Northwest Signs Two Area Prep Players for 2012
KIRKLAND, Wash. – Northwest University men’s soccer coach, Gary McIntosh, announced the signing of two western Washington players to play for the Eagles in the 2012 season. Jonathan Ellis of Kirkland, Wash., (Juanita High School) and Brendon Wheeler of Snohomish, Wash., (Snohomish High School) have signed letters of intent for play for Northwest University.
Ellis played his prep soccer for Juanita High School in Kirkland, Wash. and was a four year varsity letter winner. Ellis was a Kingco 3A Conference Honorable Mention selection in his junior year (2010-11). He played for the Crossfire Premier Club Team for eight years.
“I am pleased Jonathan Ellis has chosen NU to play his college soccer,” commented Coach Gary McIntosh. “Jonathan brings a level of play to NU that will help us continue to stay in the hunt for a conference title. He plays in the middle of the field and controls the play very well. Jonathan possesses good skill and creativity on the ball. We look forward to him having a successful college career at Northwest University.”
Wheeler, a 6-1, 150 lb. center midfielder from Snohomish, Wash., played his prep soccer at Snohomish High School and was team captain. His team won the Wesco North division championship in 2011 and he was named 2011 second team All-Wesco. His 2009-10 team played in the WIAA State Tournament. His club team, the Northwest Nationals B93, won the 2007 Washington State championship, was a Far West Regional participant and he was the leading goal scorer.
Coach McIntosh commented on Wheeler, “I’m pleased to announce Brendon Wheeler has signed a letter of intent to play his college soccer at Northwest. Brendon will bring versatility to the team as he is capable of playing several different positions, but will most likely play in the midfield for us. He is a composed player on the ball with good touch and makes good decisions with the ball and plays simple soccer. He has had a successful high school and club career and I expect him to be very successful at the collegiate level.”
The Northwest men’s soccer team had one of its best seasons on record as the 2011 Eagles finished with a 10-3-1 conference record, 11-5-3 overall record and a spot in the Cascade Conference post season semifinal game. Coach McIntosh received Co-Coach of the Year honors and six Northwest players received all-conference awards.