Urgent: Prince Albert Minor Football Seeks Players as Season Nears

UPDATE: The clock is ticking for Prince Albert Minor Football (PAMF) as the season approaches with a critical need for players. Just weeks away from the first practice on August 18, officials announce that the peewee and bantam River Riders are still short on registrations, putting the upcoming season at risk.

Taras Kachkowski, a key figure in the organization, is intensifying efforts to spark interest among kids in grades 6 through 9. “It’s much more about the life skills that you learn, not just the game itself,” Kachkowski stated. He emphasized the importance of teamwork, discipline, and goal setting, crucial skills that extend far beyond the field.

Despite the River Riders’ previous successes—most notably, the bantam team clinching the Kinsmen Football league championship in 2022—current registration numbers are alarmingly low. Kachkowski pointed out that many players from the championship-winning team went on to lead Carlton High School to an undefeated provincial championship, showcasing the pathway to success through PAMF.

In a bid to attract more players, PAMF is offering a $75 discount on early registration fees and is providing equipment free of charge. “We’re not a hockey family. We are a football family,” said parent Michele Taylor, expressing concern over the loss of activity for her children if the team cannot form.

Players are eager to return to the field. “I like the contact and making friends out of town that you wouldn’t normally,” shared Alex, a peewee River Rider. However, as of Tuesday afternoon, each team is still about 10 players short of the numbers needed to take the field.

Kachkowski remains hopeful that interest will pick up before the registration deadline on August 17. Families are urged to take action quickly to ensure that the River Riders can continue to thrive and foster future talent in the community.

As PAMF faces this urgent challenge, the clock is ticking, and the community’s support is more crucial than ever. Will enough players step up to keep the spirit of football alive in Prince Albert?