The Portage Youth Soccer Association (PYSA) kicked off its season Monday night.
With more than 1,000 kids registered from Portage la Prairie and surrounding communities, fields at Rotary Republic Park were bustling with activity.
Board member Brittany Boschman explains that the season typically starts later, but this year is an exception due to the early arrival of warm weather.
"Actually, we're starting early this year," Boschman says. "Generally we start a little later, but because the weather has been so awesome, we have started earlier, which is great. So the kids get more playing time."
Youth from across the region participating
Teams are made up of players from a wide range of communities, not just within Portage but also from nearby towns such as MacGregor, St. Claude, and Oakville. The association sees strong regional participation, with players travelling to and from different communities to compete. Games are primarily played at Republic Park, although other towns also host matches on their local fields.
"There’s over 1000 players," Boschman notes.
The season is divided into two weekly playing schedules—Monday and Wednesday, and Tuesday and Thursday—depending on the player’s age group. Participants range from as young as U5 to as old as U18.
The season opened with smooth execution and plenty of enthusiasm from players, referees and spectators alike. Boschman shares that both the kids and parents were thrilled to get the season underway.
"Everything went good. No hiccups. Kids were out having a really good time," Boschman says. "Referees were out having a good time, lots of parents having a good time sitting on the sidelines cheering their kiddos on and the kids look like they had a lot of fun."
The soccer season is scheduled to run through the end of June and will close with a community-wide Jamboree tournament. Details about the final event are expected to be released in the coming weeks.
Interest remains steady, board invites new members
While participation fluctuates slightly across age groups—particularly among older players due to high school commitments—Boschman says registration remains consistent with previous years.
The association continues to rely heavily on volunteers, with roles open on the board for those interested in getting involved in youth sports locally.
"We can't do this without parent support, without referees and people volunteering their time," Boschman adds. "We have a great board. We still have board positions up for grabs, so if you're interested in being a part of it, we're always welcoming."
"Thank you to all the parents and the referees and the coaches because we can't do it without you guys and we just appreciate it so much," she says.
Click here for the league schedule.
Field conditions and cancellations can be found here.