The Innisfail Cyclones kicked off their preseason before a packed house August 24, hosting teams from Sylvan Lake and Rocky Mountain House in the first annual True Grit Exhibition Event.
Bantam and peewee teams from each community met up in a series of 20 minute controlled scrimmages throughout the day at the Innisfail High School field. The intent of the event was to give both new and returning players an opportunity to gain experience and confidence through the development of skills in a fun, no pressure environment.
Innisfail Minor Football Association president Talitha Watkinson said True Grit left her feeling proud and pumped for the upcoming season.
“If Saturday (August 24) was any indication of how this season is going to be, we're in for a great year,” she said, thanking coaches, association executives, parents, volunteers, sponsors and fans for their support. “Everyone came together to pull of something truly spectacular.”
The Bantam Cyclones opened their regular season on Saturday in Strathmore and will travel to Calgary's McMahon Stadium with the Peewee Cyclones on September 7. The event gives players an opportunity to play a regular season game on the home field of the Canadian Football League's Calgary Stampeders. Kickoff for the Peewees is at 2:00 p.m., while the Bantam Cyclones will take the field at 4:00 p.m.
On September 10, both the Bantam and Peewee Cyclones will switch gears to focus on fundraising during the association's annual bottle drive. Players, coaches and parents will be out collecting bottles and cans from 5 – 7 p.m.
Local football fans will also be treated to a triple header on September 21 as the peewee, bantam, and high school cyclones will all take the field for regular season games at the Innisfail High School field. Fans are encouraged to put on their Cyclones gear or wear blue and white clothing to show their support for their local football talent.
For more information on the upcoming season and volunteer opportunities, please visit www.innisfailminorfootball.com.
