University of Denver men’s soccer junior defender Drew Beckie (Highlands Ranch, Colo.) was named to the Canadian U-23 squad for the upcoming CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying, the Canadian Soccer Association announced today.

“Hopefully we can get a good group together, and see if we can qualify for the Olympics,” Beckie said. “My coaches and teammates at Denver really got me ready, and I can’t thank them enough for doing that. I’m just excited to be a part of something to represent my country and to represent DU, as well.”

Canada is in Group A of CONCACAF Olympic Qualifying with El Salvador (March 22, 4:30 p.m. MT), the United States (March 24, 5 p.m. MT) and Cuba (March 26, 4:30 p.m. MT). Honduras, Mexico, Panama and Trinidad and Tobago make up Group B. The top two teams from each group will advance to the CONCACAF Semifinals that will take place in Kansas City, Kan., on March 31. The winners of the Semifinals both will qualify for the Olympic Games, and play in the CONCACAF Final on April 2 (6 p.m. MT).

“This is a great opportunity for Drew to represent his country,” head coach Bobby Muuss said. “It is great to see all of his hard work and dedication be rewarded. We know Drew will show well, and we wish him nothing but the very best in this week’s qualifications.”

Beckie participated in the team’s training camp held in Sunrise, Fla., from March 13-20 before being chosen for the Canadian side. Beckie joins Boston College’s Kyle Bekker as the only two players without professional experience.

Beckie started all 19 matches in 2011 for the Pioneers, tallying four goals and an assist. In his career, Beckie has tallied five goals and three assists in 51 appearances for DU. The junior was named to the All-MPSF First Team this season and earned All-MPSF honorable mention honors after his sophomore campaign.