Best in Class: Michael Heppelle
Enrolled in the International Business program at VIU, this soccer star has had an interesting path
Heading into his final season of PACWEST soccer, Michael Heppelle of the VIU Mariners has a very interesting story as an International student athlete.
Originally from Kamakura Japan, Michael decided to come to Canada and land in Nanaimo to attend Vancouver Island University and to play soccer at the post-secondary level. Since making this momentous move, his parents have followed him, leaving Japan and settling on the Island.
He has been outstanding on the pitch, but also in the classroom enrolled in the International Business program. He’s had to deal with the COVID pandemic, being away from home, long road trips for soccer off the island and a heavy class workload.
On the pitch he has been outstanding and with a taste of the national championship last year, he has plenty of motivation to be even better when the PACWEST soccer season opens.
Now entering final PACWEST season, what does Michael want to do with his degree? He chats with Ryan Watters and shares his journey to VIU.
Michael Heppelle of the VIU Mariners is a PACWEST Best in Class.