Players of all age groups took to the pitch last week for the start of the St. Paul Soccer Association’s season, which runs from May to June with provincial tournaments taking place in July.
With practices and games underway this month, the St. Paul club is now looking forward to hosting the Mini Tournament for the U8 and U10 age groups on June 2, the Lakeland Cup for U12 and U16 from June 22 to 24, and the U12 provincials in July.
“Our registration numbers are up and we’re definitely holding our own in town,” said club president, Michelle Duffy. “Our coaches are attending different courses all through the Lakeland area. The ones that are staying are getting educated for sure.”
In addition to these tournaments, the St. Paul Soccer Association will also be welcoming back the British Soccer Camp after a successful first year where 54 kids registered, Duffy said. The camp takes place from July 2 – 6 and the club has already received around 35 registrations.
According to the Challenger Sports website, the camp provides players of all ages and abilities with the rare opportunity to receive high-level soccer coaching from a team of international experts.
Each day of the camp will include individual foot skills, technical drills, tactical practice, small-sided games, coached scrimmages and a tournament, the website said. Information regarding pricing can be found at www.challengersports.com.
Although U18 is the highest age group for youth, the club is looking to organize an adult team that will compete against other local teams in the Lakeland area.
Following provincials in July, registration for indoor soccer will be in September. As opposed to traditional indoor soccer, the St. Paul club plays futsal, which is similar to indoor soccer, except futsal is played with a different kind of ball and the playing surface is lined.
This will be the third year futsal takes place in St. Paul and its popularity is attracting other communities to join, Duffy said.
