Creative Ottawa forward Mercure joins former Whitecaps teammate Milambo on Griffins
Jefferson Hagen, MacEwan Athletics
EDMONTON – Continuing a mission to address offensive production, Griffins head coach Adam Loga announced Tuesday that creative and versatile forward/midfielder Jaeden Mercure has committed to MacEwan for the 2021 Canada West men's soccer campaign.
The Ottawa native joins former Vancouver Whitecaps Academy teammate and friend Issac Milambo as key members of MacEwan's 2021 recruiting class.
"Issac signing before definitely helped," said Loga. "They know each other, they're friends and I'm sure they're looking forward to reuniting on the pitch.
"Jaeden was spoken of very highly," he added. "Over the last couple months we've connected really well and built a pretty good relationship. This is a place he wanted to be and a program he wanted to play for. We're really stoked to have him."
Like Milambo, Mercure brings creativity, bravery and an ability to put pressure on opposing defenders.
"He's very creative," said Loga. "He's a crafty player. He likes to get in behind the back line using his pace, which will be valued tremendously on our side.
"He gets behind defenders and shows the willingness and bravery to take guys on 1 v 1, which is something we've lacked in the attacking third in the past."
Vancouver Whitecaps Academy product Jaeden Mercure brings a strong ability to challenge opposing defenders and create offensive opportunities (Bob Frid/Vancouver Whitecaps FC).
The product of Ottawa South United and St. Mark high school – where he was named 2016 soccer MVP and athlete of the year as a multi-sport athlete in soccer, football and basketball – also brings versatility. He can fit into any of the Griffins' forward spots, but can also play attacking midfielder.
"His athleticism lends itself to many spots," said Loga. "He can play in the 7, the 9, even the 10, which will be awesome for us. Signing Jakob (Sievert) earlier, we needed some help (in the attacking mid positions) so Stefan Gajic and Michael Enes stay fresh.
"So, Jaeden will give us different looks and will help us with our lack of scoring, which we know we needed to address."
A member of the Vancouver Whitecaps Academy program in 2017-18, Mercure helped them win a league title. Loga notes that experience will benefit the Griffins twofold.
"As a person, he's been away since a young age in Vancouver with the Whitecaps, so that transition moving away from home shouldn't be an issue," he said. "When you're on your own you're forced to grow up a little faster, so he brings maturity to the team and to the room.
"Also, he's had experience at the highest level with the Whitecaps. Being in a professional environment and being groomed that way for the last few years will be contagious in and around the pitch."
