CHARLES TWEED/Ponoka News
It is a young and exuberant Ponoka U16 soccer team that hits the pitch each and every week.
“We’re having a really fun season and the team is made up of both U16 and U14 boys, some of which haven’t played soccer in a few years,” said Russell Hemingson, who coaches the group with Roger Vogel.
“The boys are respectful to one another as well as encouraging. We continue to adjust our lineup to see who works best with one another and how our structure on the field can best serve our skill level,” explained Hemingson.
“We played well against Rocky Mountain House where we worked in a new 4-4-2 formation — two forwards, four midfielders and four defensive players — it allows us to attack and defend effectively.”
The team will face its share of struggles this season and it’s a steep learning curve for many of the kids who continue their careers in soccer.
“Our expectations are to win against Rocky and have close games with the rest of the teams in our division. This year is about player development,” Hemingson said.