Axewomen soccer add New Brunswick defender Payten Gosselin for 2026 season

The Acadia Axewomen soccer program has added another Canada Games–experienced recruit with the commitment of Fredericton defender Payten Gosselin for the 2026 Atlantic University Sport (AUS) season.

Standing 5'5, Gosselin joins Acadia after three years in the New Brunswick High Performance Soccer Academy, where she developed as a composed, reliable defender capable of playing roles in the back line or midfield. In 2025, she represented Team New Brunswick at the Canada Games in St. John’s, adding high-pressure competition experience against the nation’s top youth players.

At the club level, Gosselin has played with the Fredericton District Soccer Association, earning opportunities to compete at three national championships. Her steady defensive presence, work rate, and ability to defend with both grit and control have made her a key player in New Brunswick’s provincial pathway.

Gosselin said Acadia’s community atmosphere and team environment were major factors in her decision.

“I chose Acadia University because of the close community around the campus and the soccer team,” she said. “Being on a reputable team and being able to grow as a player while hopefully becoming a strong asset to the program is something I’m really looking forward to. Going into kinesiology is something I’ve always wanted, and Acadia has great academics for this.”

Head coach Danielle Cyr said Gosselin’s competitive background and maturity stood out throughout the recruiting process.

“Payten is a driven and versatile player whose experience in the NB high-performance program has shaped her into a confident competitor,” said Cyr. “With Canada Games experience and three nationals under her belt, she brings maturity, resilience, and a strong desire to grow. Payten has an excellent defensive presence, playing with grit while maintaining composure and impact in possession. We’re thrilled to welcome Payten to our Axewomen family.”

Gosselin will pursue a Bachelor of Kinesiology at Acadia.

She becomes the latest addition to a 2026 recruiting class featuring players with provincial, national, and multi-sport backgrounds as Acadia continues to build toward future AUS contention.