WSOC | Porteous Named Head Coach of Women's Soccer Program
After a nation-wide search, the Laurentian Voyageurs are thrilled to announce that Emily Porteous has been named the next head coach of the women's soccer program. A native of Mississauga, ON, Porteous had a very successful playing career, earning her way into the Olympic Development Program before playing two seasons in the NCAA, three seasons in U SPORTS, and earned the League 1 Female Player of the Year in 2018.
Following her playing career, Porteous turned her attention to coaching, working her way up through the club and provincial systems while also gaining post-secondary experience as an assistant coach at TMU the last three years.
For Athletic Director Peter Hellstrom, there is nothing but excitement around the hiring of Porteous. "I couldn't be happier," he commented. "Emily is someone who has been there in the university system and she understands not only what it takes to win but also what these young women are going through, both on and off the field. To have a young coach who is as calm and confident as Emily is a real rarity and the fact that we get to have her lead the women's soccer program for the foreseeable future is something that I am very excited about."
For Porteous, the chance to take the helm of a program is a dream come true. "Joining this program is an opportunity I am incredibly grateful for," she said. "Leading a university program is something I have always aspired to do, and I am excited to bring my passion, experience, and commitment to this team. The staff and players have already made me feel so welcome, and it is an honour to work with such a talented group. Together, I hope we can create an environment that challenges, supports, and empowers everyone to be their best—both on the field and as people."
The turnaround will be quick as Porteous' first official day is August 4th and training camp begins just 11 days later. But it is a challenge that Porteous is more than game for as she takes the program into its next chapter.