Becca LeBlanc to don Caper orange

By Corey LeBlanc

It is a homecoming for one of the newest additions to the Cape Breton University (CBU) Capers women's soccer program.

After making her mark in Atlantic University Sport (AUS) with the Acadia Axewomen for a couple of seasons – in 2021 and 2022 –  Coxheath native Becca LeBlanc is making a childhood dream come true with her commitment to playing for the perennial championship contender in 2024.

"It's, kind of, a full-circle moment for me," the graduate of Riverview Rural High School said of taking the pitch for the team she grew up watching.

After kicking off her varsity career with the University of Ottawa Gee-Gees, the COVID-19 global pandemic – which wiped out sports seasons across North America – upended her sophomore campaign. On the heels of that upheaval, LeBlanc decided to return to the east coast, where she earned her undergraduate degree in the Annapolis Valley.

While completing her studies, the veteran student-athlete also took the pitch with the Axewomen, a stint highlighted by an AUS title victory in 2021. In a 1-0 championship victory over the STFX X-Women – on the turf at CBU's Ness Timmons Soccer Field – LeBlanc played 90 minutes and was a key contributor to Acadia's air-tight defense.

"Becca is an all-star calibre player," veteran CBU head coach Ness Timmons said of the local product.

As for her path to reaching that level, LeBlanc began her soccer journey – like thousands of young Canadians – as a five-year-old with the Timbits mini program.

"I played a whole bunch of sports," the 22-year-old noted.

When it came to soccer, LeBlanc said, "I had so much fun."

She added, "When I went on the field, I would forget about everything."

It wasn't long before LeBlanc became a mainstay with Soccer Cape Breton and, by the time that she turned 11, she started a five-year run with Soccer Nova Scotia, which included a roster spot with the girls' squad that played in the Canada Summer Games in Winnipeg in 2017. She also spent time in Canada Soccer's REX development program.

After rehabbing from injury – LeBlanc tore the ACL and meniscus in her right knee during the Canada Games – she continued her excellence as a provincial team member and defender with the Riverview Ravens high school team.

"My positivity," she offered, of what she thinks that she can contribute to an accomplished CBU program.

LeBlanc expects her personality – and experience – to fit well with the Caper culture.

And, on the field, she said, "Speed is probably my best asset."

Describing her as "dynamic," Timmons also noted her speed; not to mention her ability to play left and right fullback.

"Becca plays with energy – from end line to end line," he added.

Noting her experience at a high level, Timmons said, "She is going to help us right away."

As for the getting the opportunity to join the team that she watched growing up, LeBlanc offered, "It really intrigued me."

"They were great role models, and I hope I can do the same for young players from here," she explained.

LeBlanc hopes that she serves as an example that local players, if they put the time and effort in, can become Capers and university student-athletes.

Describing her as an "ambassador," Timmons said a homegrown talent – like LeBlanc – is a shining example for young Cape Breton players.

"She is someone for them to look up to," he added.

LeBlanc, who will enroll in CBU's education program, said she "can't wait to get started" – both on and off the field.

"It is pretty surreal, and I am grateful for the opportunity."

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