Algoma University Varsity Athletics is pleased to announce that Ethan Mendes and Darius Bailey have committed to the Thunderbird Men’s Soccer program for the 2021 22 season.

Ethan is from Markham, Ontario and has been playing competitive soccer for eight years most recently with the Master’s Futbol Academy. He plays in the left back position.

Ethan will be studying in the Bachelor of Science (Specialized) in Biology four-year program at Algoma U.

Head Coach of Thunderbird Men’s Soccer Sam Medaglia says: “Ethan plays left back on the back line. He sees the field extremely well and has the ability to transition from defense to offense quickly. We expect Ethan will make our back line stronger and more versatile.”

Ethan says: “For the last eight years, I have been playing competitive soccer, and the last three being with Master’s Futbol Academy in Pickering. Coming from a tight-knit soccer club, I was drawn to Algoma because it has the same cultural fit with it’s small class sizes and personalized access to professors and research opportunities giving me the best chance to be successful in my future. After speaking with Coach Sam, it is clear that he is driven to ensure that we are successful both off and on the pitch. I am looking forward to being part of a team that can compete at the highest level and challenge for the top spots.”

Darius’ hometown is Pickering, Ontario and will be graduating from Dunbarton High School. He is a member of the Master’s Futbol Academy and plays in the centre back position.

Darius will be studying in the four year Business Administration degree program at Algoma U.

Head Coach of Thunderbird Men’s Soccer Sam Medaglia says: “Darius is the type of defender who takes offense to the attackers wanting to beat him one v one. He’s quick and makes good decisions while keeping the play simple. I look forward to see him in action!”

Darius says: “I made the decision to become a thunderbird because of the coaching, facilities, and the amazing people going there. Sam is very experienced, and he seems like a coach that can bring the best out of his players. The first time speaking with him I was convinced that if I joined, we could make Algoma a team to lookout for. The school itself is smaller than most so the university experience will still be a great one. I look forward to my time in Algoma, let’s go Thunderbirds!”