Saint John’s Raine Easton commits to UPEI Women's Soccer

University of Prince Edward Island Women's Soccer Coach Graeme McDonald is pleased to announce that Saint John, New Brunswick native Raine Easton has committed to the Panthers for 2016–17.

Coach McDonald says, "Raine has a tremendous work ethic, focus and determination—both on and off the field. She is a strong fullback who has excellent acceleration and speed, a huge asset when defending and moving forward to join the attack. I am thrilled to have Raine join our squad this year!"

Easton played youth soccer under the Fundy Soccer Association under Technical Director Jason Brown.  In 2014, Easton captained her club team at the Canadian Club Nationals in Mount Pearl, NL. Easton represented her home province from 2011-2015 and was selected to Team Atlantic U16 and competed at the Western Canadian Showcase.

Brown is proud of the former Fundy star and believes the possession-based, attacking model that Coach McDonald favours along with the attention to the overall student-athlete experience makes UPEI a great fit on all fronts.

He says, "Raine is an example to our young female players about dedication. It has been her goal to play at the CIS level and she has been incredibly committed to achieving that goal. I am very happy to see her join a quality program such as UPEI Panthers and I believe that she will develop into a quality CIS player as she extends what has been a rapidly growing soccer career."

Easton's competitiveness, ability to get forward and create opportunities, and her willingness to learn will serve her very well in a very competitive AUS Conference.

"I grew up playing soccer and always had the goal to play at the CIS level," explains Easton. "I am excited for what UPEI has to offer me both academically and as a Panther."

In grade 11, Easton transferred to Rothesay Netherwood School and will graduate with an International Baccalaureate Diploma. Easton captained the varsity team coached by Cuilean Hendra, and competed at the CAIS (Canadian Accredited Independent School) Finals two years in a row.

"It has been an absolute pleasure having Raine attend Rothesay Netherwood School as a student athlete," commented Coach Hendra. "Raine has developed into a fine soccer player and the coaching staff is excited she has chosen an excellent school where she can continue to excel. UPEI is very lucky to have such a committed and determined student athlete join them in the fall."

Easton will be entering the Faculty of Science at UPEI.