She grew up dreaming of one day playing for the Timberwolves. Today, she took a big step towards those aspirations. The University of Northern British Columbia Women’s Soccer program has gone to the local pipeline for its newest recruit, officially announcing the commitment of Prince George product Amneet Toor for the 2023 Canada West season, and beyond.

“It means a lot to me because I have been working for this for a very long time. Since grade nine. I know that doesn’t seem like a very long time, but I feel like it has been long because I have worked really hard to get here. I am excited.”

Toor is no stranger to the UNBC program. She has honed her skills since 2019 with the Timberwolves Academy, where she was trained by TWolves varsity assistant coach Jo Wankling, with instruction from a number of players of the UNBC roster. The chance to take the step into the Canada West level in a program she is familiar and comfortable with was a major factor in Toor’s decision to commit.

“Their values and their team values, they are so connected with the community. It made me think this is a good team and a good fit for me. When I play here, my family can come watch me and people will know I am a student-athlete.”

Toor plays predominantly as a midfielder or fullback, using her speed and fast-developing soccer IQ to make in impact on the pitch. UNBC coach Neil Sedgwick points to the 17-year-old’s willingness to learn and grow as a major asset as she makes the jump from youth to the highest level of university soccer in the country.

“Today is an exciting day for us. Amneet has trained with our Academy for several years and each year, she has demonstrated her love of learning and a deep desire to push herself to the next level. We are thrilled to have hometown talent like Amneet continue to join our Timberwolves family.”

A provincial level long-distance runner, the Prince George Secondary School student expects there to be a learning curve making the jump to U SPORTS, but it’s a challenge she is ready for.

“I have really good fitness because I have a background in track and distance running. I know the terms and references they use here, so I think I can take those and adapt even more to what Neil and Jo are going to teach me over the next few years.”

The five-foot-five Toor had the best seat in the house for recent TWolves seasons, serving as a ball-girl for home games at Masich Place. She was able to experience the speed and tenacity of Canada West soccer, and acclimate herself to the level she will be competing at in a University of Northern British Columbia kit.

“I ball-girled this year and it was really fun to see the games so up-close. Hearing everyone talk and communicate. It was exciting to know I will be playing there too.”

The honour roll student will graduate from PGSS in June and join her new teammates for training camp in July. She will enroll in UNBC’s arts program, with the intention to focus on economics.

“I am excited to take this next step and be able to play the sport I like. To have it be a challenge and to have fun with it. It is a new experience. It is one in a lifetime.”