Sports are back! The Algoma University Thunderbirds have officially kicked off the 2021-22 OUA varsity athletics season with Men’s and Women’s Soccer and Cross-Country running returning to regular-season competition.
Both soccer teams opened with a weekend doubleheader against the McMaster Marauders in Hamilton on September 25th and 26th, and this past weekend the Thunderbirds played their first home game of the season against the Nipissing Lakers. Each of the teams came out strong, and although the Thunderbirds did not come out on top, both teams felt they had a strong start to the season.
“The women’s soccer program is looking forward to being back on the field and playing,” shared Women’s Head Coach Neil Ovey. “Although our first games were a tough start, the team is enjoying the opportunity to travel and be together, and we look forward to building on the progress thus far.”
“Our in-person season has finally arrived,” shared Men’s Head Coach Sam Medaglia. “After weeks of training daily, it was time to put our skills to the test. I am very pleased with the effort these past weekends, and I’m looking forward to our next matches.”
The Thunderbirds Athletics Program also began their Cross-Country running season, having competed in their first meet this past weekend.
“The team has been putting in the work, and since we started at the beginning of September, the girls have already improved,” shared Danielle Dupuis, Assistant Cross-Country Coach. “They are reaching new distance goals, are hardworking and dedicated to the sport; I have no doubt in my mind that they will surprise themselves throughout the season.”
While Algoma University is currently unable to have fans at matches and races due to Covid-19 protocols, the teams received great support via social media and on oua.yaretv.com and https://mixlr.com/saultsportsradio. Full schedules available here.
It has been a long wait for athletes across the world to be able to play their favourite sports again. It is an exciting time for many, and as the year unfolds, the Thunderbirds Athletics Program looks forward to seeing what our Varsity student-athletes are able to accomplish.
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