The outdoor soccer season is officially underway for 185 kids registered in Slave Lake Soccer Minor Association (SLSMA).

“There have been a lot of kids,” says Randah Mouallem, the president of SLSMA. “But it’s really nice to see the growth and it is worth it.”

According to Mouallem, the season began on May 19 and she has already seen a major increase in participation compared to last year.

The soccer program currently has 20 teams with 20 coaches. Mouallem says the increase reflects the growing interest in soccer in the community, although some families were unfortunately left on waitlists because of coach-to-player ratio limits.

“The younger groups fill up really fast,” she says.

The U5, U7, U11, U13, and U13 competitive teams practice on Mondays and Wednesdays, while the U9, U11, U15, and U17 teams practice on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Practices are always held at Roland Michener School field.

“Parents can come to one place and then go to the different fields,” she says. “Sometimes siblings are lucky and play on the same days, but sometimes parents are here four days a week.”

The first games of the season are set on May 31, featuring the U13 teams. Mouallem says she is looking forward to seeing Slave Lake compete against teams from Athabasca and Fairview.

“I’m really excited,” she says. “Athabasca has some really good teams, and Fairview did really well last year too. It’ll help us see where our kids can grow before tournaments.”

Mouallem thanked parents for their continued support of the program.

“A lot of parents have put their trust in us with their kids,” she says. “We just hope the kids are having fun and enjoying soccer.”

The Leader will follow up with their first game of the season on May 31.

Mouallem said that it will be a exciting one

Julia Magsombol
Lakeside Leader