OLDS — The Olds Minor Soccer Association (OMSA) has made some big changes as it gears up for the 2025 outdoor season.
For example, to make soccer accessible from a younger age, OMSC introduced a U5 division (players born between Jan. 1, 2020 and Dec. 31, 2021) for the upcoming season.
“This initiative is designed to give the younger children an opportunity to learn the basics of soccer and develop essential motor skills in a fun, supportive environment,” OMSC president Cameron French wrote in an email to the Albertan.
Officially right now the outdoor season begins April 28. The association is hoping practices can begin in mid-April, depending on the readiness of the fields.
Registration caps
A cap on registration is also being implemented.
The U5 program will be capped at 40 players and the U7 and U9 programs will each be capped at 80 players.
“This allows us to maintain a manageable coach-to-player ratio and provide the best possible environment for skill development and fun,” French wrote.
Tournament and Super Teams
Tournament teams will also once again be created, at the U11, U13 and U15 levels. They will participate in exhibition games.
French says these teams will “provide competitive opportunities for players looking to take their skills to the next level.”
They will compete in two to three tournaments across Alberta, including Red Deer, Airdrie and Lethbridge.
Players on those teams will benefit from a full apparel kit that is included with registration, French indicated.
Also, the newly-formed U9 Super Mustangs will compete in a new competitive U9 league within the Big Country Soccer Association.
However, French warned that the existence of each of the competitive teams is contingent on having enough registrations.
Assuming that will be the case, organizers scheduled the first round of tryouts for both the U9 Super Mustangs and tournament teams for March 8. A second set of tryouts will be held March 22.
Looking for volunteers, coaches
French said the OMSC is still looking for coaches and volunteers to make the organization run.
“We have a small, but mighty volunteer board, but can always use additional help,” he wrote.
All coaches are required to undergo a criminal record check before the season begins.
OMSC will supply prospective coaches with a letter that can be presented to RCMP so that there is no fee associated with the check.
French said in another positive development, sponsorship of the OMSC by local businesses has been enhanced.
