Former Highlander Isky Van Doorne Signs Pro Contract
Former Highlander Isky Van Doorne is the latest player out of Victoria to sign a professional contract. Van Doorne signed with Hobart Zebras of Australia’s National Premier League. The Calgary native joined Highlanders FC midway through the 2017 Premier Development League (PDL) season.
Van Doorne completed his four-year collegiate career with the NCAA’s Calvin College, who were runner-ups in the Division III National finals. Van Doorne was named to the Regional All-American team, Second Team All-American, as well as the playoff tournament All-Star team following the season. Prior to his varsity career, Van Doorne was involved with Northwest Division rival Calgary Foothills FC.
“When I came out everyone on the team really welcomed me so that was nice. It was easy to gel with the group of players around me. The level of the PDL was higher than I initially thought it was going to be. It was faster pace than college, it was a good experience to get out of my comfort zone and play as a holding midfielder.”
Notable players to come through the Highlanders organization include current Whitecap defender Brett Levis, Chicago fire midfielder Matt Polster, and Ottawa Fury midfielder Jamar Dixon.
“It’s a dream come true to sign a professional contract,” Van Doorne added. “It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. I want to thank everyone at the Highlanders and everyone in Victoria for making me feel welcome when I played there. I really enjoyed my time there.”
Victoria Highlanders FC return to Premier Development League action beginning May 11, 2018. The club will announce further developments in the coming weeks. For more information, please visit www.highlandersfc.ca.