More than 300 young athletes are expected to sign up to be part of the Ponoka Minor Soccer Association (PMSA) this year.
The group held its annual general meeting and registration night Tuesday, Feb. 23, explained president Rob MacArthur. He is most excited to get kids on the updated soccer pitches north of the Ponoka Hospital and Care Centre.
Just about every Ponoka Storm soccer team, except for the U10 and U12 teams will use the pitches this year, which feature new goals, bleachers and garbage cans recently purchased by the Town of Ponoka. MacArthur says the town paid $15,000 for the equipment and the association expects to pitch in another $3,000.
Not only is PMSA excited about using the fields, which received cultivation and new sod last summer with help from Ponoka County and the Town of Ponoka, but so is the Alberta Soccer Association (ASA). MacArthur said PMSA was asked to host provincials this year, which brings five age categories to one town.
“We kind of set a standard and ASA is following up,” he explained.
The only issue MacArthur sees with holding provincials this year is how it will affect the new grass. He would rather see the pitches’ grass have a stronger foundation before hosting provincials, which would bring hundreds of people to Ponoka. “We’re kind of really at the mercy of Mother Nature.”
“We’re just going to really have to steward the fields,” he added.
Another area the association is working on this year is social media; MacArthur said they are updating their Ponoka Soccer Facebook page more frequently. He is also pleased to see a strong board of directors this year. MacArthur said this was the first time that he can remember having people volunteer to be on the board.
“We’re in good shape. We’ve got strong leadership,” said MacArthur.
Equipment for the new pitches comes in April and PMSA will be looking for volunteers to help put it all together. Registration closes March 31 and anyone wishing to join can bring forms to the Aquaplex where locked boxes will be set up for both PMSA and Ponoka Minor Ball.