Soccer did get off the ground last year in Newfoundland and Labrador but the season was not your usual because of COVID restrictions. However, the soccer association anticipates a more complete summer this year.
The NLSA held its annual general meeting virtually on the weekend for the second time with Damien Masterson acclaimed VP senior men’s, Bernie Manning VP senior women’s, and Doug Kirby acclaimed as Treasurer. President Doug Redmond, VP youth Judy Kelloway and secretary Ron O’Neill all have one year remaining.
The new regional directors are Craig Dyer (Mount Pearl), Ingo Eckoldt (Avalon), Rene Sherstobetoff (western), Ronnie Elson (Labrador East), and Chris Bartlett (Trinity-Conception-Placentia).
Redmond says their clubs, staff, and volunteers found creative ways to keep players engaged, and a lot of coaching and referee training moved online.
There are 29 clubs across the province and Redmond expects provincial championships to go ahead.
Some clubs will start in May, some in June and others not until early July, says Redmond. He also says last year’s experience should help them to a more successful season this year.