Sports

AFC Toronto adds Canadian midfielder Victoria Pickett on season-long loan

AFC Toronto made a significant addition to their midfield on Friday by bringing in Canadian international Victoria Pickett on a season-long loan from the NWSL’s North Carolina Courage. The 28-year-old midfielder from Barrie, Ontario, was a finalist for NWSL Rookie of the Year in 2021 with the Kansas City Current before moving to Gotham FC in August 2022 and then to North Carolina in April 2023.

Pickett made a name for herself in the NWSL, scoring her first-ever goal for expansion team Kansas City, which helped secure their first-ever win. She continued to impress with North Carolina, scoring on her debut for the team as well.

Toronto’s sporting director, Billy Wilson, expressed his excitement about Pickett joining the team, praising her abilities in the central midfield position. He highlighted her pace, ability to break lines, and defensive prowess in one-on-one situations. Wilson also emphasized Pickett’s passion for returning to Canada and helping build both the club and the league.

Pickett herself was eager to make the move back home, citing a desire to play in her preferred central midfield role. She felt that the change in position at North Carolina was challenging for her development and growth as a player. With her contract set to expire at the end of 2025, Pickett saw the loan to Toronto as an opportunity to further her career.

The midfielder’s journey to the professional ranks began when she was selected by Kansas City in the 2021 NWSL draft after a successful collegiate career at the University of Wisconsin. Despite facing setbacks with injuries and the pandemic, Pickett persevered and found success in the NWSL.

See also  Toronto man wins world Excel spreadsheet championship

Pickett’s international experience with the Canadian national team also adds to her impressive resume, having represented her country at multiple FIFA youth tournaments. She aims to use her time in Toronto to showcase her skills and earn a spot back in the national team.

Off the field, Pickett is a mental health advocate, inspired by her late brother who battled mental illness. She hopes to work with the Canadian Mental Health Organization during her time in Toronto, supporting others and breaking the stigma surrounding mental health.

With the Northern Super League set to kick off on April 16, Pickett is ready to make an impact both on and off the field for AFC Toronto. Her addition brings experience, skill, and a strong commitment to the team’s success, making her a valuable asset to the club.

Related Articles

Leave a Reply

Back to top button