Terrace’s Cam Hundal will be staying in Victoria, signing on with the Victoria Highlanders FC for the 2014 Premier Development League season after three successful years with the University of Victoria Vikes.
“Playing with UVic over the past few years has enabled me to become familiar with the players, staff, fans, and city so the transition won’t be difficult,” said Hundal.
He finished his third year of eligibility in a tie as the teams leading goal scorer, and posted 13 points (11 goals, 2 assists) in 14 regular season games over the 2013 season.
“Obviously since the Vikes won nationals in 2011 Cam has been a popular figure in this town and we know his talent and that he’s a good quality player,” said Highlanders head coach Steve Simonson.
Following UVic’s CIS national championship win in 2011, Hundal was named both a CIS Tournament MVP and CIS Tournament All-Star. In 2011, he was also Canada West Rookie of the Year and was named a Canada West All-Star in each of his first three collegiate years.
“He’s caused us grief as a Whitecap,” said Simonson. “He can run, dribble, set-up and score goals. He’s a player I’ve had my eye on for a couple of years.”
Hundal spent several years as a member of the Vancouver Whitecaps prospect and U-23 programs. “I love to embrace new challenges,” said Hundal. “I believe it is an essential part of growing as a player. Changing the environment I play in will enable me to learn, improve and hopefully open up some new doors in the future. The Highlanders are a great organization, and they proved it last year. I think one of the reasons this team is so successful is because all members of the organization have the same intended goal – to win a PDL Championship.”
And he’ll be joining several familiar faces on the pitch, as a number of former Vikes are on the Highlander squad.
“It’s always fun to play with players that you know so well, but it’s also very beneficial as we know each other’s tendencies. It helps to build chemistry within the team, which is extremely useful in a league where the season is so short.”
Hundal and the Highlanders kick-off their 2014 PDL campaign May 4.
