The Niagara Knights women's soccer program has added Thorold native Kaitlyn Pressley to their roster for the 2019-20 season. Pressley, a product of Thorold Secondary School and the St. Catharines Roma U21 Club, brings the Knights versatility as she has experience playing as both a defender and a striker.

"We noticed Kaitlyn while scouting the local high schools," said Head Coach Robert Lalama. "We've developed a connection with her and have been watching her for the past two years. She's a very talented player and was an obvious invite to our annual High School Showcase, which she has attended the past two years."

The 17-year old Pressley will make an impact with the Knights both offensively and defensively as she can both attack and defend with great skill.

"She's a quick, aggresive player who gets to the ball first," said Lalama. "She can defend and attack which makes her so valuable to the team. She also has the ability to play with both feet!"

While attending Niagara College, Pressley will be studying in the Electrical Engineering Technology program, something she claims impressed her and helped solidify her decision to attend Niagara College and play for the Knights.

"I chose Niagara College because it is close to home, has great facilities and looked to be an overall friendly environment," said Pressley on her decision. "I was also really impressed with the electrical engineering program."

Pressley also says that the growing reputation of the women's soccer program was undoubtedly a huge factor in her decision. The Niagara Knights women's soccer program are coming off of a 7-3 season and a trip to the OCAA Championship.

"To add, what initially peaked my interest in Niagara was their soccer program. The dedicated coaching staff have put together a great team and environment for the players."

While Lalama is already impressed by what they've seen from her on the pitch at Thorold Secondary and with the St. Catharines Roma U21 Club, he says her potential to make an impact at the collegiate level is still growing.

"Over the years, her soccer skills have improved significantly," said Lalama. "And for the reason, her ceiling in collegiate soccer is extremely high. We see her as someone who has the potential to make a significant difference to our team and a player who can make an impact at the collegiate level."

Pressley has set clear goals for herself on and off the pitch, and will look to fulfill them from day one as a Niagara College student-athlete.

"I want to show my passion for the game and make improvements on my speed, endurance and footwork," said Pressley. "Off the pitch, I want to excel in my studies and follow through to my third year where I will hopefully pursue a job in the hydro field of work."

The Niagara Knights women's soccer program returns to the pitch beginning on August 15th when training camp opens for the 2019-20 season. The season will officailly begin with a home match on Friday, September 6th at Youngs Sportsplex against the Humber Hawks.