Two under-17 soccer teams from the Kootenays are set to embark on an exciting journey to Rome, Italy, next April to compete in the prestigious International Surf Cup.

The teams, comprising of players from Cranbrook, Kimberley, Fernie, Sparwood, Invermere, and Trail are all excited for this opportunity. The majority of these players have been playing together since they were nine and 10-years-old, showcasing their dedication and camaraderie over the years.

In preparation for this significant event, the teams will be out in the community hosting various fundraising activities over the next year. The players and their families are initiating a year-long bottle drive in each of their respective towns. This effort aims to gather the necessary funds for their trip while also promoting environmental responsibility in their communities.

Additionally, the teams will host a BINGO night every third Thursday of the month in the lounge at the local curling rink. The first BINGO night is scheduled for Thursday, June 20th. These events promise to be fun-filled evenings for the community to come together and support these young athletes.

Demonstrating their commitment to giving back, several players have taken coaching courses this spring. They are preparing to lead a summer soccer camp for children aged three to eight at Moir Park, running from July 29 to August 1.

In the meantime, these budding coaches are honing their skills by volunteering at the Kootenay East Youth Soccer Association (KEYSA) house program this spring, helping to foster the next generation of soccer talent in the region.

The teams are also planning a fall online raffle and are actively canvassing for donations and sponsorship opportunities. These initiatives are crucial to meeting their fundraising goals and ensuring that all players can participate in this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

“We’re incredibly proud of our players’ hard work and dedication both on and off the field,” said Rob Niedermayer, the head coach of one of the teams. “Their efforts in fundraising and volunteering demonstrate their commitment not only to soccer but to their community as well.”

Community members and businesses interested in supporting the teams can find more information on their webpage or Facebook page. Your contributions, whether through donations, sponsorships, or participation in fundraising events, will directly impact these young athletes’ journey to the International Surf Cup.

Let’s rally behind our Kootenay soccer stars as they prepare to represent our region on the international stage in Rome. Together, we can help make their dreams come true.

For more information or to offer your support, please visit our webpage or Facebook page.

Lead image: Coaches Rob Niedermayer and Calvin Domin and several of the KESA players headed to Rome next April. Photo Submitted

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