WSOC: German Goalkeeper Johanna Rathke Commits to UNBC

Prince George, B.C. – The UNBC Timberwolves Women's Soccer programming has made a major addition to their roster ahead of the 2025 Canada West season. Head coach Neil Sedgwick announced today that German-born goalkeeper Johanna Rathke (Bremen, GER) has committed to the Green and Gold.

The talented keeper checks in at 5'11" and joins UNBC after playing last season with TSV Jahn Calden – A third league team that competed in the Southern region of Germany. She's headed West to Canada to complete her Masters in Biochemistry, all while playing elite soccer at the highest university level in Canada.

I think I can bring experience to the team," shared Rathke who has been playing soccer since the age of 10. "For college soccer I'm an older player and from a soccer skills side, I'm not afraid. I hope that I can help this team."

In previous years, Rathke rotated between leagues and cities, but highlights included: two regional championships in Bremen, and a trip to the second round in the national DFB Pokal against Mainz 05 which took place in Bruchweg Stadium.

"We are excited about Johanna joining us," added Neil Segwick. "She brings a great deal of experience in the goal and has already fit in well with the team. As a graduate student, Johanna brings maturity and a calmness.  We are delighted that she has become a Timberwolf."

Rathke's initial dealings with Coach Sedgwick and her teammates have all been positive.

"Neil seems to be really passionate about what he's doing," observed Rathke. "He gives you good feelings as a new player. I feel very welcomed by him and the entire team, even if I'm from another continent."

Academically, Rathke is as driven as they come. She's received both Deutschlandstipendium and the Niedersachsenstipendium scholarships during her bachelor and also captured a poster prize for presenting her bachelor thesis at the (international) conference 76th Mosbacher Kolloquium. Additionally, she's a proud member of the Hans Rigel Foundation thanks to her project work in Biology. She's competed nationally in Biology Olympiads.

As the August 22nd home opener draws closer, Rathke and her teammates are hard at work getting ready for what promises to be an exciting season for the UNBC Women, and Rathke's addition figures to play a big part in any success that is to come.

"Playing as a team, fighting together and making memories on the field and next to it, is amazing! I enjoy soccer because it provides balance and a break from academics and studying," concluded Rathke.

UNBC Athletics is thrilled to welcome Johanna Rathke to the UNBC Timberwolves family.