The Sea-Hawks women's soccer program has added to their defensive contingent with the signing of Dutch stalwart Anke Wijnbergen. Joining the team ahead of the 2025 season, Anke is transferring from Keyano College of the CCAA. In her first full season with the Huskies, Wijnbergen was named a 2024 1st team ACAC conference and championship All-Star. Originally from Leeuwarden in The Netherlands, Anke will study in the Sciences at Memorial. She has previously represented BTB in League 1 Alberta play, and SC Stiens back in Europe.

 

"The main reason I chose Memorial was how welcoming everyone was. I feel like I can fit into the team's playing style and also learn a bunch" said Wijnbergen. "I'm really excited about the city and the nature. I'm also looking forward to getting to know the girls, and to be part of a competitive team."

 

On the turf, the 20-year-old is most frequently used as a centerback, but also has plenty of experience as a defensive midfielder.  At 5'10 she offers a physical presence but is also a technical ball handler and distributer. "I think I am a composed player, and I love to learn new tactical concepts or try new things. I hope to contribute some defensive strength, and some creativity in the build-up".

                 

Sea-Hawks coach Mike Power noted that "Anke's attributes pair nicely with a lot of existing qualities we currently have. I think her skillset will be very complementary to our group, and I'm confident she can be effective in our structure. I believe Anke was a U-Sports level athlete playing at the college level, yet it's always nice when players can arrive with a little bit of experience and maturity. The overall fit was very appealing, so we're really happy to have received Anke's commitment to our program."

 

 Wijnbergen becomes the second member of the team's 2025 recruiting class, following the commitment of local attacker Emma Whelan. In the meantime, Memorial continues its preparation for the 2025 AUS season. Having just returned from a winter semester exhibition trip with a 1-1 record vs NCAA opposition, the Sea-Hawks now have one eye on the opening of training camp, which is just 5 months away.