The summer soccer season really gets in stride this weekend.
The Mid-Isle FC Highlanders reserve men’s and women’s teams are both in action Sunday (June 3) at Merle Logan Field.
“I’m really excited about the weekend,” said James Merriman, club manager. “The guys are right in the mix; they’re fighting for that playoff spot … and the girls have a chance to move into first place.”
The men are 2-2 in the Pacific Coast Soccer League’s reserve division, while the women are 3-1. Both are U21 teams but a limited number of over-age players are permitted. It means the program is accessible to a lot of high-level players from the region. Merriman said the men’s practices, for example, are consistently drawing 30 athletes twice a week.
“Which is an unbelievable turnout,” he said. “It’s healthy competition. Basically every week guys are going to fight for starting positions.”
The women’s team had immediate success in its first season, said Merriman, because it’s a good mix of talent from high-school age up to senior.
“It’s making for a pretty strong team and they’re playing a great style of soccer, as well,” he said.
GAME ON … The men play the Penticton Pinnacles at noon, followed by the women’s game against TSS Academy at 2 p.m. Admission is free.
sports@nanaimobulletin.com
