For the past years the Chestermere United FC soccer club has been rallying for a dedicated play space in the Chestermere area, specifically in the Kinniburgh development. It’s now becoming urgent with the growth of the town seeing 1 in 20 residents playing soccer said David Clarke, Director of Coaching for the club.
For the past 12 to 18 months the club has been trying to negotiate for space wherever possible with no consistent practice space available. “It’s not ideal for our program,” said Clarke.
The club has been using what sources it can to raise funds from Federal grants, Grants from the Chestermere-Conrich Recreation Board (CCRD), and casinos but hope that they can attain some sponsorship which would accelerate the building of a domed facility such as the Subway sponsored 52 Street venue or the Calgary Northeast Genesis Wellness Center which is sponsored by community, public and private sponsors. Clarke said, “There are presently 900 kids throughout the season playing the game and we will soon have to start turning some away.”
The club has been working on a proposal for Town Council’s review that currently is sitting on Clarke’s desk. Plans have been drawn up with the quotes and prices still needing to be acquired. Clarke says that part seems to be a slower process with builders either too busy or slow to commit quotes. An aim of the club was to allow other sports groups’ usage of the building and a running track has been included in the design.
The club is presently working with a company that provides options and ideas for raising money. When asked about the possible inclusion in the larger sports complex proposed for the west side Waterbridge development Clarke said that they can’t wait for something to come about 10 or so years down the line. “We don’t have the luxury of waiting, “he said.
Meanwhile Kathy Bodington, Town Infrastructure Coordinator has been working out the beginning stages for the athletic field that will be part of the Kinniburgh School Site, slated to open in September 2014. Part of her work will allow space that could be used as a potential site for an indoor soccer facility.
