The Estevan Minor Football (EMF) season has been nothing short of exhilarating, showcasing fierce competition across all four teams. With no blowouts and every game fiercely contested, it’s clear that the community's passion for football is thriving.
“Most of the four teams have been really competitive football,” said Pat Ford, reflecting on the successes of the season. “There haven’t been any blowouts; every team was in it for the most part, which is huge for us.”
Ford highlighted the impressive offensive performances this season, noting that teams have posted record numbers. On the defensive side, players have risen to the challenge, keeping points allowed to a minimum.
Discussing team depth, Ford acknowledged the ongoing need for more players in certain positions. “We’re pretty close to the same depth as before, but we could always use more,” he explained. “You need depth for every position in football.” The Chargers specifically require additional quarterbacks and linebackers, while the U14 club has made significant strides in roster size.
The U14 Oilers have particularly shone this season, losing only one regular-season game and showcasing a resilient winning mindset. “They had confidence, that’s for sure. When they got on a roll, they stayed with their confidence,” Ford commented. “They kept pushing and didn’t quit on any game, even when they were down.”
Describing the Oilers’ year as a rebuilding phase, Ford noted the transition to six-a-side football. “It’s a different size field and a different level of football,” he explained. “More spots in the field to pick and more areas to run around in.”
Another highlight of the season has been the increased interest in female tackle football. “We’ve seen a little bit of a boost,” Ford stated, emphasizing the importance of holding more camps to engage more players. “Depth is key in football, and we need more players to keep everyone fresh.”
As the season wraps up, many players will participate in offseason training programs. “The Viragos will probably hold a couple of training camps in Weyburn,” Ford shared. “And most of the players will join a select program in Regina for offseason training.”
Looking ahead, Ford expressed excitement about the future of minor football in Estevan. “This year, we had flag football start up, and we’re going to bring that back in the spring,” he said, encouraging parents and players to stay tuned for updates on social media. “We want to help bridge the gap between flag and tackle football to keep those numbers growing.”
With a strong sense of community support and a commitment to fostering growth, Estevan Minor Football is set for a bright future in the seasons to come.