Pears brings intensity and versatility to Acadia backline

The Axemen soccer program has added defensive versatility with the commitment of Ottawa, Ont., native Cooper Pears for the upcoming Atlantic University Sport season.

Pears, a 5'8 fullback who can also play wingback and centre back, joins the Axemen after developing through the Ottawa South United system. He plans to study business administration at Acadia.

Pears most recently competed with Ottawa South United in the Ligue1 Québec U19 reserve division, where he helped the team capture a league championship. Prior to that, he played in the Ontario Player Development League, helping his U17 squad secure a championship and post a strong second-half record of seven wins, two draws and no losses in the Premier division.

At the high school level, Pears attended John McCrae Secondary School, where he previously served as team captain, demonstrating leadership both on and off the field.

Known for his defensive reliability and ability to contribute in attack, Pears is effective in wide areas. He combines strong defensive positioning with the ability to push forward and deliver accurate crosses into dangerous areas.

Axemen head coach Matt Holton said Pears’ competitiveness and intensity will be valuable additions to the program.

“I am excited to bring Cooper into the Axemen program,” said Holton. “He comes from a great environment at OSU and is a warrior on the pitch. He brings an intensity that will increase the standards within the training environment, and continue to push the program in the right direction.”

Pears said committing to Acadia is the realization of a long-term goal.

“Playing at the university level has always been something that I hoped would be possible since I was young,” he said. “After exploring Acadia’s business program and having the opportunity to visit campus and train with the team, I knew it was the right choice. I can’t describe how excited I am to become an Axeman and continue to develop at Acadia.”