By Drew Wilson

P.A. pair patrol the U of S Huskies defence

Sep 19, 2014 | 6:55 AM

Prince Albert Celtic graduates Meagan Manson and Erica Parenteau are mainstays on the University of Saskatchewan women’s soccer team. The determined defenders are one reason the Huskies are unbeaten through four games (3-0-1).

Manson, a third-year student in the Edwards School of Business, is also team captain and shows it on the field. She is constantly directing traffic from her spot in the middle of the three-player back line.

The daughter of former Prince Albert Raider and NHL defenceman Dave Manson said her dad has inspired her on the field and in the classroom. Despite coming to the Huskies as a graduate of the Celtics program and and MVP in her final season of high school soccer, Manson said her first step on to the university soccer pitch was a huge step up in competition.

“It was a big adjustment,” said Manson. “The game is much quicker, there is so much more excitement because you are playing at this level. You just want to play great every game, you push yourself.”

While Manson started in all 13 games as a rookie recording one assist, Prince Albert’s Erica Parenteau also had one assist while starting in all 14 games the season before in 2011-12. She said the Celtics program helped get her ready for the game at the university level.

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“It helped a lot actually, really good coaches and a really great program back in P.A., so that definitely helped me get where I am today.”

Both face the challenge of excelling on the field while dealing with a demanding curriculum in the classroom. Manson said it’s very manageable.

“It’s time management, after practice you go do homework. They (coaches) are pretty good for practice times where you can have your school before, go right to practice, go home, eat and do homework.”

Parenteau who is a fourth-year student in the Edwards School of Business said remaining focused on multi-tasking is a must for student athletes.

“You have to balance all the demands of school with making sure you are playing well and practicing well too at the same time.”

Parenteau has found that balance scoring three goals and three assists in 13 games last season while playing on Manson’s left flank.

Parenteau feels the U of S was the right choice athletically and academically.

“I’m really happy that I chose to come here,” said Parenteau. “It’s a great school, great team, great coaches. I’m just happy with my decision to come here overall.”

As for Meagan, playing close to home is a tremendous benefit to her and the Manson family.

“It’s great, I love it so much. My family comes to most of my home games and they love to cheer me on and watch us.”

Manson and Parenteau will be patrolling the back line this weekend for games Saturday and Sunday at the University of Calgary.

dwilson@panow.com

On Twitter: @RaidersVoice