(Editor’s note: University of Providence athletics release)
GREAT FALLS — University of Providence men’s soccer continued to fill its roster with playmaking ability and versatility Wednesday, adding Manuel Garcia, announced head coach Matt Ball.
Garcia, a native of Cangas, Spain, transfers to the Argos as a junior following the completion of his associate’s degree at Coastal Bend College in Beeville, Texas. Before coming to America, Garcia played for Alondras Club de Futbol, a U20 program that competes in the U20 Division de Honor Juvenil, the most prestigious and competitive level of youth soccer in his home town of Cangas.
As a Cougar, Garcia was awarded NJCAA All-Region Team of the Year honors during his freshman season. He competed in 18 games for Coastal Bend College, finishing the season with five goals and seven assists. During his sophomore campaign in 2018-19, Garcia played in 18 games for the Cougars, netting three goals and five assists.
“We’re delighted to be adding Manu to the program this fall. He’s a creative player with the ability to chip in with some goals and we’re hopeful he can hit the ground running quickly when he arrives in August,” expressed coach Ball. “He’ll need to play slightly differently for us than he did for Coastal Bend, but his soccer knowledge and versatility will allow him to adjust quickly into our scheme. We’ve put a lot of effort into adding playmakers and creativity to our 2019-20 roster and Manu gives us that extra little boost and keeps competition for places at a high level,” said coach Ball. “We were able to bring him on board fairly quickly which not only speaks of our desire to add a player of Manu’s quality and skillset, but it also speaks volumes for how much he believes in what we are trying to achieve here at UP.”
