The Strathmore U15 Spurs are the champions of the Okotoks United Football Club’s Anthem Community Cup tournament last weekend.

Head Coach Ryan Parkins revealed that this was one of the team’s first tournaments as tournaments have been sparse due to the pandemic and restrictions.

When asked what was it like for the team to win the gold medal, their coach said, “This is the first formal tournament they were able to compete in this year. They were really excited to get out there and show what they could accomplish as a group, and we really saw them band together as a team.”

“We took some injuries, but each of them supported the other it was really impressive to watch how much they played together and really enjoyed the win as a team, as it collective,” he said.

Angie Boyd, the team’s administrator explained that the team is made up of an even mix of players who have played together for a few years, some new players who are brand new to soccer and others who have played the game but not specifically within the club.

The Spurs play in a boys league, but they are a mixed-gender team.

At the tournament, the Spurs won all four of their games, Parkins says the team has been very strong this season.

“Not so much because they haven't come up against really skilled opponents, but because our players really gelled, so there's a real sense of community and teamwork, and so they're able to band together and use the team strength as opposed to any individual talents. Obviously, individuals are shining when they need to, picking up where others are letting back and vice versa,” he said.

The team has also a lot of improvement in their fitness this season, “I can't remember being at 13, 14 even 15-years-old and being able to play five games in five days and then still being able to walk and go to school the next day,” said Parkins.

Next, the U15 Spurs will have another regular league game on Thursday at the Calgary Soccer Centre. The Spurs are currently in second place within their tier.

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