SEASON PREVIEW: Youthful Panthers set sights on playoff comeback

By Thomas Becker

The UPEI Panthers men's soccer team is ready to reclaim its place among the Atlantic University Sport (AUS) contenders.

With a proud tradition of success under head coach Lewis Page, the Panthers are determined to end their two-year playoff drought and return to their winning ways.

"We learned how close the race is from tenth place to a playoff spot and that a few close results going your way can be the difference," said veteran centre back Max VanWiechen.

This year, a new generation of talent is set to take centre stage as the program embraces a youth movement that promises to bring renewed excitement and hope.

Defensively, the Panthers boast the most experienced unit on the roster. Max VanWiechen and fullback Riad Jaha, both entering their fourth year, will anchor the backline and provide much-needed stability. The competition for playing time in defence will be fierce, with Lachlan MacEachern, Noah Killorn, Landon Perry, and newcomers Kyle St-Jean and Josh Hamilton vying for spots alongside the veterans.

"We're a strong group right now, especially with the young players who have added quality and depth to our defence," Jaha said. "I see us as a tough backline—difficult to break down, difficult to create chances on, while capable of building our attack from the back."

In goal, Isaac Wolters has steadily built confidence over the years and will finally be the undisputed opening-day starter for the first time in his UPEI career. Rookies Sean Rooney and Nick Hogan will serve as capable backups developing under Wolters. 

The midfield will see significant changes, especially with the departure of standout Kasper Lasia. Jeremiah Osorio is the only starter returning to his familiar position in the middle, while third-year players Jacob Tweel and Will Campbell will shift from their usual forward roles to bolster the midfield. Sophomore Emile Abele and rookie Rio Crystal are also expected to contribute and add depth to the unit. 

"I'm really excited about our midfield. Jacob and Jeremiah will be solid in there for us," Page said. "We're planning to move Will Campbell there too—he has a big engine and seems to cover every blade of grass out there."

Offensively, the Panthers must find a way to score more goals after managing just 10 last season. The attacking third will be led by a youthful contingent, with rookies Jahmal Boursiquot and Thomas Gagné likely to see substantial action up front. Boursiquot, in particular, is an exciting prospect known for his natural ability to find the back of the net.

"This team is all about high intensity," Page said. "You can expect us to press hard, keep the opposition under constant pressure, and be relentless and aggressive when we're on the attack." 

As the Panthers embark on the season, their blend of experienced defenders and promising young talent across the field positions them nicely to end their playoff drought and reignite their winning tradition.

The Panthers open their season at home against the Memorial Sea-Hawks on August 30 at 7:15 p.m. Purchase your season tickets at panthertickets.ca.