UBC soccer captain chosen for combine

published by asingh on Tue, 01/31/2012 - 22:14

With Major League Soccer emerging as a prominent league able to attract and retain world-class talent like Thierry Henry and David Beckham, the option of playing (and earning a living at) pro soccer in Canada or the US is no longer a pipe dream.

After a stellar Canadian university career, UBC men's captain and Abbotsford native, Jason Gill, has decided to explore the possibilities of turning pro.

The defender, who finished his university career in the fall, is one of four Canadian Interuniversity Sport players who recently participated in the United Soccer Leagues Pro Combine at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida.

The combine gives players the chance to be evaluated by USL PRO clubs, and other professional clubs such as Sweden's Malmö FF.

“I was a bit surprised at first, to be one of the four candidates and especially as a defender to be picked to represent the CIS is definitely a privilege,” said Gill.

He began training in preparation for this combine in December.

According to the USL, 19 players went on to sign professional contracts after last year's event. At this year's combine, there will be 102 players, who will be tested, observed in training and split up into teams that will play three matches.

“Jason has been an outstanding leader and role model for the UBC men's soccer program, and he is indeed deserving of the opportunity to showcase his talent as a potential player at the next level,” said Mike Mosher, head coach of the UBC men's soccer program.

The Abbotsford, B.C. native is quick to praise those who have helped him get to this point.

“The UBC program has been great,” said Gill. “I would say it's one of the best in Canada. Especially with Mike as a coach, it's helped me become a better player. The program and the players around the program and Mike as a coach, everybody has contributed and that's what's made me the player I am today.”