The countdown is on!: Ponoka Storm registration opens tomorrow, Feb. 12

While the saying goes, "the early bird gets the worm," the Ponoka Minor Soccer Association (PMSA) is reaffirming its commitment to field as many teams as possible just before online registration is set to open. 

Parents can register their players starting at 7 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 12.

The board decided to change the time to early morning instead of midnight to make it easier for parents. 

"No one wants to be stressing out, staying up to midnight," reads the Facebook post. 

"We're committed to making as many teams to get as many kids playing as possible," said PMSA president Rob McArthur in an interview the day before registration was set to open.

There's a strong possibility there will be enough players this season for two U13 girls teams, and probably two U13 boys teams, and there may even be two U16 boys teams, but it all depends on registration numbers, said McArthur.

Associations across the province have been growing since they started playing again post-COVID, and Ponoka is no exception, he said.

"Across the province, soccer numbers are growing."

PMSA's reputation in the district and within the province are only growing, as well. 

McArthur said PMSA will give players the opportunity to play at the highest level of soccer possible. If there are enough players they are hoping to field both Tier 3 and Tier 4 teams. 

"Ponoka is kind of a leader in that regard," he said, adding the board has already been fielding calls about players from other communities wanting to be part of Ponoka's program. 

Besides opportunities for competitive play, Ponoka also provides elite coaching and mentorship, which is starting to make them something of a "destination," said McArthur. 

"Our coaches are head and shoulders above," he said.

They also have a high number of referees, although more are always needed. 

"We need enthusiastic volunteers," said McArthur, adding he's been getting a lot of questions about the association and the upcoming season already. 

"If you're asking questions, you care, and if you care, you should get involved."

Another boon to the association is long-term Ponoka coach Lonny Behm, who has a keen interest in mentoring other coaches, said McArhur.

"He's regarded withing Central Alberta as one of the premier voices and minds in soccer in Alberta."

Behn was the 2022 recipient of the Bert Goldberger Technical Leader Award and is the current tech director for Central Alberta. 

"He's setting the standard for our district," said McArthur. 

An exciting opportunity, one that has been spearheaded all under Behm's leadership, is his U15 girls team's trip to Portugal in July, which they've been fundraising for.

For more information about the PMSA or to register, visit ponokasoccer.ca.