Kodiaks men’s soccer signs standout player Tosin Akinola

The Lethbridge Polytechnic Kodiaks men’s soccer team has signed Tosin Akinola to its roster for the upcoming 2024 season.

Akinola is originally from Lagos, Nigeria where he attended Olive Metropolitan College before moving to Lethbridge. He has enrolled in Lethbridge Polytechnic’s Business Administration – Accounting program.

He was awarded best playmaker for his high school as well as best player in futsal. His friend and Kodiaks team member Wilson Ntignee encouraged Akinola to come to the talent identification camp put on by the men’s soccer team. From there, he was invited back to open session with the team and then an official spot.

“My friends in the Kodiaks told me about the team and how each person puts in their best effort to win games and tournaments,” says Akinola. “I decided that I wanted to be a part of that.”

The Kodiaks men have lost a handful of players from last year. The coaching staff was in search for an extra centre-back. Although Akinola’s original position was centre-midfield, he’s been able to adapt into the new role.

“He came out for a tryout and we absolutely love his game,” says Kodiaks head coach Sean Carey. “He’s a physical, big centre-back and has some pace with him.”

The coaching staff is excited to see how Akinola develops in their program. They believe once he gets more settled with the team, his voice will come along with it.

The Kodiaks men’s team looks to improve upon last year’s season record of 4-4-2 and to have a deeper run in championships. Signing players like Akinola is just one more step toward their goals for this season.

The Kodiaks first games are away at 2 p.m. Sept. 7 versus the Ambrose University Lions. The following day, Sept. 8, they play their home opener against the SAIT Trojans kicking off at 2 p.m. at the Servus Centre Outdoor Field. The Kodiaks women play SAIT at noon.

Kodiaks coaches actively recruit high school athletes around Alberta and neighbouring provinces. If one of our coaches hasn’t spoken to you yet, don’t worry. Simply fill out the form (https://gokodiaks.ca/recruitment) and they would be pleased to learn more about you.