VANCOUVER – After an early season bye week the UBC Women's Soccer team resumes their Canada West campaign with their long-awaited home opening weekend welcoming the UNBC Timberwolves to Thunderbird Stadium for the first of two contests beginning Friday, September 24^th at 5:30 p.m.
 
It's been nearly two years since the T-Birds have suited up for regular season action on their home pitch in front of friendly faces so Friday can't come soon enough.
 
"We're beyond excited to get to play a match back at thunderbird stadium in front of our fans and supporters," said UBC Head Coach Jesse Symons. "The players have been working extremely hard all week to be considered for selection and we look forward to having lots of players showcasing their qualities at UBC this weekend in front of their family, friends and fans".


 
Two weeks ago the 'Birds opened the season on a high note showing good habits in collecting back-to-back victories and outscoring the Thompson Rivers WolfPack 5-0 in Kamloops as fifth-year forward Danielle Steer set the tone with consecutive two-goal outings.
 
"We continue to really focus on our defending organization to really prevent teams from creating attacking opportunities," added Symons. "We are hoping with a strong mindset this weekend, we can continue our growth in this area against UNBC. We have been fortunate to have many returning players really step up over the opening two games, but also having the ability to play six first years was really positive". 
 
The Timberwolves come to town with in search of their first victory after dropping both contests to Trinity Western last weekend to see their record fall to 0-4.
 
UBC's home opening weekend will no doubt be an emotional roller coaster. Between the women's and men's games on Saturday, a special Celebration of Life will take place to honour the incredible life and legacy of former men's and women's soccer coach as well as UBC Kinesiology Professor, Dick Mosher, who passed away in April.


 
Following the women's match at 5:30 p.m. and prior to the men's game commencing at 7:30 p.m., a short program will take place in the Thunderbird Stadium stands to honour Dick's life and accomplishments
 
"I am very honoured to be a part of the celebration of Dick with the UBC and soccer community," reflected Symons. "Dick helped build both the men's and women's programs to unparalleled heights and really was a mentor for so many, not just in soccer, but the athletics and academic spheres that are so far reaching. He had a massive impact on so many that I am sure still continues today. It will be an absolute privilege that I know all the players will cherish and respect what He created for all of us".
 
Several hundred alumni, friends, supporters and family are expected to pay their respects and share memories of Mosher, one of the most accomplished figures throughout the decorated history of UBC varsity athletics. A calm and clever gentleman who is universally loved by countless men and women whose skill sets he helped develop for success both on and off the pitch.



All are welcome to attend Saturday's Celebration of Life, after which the men's team will close out the weekend doubleheader with the Timberwolves.

Kickoff for Friday night's home opener is set for 5:30 p.m. PT at Thunderbird Stadium.

Admission to both games is free, but seats must be reserved through the new online Thunderbirds ticket page.

Both games will also be streamed live on Canada West TV.