Varsity Reds Mine Local Talent
(FREDERICTON, NB) Reece McGinn and Ike Phillips didn’t have to look far for a new soccer home.
The pair of Fredericton District Soccer Association products have signed CIS Letters of Intent to join the UNB Varsity Reds.
McGinn, a defender, has been attending Soccer New Brunswick’s High Performance Academy, while Phillips, a keeper, has been part of the VReds own University Prep Program.
REECE MCGINN
A bit of a ‘stay at home’ defender, Reece McGinn will stay at home to join the three time and defending Atlantic University Sport champions.
“I’m excited to play for the team and the school that I have grown up watching,” said McGinn.
Finishing his final year at Soccer NB’s High Performance Academy, McGinn has also had stints with provincial teams and Team Atlantic, at various levels.
He was part of an Academy side that beat the Montreal Impact Academy team, in Montreal.
“I know that I have the ability and desire to play at this level,” said McGinn.
“Over the last couple of years, Reece has worked hard to improve his game,” said Varsity Reds Head Coach Miles Pinsent. “He is a tenacious and physical defender who is difficult to play against.”
IKE PHILLIPS
Studying science will allow Ike Phillips to play soccer in his backyard.
Like McGinn, Phillips grew up watching the Varsity Reds.
He’s now excited to be one.
“Fredericton has a strong and active soccer community, and I feel lucky to have this opportunity in my home town,” said Phillips.
The keeper is set to graduate from the VReds University Prep Program.
“I have had the opportunity to watch Ike’s development through his recent involvement in the Prep Program,” said Varsity Reds head coach Miles Pinsent.
“He’s already a capable keeper,” said Pinsent. “With some continued work he could quickly become a very competent varsity player.”
Phillips has played on provincial teams and Team Atlantic sides.
“I look forward to getting to know my teammates, elevating my game, and competing with the best athletes”
Both McGinn and Phillips will join the Varsity Reds beginning in the 2016-17 season.