The recently formed Oakdale Soccer Club had its opening ceremonies this past Saturday at T.L. Davis Sports Complex. With over 650 excited and enthusiastic young soccer players storming the complex, the season got off to a solid start. Oakdale Soccer Club President Ami Poncabare and her board members opened the gates at 8 a.m. and the ceremonies began at 8:45 a.m.

Once all the kids and coaches were lined up along the fence line, Vice President Cherilyn Bairos took the microphone and thanked everyone who made Oakdale Soccer Club possible. Attention then turned to 12-year-old Brooke Hayden, who sang the National Anthem, followed by Pastor Henry Raven, who offered a prayer for all players before team introductions.

The teams along with their coaches ran through a tunnel made by Oakdale Junior High School and High School cheerleaders, as well as parents during introductions. Shortly after, the games began and ran late into the afternoon at T. L. Davis.

The snack shack offered up a variety of treats as well as Rita’s refreshments available onsite. People were also treated to face painting, a raffle and massages courtesy of Mellow Moments by Courtney.

“We feel that our opening day was a success,” Recreation Program Director Nick Birchall said. “The families and businesses in Oakdale are special and they came out in full support for (the start of) our inaugural season.”