Over the past few years, the youth tackle football programs in the communities of Martensville and Warman have experienced significant shifts. Recently, there has been a noticeable decrease in participation in traditional tackle football.
This trend is largely attributed to the growing popularity of NFL Flag football and 7 on 7 Football, both of which are recognized as non-contact alternatives.
Recruiting volunteer coaches continues to be an ongoing challenge for both communities.
“We struggle every season to find coaches due to time constraints, family obligations and other commitments. Because we are considered minor football there seems to be a cycle of coaches and volunteers every four seasons when their young athletes progress to the next level of football, which is highschool football,” said Som Houmphanh, President for Maddog’s football.
This year, home games have shifted from Martensville to Warman. The Martensville Football field, formerly known as Maddog’s Field, has served the community for over two decades. Unfortunately, drainage and weather-related issues have rendered the field unplayable, with standing water causing significant grass and turf damage. Concerns over player safety and potential injuries led organizers to seek an alternative venue.
“Because of the relationship we’ve had with Warman when the program was initially formed, we were able to discuss terms for use of their highschool football field.”
Despite the field challenges, practices have not been entirely relocated. The Peewee team continues to train on a portion of the Martensville field with a limited area of play. Meanwhile, the Bantam team holds its practices in Warman, taking advantage of the better facilities.
“The Peewee team has 30 registered players competing in 9-man football, while the Bantam team has 45 players registered for 12-man football. Although most participants are from Martensville and Warman, the teams also have players from surrounding communities—including Dalmeny, Langham, Hague, Olser, and Rosthern, to name a few.”
This season’s Peewee Head Coach is Carlos Estrada from Martensville, and the Bantam Head Coach is Jeremy Taylor from Warman. The merging of teams has resulted in a strong coaching staff and an ample group of volunteers for the season.
As the program marks its 20th anniversary, the organization was hoping to celebrate a ‘Homecoming’ event with the community to honor the program’s legacy and the many volunteers, coaches, and players who have contributed to its success over the years, but this event will not be possible this year because of the issues with the football field.
“It’s unfortunate that we’re not able to celebrate our 20-year anniversary of the program, however we were able to find a solution which still allows our kids to play, parents and family members to be able to attend their games without having to commute into the city,” said Houmphanh.
Martensville and Warman’s football community continues to remain committed to offering opportunities to our young athletes within our communities for years to come.
