The Cleats are on as the Drumheller Minor Soccer hits the field for another season.
This year the association has strong registration numbers, up over 200, and Wednesday night, players of all ages were out on the field learning the basics and beyond.
Board member Marnee Chapin explains this year they introduced a U4 program and it has proven to be popular. The numbers have lagged a bit at the higher end. This year they were only able to field two U12 travel teams. There weren’t enough players to field U14 or U16 teams.
“You feel bad for the older kids because if you don’t have enough kids to field a team, there is nothing we can do about it,” said Marnee. “Their only option is to travel elsewhere and join a team in another community that has the numbers.”
The association has a full slate of coaches, although it took a little prodding. The association held an all parent meeting and they were able to fill all the spots. The support didn’t end there.
Board member Cam Chapin explains the club had recently acquired new U10 goal posts and cross bars, however they still had their original standards on the field. These were made of drill stem and weighed in the area of 300 pounds. He made a plea and Ryan Bitz, Lee Borsheim and Sheldon Straub were able to dismantle and dispose of the behemoths. Cam said the association appreciates their hard work.
Off the field, the club is still actively fundraising for it's field house at the soccer pitch. They continue to work at their barbecues as well as other fundraising initiatives.
If you have a young player interested in hitting the field, Marnee said there are still spots on teams available until May 12.
