The St. Thomas University Tommies men's soccer team has added its final recruit for the upcoming season.

Avery Stokes, of Quispamsis, NB, is the last addition to the Tommies squad that's brought in six new faces—and skill sets—during the off-season.

Tommies head coach John-Ryan Morrison had been recruiting Stokes for quite a while, so he was thrilled when the Kennebecasis Valley High School grad committed.

"We've been after Avery for quite some time and he already had offers from other schools before we got a chance to sit down with him. Once we were able to outline our vision for the men's soccer program going forward, it didn't take long until he was ready to commit," he said.

"These are exciting times for the Tommies, and I think he recognized that and wants to help lead us to becoming one of the top soccer programs in the country."

Stokes said there were a number of reasons he chose St. Thomas, including the quality of education he will receive.

"I know I will get a great education to better my future, and to play soccer while getting this education makes it even better. I'm excited to become a part of this great team," he said.

Morrison believes Stokes's skill with the ball, the quality of his crosses, and his ability to finish make him a strong addition to the young Tommies team. He also brings two years of Senior A soccer experience under the guidance of Fundy Soccer Association coach Jay Brown.

"Jay and Fundy have been doing things right in terms of player development for a number of years.  Avery is certainly proof of that success," Morrison said.

A creative winger, Stokes hopes his hard work, determination, and leadership will benefit the team as they work toward an Atlantic Collegiate Athletic Association title.

"If we can all work together as a team and support each other, success will follow," he said. "I want to become a leader for this team and push my teammates to be the best they can be."

The ACAA soccer season begins September 10, when the Tommies travel to Halifax to take on the University of King's College Blue Devils.