Media Release:

2021 Outdoor Season Update

The Vermilion Soccer Association (VSA) Executive met on April 18, 2021 to review and discuss the operations for the upcoming 2021 Outdoor Season.  When the information was gathered and reviewed, it was the decision of the Executive to suspend the opening and operation of the 2021 Outdoor Season for the following reasons:

• As result of the Alberta Health order {CMOH Order 10-2021:  Section 8.15} requiring all coaching staff to be trained for sporting organizations, VSA was required to have volunteer coaches be in process of or completing age groups specific training, this requirement resulted in lower than expected volunteers and therefore we have not  been able to acquire the  sufficient  quota of coaches.

• The numbers of volunteers required to successfully operate a sporting club like VSA were not attainable this season to assist with the needed work such as field preparation and all related covid-19 protocols to be managed during soccer sessions twice a week.

• The covid case numbers in our local area have risen in the recent weeks and have impacted the planning and operation of many clubs/organizations, businesses and everyday events.  Families are worried and are feeling uncertain, VSA acknowledges this and wishes to support families by reducing stress and worry related to participating in soccer events (return to train).

The Executive would like to acknowledge the families who continue to support soccer and VSA, we are grateful for your support.  We would also like to extend our appreciation to those members who dedicated many hours over the past few months in prepping for a different kind of return to the pitch to keep our members safe; we thank our partners; Vermilion Provincial Park, Lakeland Soccer and the numerous community businesses like CornerStone Coop for their willingness to help our community return to normalcy.  The VSA Executive is disappointed that we could not offer an outdoor season this year - here is hoping we can all gather once again on the pitch and enjoy soccer together in 2022.  Until then please stay active and maintain or enhance your soccer skills - be sure to check out ASA website for drills and activities - Go Strikers!