This has been a very different season so far for the Maddogs. With all the COVID-19 safety measures in place, the Maddogs were able to field teams in tackle and flag this year. Saskatoon Minor Football worked very closely with Football Saskatchewan, Football Canada and Saskatchewan Health to make sure protocols were in place to allow youths to take to the football field. Saskatoon Minor Football amalgamated with the Kinsmen Football League this season and with hard work, were able to get things in place to have tackle and flag leagues this year.
Some of the adjustments were that Bantam and Peewee tackle teams would reduce to 6-man football for the 2020 season. This would lower the number of kids on the field and sidelines at one time. As a result, the Maddogs consist of two teams each for Bantam and Peewee. The strict protocols for exposure called for a much different schedule. For the first two weeks they are scheduled to play the same teams to decrease contact and make smaller cohorts. Teams will have a shorter season with five games plus a playoff game.
The first game of the season was on Sunday with both Maddog peewee teams playing on home turf. It was a very close game and a defensive battle with Martensville 1 coming away with the marginal 7-6 win.
Coaches were so pleased with performances from both teams, considering the 6-man game is different from playing their normal 9-man tackle game. “This has been quite a strange year for us all,” commented Coach Devin Hind. “I am so thankful to see these kids get a chance at a season and to be able to work with them on the field. Both of our peewee teams have shown that they have a lot of heart and love for the sport. Every time I hit the field with them, I see an improvement and see how much happier they all are finally getting some normalcy back in their lives.” He went on to comment that he feels both teams will be a force to reckon with this season.
The Bantam teams split their games with Bantam 1 hosting Clavet 2 in Martensville. The first half was a very close battle but Clavet pulled away with the 33-14 win. Martensville 2 played at SMF field taking on the Titans. This was another close match with the Martensville Maddogs squeaking out the 7-6 win. Head coaches Som Houmphanh and Devin Hind were thankful that parents and Maddog alumni stepped up to help with coaching seeing as the teams were split in two. The Maddogs will host the same teams this weekend so come out and cheer them on. GO Maddogs!
