Canada Games bronze medalist Jada Buchanan commits to Axewomen soccer

The Acadia Axewomen soccer program has added one of Nova Scotia’s top midfielders with the commitment of Jada Buchanan of Bridgewater, N.S., for the 2026 Atlantic University Sport (AUS) season.

Buchanan, a 5’5 midfielder, arrives in Wolfville with extensive experience across club, provincial and national development pathways. A graduate of Park View Education Centre, she has been part of Soccer Nova Scotia’s Provincial Program and the Nova Scotia Whitecaps since the age of 14, consistently competing against elite opposition.

At the club level, Buchanan developed with South Shore United SC through her youth. At 15, she joined Halifax County United, helping the U17AAA side capture a bronze medal at the national championships. She has also represented Nova Scotia at the Canada Games, where the team earned bronze, and has competed at multiple high-performance events across the country, including selection to the Canada Select team at the National Development Centre and the FTF Top 60.

Head coach Danielle Cyr said Buchanan’s ability to perform in big moments stood out throughout her development.

“Jada has consistently been one of the top recruits in Nova Scotia and has been selected for multiple development opportunities at the highest levels of the game,” said Cyr. “She brings valuable experience competing and delivering results, including national and Canada Games bronze medals.”

Cyr, who has coached Buchanan at both the club and provincial levels, said her attacking instincts and work rate will translate well to the university game.

“I’ve had the opportunity to coach Jada for several years and have seen firsthand her tenacity, competitiveness and commitment to growth,” said Cyr. “Anytime the ball is at her feet, she’s dangerous — she has the creativity to create chances and the ability to finish. She’s an exceptional athlete and a caring teammate. We’re excited to support her as she takes her next steps in the game, and we have no doubt she’ll leave her mark on the AUS.”

Buchanan said Acadia’s campus environment and academic reputation played a major role in her decision.

“I chose Acadia because the campus felt supportive, the academics are strong, and the close-knit community makes it feel like the right fit for both my academics and athletics,” she said. “I’m excited to join a hard-working team, compete at a higher level, and be led by coaches who bring out the best in their players.”

She will pursue a Bachelor of Kinesiology, with long-term goals of working in health, fitness or therapy. Buchanan said Acadia’s small class sizes and academic support will help her explore and prepare for those career paths.

Adding to the family connection, Buchanan’s twin sister, Kylie, will also be joining the Axewomen program when she arrives on campus in August.