Despite spring's late arrival, the Sundre Soccer Club held its first practices of the season last week.
"The teams have already been made," said Tamara Beecraft, club treasurer as well as parent volunteer coach.
"We always try to hit the first week of April."
So long as the weather remains agreeable at this time of year, teams practise every Tuesday evening at the soccer fields behind River Valley School. But if worse comes to worst, the Sundre High School's gym is available to use. Registration was held in February, and there are about 10 teams this year, including U-4, U-6, U-8, U-10 and U-12, she said.
"This year, we have four U-8 teams," said Beecraft.
Although jerseys have been put on order and registration is now closed to new players, club president Joelee Deschaine said any parents as well as non-parents who might be interested in helping out are welcome to join.
"We always take any volunteers," she said, adding she can be reached at [email protected].
Some coaches have even doubled up this year, taking on two teams, said Beecraft.
"We would welcome additional hands," she said, adding the club would benefit from having additional coaches or assistant coaches.
Some people might be reluctant to volunteer to coach because they perhaps have not played soccer before or do not know much about the sport, but that's no reason not to get involved, she said.
"I hadn't played soccer a day in my life before I started coaching!"
Originally getting involved to help coach her son's U-4 team, Beecraft has remained active with the club over the past four years.
Not only does playing soccer encourage children to be active outside of the house, but the sport also offers an opportunity for volunteer parents to spend time with their kids on the field, forging along the way new experiences and building relationships, she said.
Additionally, soccer provides a chance to "Work up some team spirit and have some fun ó it is a fun league."
The soccer season runs until June 20, about the time the school year ends, and the club's annual tournament has been scheduled for Saturday, June 10, she said.
"We're looking forward to it," said Deschaine about the season ahead.
"Hopefully, the weather keeps up."
