HAPPY VALLEY-GOOSE BAY, N.L. — It was their first chance this year to enjoy a game of soccer outdoors.
The Happy Valley-Goose Bay Minor Soccer Association Soccer Festival at Mealy Mountain Collegiate on June 23 celebrated the culmination of the 2018 Shriners Soccer Program.
Over 600 players participated in this weekly program, with soccer games held indoors at the EJ Broomfield Arena.
The shift to outdoor play last week made for some differences in the games, with no rebounding off the side boards to rely on and the subtle difference of real grass as opposed to artificial turf.
The matches on June 23 started early in the morning and continued throughout the day, with each team having an opportunity to play two games.
In addition to soccer, there were fun activities like the 50/50 draw, a raffle for a gift basket, bouncy castle, face painting, spin the wheel, speed shot clock and a barbecue.
Trevor Paine, one of the co-presidents of the Happy Valley-Goose Bay Minor Soccer Association, told the Labradorian that the outdoor soccer festival is the traditional way to end the Shriners Indoor Program.
He expressed thanks to all the volunteers who helped out with this 31st annual event.
“The weather was perfect...a little windy...Canadian Helicopters did our community proud again providing two scenic helicopter flights for 10 of the children, taking in the sights of the Lake Melville area,” Paine said. “The all-star team parents and players fund raised their little hearts out to secure funds to help with their August travel to provincials. Everyone seemed to have a great deal of family fun.”
John Kelland was on-hand throughout the day providing the crowd with a step back in time with some classic tunes from the ‘70s and ‘80s. While many of the children were not familiar with all of the songs, a lot of parents could be seen singing along.
While the indoor soccer season is almost over, there are still some upcoming events.
ALL-star tournaments are being held in Labrador City for the Under 10 teams, and various towns across the province are hosting competitions for Under 12, U-14 and U-17 teams.
The Pro Camp is taking place at Mealy Mountain Collegiate Fields July 16-20 with only a limited number of spots still available for participants to learn from the coaching the staff of English Premier League Club, Leicester City.
For anyone interested in securing one of the last remaining places in this week-long Leicester City coaching program, contact Trevor Paine at 709-899-2312.
