University of Manitoba Athletics

Scoring a first goal in U SPORTS is a moment to remember, however not much comes on a bigger occasion than Hailey Lavarias’ tally against the Victoria Vikes.

In a crucial final match of the season hosting the University of Victoria, Lavarias struck at the 39th minute in an eventual 2-0 win to secure the Manitoba Bisons a trip to the CanWest playoffs.

“One of my fondest moments of my first year was during our last game of the season at home against the University of Victoria Vikes, when I scored my first U SPORTS goal of my career," said Lavarias.

Not only was her first Bison’s goal an important moment in her soccer career, but breaking through the first team and playing her first home game became a testament to her commitment to the Bisons in May 2016. 

“One of the moments I realized the Bison women’s soccer program was the right decision for me was the first time I got to play in front of our home crowd in front of my friends and family.  The team was also very welcoming from the start and I think we’ve grown closer as the season and year went on.” 

As a member of FC Northwest, the midfielder captained the team in 2012 and 2014, while representing Team Manitoba at club nationals for three consecutive seasons beginning in 2013.

Perhaps Lavarias’ most impressive track feat is her track record for clinching city championships. She won five successive city championships from 2007 to 2011 and added two more for good measure in 2013 and 2014.

As a second-year player in 2017-2018, Lavarias entered the soccer program’s record books, becoming the first player in Bisons history to score four goals in a single match. 

“My 2017-18 performance was the best season I’ve had as a Bison, and might be one of the biggest I will have in my career as a Bison as well," she said. 

“Because of that game I also got national recognition when being selected as the U SPORTS Female Athlete of the Week.”

Undoubtedly, there is more to come from Lavarias and the Bisons as she looks onward to the 2019 campaign. 

"Some aspects that I am looking to improve on in the 2019 season is to increase the number of points I’ve gotten in previous years in terms of goals and assists.  With that being said, my focus this year is to be a more effective goal scorer."