Soccer season kicks off in Fort

Don’t be fooled by today’s last gasp from Old Man Winter–the local minor soccer scene is already in full stride.
Registration for the 2003 Fort Frances Minor Soccer Association season began in earnest Tuesday night upstairs at the Memorial Sports Complex, with approximately 280 youth signing up to get their kicks this year.
Another registration session will run from 6-8 p.m. at the same venue tonight.
Association president Rick Chambers said the sport’s accessibility to both the skilled and novice player continues to make it a big drawing card in this area.
“Anybody can play it,” he emphasized. “It doesn’t matter if you’re the best or worst athlete in your class. And it’s just as much about being a social event as it is a soccer game.”
“Also, we never reschedule a game for weather reasons. We play in rain, snow, or whatever. That’s another reason the kids like it. The parents don’t like that part as much, though,” he laughed.
That’s was certainly important last year, which Chambers called one of the worst weather seasons in recent memory. The widespread flooding in the region impacted soccer much less than many other sports, which were forced into a slew of postponements and cancellations.
Approximately 640 players took part in local youth soccer last year, which Chambers described as right on the normal average. But he added the bigger concern is having enough people from the community step up to fill officiating and coaching roles.
“The volunteers play a big part in what we do,” he noted. “If anyone’s interested to either coach or referee, we’ll be glad to sign them up at the registration session.”
Few changes are expected for this year within the association, although Chambers did note the deposit for Division 5 team jerseys has increased from $25 to $50 this year, with the money given back upon return of the jersey at the end of the season.
Chambers was encouraged with what he sees as a gradually improving talent level in local youth soccer.
“The skills of the kids, especially the younger ones, is very good right now, and keeps getting better,” he said.
Anyone needing more information can contact Chambers at 274-6335 or John Pierce at 274-5373.