When it comes to soccer, Kierstin Vohar learns quickly.
The proof? She didn't start playing until the age of 12 but has advanced to the point where she's ready to suit up in the top post-secondary league in the country.
Vohar, a Prince George Youth Soccer Association product, has committed to her hometown UNBC Timberwolves for the 2017 Canada West Universities Athletic Association season. Canada West is part of the larger U Sports organization, which, in a variety of sports, attracts elite student-athletes from all over the world.
Vohar, a midfielder who will graduate from PGSS in June, had already been training with the Timberwolves. She first caught the eye of UNBC head coach Neil Sedgwick at a western identification camp last summer and he has been impressed with her growth as a player since then.
"She wants to learn, but what is exciting is she has the raw ability to achieve her goals," Sedgwick said. "As a strong athlete Kierstin has great potential as a player."
Vohar said it's "really special" to officially be part of the Timberwolves. On the pitch, she typically helps to develop plays so others can finish them.
"I consider myself to be team-orientated, and I love helping to build a play," she said.
Academically, Vohar plans to enroll in UNBC's environmental studies program and to later pursue a career in environmental law.
Vohar is the third local player Sedgwick has added to the team since the end of last season. The others are midfielders Whitney Anderson and Hannah Emmond, the latter of whom has the ability to play a variety of positions. Sedgwick has also recruited midfielder Kaitlyn Chojnacki (Victoria), central defender Mikaela Cadorette (Richmond), midfielder Kyra Wallace (Penticton) and midfielder Hallie Nystedt (Saanich).
When the 2017 season begins, the Timberwolves will be in their sixth season at the Canada West level and will be looking to improve upon a 0-12-1 record in 2016, which was Sedgwick's first year at the helm of the UNBC program.
In the first five Canada West years, the UNBC women's team compiled a record of 3-49-11. Andy Cameron was head coach for the first four seasons. At the end of the 2015 campaign, his contract was not renewed.
