Irrinki Chooses REDS
(FREDERICTON, NB) One of the most sought-after women’s soccer recruits in the eastern Canada won’t be straying too far from home.
Centre back Danielle Irrinki has signed a U SPORTS Letter of Intent and will join the UNB REDS women’s soccer team ahead of the 2022-2023 Atlantic University Sport season.
“Being from Fredericton, I’ve grown up playing with several of the women in the REDS program and I feel they have a strong group of players,” said Irrinki. “I’m looking forward to playing in front of friends and family at UNB.”
The 17-year-old, finishing her Grade 12 year at Fredericton High School, helped the Black Kats varsity boys’ team to a provincial championship in 2021, earning the team’s Unsung Hero Award.
She’s a veteran member of the Fredericton District Soccer Association’s Premiership program, having represented the FDSA at the U17, U15, U13 and U11 levels.
Irrinki has also been part of Soccer New Brunswick programs at the U18, U17 and U16 levels, and has participated in the REDS University Prep Program for several years.
A multi-sport athlete, Irrinki has been a member of Fredericton High’s girls’ badminton and rugby teams.
“We’re really pleased to have Danielle join us,” said Jon Crossland, the REDS head coach. “We’re very familiar with her and have seen her develop into one of the top performers in the province. Danielle has always looked for a challenging environment and has consistently performed well in them.”
“She’ll be a quality AUS defender that will be tough to play against as she enjoys winning her one-on-one battles and contributing to her unit at the back,” said Crossland. “She’s been looked at as a leader on her previous teams and those skills will serve our program well for the next four or five years.”
“My strengths include being a strong physical presence on the field,” said Irrinki. “I’ll also bring good energy and positive leadership qualities to the team.”
Irrinki, who chose UNB over several other options, joins her older brother in the REDS’ soccer ranks.
Ethan Irrinki, who made his AUS debut in 2021, is entering his third season with the REDS men’s soccer team.
“It’s always great to have a local player come into our program,” said Coach Crossland. “Danielle has had the ambition to play university soccer, and the fact she chose UNB shows that she believes in the direction and opportunity here, for herself and our team. She’ll help inspire the next generation of Fredericton players, just as so many FDSA grads and alum have done before her.”
Among her short-term goals, Irrinki wants to earn playing time in her first season and improve all aspects of her game. Long-term, she wants to contribute to the REDS winning an AUS title and competing for a national championship.
Irrinki will pursue a Bachelor of Recreation and Sport Studies degree while attending UNB.
PHOTO: Andy Campbell/UNB Athletics