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WolfPack

WolfPack recruit has solid local pedigree

Jan 22, 2021 | 11:34 AM

KAMLOOPS — The Thompson Rivers University (TRU) WolfPack Men’s Soccer team’s latest recruit comes with a solid pedigree. Elijah Dos Santos has credentials of his own, winning championships in the BC Soccer Premier League and in high school, and playing with the Vancouver Whitecaps Major League Soccer Academy.

His parents both played for TRU and both won Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association national championships. His father, Lyle Dos Santos, won his championship in 1998/99 and his mother, Haley Dos Santos, won in 1999/2000. Additionally, Dos Santos’s grandfather Mike Bartram coached the 1999/2000 team.

“We are very pleased to have a player whose family has wonderful roots here and are such distinguished alumni. We hope he can continue to carry on the winning traditions his family has established at TRU,” said WolfPack Men’s Soccer Head Coach John Antulov.

“He has the ability to make an impact immediately in our squad. He is a big, strong central defender with very good technical ability and is able to read the game very well. Because of his technical ability, he is also able to play in midfield, which adds a lot of versatility to his game. He also has a great attitude and a winning mentality, which will help our program in the coming years to continue our growth in Canada West.”

Dos Santos is keen to help TRU win a Men’s Soccer National Championship as well as working toward a degree in business.

“I chose TRU because I felt it was the best environment for me to further my education while still continuing to develop in a best-in-class soccer program. Unquestionably, Mr. Antulov was at the forefront of my decision. My discussions with him made very clear his passion and commitment to both the program and his players. It was an easy decision after that,” he said.

“We are very pleased that Elijah has chosen TRU for his schooling and to play for our program. This is a significant signing for us and shows the steps we are taking to attract quality players to TRU,” Antulov said.