Edge Wing Commits To REDS
(FREDERICTON, NB) The UNB REDS have added one of the biggest pieces of their 2022 recruiting puzzle, securing a commitment from heralded wing Leah Travers.
The 17-year-old Calgary native has signed a U SPORTS Letter of Intent, and will join the REDS ahead of the 2022-2023 Atlantic University Sport season.
“We’re very excited that Leah has chosen UNB over a number of other options in both Canada and the United States,” said REDS head coach Jeff Speedy. “She will play immediately and will have a positive impact on the court from day one.”
The 6’0” Travers is finishing her Grade 12 year at the prestigious Edge Prep School, in Calgary.
With the Mountaineers, Travers has been a leader on and off the court, as the team competed at some of the most high-profile high school basketball tournaments in North America.
Travers was also recently named to Alberta’s U18 provincial team that will compete at the 2022 Canada Summer Games, this August in Niagara Falls.
“One of the main reasons I chose UNB was the family feel,” said Travers. “On my official visit, I really felt at home. The girls were so welcoming and the coaches made my experience special. Even after my visit, the girls and coaches kept checking in which really made me feel part of the family.”
Known for her strong perimeter game and ability to rebound the ball, Travers is expected to make an immediate impact for the REDS at both ends of the court.
“Leah is a dedicated athlete who brings fierce passion and intensity every time she steps on the floor,” said Elyse Hnatiuk, head coach of Travers’ Edge team. “She can stretch the floor out and shoot the three ball, attack and finish at the rim strong, and will battle inside on the boards. Look for Leah to be a strong contender for AUS Rookie of the Year next season.”
Travers is eager to move east and begin her time as a RED.
“I love the way the REDS play the game,” she said. “Every time I watch them play there is never any selfish takes and they always play with pace. I think I’ll help the team with my versatility. Offensively I can stretch the defence, playing in and out, and defensively I can guard multiple positions. Hopefully I can help the team and, in the end, walk away from my UNB career as an AUS champion.”
“Leah is a skilled player and a driven student-athlete,” said Coach Speedy. “She also cares about her teammates and is already a vocal leader, something that we loved about her from the first time we saw her play. She’ll fit with our REDS family. We can’t wait to get her on campus and get to work”
Travers will study Kinesiology or Criminology and Education while attending UNB.
PHOTOS: UNB Athletics