Four age groups of young football players have been practising at Raven Park since early July. Yes, the Bel-Air Copeland Lions are gearing up for the new season.
The Tykes (ages 7-10) are a young group this year, but show much promise. Among the returning players are Wassim Sayegh and Andy To. Newcomers include brothers Justin and Michael Chartier, and their cousins, Matthew Chartier and Eric Ethier.
Overage Tykes who are making a contribution to the Mosquitos (11-12 years) this season include Dylan Amundson, Josh Gionet, and Steve Buske. Veterans Chris Holmes and Tyrone Baskin are part of the versatile offensive backfield, while Mohamed Issa leads the defence.
Last year's Mosquito fullback Danny Cama has eased into the same position with the Pee-Wee (13-14) squad. Joe Kanaan and Mohamed Hassan have also moved up, while Crystal Corneau and Jean Knight return for another attempt at the championship. This team shows a lot of potential this season.
The Bantams (15-16) currently have many openings on their roster, after losing many players to graduation. Mike Maitland, Ryan Proulx, and Ron Whissell are determined first year Bantams, while Wayde Richer and Jaime Henriquez provide experience for the club.
The regular season began Aug. 28. Saturdays, the Mosquitos play at 9:30 and the Tykes at 11:15. Sundays, the Pee-Wees play at 1:00 with the Bantams at 2:45.
The teams' next games are Sept. 11 and 12 at Bell High School. On Sept. 18, the Mosquitos and Pee-Wees play at the Sportsplex, and the month closes with games at Merivale High School on Sept. 25,26.
For more information, call John at 956-8424 (days) or Bud at 225-6670.