The Strathmore Soccer Association is ramping up for a modified season this summer. COVID-19 restrictions have changed the look of the season, but they are still happy they can get kicking.

Ryan Parkins, Technical Director for the Strathmore Soccer Association explained that they are running an "academy style" program this year.

"At the present time, we are not allowed to play mini-games with small-sided teams. So, we are setting up grid structures where players can still have their personal space but still work on a lot of the core skills. We also got permission from Alberta Health Services and our governing bodies to allow passing between players. So, while maintaining that physical distance we will be able to work on some of those more prominent skills in the game."

Sports all around the board have taken a hit in the last 13 months, both on the professional level and the recreational level. Parkins explained that he is ready to get out on the field with the players.

"For the majority of us involved in the soccer program, it is a pretty important outlet, but even more we hear it from the kids themselves telling us they are chomping at the bit to get back and get some physical activity again."

The program has been so popular in fact, there are few spaces left. "Enrollment numbers are really good right now. Almost all of our programs are full so there are very limited spots available. We had to cap each age group in order to meet or fall within the requirements of our sanctioning bodies and Alberta Health Services."

More information on registration can be found on the Strathmore Soccer website here.