The Bisons women's soccer team added an enormous piece to their recruiting class this week, announcing the commitment of veteran centerback Elana Kressock. 

A graduate of J.H. Bruns Collegiate in Winnipeg, Kressock returns home following a storied career with the Western Mustangs, which included two OUA silver medals and two OUA bronze medals between the 2021-25 seasons. The program also won the OUA West Division Championship each year during that span.

Her roots to the local soccer community include Valour FC Elite (2018-2021) and the Bonivital Flames (2011-2021). She was also a member of Team Manitoba at the Western Canada Summer Games in 2019. A co-captain of the team, Kressock helped her province earn a silver medal. 

Academically, Kressock will be taking her Master's in Counseling Psychology at the University of Manitoba.

A model student-athlete, Kressock was named to the Dean's List every year from 2021-25, and she also earned U SPORTS Academic All-Canadian status, and was a scholarship recipient in each of those years. Additionally, in 2025, Kressock received the Therese Quigley Award, given to the most elite graduating student-athlete at King's University College, factoring in a combination of athletic excellence, academic achievement and exemplary character. 

Kressock was also on the Western University Mustang Athlete Student Council (MASC) in 2023-24, facilitating access to campus resources involving student-athlete mental health, while promoting wellness and inclusivity among student-athletes with a focus on mental health, EDI, GBVP, and Indigenous initiatives.

"We connected early in the fall when I joined the Bisons, and had great conversations over the last couple of months about the opportunity for Elana to join our program, and pursue her Master's degree here. I think she fits into our group really nicely. She's experienced and super talented, and I expect her to be an integral part of our team next season," said Bisons head coach Mark Colvin.

"What sets Elana apart is how well-rounded her game is. She'll impact a match in all phases of attack and defence, while bringing a warm, positive energy to the team. She can also slot into a few different positions on the field. We're really excited about this signing."

"My time at Western helped me grow so much as both a player and a person," added Kressock. "I'm excited for this next chapter at the University of Manitoba and to compete in front of my hometown, friends, and family as a Bison."