The Bantam Titans begin their training camp on Tuesday, August 24. The Bantam team is comprised of grade 7-9 players and for most it is their first glimpse into organized football. Allison Ostergard is the manager of the team. She sees many benefits for the players and many life lessons are played out on the field.
“They learn dedication, perseverance, teamwork, camaraderie and sports skills. A lot of these sports skills transfer. They learn balance, hand-eye coordination, they learn a playbook, and simple things like head-manning a pass. I think that all transfers to things like basketball, hockey, everything,” said Ostergard.
She says this year there is great support for the team as there are 29 already signed up and have a strong core of returning players, as well as a good number new to the game.
She says team spirit is not lost on the team.
“I know it is a cliché, but they are almost like brothers, and that is one thing the seniors and the bantams are really working on is brotherhood,” she said. “I think they learn a lot.”
The training camp goes Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. The season starts quickly as they play their first game on September 4 against Hunting Hills from Red Deer.
The Bantam Titans play in the Central Football League with teams including Innisfail, Strathmore, Lacombe, Red Deer, Olds and Springbank.
Ostergard says those interested in playing can come to the practice on Tuesday night, August 24 to sign up.
For more information, contact Ostergard at 403-823-5154 or coach Paul Redmond at 403-823-6712, or log on to www.titansfootball.ca.
