Panthers add scoring punch in midfielder Hannah Loeb

By Thomas Becker 

Throughout her life, Hannah Loeb never shied away from a challenge, especially on the soccer field. 

Loeb's unique path to the UPEI Panthers is a source of pride for her and not one you often see. Over the past five years, Loeb played for the under-18 Campbell River Thunder boys team, where she emerged as a leader and one of the team's best players. 

"Living in a fairly small town, there weren't many local opportunities for me to play at a high level," Loeb explained. "Being given the chance to play on the boy's rep team really challenged me, as it forced me to change my style of play and the way I saw the game." 

Loeb also captained the senior girls team at Carihi Secondary and helped guide them to a sixth-place finish at the 2022 provincial championship. The 19-year-old midfielder was the team's top scorer, notching six goals and one assist in five games. 

"I think I can help the team through my playmaking skills both on and off the ball," said Loeb, who will be pursuing a major in physics at UPEI. "I also hope to support the team with defending coming from the midfield." 

The Panthers need an offensive spark after scoring 10 goals last season and head coach Lewis Page hopes Loeb can be the connecting piece that helps the team generate more scoring opportunities.

"We're thrilled to add Hannah to our roster. She's an exciting attacking midfielder who can score and set up others. She gives us another great attacking option on that side of the field," Page said.

After travelling over 5,500 km to join the Panthers, Loeb says she's committed to turning the program's fortunes around and end the six-year playoff drought once and for all.

"I hope to make a positive impact and help the team however coach Page feels is best," she said. "I'm pushing for a starting position so that I can help us make the playoffs."