KINGSTON, Ont. - After falling just one game short of qualifying for the Ontario Colleges Athletic Association (OCAA) provincial championships in 2013-14, the St. Lawrence Vikings men's soccer team has completed an extensive recruitment plan to replace some of the veteran players that are graduating and moving on, while adding skill and depth to the roster.
Three of the new recruits bring extensive size, strength, speed and experience to what has been a young and unproven squad.
"These players all bring something unique to the team, but the one common element is experience. With the background that these guys have, we are going to significantly raise our standard of play," said St. Lawrence head coach Steve Douglas.
New to the line-up is Toni El-Asmar (Ottawa), Ryan McCurdy (Belfast, Northern Ireland) and Josh Maveety (Kingston, Ont.).
Currently playing for Kingston FC, Toni brings strength and speed to the midfielder position. Prior to playing for Kingston, Toni played one year for the Carleton Ravens, and for a local club team in Ottawa. Most recently, Toni was a member for the Kingston FC when they reached the championship game in the 2013 Canadian Soccer League (CSL) post-season.
McCurdy has also spent the past few seasons with the Kingston FC, but brings European experience to the Vikings, having played for Bangor FC in Northern Ireland. Ryan also spent time in Ottawa, playing for the Ottawa Fury and Algonquin College Thunder. Last year, Ryan was nominated for defender of the year with the Kingston FC, and was named a league all-star with the Thunder.
After graduating from Regiopolis-Notre Dame Catholic Secondary School in Kingston, Josh attended Bishop's University and played for the varsity football team as a kicker. From there, Josh was added to the practice squad for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats of the Canadian Football League (CFL). While he would never suit up of the Ticats, Josh developed an interest in health and fitness. He is currently a personal trainer in Kingston, and has enrolled in the fitness and health promotions program to further his knowledge of the industry.
Combined, all three players are bringing a 'lead by example' mentality that is sure to set a new standard of play for the Vikings men's soccer program.
"I gave each player the same speech in what myself and the coaching staff are trying to accomplish this season," said Douglas. "That's to make some noise in the OCAA East Division, and to go far in the post-season."
All players were unanimous in stating that they decided to attend SLC because the college had a reputable academic program that met their needs, and to be a part of what is expected to be a very successful season for the Vikings.
Source: St. Lawrence College