The Winkler Amateur Soccer Association (WASA) is kicking off registration for its Fall 2025 season, and families are encouraged to sign up early. With more than 674 players last year, the volunteer-led league continues to grow—and that means plenty of planning ahead.
“We need time to make teams,” explains Kara Wieler, longtime WASA organizer. “Last year we had 674 players, so yeah, it takes a lot of time to organize that.”
Registration is open now at winklersoccer.com and runs until Friday, May 23rd. An in-person registration night is scheduled for Tuesday, May 20th from 6–7 p.m. at the Meridian Exhibition Centre for those who prefer signing up face-to-face.
Soccer for ages 4 to Grade 8 — no travel required
WASA focuses on making soccer accessible to all. The program is open to kids ages 4 through Grade 8, with all games held locally. Each session includes 30 minutes of drills followed by a 30-minute game, all at the same field location.
“This is so that everyone can play,” says Wieler. “It makes it a lot more accessible when there’s not that travel involved.”
This grassroots approach keeps costs low and participation high, making it one of the most inclusive sports programs in Winkler.
Building community through soccer
WASA is more than just a soccer league—it’s a community tradition. Whether you're cheering on your child from the sidelines or watching teens who once played return as coaches, it's a program that builds connection.
“It is amazing to go out and see 674 kids playing soccer. That’s at least 674 parents sitting there watching,” shares Wieler. “If you come out to the Parkland area on a soccer night, it’s a really cool thing to see.”
The league offers a sense of belonging and team spirit that extends into the schoolyard as well.
“For a lot of kids, this will be the only team they play on before school sports,” she adds. “They see each other at school with their jerseys on… it brings them together and helps them make new friends in the community.”
Coaches needed: parents, youth, and soccer fans welcome
With 55 teams and two coaches per team, WASA needs 110 coaches each season to make things run smoothly—and volunteers are always in high demand.
“We got there last year… with a lot of begging,” laughs Wieler. “We love the parents who coach, and we also love the people who come out just because they love soccer.”
WASA even offers a junior coaching program that allows youth in Grades 7 and 8 to assist and begin developing their leadership skills.
“We’re trying to grow them into coaches,” Wieler says. “My daughter went through the program and now this will be her third year coaching.”
Why soccer? Life skills, friendship, and fun
While soccer may be the sport, it’s the life skills that keep families coming back year after year.
“They’ve done a lot by being part of a team,” says Wieler. “It teaches teamwork, collaboration, and confidence. And for many, it’s their first chance to experience being part of something bigger.”
Even if you’re not a lifelong soccer player yourself, like Kara, there’s still room to grow with the program.
“I got into this because my kid wanted to play soccer and there was nobody organizing preschool soccer in 2013,” she shares. “Now I stay because of the community.”
Sign up now
Whether your child is just starting out or returning for another season, now is the time to register. Visit winklersoccer.com to sign up, volunteer as a coach, and find full program details.
Registration Deadline: Friday, May 23, 2025
In-Person Registration: Tuesday, May 20, 6–7 p.m. at the Meridian Exhibition Centre
Don't miss your chance to be part of one of Winkler's most beloved community programs. Get ready to soccer!