Soccer season may be months away, but local players are already getting their kicks in.
Slave Lake Minor Soccer Association has started its indoor practices, giving young players a chance to continue developing their skills while preparing for the next outdoor season.

Randah Mouallem, the president of the association, says the indoor program has now entered its second week, with all groups having completed their first practice
The indoor program includes U9, U11 and U13 recreational players, as well as a U13 competitive team.

The recreational groups practice on Wednesdays, while the competitive players hit the field on Thursdays.

Mouallem says the turnout has been strong so far, with only one or two players missing from each session during the first week.

“They have all left with a big smile on their face,” says Mouallem. “They are all learning a lot and having fun in the meantime.”

Slave Lake Minor Soccer Association U13 competitive players take part in an indoor practice on Sept. 10. The team is using its weekly practices to build skills and endurance. Photo courtesy of minor soccer

While the recreational program gives players an opportunity to stay active and continue playing soccer indoors, the competitive program also has its eyes on the spring.
Mouallem says the U13 competitive team is using its weekly indoor practices to prepare for the upcoming outdoor competitive season.

The competitive players practice in a larger space, which allows them to work on their endurance before returning outdoors.
They are also learning their lines and positions and getting used to playing together as a team.

Mouallem says practicing together each week will help make sure the players are ready when the outdoor season begins.
There could also be more opportunities for the players to put those skills to the test before spring.

Mouallem says the district has discussed the possibility of organizing league games during the indoor season

If those games move ahead, Slave Lake Minor Soccer plans to take part.
“If this happens, we will definitely get our kids into these games,” says Mouallem.

The association continues to look for opportunities for its players to get some game experience throughout the indoor season.

“We are always looking for opportunities to get our kids into games during the indoor season and are hoping this year will be the year that it happens,” says Mouallem.

For now, the players are back on the field each week, learning, practicing and keeping their soccer skills sharp through the indoor season.

Julia Magsombol
Lakeside Leader