If family bloodlines mean anything, the Thompson Rivers University WolfPack have another key player and leader on their hands. The WolfPack Mens Soccer program has announced the commitment of their second recruit for 2008: Davis Stupich.
He is the younger brother of Alix, who was a member of the WolfPack Womens Basketball the last couple of years.
“She’s one of the main reasons why I chose to come to TRU,” says the 5-11 Davis, who can play many positions including right and left middle and forward “ She said great things about the university and the city. And when I found out how great their soccer program is, I definitely wanted to come.”
The soccer playing Stupich has won in Kamloops before. This May, his club team: the UVI gunners won the KYSA Cup. It’s the same club that he has played with in community soccer for the last eight years. “We finished our league undefeated.” Says Stupich, who went to tiny Cedar Community Secondary School in Ladysmith—a school of 475 people.
Stupich was also courted by the CIS University of Victoria Vikes, but was sold on the WolfPack program after coming to a weekend session with the TRU coaching staff in April. “From the little bit of coaching they gave me that day, I could tell this would be a positive experience for my soccer development.”
“We’re happy that Davis decided to commit to the program,” says TRU coach Sean Wallace “I liked what I saw from him not only at our camp, but during the KYSA tourney as well. If he can continue to show a hard work ethic, he’ll be a valued addition to our program for years to come.”
He says his main goal in year one is to try and fit in with the team, along with trying to contribute in any way he can “I’m excited for the chance to play at TRU and for Sean Wallace, as well as experience the life of a post secondary student.”
“Like all our top recruits, Davis will get a chance to push our veterans for playing time,” stated Wallace “We aren’t taking anything for granted eventhough we have a host berth for the Nationals this time around.”
Stupich plans to take a Bachelor of Arts Degree with an eye at a future chance to become an RCMP officer.
CORNER KICKS: Stupich has a twin brother. He just learned he made the Victoria U-23 Metro team and will play with them before coming to TRU. The WolfPacks initial signing, Alex Aguiluz of Port Moody has formally signed his letter of intent. Both he and Stupich will be in Kamloops in Mid August for the start of training camp. The WolfPack begin their 2008 BC College Athletic Association Regular Season Saturday September 6 th when Kwantlen pays a visit to Hillside Stadium.