Close to 30 youth soccer teams are in Sechelt this weekend for the third annual Uncle Frank Memorial tournament.
This open co-ed event will include teams in four divisions (U16, U12, U10 and seven and under). The U10 and seven and under games will be played at the Waterfront fields with the U13 and U16 games at Ted Dixon Memorial Field. Action is all day Saturday and Sunday.
One of the local teams to keep an eye on is the Sechelt Bearwalkers in the U10 division.
This talented team, ranging in age from eight to 10, recently went to four tournaments where they came home with two first place trophies and two second place trophies. Players also nabbed individual awards for MVP, top scorer and top goalie.
"All of these kids play in the local house league," said coach Robert Joe. "We formed an A and a B team here at the Sechelt Indian Band. This team plays with a lot of heart. I'm very proud of all of them."
The mixed team of 12 is an eager bunch, added Joe.
"We have regular practices on Monday and Wednesdays, but the kids wanted to practice every day," Joe added. "So I come out every night with the kids. They just all love to play. We have a proud soccer history. I want to keep the winning spirit going. These kids exemplify that spirit."
Joe said next year instead of going to local tournaments, they might take the team down to California for a major international event.
"It's something we're seriously considering," he said. "I'd like to thank our chief and council, Tina Joe and all the parents for their support - the parents especially because they make sure the kids get to all the practices."
