Lethbridge College and Kodiaks Athletics are gearing up to host the 2022 Alberta Colleges Athletics Conference (ACAC) Soccer Championships, presented by the Southern Alberta Homes Team at Royal Lepage South Country, Oct. 27 to 30.
The top men’s and women’s collegiate teams from across the province will compete at Comet Stadium in Raymond, Alta. – a state-of-the-art facility boasting artificial turf, lights and seating for more than 1,200 spectators – for the chance at a conference championship and a spot at nationals next month.
“What an exciting opportunity for Lethbridge College and the community to see this level of collegiate soccer in our own backyard,” says Todd Caughlin, Athletics and Recreation Services manager. “Being the first time the college has ever hosted this event just adds to the excitement and anticipation of next weekend. We are proud to be able to partner with the Town of Raymond and look to deliver an incredible event on both the men’s and women’s sides of competition.”
The four-day tournament gets underway next Thursday, Oct. 27 with team practices at Comet Stadium. The 2022 ACAC Soccer Awards Ceremony and Banquet will follow that evening in Lethbridge College’s Val Matteotti Gymnasium.
Game action begins with quarterfinals on Friday, Oct. 28, as both men’s and women’s Kodiaks teams take the pitch for the knock-out round. Semifinals will be held on Saturday, Oct. 29 and the ACAC bronze and gold medal matches are set for Sunday, Oct. 30.
“There’s going to be a lot of good soccer out in Raymond next weekend,” says Kodiaks head coach Sean Carey. “On any given day, with the level of parity across the conference, anyone can beat anyone, and we’re excited about that.”
He also promises entertaining athleticism from both the men’s and women’s Kodiaks teams. “At the end of the day, you’ve got to score goals to win,” Carey says. “There are a lot of tactics to the game, but we want to go for it – take chances and see if we can get two banners.”
With strong ties to the Kodiaks, the Southern Alberta Homes Team at Royal Lepage South Country is a natural fit as presenting sponsor of the 2022 ACAC Soccer Championships. Ally Keith, residential and commercial realtor, was a member of the women’s soccer team from 2009 to 2011 while earning her Business Administration – Marketing diploma. Her associate, Justin Lariviere, served as an assistant coach for both men’s and women’s teams from 2017 to 2021.
“As an alum, it’s important for me to stay involved in the program and continue to support Kodiaks Athletics,” says Keith. “And as members of the business community, we want to champion Lethbridge and southern Alberta as a great place to live, work and go to school.”
Spectators near and far are invited to catch all the action next weekend by purchasing a tournament pass for $25, an adult day pass for $10 or a student day pass for $5. Admission is free for Lethbridge College students and children under 12.
Those unable to cheer on their team in person, can purchase a streaming pass through ACACTV.
Tournament information, including game previews and recaps, will be available on the 2022 ACAC Soccer Championships website.