Kerrobert Rebels football players were given a few weeks between bumps and bruises before officially celebrating the end of the 2023 football season. Players, parents, and community volunteers gathered last Wednesday evening at the Prairieland Community Centre for the first ever Kerrobert Football Association Football Banquet.
President Don Snell felt it was a great way to recap the 2023 campaign. The Rebels finished 4-2 in the regular season, and lost a heartbreaker on the road in the provincial quarter-finals against Carrot River 36-34.
"The banquet was a way that we could appreciate all the hard-work that our referees, coaches, managers, and everybody has done this year. Certainly wanted to take some time to appreciate everyone, and take some time to recognize our athletes; our star athletes that were able to come out and enjoy things."
Snell says they also celebrated off-the-field accomplishments. The "Friday Night Lights" project was a major undertaking, and they were happy to announce in a group setting that everything was paid off.
"We started this group two years ago, and that was our first project. We are glad we can wrap that one up, and move on to many more things."
Snell was one of a few speakers on the night (All photos via Kerrobert Football Association on Facebook)A former Rebels player was the night's guest speaker. Jacob Ambros is a wide receiver for the CJFL's Saskatoon Hilltops, who recently claimed the title of the top junior football team in the nation with their victory in the Canadian Bowl.
"You know he just celebrated his national championship, and he did just a fantastic job speaking to the kids. He was a local Rebel himself, coming up through our flag, junior, and senior programs. It was just fantastic to have him come to site and speak to the kids, and really motivate them. He did a great job."
The former Rebel Ambros is a perfect role model for current playersThe night also included a few minor, but important announcements.
"We have just secured and purchased a new food booth that has been delivered to our site. Excited to use that, that'll help sustain our football program for years to come."
Snell mentioned they also took some time to honour the volunteers who have helped the program out along the way.
"John Gillies, he has been a coach and referee with our football association for 46 years," said Snell. "And then Troy Snider, he is also our (current) coach, and has been coaching our flag, junior, and senior programs for over 17 years."
Troy Snider (speaking) was recognized for all the hard work he puts into the Rebels programJudging by Snell's reactions, it seems that the banquet is well on its way to becoming a yearly tradition.
"We were just overjoyed with the turnout, and really look forward to doing it again and building it bigger and better for next year."
Wed, Jul 17, 7:30 PM
