Boissevain’s Harper commits to Bobcats
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Russell Harper didn’t see an abundance of opportunities for him as a soccer player growing up in Boissevain.
He knew he’d have to do something to grow his game beyond brief high school seasons, so he tried out for and made the Westman FC squad three years ago, and has parlayed that experience into an offer to join the Brandon University Bobcats for the 2026 Manitoba Colleges Athletic Conference season.
“I can’t wait to get training in pre-season and start the season with them,” said Harper, who got to scrimmage against the Bobcats with Westman FC.
Boissevain’s Russell Harper has committed to the Brandon University men’s soccer team for the 2026 season. (Submitted)
“It was a little scary at the start, I can’t lie, but sometimes you’ve just got to power through it.
“It’s obviously a lot harder, but most of it is a confidence thing. It’s harder to keep up with people that are a lot more athletic than you. Sometimes you have to change your way of play but it was definitely a good experience.”
Harper may not have known just how valuable those games were at the time. They were opportunities to showcase skills to the BU coaching staff, and he caught their attention.
The centre-back attended a Bobcats ID camp last fall and coach Diego Rodriguez Jr. has been following his development since then.
“He’s a player that’s definitely dedicated and passionate for the game. He shows good responsibility, not just on the field but outside the field too,” Rodriguez Jr. said.
“Very good athleticism, very good physicality, we’ve been tracking him for the last few months and he has shown some really good progress.”
Harper has certainly been on a strong trajectory. Two years ago, he received his Westman FC team’s most improved award, and last year earned the “heart of the team” award.
He’s joining the BU program at an opportune time, as five-year starting centre-back and captain Nathan Chubaty is moving on, vacating some major minutes at one of the most vital positions on the pitch.
Harper has grown used to the responsibility of the position, knowing his errors can completely change a match.
“The main thing for me is to keep my composure, especially playing at the back, you can get lots of criticism if you make mistakes,” Harper said.
“I really like to run. When someone passes a long ball, I like to be the one that steps in front, takes charge and regains possession.
“I love playing out from the back, too.”
Harper is planning to study physical education and complete his master’s in physiotherapy afterwards, like his new coach did a couple of years ago.
The Bobcats, who lost the league final last year before capturing the MCAC futsal crown, are looking to return to Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association nationals in Edmonton on Nov. 11-14.
» tfriesen@brandonsun.com