CMF Coakley Commits To REDS
(FREDERICTON, NB) The UNB REDS women’s soccer team is adding center-midfielder Leah Coakley to their recruiting class of 2025.
The 17-year-old, from Saint John, has signed a U SPORTS Letter of Intent and will join the REDS ahead of the 2025 Atlantic University Sport season.
“It’s great to add an impactful New Brunswicker to our group,” said REDS’ head coach Jon Crossland. “We know that Leah has the work ethic, determination, and skills to make a difference for our team over her time at UNB.”
Coakley, who is finishing her Grade 12 year at Saint John’s St. Malachy’s Memorial High School, is a veteran member of the Saint John Soccer Club and is currently participating in the club’s university prep program.
In 2024, she joined the Fredericton District Soccer Association’s U17 AAA team to compete in the New Brunswick Soccer League. She’s been part of the Team NB program at the U13, U15, and U17 levels, and participated in SNB’s High Performance Academy.
As a member of the Saints’ varsity girls’ team, Coakley emerged as the top scorer in the province in AAA senior girls soccer in 2024.
“I’m an energetic and dynamic midfielder who excels in high pressure situations,” said Coakley. “My strong work ethic, motivation, determination, and competitive nature will contribute to my success as a REDS’ student-athlete.”
Coakley says she likes to create scoring opportunities and has strong passing skills. She says she likes to control the tempo of the game from the midfield and contribute defensively.
“I have the ability to transition quickly, have good ball control and technical ability,” said Coakley. “I’m coachable and get along well with others. I’m dedicated to my training and enjoy working with teammates to develop our skills and enhancing overall team performance.”
“Leah got to know many of our REDS when she played as a call-up with the Fredericton Picaroons Reds in the New Brunswick Premier Soccer League and Maritime Super Series last summer,” said Coach Crossland. “Our girls really enjoyed playing with Leah and there was a push to make sure Leah came to UNB. That speaks to her approach and ability when your current players say we need this girl at UNB.”
Coakley has strong connections to UNB. Her mother is an alumnus and her sister is currently in the second year of an Engineering degree.
“I aim to be a key player on the team,” said Coakley. “I want to help bring success and build on last season’s playoff experience.”
Coakley will study Kinesiology while attending UNB and is interested in a career in Sports Medicine.
STORY AND PHOTOS BY: Andy Campbell/UNB Athletics