The Sooke Thunderbirds Football teams are gearing up for the season, and will host a Friday Night Lights tailgate party at Fred Milne Park turf field on March 23.
The second annual event encourages everyone in the community come out and participate in a friendly game of flag football, and socialize with one another.
“We want to raise awareness in Sooke that football exists here, and that kids can play a sport basically in their own backyard. We want to rally the community together in support of that,” said Natalie Kaisinger, a Thunderbird volunteer and organizer of the event.
“We just want people to come out, have some fun and enjoy themselves, and to let people know that football is a safe sport.”
People of all ages are welcome to participate, and a concession will be available for food and beverages.
“We are just wanting to give Sooke youth opportunities to play sports in their own community, and because football is a team sport, it gives kids an opportunity to spend time together,” said Kaisinger. “The kids seem to love it and it’s so exciting to see their energy and enthusiasm when they get on to the field.”
There are three different Sooke football teams: Atom, pee wee and junior bantam.
This year, the teams have new coaches, new equipment, and all home games will be played on the new turf field in Sooke.
The teams are still recruiting players, and all boys and girls born between 2004 and 2010 are encouraged to join.
If your child is interested in signing up to play for a Sooke Thunderbird Football team, please go online to www.spartansfootball.ca/register-online/. For any questions, email thunderbirdsfootball@gmail.com.