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The Foothills team is comprised largely of local players who came up through Calgary clubs and play for university teams, although it will be captained this season by Nik Ledgerwood, who has played 50 games for the men’s national team.

In the club’s three short years, it’s emerged as one of the PDL’s most competitive teams and made it all the way to the final in 2016. And while the PDL isn’t on the level of the MLS, it’s proved to be a consistent incubator of talent that’s gone on to play in North American soccer’s top league.

It’s competitive, high-level soccer, and Labbé knows she is preparing for competition that’s bigger and faster than what she’s used to with the women’s national team.

So far in training, though, the 31-year-old has impressed Foothills coach Tommie Wheeldon Jr.

“(When we first spoke) I said, ‘Listen, if you can stop a ball I’ll pick you on ability, not gender’,” Wheeldon said. “We’re an open-minded and forward-thinking club and she’s an extreme professional. What she’s done in the training environment has shown she should be regarded as a player and gender isn’t really a factor.

“We’ve had trialists come in and out and they haven’t survived because they haven’t been at the level, but with Steph the guys are have given her respect because of the work she’s put in.”

Labbé spent last season with the Washington Spirit of the National Women’s Soccer League and has admitted it was an at times frustrating year that ultimately ended with her deciding to pursue a new path.