OSHAWA, Ont. - Jia Leblanc has officially signed with the Durham College women's soccer program, joining the Lords as a versatile winger with a competitive edge and a love for the game.

Hailing from Cobourg, Leblanc brings both experience and energy to the roster as she begins the next step of her athletic and academic journey in Durham's Massage Therapy program.

"Jia is a tremendous athlete who brings a competitive mindset to our group," said Head Coach Bruce Cullen. "She has experience competing at a high level in multiple sports, and you can see that in the way she approaches the game. We're excited to welcome her to our program."

Leblanc's soccer path has taken her through several respected clubs in the region.

She developed her foundation with Northumberland United before moving to Oshawa Turul, where she continued to sharpen her technical skills and game awareness.

More recently, she has competed with Pickering FC, playing for their U21 team in 2023 and 2024 and contributing to a U21 Ontario Women's Soccer League (OWSL) Central Region East championship. She continues to compete with Pickering FC in the OWSL women's division.

Her high school career at St. Mary Catholic Secondary School was equally impressive. She earned MVP honours as a freshman and built a reputation as a determined, attack-minded player who thrives in big moments.

Having previously attended Ontario Tech, she already understands the demands of varsity athletics and the rhythm of the shared campus.

A multi-sport athlete, Leblanc has represented the Ridgebacks at the varsity level in hockey, lacrosse and curling.

She has spent recent off-seasons playing alongside several current DC women's players with Pickering FC.

"I play with a lot of the DC women's players in the summer and I love the atmosphere that they bring," said Leblanc. "It is also an easy transition from Ontario Tech because I have navigated the same campus for years. In the end, I just love soccer and want to play competitively in college while I complete my program."

Her competitive spirit extends beyond the pitch. Leblanc has also been recognized as an RBC Training Ground Top 100 finalist for skeleton, reflecting her broader athleticism and drive to compete at the highest level. As she puts it: "Pressure is a privilege."

Standing 5-foot-10, Leblanc combines size, pace and creativity on the left wing. Her experience across multiple sports has shaped her into a well-rounded competitor with strong instincts and a team-first mentality.

Leblanc joins a Lords program known for its strong culture and high expectations, and she is eager to contribute both on and off the pitch as she pursues her academic goals.

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