Leaders in the soccer community will convene in Red Deer for the annual Women in Soccer Conference in May.

The three-day event, hosted by Alberta Soccer will bring several elite coaches, referees and players to town for seminars, presentations and workshops revolved around inspiring and growing women’s involvement in the sport. It runs May 5 to 7.

It’s the only conference of its kind in Canada.

“We are thrilled to offer women in Alberta an opportunity to learn from passionate and knowledgeable experts from across Canada, but also from one another,” said Richard Adams, Alberta Soccer Association’s Executive Director in a press release.

“Attendees will develop valuable skills to benefit their roles both on and off the soccer field.”

Run by the Alberta Soccer Association’s Development of Women in Soccer Committee, the three-day event will feature a deep lineup of speakers, including Olympic medalists, FIFA referees and a coach from the National Women’s Program.

On that list is keynote speaker Lorraine Lafreniere, CEO of the Coaching Association of Canada as well as former national team member and Olympic bronze medalist Carmelina Moscato. Michelle Pye, one of only seven international soccer referees from Canada, and Dr. Cari Din will also be in attendance.

Along with general sessions, attendees at the conference will have the opportunity to zone in on one of three areas of focus: leadership, coaching or refereeing. If participating in the coaching or refereeing stream, individuals are eligible to receive their full certification.

For more information, go to www.albertasoccer.com/about/women-in-soccer/

byron.hackett@www.reddeeradvocate.com