CAMROSE, AB- Soccer season is officially upon us! The Vikings are eager and ready to get the ball rolling after a hardworking preseason.
The Vikings will officially kick off the season Friday, September 5th against the SAIT Trojans. Right after that, the Vikings are bringing it home to take on the Ambrose Lions for the first home opener of the season.
After a long fought 2024 season, posting a 1-10-1 record, the Vikings are ready to turn it around with key veterans returning and new all-star additions.
"We, the UofA Augustana Vikings Soccer Team, are stepping into this season with confidence, purpose, and a clear vision for where we want to go" says Head Coach Roger Torres. "While we've faced a few setbacks with preseason injuries to key players, we're not letting that define us. If anything, it's only strengthened our resolve. We've made some smart adjustments, and with the depth we've added and the experience in our locker room, we're ready to rise to the challenge." Torres defined their goal for the season to be simple, "be more competitive, grow stronger as a team, and take a real step forward in our performance."
"What excites us most is the chance to start the season at home. With the entire first half of our schedule on our own turf, we're determined to make it count. We're looking to turn our home field into a place where opponents know it won't come easy, and where our fans and community can be a real part of our success. That support fuels us. Our senior core is ready to lead the way, and our rookies are already showing they're ready to contribute. As a team, we're united, motivated, and hungry to achieve something special this season."
Last season, goalkeeper Alex MacDonald was a standout presence between the posts, recording 91 saves—fourth most in the ACAC for the 2024 season—and anchoring the Vikings' defense. This year, the back line will be anchored by defensive duo Kiara Periard-Endel Andel and Reese MacGillivray, with Ella Olsen and Elle Popiel providing steady leadership in the backfield. Viking Athlete of the Year nominee Sophie Robertson returns as a key leader, joined by Courtney Kirchner, a strong contender for the team's top goal-scorer. Following the graduation of captain Kadie Johnston and veteran Emily Quirke, the leadership torch will now be carried by captains Ella Olsen, Reese MacGillivray, Elle Popiel, and newcomer Selena Arima.
Selena Arima, a standout with the Keyano Huskies, brings an impressive resume to the Vikings after earning ACAC All-Conference honors in Futsal during her 2023 season. Her skill and experience will make her a key addition to the squad. Joining her is another exciting pickup, Mariam Hamaoui—a dynamic, powerhouse player recently selected to represent the U19 Lebanese National Team. Together, Arima and Hamaoui add depth and talent that will be pivotal for the Vikings this season.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Key Returners for the Vikings:
Sophie Robertson - Midfielder
Ella Olsen - Defender
Courtney Kirchner - Forward
Reese Macgillivry - Defender
Kiara Periard-Endel - Defender
Elle Popiel - Defender
Key Additions to the Vikings:
Selena Arima - Striker
Mariam Hamaoui - Winger
Head Coach Roger Torres returns for his fourth season at the helm, looking to further strengthen the technical foundation established in recent years. With steady growth and determination, the Vikings have their sights set on securing a spot at the ACAC Championships, taking place October 23–26, hosted by the Lethbridge Polytechnic Kodiaks.
For additional information, contact:
David Ritz, University of Alberta-Augustana
Vikings Business and Operations Director
dritz@ualberta.ca
Emily Peterson, University of Alberta-Augustana
Game Day/Marketing & Communications Coordinator
pe1@ualberta.ca