The Ponoka Storm U13 Girls soccer team had an incredible 2022/2023 indoor season filled with fantastic achievements.
“The team’s dedication to the sport and their bond as a team was evident in every game they played,” said Lonny Behm, coach.
At the squad’s first Tier 3 indoor tournament, the girls faced fierce competition, but their persistence and teamwork paid off as they battled hard to earn the silver medal, in a 3-2 loss to TRSA out of Edmonton at the Early Bird tournament in Spruce Grove.
They followed that tournament up with another Silver medal at the FC Memorial losing the final 2-0 to Medicine Hat.
“It was an exceptional start to the season and a sign of great things to come,” said Behm.
Behm added that the team’s confidence grew stronger after the first two tournaments, and they were eager to showcase their skills at their next competition and final tune up before Alberta Soccer’s Tier 3 provincials.
The girls’ hard work paid off, as they garnered gold in the final tournament of the season, a 7-0 victory over Fort McMurray at the Red Deer Family Day tournament.
“The girls were thrilled with their victory. It showed what keeping their focus and playing smart soccer can accomplish,” said Behm.
With the tournament successes, the Storm U13 girls earned a spot in the Tier 3 Provincials in Lethbridge, March 17 to 19.
“The girls showed resilience and determination at the tournament. Not only were there some really physical games, playing Tier 3, we were actually competing a tier higher than our provincial appearance this past season,” said Behm.
The Storm girls won the bronze at provincials after beating Airdrie in the bronze medal game, securing a medal in each tournament of the season.
“The girls had a season to be proud of, filled with excellent achievements and memorable moments, including the final game at provincials, where they played the most complete game of the season,” said Behm.
“In possession we were so clinical, creating scoring chance after scoring chance, while our defence and keeper played their best games of the year, shutting down Airdrie’s potent attack.”
The Ponoka Storm girls also took home the Alberta Soccer Associations Fair Play Award.
“The team’s dedication to the sport and their bond as a team allowed them to perform at their best and earn recognition for their hard work. They know that they have a bright future ahead of them and can’t wait to see what the outdoor season brings.”
– Submitted by Melissa Burke, team manager
