Reds Add Second Jr. Sabre To Class Of 2020

(FREDERICTON, NB) The UNB Reds women’s hockey team is adding forward Marisa Valla to their recruiting class of 2020.

The winger has signed a U SPORTS Letter of Intent and will join the Reds ahead of the 2020-21 Atlantic University Sport season.

Valla is finishing her Grade 12 year at Holy Cross Secondary Catholic School, in her hometown of St. Catharines, Ontario.

“She’ll bring a compete-level and tenaciousness that will frustrate opponents,” said Reds head coach Sarah Hilworth. “That should bring up the level of competition in practice too.”

Valla scored two goals and seven assists in 38 regular season games with the Stoney Creek Jr. Sabres, of Ontario’s Provincial Women’s Hockey League. She added two goals in four playoff games before the PWHL post-season was suspended.

“I chose UNB because of the countless opportunities it can provide me as a student and as an athlete,” said Valla. “UNB has an amazing hockey program that enables me to continue developing my on-ice and off-ice skills.”

Valla was a key component of Stoney Creek’s run to the bronze medal at the 2019 Esso Cup, the national U18 women’s hockey championship tournament.

“I’m thrilled to be part of the Reds this coming season, and cannot wait to see what’s in store,” she said.

Valla is the second member of the Jr. Sabres to commit to the Reds ahead of the 2020-21 season, joining defender Emma Giordano.

“Marisa wants to make an impact in our community,” said Hilworth. “She’s excited to work with young female athletes in Fredericton, so we know she’s going to be a great fit.”

Valla will study Psychology while attending UNB.

PHOTO: Robyn Waskiw Photography