Estevan Minor Football celebrated a successful year with a banquet and annual general meeting (AGM) earlier this week.
With more than 130 guests in attendance, including players and their families, the event highlighted the accomplishments of the past season and set goals for the next.
Pat Ford, president of Estevan Minor Football, reflected on the team’s standout achievements, noting a record-breaking offensive performance.
“The biggest highlight was the number of touchdowns scored—well above anything we’ve seen in past years,” Ford said. “The offence was outstanding, and the Oilers made history by finishing first in their league for the first time ever.”
At the banquet, several players were recognized for their exceptional efforts. TJ Thompson and Dex Tendler were honoured with MVP awards from the Moose Jaw Minor Football League. Thompson received Offensive MVP for the U14 division, while Tendler was named Defensive MVP.
Ford emphasized the importance of celebrating all athletes, not just those receiving awards.
“It’s crucial to recognize not only the award winners but also the players who put in the hard work at practice,” he said. “We make sure to acknowledge everyone’s contributions, which is what makes these events so special.”
The AGM also saw changes to the board, including the departure of secretary Kathy Thompson, who is transitioning to high school-level football as her children move up.
“We had some term changes, but nothing too significant,” Ford said, adding that the organization relies heavily on its volunteers. “The program doesn’t run without the support of our board members and the parent volunteers. We’re extremely grateful for everyone who contributes.”
Looking ahead to next season, Ford said preparations will start in March after a holiday break.
“We’ll get organized for the spring camp and start promoting winter camps for kids, such as the Selects program in Moose Jaw and the Wolverines program in Regina,” Ford said.
The upcoming season will see 13 Oilers players move to the high school level.“It’s exciting to see so many kids ready to take the next step,” Ford said. “It shows the strength of our program and the potential for future success.”
The organization also plans to continue its flag football program for kids aged 6 to 12. “Flag football is a great introduction to the game,” Ford said. “It’s been a while since we offered it, but we brought it back this year, and the kids had a blast.”
Estevan Minor Football remains committed to developing young athletes and fostering a love for the sport, ensuring future generations have the skills and support to succeed both on and off the field.
“It’s been a great year, and we’re excited to keep building on our success,” Ford said.
Award winners
2024 Player Achievement Awards
U10 Canuckcade Cudas
Canuckcade Most Dedicated: Ramsey Graham
U12 Power Dodge Chargers
Team MVP: Casey Kitz
Offensive MVP: Dexx Tendler
Defensive MVP: Jax Trombley
Most Sportsmanship: Mason Lesy
Driven Distribution Most Driven: Parker Moffatt
Best Improved: Owen Buchanan
Rookie of the Year: Lincoln Molstad
U14 Estevan Lions Club Oilers
Team MVP: Taya Stigings
Offensive MVP: Ryder Mantei
Defensive MVP: Kieran Kyle
Best Sportsmanship: Brody Hogg
Southern Bolt Most Dedicated: Ben Guertin
Most Improved: John Claypool
Rookie of the Year: Max Ogdanskiy
U18 Estevan Kinette Club Viragos
Team MVP: Aurora McCutcheon
Offensive MVP: Morgan Hase
Defensive MVP: Kassidy Wallington
O-line MVP: Kristin Loroff
D-line MVP: Jaycee Sopp
Best Sportsmanship: Sam Miller
Prairie Rathole Most Dedicated: Kristin Loroff
Most Improved: Sophia Geysen
Rookie of the Year: Carly Hermann
Community and volunteer awards
Brian Illerbrun Community Award: Dane Tober
Brian Smith Volunteer Family Award: Pam Dmytriw and family