The Greater Okotoks Football Association is raising awareness of programming in the area with a try-it event this weekend.
On Saturday (May 3), youth between seven and 14 can try on equipment, throw and catch footballs, play games, and learn to tackle during the Football 101 drop-in event.
Parents will get to ask questions about the program and safety precautions.
“It’s an opportunity to reduce barriers for those who are considering football. We're going to have a lot of activities for the kids, but we're also going to provide information to families,” said Darren Krause, president of the Greater Okotoks Football Association.
A significant concern Krause hears from families about football is safety.
“We would love the opportunity to be able to chat with parents about some of the different coaching techniques that are being used, and the advances in equipment that really go that extra step towards protecting players,” he said. “Most of all we just want people to come out, have fun, and experience the game of football.”
During the event, youth will be able to throw to target, dive, tackle, and catch passes.
“We're also going to have an area where kids can play the game and have a whole heck of a lot of fun,” Krause said. “It's a game that we all know and love very much, and we just want more kids involved in the Okotoks area.”
Football 101 runs from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. on May 3 at the field house in Aldersyde.
For information on spring programming, visit the Foothills Eagles Football Club website here.