The idea to have a Stoney soccer program was once just kicked around, but with a provincial soccer body on board, a non-profit group is aiming at a bigger goal.
The Alberta Soccer Association (ASA) and Sacred Rocky Mountain Mini Thni Movement Association (SRMMTMA), a registered non-profit organization, want to get youth active and engaged in soccer on the Stoney Nakoda First Nations.
SRMMTMA’s mission is to make a positive change among the Stoney Nation through various activity-based endeavours.
“Were not in the business of making money, we’re in the business of producing healthy, active people in the community,” said Tasina Pope, SRMMTMA treasurer.
The group’s hope is to begin the soccer program this spring. Initially it was designed for teens, said Pope, but an overwhelming community feedback has the organization “trying their hardest” to include all ages.
“What they see is a change in the community and they want to be part of that change,” said Pope.
“I think if we get the right amount of volunteers – before we thought it wouldn’t be that many who wanted to do it. Word has gotten out and now elders have told us they want to see a change away from young people passing away from unfortunate things.”
The organization hopes by teaching the value of sport and physical activity at a young age it will lead to a decrease in illegal drug use and binge alcohol drinking, among others.
The Stoney Nakoda First Nations is comprised of three bands – Wesley, Bearspaw and Chiniki.
With the ASA partnership, registration fees have been waived and soccer education is the next step.
“We were going to try to help them with equipment, coach and referee development … participating with other registered members,” said Richard Adams, ASA executive director.
“The point being they can find a way to participate, maybe in exhibition games against local communities, (such as) Cochrane or Canmore.”
ASA has a mandate to help out minority groups and Richards said they have struggled to find the right contacts to First Nations and Metis Settlements.
This is the first time, however, that ASA has been able to help multiple First Nations and Metis Settlements in one year.
“It hasn’t been as successful as we would have liked, but if this is a success story that hopefully we can hope to promote in the future, that’s what we want to see. We want to connect all of Alberta; that’s our mandate, and there’s certainly a gap right now as far as the settlements and first nations bands,” said Richards.
The next step for SRMMTMA is to seek permission to use the gym and track and field at Morley Community School for practice while they continue to seek other grants, such as through participACTION.
SRMMTMA is encouraging Stoney Nation members who are “passionate and like-minded” about making a change in the community, to join the organization.
Those interested can inquire at [email protected] or visit the website srmmtma.wix.com or Facebook page.
