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UNBC Timberwolves men's soccer adds national champion through transfer

Hussein Behery is making the move from Vancouver Island
Jess Balzer
Jess Balzer
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(via UNBC Athletics)

It's a phrase that doesn't seem to be getting old this offseason: the University of Northern B.C. (UNBC) continue to bolster their men's soccer roster.

The Timberwolves have announced the arrival of Hussein Behery from the Vancouver Island University (VIU) Mariners. 

He played three seasons at VIU; during his 2017 season, the squad claimed the CCAA Championship, but the chance to play U-SPORTS soccer with the Timberwolves was something he couldn't pass up. 

“Some people may think it’s crazy that I want to pursue soccer after, but that is what I want," Behery says in a release. "It is what I have been dreaming of since I was a kid. Coming to UNBC, I know I am going to improve a lot. I am going to work on my weaknesses. I know Steve is going to put lots of effort into helping me. If I am going to pursue soccer afterwards, UNBC is a good spot for me. It’s a great fit.”

The experienced attacking midfielder/winger paid two visits to UNBC before deciding to transfer. 

The 23-year-old Cairo, Egypt product toured facilities and especially enjoyed the inside gym and training opportunity who also points to the team environment as a deciding factor. 

“It is unreal. I like the indoor facilities. I like to train indoors," he says. "The gym, the changeroom, all that stuff is big for me. I like it. The facilities are very nice. The program that Steve has is all about helping his players improve. It is a huge thing. Everyone is close, everyone is positive. They are all tight, and you can tell from the vibes.”

A total of 10 players graduated from UNBC this past year and head coach Steve Simonson knew right away Behery was someone he needed on the squad. 

“Hussein is a Tremendous dribbler and has a terrific attacking ability," Simonson says in the release. "He fits our attacking needs really well, and has a chance to really contribute here. He gelled seamlessly with our team during his visit to UNBC, and his experience in the PacWest will really help him step in and make a significant impact at U SPORTS level.”

Behery finished second in scoring at VIU, tallying three goals during the 2018-19 season. 

“Teams in the PacWest, there are some very good players," he says. "We had a very good team, winning Nationals. We hosted the Nationals in Nanaimo, and there was probably 1000 people there. It was a great experience. One of the best experiences of my life, by far.”

Behery is working towards a Bachelor Degree in Tourism Management while majoring in Recreation Sport Management.

He'll join the team in July for 2019-20 training camp.