Talented defender Emma Lamberton says yes to the Timberwolves

The University of Northern British Columbia Soccer program’s pipeline to Vancouver Island is well known, and has been crucial in the programs’ development in recent years. That connection continued to be fruitful today, with the announcement of talented defender Emma Lamberton’s official commitment to the Timberwolves for the 2023 Canada West season, and beyond.

“It’s super exciting. Moving away from home is definitely scary, but I think this will be a really great opportunity and challenge for me. I have been coached by Neil (Sedgwick) a couple times in the past with EPIC Academy, and I always loved his coaching style and the way we play the game. Continuing to learn from Neil is definitely a big reason I chose to come to UNBC.”

Standing five-foot-eight, the Victoria product grew up training in Vancouver Island Wave program, as well as the Gorge Premier; led by longtime soccer coach Dave Dew. More recently, Lamberton has been training with the Victoria Highlanders of League1 BC, where she has been coached by UNBC bench boss Neil Sedgwick.

With the Highlanders, the full back has had the opportunity to play alongside returning TWolves like Avery Nystedt and Kjera Hayman, which she believes will be helpful as she transitions to the highest level of university soccer in the country.

“Getting to meet a bunch of my future teammates has made me feel a lot better about the move. Learning some of Neil’s tactics and how he wants us to play will definitely give me a step up when I get to UNBC.”

Playing at Lambrick Secondary for coaches Dan Duerden and Tony Fogelklou, Lamberton proved herself to be a tremendous blend of skill and patience, utilizing her soccer IQ and foundational abilities to her advantage. At the Senior Provincial tournament, she was named Lambrick MVP three times, and looks forward to testing herself physically and mentally at the U SPORTS level.

“I definitely use my physical side a lot in soccer. That is one of my biggest strengths. Also, I use my speed. I am able to run past most people, which is always a good thing.”

Sedgwick has known of Lamberton for a number of years, charting her development and willingness to improve. Welcoming her to Highlanders training this summer, the TWolves coach has witnessed his newest recruit’s ability, attitude, and vast potential.

“I am really excited to make it official and add Emma to our program. Emma has shown a strong propensity for learning and growing within a high performance environment. I am confident that continuing on this path will bring Emma a lot of success at the university level as she progresses through her career as a Timberwolf.”

The 19-year-old, who has goals of becoming a nurse, will join her new teammates in Prince George for training camp in late July, continuing a soccer journey that she has been on her entire life.

“They have a really great nursing program, and I have had a lot of people recommend it and say it’s really good. Soccer has been a part of my life pretty much since I was born. My grandpa and my brother both still play. Being in the environment and around players made me fall in love with the game. My brother and I watch soccer together all the time. It’s just a great way for me to bond with my family, as well.”