UNB ANNOUNCES NEW SOCCER COMPLEX IN FREDERICTON

The University of New Brunswick in Fredericton has unveiled plans for a new soccer complex.

???This soccer facility will be a huge step forward, not only for the Varsity Reds soccer programs, but for all soccer in this area,??? said Kevin Dickie, director of Athletic Services at UNB in Fredericton.

To be located at Chapman Field, just below the Aitken University Centre, the complex will include an outdoor artificial turf surface as well as a domed indoor soccer facility. The outdoor surface can be used as a performance-sized field or as two practice fields.

???Having a first-rate facility that can house quality events and training on a year-round basis will lead to some very exciting initiatives,??? said Miles Pinsent, coach of the UNB Varsity Reds men???s soccer team. ???It will also take us to a whole new level in terms of recruiting.???

Years in the planning, the complex will be used by a myriad of off-campus teams and organizations, including the City of Fredericton, the Fredericton and District Soccer Association, and the provincial soccer associations.

???This facility will strengthen our community partnerships and help the university and Fredericton to attract national caliber events,??? said Mr. Dickie.

The project, which is anticipated to be completed this fall, has been approved in principle by the university???s Properties Committee. Final approval is subject to a satisfactory tender within budget.

UNB Fredericton has a rich soccer tradition. This year, the UNB Varsity Reds men???s soccer team captured the Atlantic conference championship for the 13th time, and Andy Cameron, coach of the Varsity Reds women???s team, was honoured by Atlantic University Sport as Coach of the Year.

Artists rendering: Courtesy University of New Brunswick