Ford-Metro Sparta squad who won the U18 national championship last October in St. John’s.
“We are very happy that Shaun has decided to join our program,” said Heat coach Dante Zanatta. “After having him train and play with us those recommendations were correct, Shaun is very good in the air and has a good understanding of the game and over time can become a dominating defender in Canada West. One of the most important factors of signing him was the way he and his family handled the recruitment process being up font and honest throughout the process, which lends to a great person and player.”
A native of South Africa, Shaun and his family moved to Coquitlam in 2004, and he has become a student of the game ever since. It is expected that Shaun will bring a physical presence to the centreback position for the Heat, but he hopes to bring a lot more than just physicality when he steps foot on the pitch this coming fall.
“I think my greatest strengths are my ability to communicate with my teammates on the field, being able to win headers offensively and defensively, as well as contributing to the offense by scoring goals from set pieces and free kicks,” explains Pilcher.
Having played with Giovanni Carida and Bryan Cadman during the U15 Y-League North American Finals (where they placed second) and in the U18 National Championships, Shaun felt that the Heat were a great personal fit for himself in taking the next step in his football career.
“I feel that it is a perfect time to join the Heat,” says Pilcher. “This is a team I can grow with, and I team I can help grow into Canada West.”
The Heat will be treading new water as they make their way into the CIS, but Pilcher is ready for the challenges that await him and his new club.
“There will be big adjustments, like the speed of the game, and the physical size and strength of the other players, but I think I will be able to adjust to that,” explains Pilcher. “It will no doubt be a challenge, but one that I am looking forward to very much.”
