UNBC keeper sets new standard

PRINCE GEORGE-UNBC Timberwolves goalkeeper Johanna Rathke entered this season as one of the most accomplished players in Canada West—and she’s proving once again why she’s the backbone of the program. Last year, Rathke never left the pitch, playing all 1,260 minutes of the season while setting a UNBC and Canada West record with 161 saves, a performance that earned her UNBC Female Athlete of the Year and Women’s Soccer MVP honors. Now, with a full conference season behind her, she says she’s stronger, smarter, and more connected than ever.

Rathke believes her growth starts with familiarity. “I know Canada West way better,” she said. “It’s easier to estimate what’s coming towards me… and I also know my team better. This year we’ve built on our abilities from last year.” That deeper understanding has translated into confidence—not just in herself, but in the group around her. “It looks way stronger than last year… but it’s mainly built on people who have my back.”

For Rathke, that trust is everything. “If my coaching staff and my team would not stand behind me, I would not have that. They know what they have with me, and I know what I have with them, so I can play freely and confident.” Her teammates feel the same. Midfielder Anna Thorsteinson says Rathke’s presence changes the entire back line. “It just means trust… she’s strong in the air, she’s good on the ground, she communicates, and she always has our back.” She adds that knowing Rathke is behind them gives players the freedom to recover from mistakes and play with conviction.