Young football players and coaches in Estevan will soon get a chance to sharpen their skills with top-tier training as the Selects football program brings its development camp to town on May 17.
The one-day camp at Dr. Dean Chow Field is designed to boost player performance and give local coaches valuable insights—something that’s often a challenge for rural football programs. Matt Sheridan, a former CFL linebacker for the Blue Bombers and public outreach for the Sask. Selects, highlighted the challenges faced by rural communities when it comes to football. "Not only are there challenges in recruiting enough players, but also in getting enough coaches—sometimes those coaches don’t have any football experience," he said.
To address this, the Selects program is bringing its camp to Estevan. “We want to flip the script a little bit and take the Selects experience on the road,” Sheridan explained.
While the Selects usually hold player ID camps focused on skill assessment, this camp is designed for development, coaching, and teaching. One of the key aspects of the camp will be customizing the content to the specific needs of local communities. "We’ve been in touch with coaches, minor football presidents, and parents to learn about the challenges they face and what their players and coaches need to improve," he explained. This feedback will ensure the camp's training and coaching presentations are as relevant and beneficial as possible.
Sheridan has been in contact with local football leaders, including Chris Bayerle, the Elecs coach, and Pat Ford, president of Estevan Minor Football, to ensure the camp addresses the specific needs of Estevan's football community.
Based on their feedback, the camp will provide tailored instruction in key areas like offensive and defensive line play, quarterback mechanics, and run game management. Coaches will also have the opportunity to refine their strategies and coaching skills, as the camp will include specific coaching presentations based on local needs.
"At the end of the day, better coaches make better players," he said. The Selects’ approach aims to provide high-level coaching right to Estevan’s doorstep, making the camp a unique opportunity for both players and coaches in smaller communities.
The Selects, based in Moose Jaw, are known for their elite offseason training and competition opportunities. In addition to their local camps, they provide athletes with competitive opportunities like the Battle of the Prairies tournament and trips to Florida and Texas for youth tournaments.
The camp will run from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., wrapping up with a BBQ celebration. It’s open to players aged 8–18 and welcomes coaches looking to refine their game strategies. The cost for the Estevan camp is $105 per player and $50 per coach, with the coach’s fee waived if they bring four players. There is also a package deal available for those attending both the Estevan and Weyburn camps at $125 per player and $60 per coach. Again, the coach's fee is waived if they bring four players.
Sheridan also mentioned that the Selects program has a strong track record, with many alumni advancing to college, junior football, and even the CFL. “This is a chance for Estevan’s players to take their skills to the next level,” he said.
The players will need to bring their own helmets, shoulder pads, and cleats to the camp.
Registration is now open at selectsfootball.com. “We want to see anyone who loves football or is interested in coaching to come out and participate in this opportunity,” Sheridan said.