The Innisfail United Squad is preparing for its 2014 season as part of the Central Alberta High School Soccer League.
Narsh Ramrattan's team consists of 15 players ranging from grade 9 to 12 and includes Bowden as well as Innisfail athletes. Early practices have only had eight or nine players showing up with other sport commitments keeping the kids away.
“We are still in the throes of badminton season,” said Ramrattan, who is also vice- principal of Innisfail Jr/Sr High School. “Once their tournaments are finished, we will be up to full strength.”
He noted his team may not be as strong as last year's entry but it will still be competitive with all other squads in the league.
“The team has a good mix of players, from highly experienced individuals like Simon Bigger to those who just want to play,” added Ramrattan. “Sydney Daines will also be joining up and will add a high degree of athleticism to the squad.”
Their first practice outdoors was April 14 after working inside during most of the spring melt and waiting for the soccer field to dry up.
McKenzie MacGonigall is the only Bowden player with the team this year.
“I played with the Innisfail team last year and enjoyed it,” said the 16-year-old MacGonigall. “There is no option for soccer in Bowden for kids my age, and this is a great team to be part of. I enjoy sports, so this is perfect.”
Bigger is fresh off a provincial championship with the Red Deer Renegades and lends his talents to the team.
“This is fun soccer and not as intense as the Renegades,” said Bigger. “I get to stay in shape during the end of the school year and have the opportunity to play soccer with my friends in town.”
Ramrattan noted the season hasn't started yet and there is no schedule posted but the season ends for the United the second Saturday in June. He expects a schedule by the end of next week and his team to pick up a notch and be ready to play.
The Central Alberta High School Soccer League includes teams from Olds, Red Deer, Lacombe, Alix, Sylvan Lake, Eckville and Innisfail.
