Mara Bouchard

Midfielder Mara Bouchard discovered both soccer and hockey at the young age of 5, playing each sport in its respective season. In her family, soccer is a true passion—both her parents and her brothers played. Her aunt also played at Syracuse University, as well as with the national team, inspiring Mara to follow in their footsteps. 

At 15 years-old, Mara joined the provincial teams at Centre national de haute performance in Laval, a pivotal challenge that involved leaving her home in Granby to live with a host family in Montreal. This transition tested her resilience and determination, helping her officially secure a spot on the provincial team. In February 2017, she was selected to participate in a selection camp with the women’s under-17 national team, marking an important milestone in the beginning of her career. Later, in 2017, she experienced a proud moment when winning a gold medal with Team Quebec at the Canada Games. 

Bouchard continued her soccer journey with the McGill Martlets from 2021 to 2024, where she demonstrated exceptional skill and commitment on the field. Throughout her university career, she accumulated 10 shots, including 4 shots on goal, 2 assists, and 1 point over 2,945 minutes of play. In 2023, she earned first-team honours and was a consistent standout, playing all 14 regular-season games and being named McGill’s player of the game a team-leading 5 times. Bouchard finished her Martlets career as a four-time RSEQ conference all-star and three-time All-Canadian. 

Signing with the Montréal Roses marks a homecoming for the 23-year-old, having the opportunity to play in her home city, a dream come true that she shares with her family. Mara is also committed to making a difference off the field. In May 2024, she joined her McGill teammates on a community service trip to Paraguay, where they built a soccer field and supported local initiatives. Each December, she also participates in a local food drive with her family to collect non-perishable items for people in need. 

Inspired by soccer player Jessie Fleming for her leadership and passion, Mara aims to reach the international level in her career and dreams of one day representing Canada. With the Roses, she hopes to inspire young players and prove that a professional women’s soccer career is possible right here in Quebec.