Kaitlyn Jesse commits to Kodiaks women’s soccer

The Lethbridge Polytechnic Kodiaks women's soccer team has strengthened its back line with the commitment of Edmonton center back Kaitlyn Jesse for the upcoming season.

A product of Strathcona High School and captain of the St. Albert Impact for the past four years, Jesse will join the Kodiaks this fall and has enrolled in the polytechnic's Massage Therapy program.

Jesse says her recruitment process with head coach Mike Racz began nearly a year ago and developed through consistent communication and in-person evaluation.

"I emailed him about a year ago, and then we got in touch," she says. "I came to watch one of the NAIT invitational games that the Kodiaks played in, and that's when we first met. Then I sent him some highlights and came down for a training session, and he offered me a spot."

Her decision to commit to Lethbridge was influenced by both the team's recent success and the polytechnic's strong academic reputation.

"I saw that the soccer team has had a good record in the standings the last couple years and that they've been really consistent," she says. "They also have a strong Massage Therapy program that alumni have gone through, and that's the pathway I want to follow."

On the field, Racz says her presence will help stabilize the back line as the program transitions through graduation losses.

"I really like the strength and stability Kaitlyn will provide in the defensive line," says Racz. "She is confident and composed in possession, which will allow us to effectively build out from the back. She demonstrates strong decision making and shows the ability to remain calm under pressure, which are important qualities for our defensive structure."

Racz expects Jesse to step into an immediate role while continuing to grow within the program.

"I see Kaitlyn continuing to develop her leadership abilities, tactical awareness and overall consistency in high-level competition," he says. "I expect her to help replace key defensive players who are graduating and to contribute positively to our team standards, work ethic and overall performance."

Jesse has earned honours through all four years of high school and is aiming for honours with distinction this year, as she currently has a 96 per cent average. She also helped the St. Albert Impact qualify for nationals in October in Kamloops, B.C., where the team finished ninth in the country.

Through his interactions with Jesse, Racz says her character stands out just as much as her ability.

"It is clear that she brings strong character and leadership qualities," he says. "I believe she will have a very positive impact on our team culture and help push our program forward both on and off the field."

Jesse says she is looking forward to the fresh start that comes with the next step in her career, adding she is excited to meet new people and have a new experience on her own.

She also credits her parents and her club coaches – Hannah Speer, Sarah Speer, Hanna Boyce, Greg MacIntosh and Candice Jahns – for their support in helping her reach the post-secondary level.