Prince George, B.C. – Another homegrown soccer player is staying local and has started his post-secondary soccer chapter at UNBC. UNBC Men's Soccer head coach Steve Simonson announced today that 2007-born striker Luis Rodrigues (Prince George, B.C.) has committed to the Green and Gold.
 
Rodrigues is a recent graduate of Mount Boucherie High School in Kelowna. Last season he played for head coach David Marks at the high school level and also suited up for Okanagan United FC at the club level for head coach Kai Tolpinrud. Prior to his two-year stint in Kelowna, Rodrigues spent the first 15-years of his life in Prince George and also significant time in Portugal. But when it came time for Rodrigues to map out his next soccer chapter, UNBC always held the upper hand.
 
"There's a different feeling playing at home. It's unmatched. I always knew this is where I'd end up," shared Rodrigues who is studying Psychology at UNBC. His long-term plan is to go into the RCMP.
 
On the pitch, Rodrigues brings a noticeable energy. He added, "I bring intensity. I love to press. I love to work as a team and move the ball. I want to build a community here and I want that strong chemistry to translate onto the pitch."
 
"We are excited to have another local product Luis join the squad this year," said Steve Simonson. "His commitment to the game is unquestioned and he brings a great enthusiasm to the team and to his own development. I look forward to watching his progression through the year as a proud member of our program."
 
As he often does, Steve Simonson played a big part in swaying Rodrigues to return home to Prince George.
 
"Coach Steve told me the plan and made me feel at home here," reflected Rodrigues. "I feel like I can make a difference, and I want to keep pushing forward. The entire team has made me feel at home. We're all making a good connection and through the next few years we're going to be a great team."
 
The learning curve for Rodrigues has been a steep one since beginning his tenure with the team in August, but with each rep, each practice and each experience he's getting himself ready to one day take the field for a Canada West game.
 
"The speed is different. Everyone is super physical and fast. Their technical ability is unmatched. It's going to take a few games or even a few years to get adjusted, but I'm ready for the challenge," concluded Rodrigues. "I want to prove that this is where I belong. It's going to take awhile for this all to feel real, but I'm having fun and I want to be the best I can be."
 
UNBC Athletics is thrilled to welcome Luis Rodrigues to the UNBC Timberwolves family.