The Estevan Comprehensive School Elecs football team will begin their preparations for the 2019 season by hosting a spring camp.
An equipment handout will happen on May 30, and then scrimmages will happen from June 3-7.
“It’s an excellent way to integrate new and incoming players with our returning players, and kind of get a sense of where everybody fits for the upcoming season,” said head coach Mark Schott.
About 25 players are eligible to return from last year’s team, so they have the majority of the squad back. Many of the players will be in Grade 12.
“We graduated some important players as well, specifically along the lines,” said Schott.
The returning players will be participating in spring camp, and Schott would like to see as many returning and new players as possible.
Adding to the level of competitiveness for this year’s camp is a rule change in Moose Jaw Minor Football affecting Grade 9 players. All high school-aged players are now forced to play high school football, whereas before Grade 9s and even some Grade 10s had the option of playing bantam football.
The change is part of a Football Canada mandate for the upcoming season.
“It will be important to see what type of players we have coming out from that age group and where they fit with the team. Those players are an important part of our team moving forward, so we want to fit them in as best as possible.”
A strong turnout at camp will allow players to become familiar with each other, and it helps the coaches know what the team will look like heading into the fall.
It also serves as an opportunity for players to get back onto the field and familiarize themselves with their potential new teammates.
Schott would also like to see a contingent of rural players at camp, as they have agreements with schools in Oxbow, Lampman and Midale, as well as those taking online course with Cornerstone, to join their team.
“We’d like to add to that mix. We have a pretty good relationship with those schools, and we’re hoping that there’s more students from those schools coming our way,” said Schott.
The Elecs went through a lot of injuries last year that cost them contributions from key players. They look forward to having their players healthy for camp, and ready to go in September.
“We’re hoping that the camp can unite our team, and help us set the right foot forward for a healthy 2019 season,” said Schott.
