The 2025 recruiting class for the UNBC Timberwolves Women's Soccer team has taken another positive step forward.

UNBC Timberwolves head coach Neil Sedgwick announced today that midfielder Laney Stewart (Metchosin, B.C.) has committed herself to the UNBC Timberwolves Women's Soccer program for 2025 and beyond.

The 5'7" central midfielder heads North to UNBC by way of the Vancouver Island Wave '07 program coached by Cody Ackinclose. Stewart also suited up for the Royal Bay Secondary Ravens which were coached by Laney's father Angus.

The Stewart family's long-standing friendship and familiarity with Neil Sedgwick was a major swaying factor.

"What really made me want to commit to UNBC was mostly Neil and how good of a coach he is, and how much knowledge he has," shared Stewart. "I've known Neil a long time. He coached me when I was little, and I think he's an amazing coach. His style of coaching suits me well since I've grown up with the phrases and terms he uses."

"We are excited to have Laney join us. I have known Laney and the Stewarts for a long time and they are soccer people," added Sedgwick. "Laney's development has been steady over the years. She now demonstrates strong playing ability with and without the ball, whilst maintaining an appetite for more growth. We are thrilled Laney is a Timberwolf and look forward to her arrival in 2025."
 "I think my biggest strengths are bringing up the team's energy, keeping everything positive and encouraging everyone to play their best," remarked Stewart who plans to pursue a Bachelor of Education at UNBC, and hopes to become an elementary school teacher once her soccer days are done. "The campus is beautiful. It's out in nature which I love and the coaching staff and the people who work at UNBC are so nice and welcoming."

Transitioning to the Canada West calibre of play is a difficult one for any first-year student athlete, but Stewart is ready to embrace the next chapter of her soccer journey.
"I'm super excited to make the jump to Canada West. It will be a physical challenge and a change from where I play now," concluded Stewart, whose older brother Charlie just completed his third season with the UNBC Men's Soccer program. "I'm excited to play faster-paced, more aggressive, fun, competitive games. I know I have a lot to learn, but I'm excited to make that next step in my soccer career."

UNBC Athletics is thrilled to welcome Laney to the UNBC Timberwolves family.