KAMLOOPS – Head coach
John Antulov and the Thompson Rivers WolfPack men's soccer team have made yet another big addition to their 2023 roster, with the announcement that Harry Taylor will be joining the 'Pack.
"For me, Harry is going to be a major impact player for TRU and across Canada West," said Antulov. "He has the skill set that allows him to potentially play anywhere on the park, but I think his best positions are at centre back and defensive midfield. I'm really looking forward to him joining our squad this year."
After capturing the first U SPORTS title in school history this past November, TRU was faced with the tough task of trying to replace both
Josh Banton and Jan Pirretas, two players that had starred on the backline for years with TRU. Antulov feels as though Taylor will go a long way in helping to fill that gap.
"Both Harry and
Dylan Pauw are going to be two impact players from the UK that are going to be key for us," said Antulov. "Losing Jan and Josh as two backline players, is a blow but with Harry and Dylan coming in I think they will be guys that can fill those spots and keep our backline strong."
A product of London, ENG Taylor has been playing soccer since the age of three, beginning with his local club before progressing up the ranks.
"From the first Zoom call with John I had a great feeling about TRU and Kamloops," said Taylor. "Everything seems to be done very professionally within the football – soccer – side. I feel it's a great opportunity to get back to a level of football I believe I should be playing at."
Signing for Aldershot Town FC's youth academy at the age of eight, Taylor starred in their youth setup for 10 years before making his first team debut at the age of 18. His play at Aldershot earned him a move to Charlton Athletic, a club that has spent numerous years in the top-flight of the English soccer pyramid. With over 100 appearances to his name, Taylor's experience is an added bonus for Antulov.
"His experience is massive," said Antulov. "Harry is still a young guy and has a lot of room for growth but for him to already, at such a young age, have played at such a high level it's massive for us and our program."
Describing himself as a technical player that is very aggressive and likes to be dominant in one-on-one battles, Taylor is excited to join the reigning national champions.
"I feel I'll bring a lot of leadership and experience to the 'Pack," said Taylor. "I've come here to win."
Playing an important role in Taylor making the decision to come to the TRU was Rebirth Soccer, who helps connect players from abroad with university coaches in North America. Antulov credits their work in making this possible.
"Building a relationship with Craig Tanner and James King from Rebirth Soccer was key," said Antulov. "They connected Harry with us and working with them to get Harry to come to Kamloops was massive."
As for Taylor, the chance to attend TRU and gain a post-secondary education is an exciting prospect.
I'm really looking forward to continuing my education," said Taylor. "Never thought I'd earn a degree which makes this opportunity even more exciting."
Harry Taylor
Position: Centre Back
Height: 6'1
Hometown: London, UK