Providence Pilots standout heading to Manitoba Bisons

The Providence Pilots have proven to be a potential launching pad into the USports ranks.

Two seasons ago, Paige Heide made the jump in women’s soccer to the University of Waterloo, last year saw men’s volleyball standout Sebastian Verdaguer head to the University of Manitoba and now women’s basketball talent Faith LaRocque will be heading to the University of Manitoba.

LaRocque, who is from Niverville, was a high school star with the Dakota Lancers and made an instant impact with the Providence women’s basketball team.

Despite playing in the team’s system that has the entire 15-player roster receive significant playing time, LaRocque was named both the Manitoba Colleges Athletic Conference and National Intercollegiate Athletic Conference player of the year.

“We are incredibly proud of Faith and excited to see the impact she will make at the next level,” a social media post from the Pilots reads.

“Her hard work, dedication, and leadership have earned her this opportunity, and we will be cheering her on every step of the way.”

LaRocque averaged 14 points, 7 rebounds and three steals for Providence during a perfect 8-0 MCAC season.

“Faith is coming off one of the most decorated seasons in program history at Providence College and the MCAC Conference. She earned Female Athlete of the Year, All-American honours and a trip to the national championship,” Bisons head coach Michele Sung said in a U of M news release.

“What excited us most is she is a proven competitor who will elevate herself and everyone around her. We’re thrilled to welcome Faith to the program and can’t wait to see how she will impact the group.”

The commitment means the Bisons will have even more of Dakota Lancers flair on their team, as Faith joins former high school teammates Darya Rom, Kyu Fust and Hope LaRocque (her sister).

“Playing for the U of M has been a goal of mine for a long time, and I know that this opportunity will provide the necessary environment for new growth,” LaRocque said.

“I’m excited to grow alongside a community full of talented athletes who push themselves and others to become better.”