In Depth: HASL's Women Division

When Suzy Permar moved to Huntsville for work just over a year ago, one of the first things she did was look for a league to quench soccer thirst.  When she discovered that there were no leagues for the female player older than the age of 18 in Huntsville,  she decided that she would make it her goal to change the situation.  "I realized  that there was no women's soccer leagues or even a recognized co-ed league for women to play in.  That is why I decided to get the ball rolling on starting a women's league here." 

You'll find several women scattered across the rosters of the Huntsville Adult Soccer League, but HASL is certainly not considered a "co-ed" league.  That makes it hard for women who would like to continue to play the game they grew up loving.  "Although, I have an obvious personal interest in starting a league here in Huntsville, I am also doing it for the progression of women's sports in this area, " added Permar.

HASL has also recognized that there is a segment of the soccer playing population that isn't being served and has made it a priority to help Permar establish the league.  Permar gives HASL a lot of credit, "Jacob Noffke at HASL has really made this happen for us." 

Permar, who has quite a bit of experience as a player, coach and soccer administrator in Memphis, is looking to set up a top notch competition in Huntsville.  "HASL has agreed to include a women's program under their umbrella. So the women of Huntsville will play through that organization and register with USSF and the Alabama State Soccer Association."

Permar understands that it may take some time to build up the women's league to the heights that the existing men's league has reached.  "At this time the games will be played in Madison at Palmer Park on Monday nights.  We are going to start with a 6v6 League until we grow large enough to play 11v11."

Spring Registration dates will be next Thursday, January 27th from 5-7 and Saturday,  January 29th from 2-4 at Pete's Soccer Shop .  If you can't make it to the registration dates or you or a player you know would like more info, you can reach Suzy at spermar11@gmail.com.

In a stroke of bad luck, Suzy will have to wait to reap the fruits of her labor.  "Unfortunately, I will be on the sidelines during the first season as I am currently recovering from a torn ACL. I expect to be back playing this summer sometime."