Lambke captures consecutive AUS titles with Capers

ANTIGONISH, N.S. — ANTIGONISH, N.S. — Rebecca Lambke is a two-time Atlantic University Sport (AUS) women’s soccer champion.
The Antigonish native has captured conference crowns in her first two seasons with the Cape Breton University Capers.     
“It was an amazing season. We were a very young team, but we did really well,” the Dr. John Hugh Gillis Regional Royals’ product said of the recently-completed campaign, which included a berth in the U Sports national tournament.
She added the Capers achieved “great accomplishments.”
After playing big minutes as a freshman with the perennial AUS power, Lambke secured a starting position in her sophomore season.
“I worked really hard, so I was happy (with my season)” she said.
The starting spot came with a position change, making the move from midfield to fullback, which was necessitated by the departure of perennial all-star Becky Hanna.
“It was completely different,” the Antigonish Celtics Soccer Club alumni said.
As part of the “last line of defense,” playing on the left side, Lambke noted she had to use her left foot, more and more.
Although she could continue to move forward and join the offense, she added she had to become more conscious of “getting back much more quickly.”
“If you lose your mark, it could mean a goal,” Lambke said.
She admitted she was a “little nervous” about making the change.
“But, I ended up loving it,” Lambke said of returning to a back line position she patrolled while playing minor soccer.
Veteran Caper head coach Stephen ‘Ness’ Timmons said the second-year science student has “grown by leaps and bounds.”
“Rebecca came back ready and did a great job for us,” he added, noting her growing maturity as a student-athlete.
Whether it was on the back line or as a holding midfielder, Timmons described Lambke as a “fabulous player for us.”
He agreed it takes a “certain talent” to tackle multiple positions.
As to where she wants to improve her game, Lambke talked about “communication on the field.”
“I want to be more vocal, take on more responsibility,” she said as she readies for her junior campaign.
Timmons added Lambke has a “bright future,” noting the program “really expects her to be a leader,” especially with the Capers hosting nationals in 2020.
“I am ready for that opportunity,” she said.
As for where she will be positioned on the pitch next season, Lambke said it doesn’t matter.
“Wherever he puts me I will play; I will play anywhere,” she added.