University of Manitoba Athletics

Despite her rookie status in 2015, Alanna Shaw’s forte had already began to emerge. The striker managed two goals in the first six matches of the campaign, both scored in comeback efforts which saw the Bisons maintain a record over 0.500. She especially stood out at Grant MacEwan, scoring a goal and providing an assist which the Bisons came back from 2-0 down to finish 2-2.

Despite the competitiveness that comes with being a striker, what’s going through Shaw’s head is rather simple.

“During big moments in the game I tell myself that the team is working so hard to provide me with opportunities and it is up to me to finish their work by putting the ball in the net," said Shaw. “I bring a hard-working attitude and passion for soccer to my position.”

She finished the year with three goals and three assists. Her outstanding season led to Rookie of the Year recognition at the Bison Women’s Soccer Awards Dinner in 2015.

The 2018-2019 season will be a definition season for Shaw as she makes a return to the Bisons squad from injury. Despite her time on the sideline, the forward served as assistant captain to support the team off-the field last season as the Bisons played and hosted the 2017 U SPORTS National Championships for the first time in program’s history.

“My role on the team was to support our players. Hosting the national championship was a great experience and seeing our team win our first ever national championship game was unforgettable.”

Shaw draws motivation from overcoming her injury as she looks toward the upcoming season with great optimism, and with good reason.

“My biggest accomplishment so far has been to overcome a serious knee injury and use that experience to become a better player and leader," she said. “My goal for this season is to make my last season with the Bisons my best yet.”

2015: Recruited out of FC Northwest. Played and started in all 14 games as a freshman, registering three goals and three assists. 

2016: Played and started in all 14 regular season games for a second consecutive year. Recorded a goal and an assist, with seven shots on net. 

2017: Redshirt season. Took home the Spirit Award, which is given to the player whose behavior and unselfish attitude was most inspirational to the Bison women's soccer team as a whole by vote of her teammates.

Personal: Enrolled in the Faculty of Agriculture and Food Science. Despite her injury, was an assistant captain last year and is also a two-time Academic All-Canadian.