Jason Hartill: Rookie on the Rise for AUS Championship

Originally from Carleton Place Ontario, Capers Men’s Soccer rookie, Jason Hartill, is ready to make his mark on the Island at this year’s AUS Championship. A dedicated centre midfielder, Jason knew CBU was the right choice for him after speaking to Head Coach, Deano Morley, about the Capers program.

“The Capers program has built such a professional environment throughout the years and the winning culture they’ve maintained is impressive,” says Jason. “After talking to Coach Deano about the school and program’s history and witnessing how they’re constantly able to produce successful players, I knew it was the right choice.”

In addition to his hard work on the field, Jason is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts, Community Studies degree at Cape Breton University with a focus on Sport and Physical Activity Leadership. While balancing life as a student-athlete can have its challenges, Jason says the support he receives from Academic Success Coach and Mentor, Brian Tierney, as well as Academic Advisor, Dr. Allen Britten, makes it easier to stay on top of things.

“If we’re ever struggling, they can help us figure things out which makes it much easier to stay positive,” Jason explains. “That kind of tight-knit culture is what separates CBU from other schools. You get to know people pretty fast and you build relationships that lend to a friendly and supportive culture on campus.”

Though Jason’s journey at CBU is just beginning, he says the highlight of his time thus far has been playing in the home opener earlier this year. Playing in front of a supportive crowd of Orange Army fans and experiencing the game-day atmosphere for the first time is something Jason will never forget.

As he looks ahead to the AUS Soccer Championships taking place this weekend, Jason says its those fans who will help carry the Capers to another AUS win. “I can’t wait to see everyone who will come out to support us this weekend,” says Jason. “It’s always a great feeling when the community gets behind us and cheers us on. We all want to win but this isn’t just for our team; it’s also for the amazing community we represent.”

With a championship title on the line, Jason and the rest of the Capers are ready to battle it out in front of a hometown crowd. “We’ve been preparing for this moment since pre-season and we are ready,” says Jason. “We want to prove to everyone why the program has been so successful.”

If you want to get in on the action and cheer on the Capers, join us for the 2023 AUS Men’s and Women’s Soccer Championships this Thursday, October 26-Sunday, October 29, at the Ness Timmons Soccer Field. The Capers will take the field for their first games on Friday at 2:00pm (Men’s) and 5:00pm (Women’s).

For more information, including ticket prices, visit cbu.ca/aus