UPEI Women’s Soccer bolster defence with homegrown talent Olivia James

By Thomas Becker

Ever since Lewis Page took over the head coaching duties for UPEI Women's Soccer, his teams have excelled on defence. And that end of the field got a bit stronger with the addition of rookie defender Olivia James.

James joins the Panthers after three years at Three Oaks Senior High School where she was recently named the school's top athlete after the 2022-23 season. The North Bedeque, PE native also plays club soccer in the summers with Winsloe Charlottetown Royals FC. 

The 18-year-old also represented Prince Edward Island at the 2022 Canada Games in Niagara. That soccer team finished seventh overall, which was the highest-ever finish for a women's soccer team from the Island.

"I learned what it takes to play a high level of soccer—the training, dedication, and hard work that needs to be put in on and off the field to perform against the best players in the country," James said. "Overall, it was a great experience to play for my home province on such a big stage." 

It's evident that James has been a significant contributor everywhere she's played and she's hoping to do the same with the Panthers this fall in front of the hometown crowd eager to see this team make the playoffs.

"I'm looking forward to honouring the green and white kit and playing for the Panthers," said James, who will be studying kinesiology at UPEI. "Coming in, I'm looking to earn a starting position wherever coach Page feels is best for the team and helps us reach the playoffs." 

Page said James was the top Island recruit and was determined to keep the homegrown talent on home soil. 

"We think Olivia will play a significant role for our team," Page said. "Her composure in possession of the ball and natural defending instincts will allow her to be a threat on both sides of the ball for us."