University of Manitoba Athletics

The Bisons women’s soccer team has always had its fair share of familial connections. That could not be more true for wide midfielder Mackie Burdeny. Influenced by her sister Haydn – a defender in her fourth year  – and the team’s personnel and performances, the younger Burdeny linked up with the Bisons for her first season in 2018. 

“From watching the Bisons and witnessing their strength and drive as a team in addition to being introduced to the excellent coaching staff, I was encouraged to strive to become a Bison like my sister,” she said.

Burdeny joined the Manitoba Bisons having played youth soccer with the Manitoba Blizzard. One of the most elite girls’ soccer programs in the province, the Blizzard gave Burdeny the opportunity to attend various camps in the NCAA – a potential destination for athletes to continue their academy journey. However, Burdeny knew she wanted to stay home to continue with the sport she had been playing for a lifeline. 

“I began playing soccer when I was four and always had a love for the game and a desire to improve myself as a player.”

"I knew that I wanted to play soccer for a long time at the highest level I could.”

Occupying the flanks, Burdeny’s game is built along speed. Her mindset is composed of the defensive and attacking side of the ball, something she showed last year, playing in all 14 games while starting ten and also contributing two assists.

“I believe it's important to come back to defend and recover the ball as quickly as possible and provide a strong cross to my teammates if the shot is unavailable.”