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The Portage Coed Soccer League (PCSL) is launching its first season this spring, offering adults in Portage la Prairie a new recreational soccer option. Organizers are excited to bring fresh opportunities to the community for those who are unable to play in other leagues on the weekends.
A fresh start
Jolene Dayholos, a volunteer, explains the idea for the league.
"It's brand new; we're just starting up this year. We’ve had some recreational soccer leagues and women's leagues in the past, but those have died out over time. It's one of those things where we're just trying to offer more options for people to play soccer in Portage as an adult.”
The league’s spring season kicks off on May 9th, with games every Friday at 6 p.m. They also have plans for a summer league on Wednesday evenings.
“People will have an option to play this pre-season for six weeks, just the summer season or they can play both. Whatever works with people and their schedules.”
An inclusive experience
The league is designed to be a low-pressure, recreational experience for players of all skill levels. The league emphasizes inclusivity, welcoming everyone from seasoned players to newcomers. The only requirement is being born in, or before, 2010.
“This isn't a super competitive league; it's for people of every ability who just want to get out and have some fun. You can join with friends, a spouse, or even children that are in high school or older.”
Team formation will depend on the registration turnout with a focus on both balance and fun.
"We're going to try to keep friends and family together as much as possible while keeping teams even. We want to make sure everybody has fun, gets to meet new people, and plays soccer. It's a great way to meet people.”
Though registration just opened on Tuesday, Dayholos and the league organizers are hoping for a good turnout.
“I think the spring season will probably have fewer players than the one on Wednesdays. Wednesdays are when we would like to play, but of course, those fields are taken by Portage Youth Soccer until July, so that's why we're doing this preseason. It will give some people a chance to try it out and see if they like it,” Dayholos explains.
Registration details
Registration for the league will run until April 25th. The cost to join is $60, plus a $40 refundable jersey deposit.
"We’re looking forward to a great season. Our main goal is to get people out and playing, and for everybody to have fun in a recreational co-ed league.”