University of Manitoba Athletics

Reliability and consistency would definitely describe Jessie Harland’s performance at the heart of the Bison’s defense last season. The center back played all 13 matches for The Herd – only two of which she was unable to complete the full 90 minutes. Chances are, the product of the former Manitoba NDC (National Development Centre) program and the WSA North Stars has solidified her status as a top choice for center back ahead of the upcoming season.
Harland uses a very direct style of defending, both as an opponent and as a teammate.
“When I see an attacker running at me with the ball, all I can think about is not letting them get past me,” said Harland. “One-on-one defending is definitely one of my strengths, so I can think about is how I can win the ball back or at least ruin their attack.”
Commutation is an important aspect of playing a defensive role, something which Harland is able to fully provide on the pitch.
“As a center back it’s very important that I’m a vocal player since I can see the entire field,” said Harland. “I’m able to tell people what I can see from the back and direct them around.”
The native of Morden, MB now enters her third season of eligibility while simultaneously planning on going into nursing for the upcoming school year.