Saskatchewan Huskies Aim for Redemption in 2025 Soccer Season

The University of Saskatchewan Huskies men’s soccer team is set to kick off their 2025 season on Friday night at Griffiths Stadium, determined to rebound from a challenging 2024 campaign. The Huskies, under the guidance of long-time coach Bryce Chapman, finished last in the Prairie Division with a disappointing record of 3-10-1, which left them outside playoff contention. As they prepare for their opening match in the Canada West conference, Chapman expresses optimism about the upcoming season.

Chapman reflects on last year’s struggles, acknowledging that injuries significantly impacted their performance. “The last season wasn’t a season that we anticipated or were happy with,” he says. Despite the challenges, he notes that the team has shown resilience during the off-season, with a strong leadership group emerging and promising new talent joining the roster. “We’re looking to make a statement, starting Friday,” he adds.

With the season opener just days away, the Huskies have welcomed several exciting new players to their lineup. Among them is Jackson Kovitch, a local talent who was part of the under-17 Alliance team that clinched the national title last year. Kobe Chilagan, also from the U-17 Alliance, joins him, along with Dante Molina, the younger brother of former player Sergio Molina, who is recognized as one of the top central midfielders from Winnipeg. Additionally, the team has recently signed Tao Hein, a prolific scorer at national competitions for the past two years, who is expected to enhance the team’s offensive capabilities.

Returning players are equally crucial to the Huskies’ strategy this season. The core group includes Jaron Slopinski, a fourth-year goalkeeper, and fifth-year centre-back Luke Mackie. Midfielder Ethan Cabral, who was the team’s leading scorer last season, along with Malcolm Rektor, a centre midfielder with professional experience, are also key figures. Chapman highlights their growth within the program, stating, “They are proven to be really key pillars within our group.”

Looking ahead, Chapman outlines the team’s ambitions for the 2025 season. “Like every year, your expectations are to put yourself in a playoff spot. That hasn’t changed this year,” he states. To achieve this, the Huskies have set internal goals, including reducing their goals-against average compared to last year and increasing their offensive output. These targets are essential as they aim for a successful start to the season.

As excitement builds for Friday’s match, the Huskies are ready to showcase their progress and commitment to improvement. With a blend of returning experience and fresh talent, they are poised to make a significant impact in the Canada West conference. The action kicks off at 7 p.m. at Griffiths Stadium, where fans can expect an electrifying atmosphere as the Huskies take the field.