MSOC: National champion Behery joins TWolves from VIU

Men's Soccer
April 12, 2019

The University of Northern British Columbia Men’s soccer team has added a National Champion, officially announcing the transfer of Hussein Behery from the Vancouver Island University Mariners for the 2019-2020 Canada West season.

Behery, who played three seasons at VIU, was in his second campaign when the Mariners claimed the CCAA Championship in 2017. The opportunity to play U SPORTS calibre soccer with the Timberwolves was an opportunity he couldn’t pass up.


“Some people may think it’s crazy that I want to pursue soccer after, but that is what I want. It is what I have been dreaming of since I was a kid. Coming to UNBC, I know I am going to improve a lot. I am going to work on my weaknesses. I know Steve is going to put lots of effort into helping me. If I am going to pursue soccer afterwards, UNBC is a good spot for me. It’s a great fit.”

A fleet-footed attacking midfielder/winger who has the ability to impact the game every time he touches the ball, Behery visited the UNBC campus on two occasions before officially committing to transferring. The native of Cairo, Egypt was able to tour the facilities, and spend time training with Steve Simonson’s team.


“It is unreal. I like the indoor facilities. I like to train indoors. The gym, the changeroom, all that stuff is big for me. I like it. The facilities are very nice. The program that Steve has is all about helping his players improve. It is a huge thing. Everyone is close, everyone is positive. They are all tight, and you can tell from the vibes.”

Simonson, who had ten players graduate from the program this season, said Behery was an instant fit with his team. He hopes the 23-year-old can help create offense for the Timberwolves, while providing veteran leadership in a tough Canada West Pacific Division.


“Hussein is a Tremendous dribbler and has terrific attacking ability. He fits our attacking needs really well, and has a chance to really contribute here. He gelled seamlessly with our team during his visit to UNBC, and his experience in the PacWest will really help him step in and make a significant impact at U SPORTS level.”

The five-foot-eight Behery is coming off a 2018 season where he was second in scoring at VIU, netting three goals. He expects a step up in physicality in Canada West, but suggests his experience in the Pacific Western Athletic Association will be a major asset over his final two years of eligibility.


“Teams in the PacWest, there are some very good players. We had a very good team, winning Nationals. We hosted the Nationals in Nanaimo, and there was probably 1000 people there. It was a great experience. One of the best experiences of my life, by far.”

Currently working towards a Bachelor of Tourism Management with a major in Recreational Sport Management, Behery will join his new teammates for training camp in late July. UNBC finished top three in Canada West in soccer attendance in 2018, and he is excited to put on a UNBC jersey and represent his new school at the best level of soccer in the country.


“I like to assist goals. My scoring is going to improve under Steve. I am quick with the ball, and I am a good dribbler. There is nothing I like more than people watching me play. I am not shy. It makes me play better.”