Kodiaks men’s soccer signs versatile defender

The Lethbridge Polytechnic Kodiaks men’s soccer team has signed Abbotsford, B.C. defender Blake Bradford.

A recent graduate of Yale Secondary, he is now enrolled in the polytechnic’s General Arts and Science program. He says one of his youth soccer highlights was in 2023 when his U16 team, the Abbotsford United Soccer Club, won the B.C. Soccer Youth Provincial ‘B’ Cup in Langley.

Bradford also has family connections with Kodiaks soccer as his sister Hannah Bradforfd (General Arts and Science) is ramping up for her second season with the women’s team.

“Blake first stood out to me during our I.D. camp in April, where his defensive abilities caught my attention,” says Head Coach Mike Racz. “His ambition, eagerness to improve and strong practice habits made it clear he would be a strong fit for the program.”

Bradford says the positive environment and sense of community within the Kodiaks program is what cemented his decision to play for Lethbridge Polytechnic.

“At the I.D. camp I got to meet a lot of the players and are all really nice people and welcoming,” he says. “Going forward I think it’s going to be a good team.”

As a player, Racz says Bradford is a versatile defender who can play anywhere along the back line. He says he reads the game well, defends with discipline and shows the ambition to improve every time he steps on the field. Racz also says Bradford’s strong work ethic in practice ensures he is always pushing himself and those around him to get better.

“We’re excited to welcome Blake into the Kodiaks family,” says Racz. “His work rate, versatility and drive to get better will make him a valuable addition to the squad and a player to watch as he develops in our program.”