Vanessa Pietramala Named 2023 CCAA Women's Soccer Player of the Year

Vanessa Pietramala, representing the Concordia University of Edmonton (CUE) Thunder, has claimed the top spot as the 2023 Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) Women's Soccer Player of the Year. Pietramala's remarkable performance also secured her a well-deserved spot among the 2023 CCAA Women's Soccer All-Canadians, a distinction shared with 13 other exceptional student-athletes.

Her extraordinary contributions were pivotal in CUE's exceptional 11-0-1 season, during which her team notched up 65 goals and registered 11 shutouts in just 12 matches. Tallying 25 points, Pietramala's precision and strategic gameplay were integral in every match, including her notable achievement of two game-winning goals. 

Marlene Ford, CCAA Women's Soccer Convenor, praised Vanessa for her leadership on and off the field, where she served as a role model for her teammates with her confidence and maturity. As a highly skilled midfielder, playmaker, and goal scorer, Pietramala played a vital role in her team's success in a highly competitive conference.

Recognized as the 2023-24 ACAC Women's Soccer North Player of the Year, Vanessa Pietramala's leadership extends beyond the field. Her deep passion for the sport, profound understanding of the game, and keen ability to analyze plays have significantly contributed to her growth with the Thunder and the team's overall confidence and abilities. She is currently in her third year of the Bachelor of Education program, here at CUE. 

Nathaniel MacLellan, CUE Director of Athletics & Recreation, expressed his admiration for Vanessa's exceptional dedication and skill on the field, emphasizing her instrumental role as a midfielder in the team's victories.

Among the notable nominees for the CCAA Women's Soccer Player of the Year award were Saki Meshida (VIU Mariners), Paige Heide (Providence Pilots), Shanice Alfred (Seneca Sting), Amelia Bouchard (Élans de Garneau), and Emily Lepine (Holland Hurricanes).