July 16, 2018

Laura Younker

CHARLOTTETOWN – A longtime staple of the Holland Hurricanes women’s soccer program is coming home.

Laura Younker, who played for the Hurricanes from 2012-13 through 2014-15, will return to Holland College this fall as an apprentice in the CCAA Female Apprentice Coach Program (FACP).

The Charlottetown native is thrilled about returning to Holland College.

“I had so many mentors that played such an important role during my time at Holland College in all aspects – athletics, in the classroom and throughout the student body,” she said. “To be able to come and give my time in a coaching role, I hope to be able to provide the support and guidance to the girls just like many did for me.”

A co-captain for two of her three seasons, Younker enjoyed great success as a Hurricane, winning an ACAA championship in 2013-14 and competing in two CCAA women’s soccer national championships, including the 2012 championship hosted by Holland College at the Terry Fox Complex.

Her success carried over to the campus, as she was a three-time recipient of the CCAA National Scholar Award, as well as having the highest average of any Holland College female student-athlete in 2013-14.

She was also active in the Holland College community, serving as vice-president of the Holland College Student Union in 2013-14, the same year she received the BellAliant Achievement Award (now known as the Citizenship Award) for demonstrating outstanding athletic ability, academic excellence, and qualities of leadership, citizenship and community involvement.

Hurricanes head coach Kris McKinnon, an assistant coach for Younker in 2012-13 before assuming head coaching duties the following season, will serve as Younker’s mentor on the sideline this season.

“Laura was a dedicated student athlete who excelled in the classroom and on the field,” he said. “She has played five years in the ACAA and understands the demands on athletes.

“Laura’s impact on our program as a coach will be invaluable. She is a proven winner who will demand the best from each student-athlete.”

Younker, who later finished her career at Mount St. Vincent University, is one of 12 participants in this year’s FACP program, and the only one to come from an ACAA institution. All FACP participants will be monitored throughout the season via progress reports.

“I think this program is a great stepping stone for women who are looking to stay involved with the sport they love,” she said of the FACP initiative. “It’s a chance to get exposed to a coaching role while having your mentor coach there with you to lean on for direction and support.”

Younker appreciates the opportunity to return to Holland College and give back to the game.

“This means the world to me,” she said. “For someone who played in the ACAA for five seasons, I am very grateful to come back and be involved again.”

The women’s soccer Hurricanes open their regular season against the Dalhousie Agricultural College Rams on Saturday, September 8.

To connect with the women’s soccer Hurricanes, visit www.twitter.com/caneswsoccer.

For more information on the Holland Hurricanes please visit www.hollandcollege.com/athletics, www.facebook.com/hollandhurricanes, www.twitter.com/hc_hurricanes and www.instagram.com/hollandhurricanes.

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Story written by:

Geordie Carragher
Assistant Communications Coordinator
Department of Athletics and Recreation
Holland College