As the NAIT Ooks women's futsal team heads into the ACAC Championship weekend, the mood is a mix of excitement and determination. The team, which has finished the regular season as the top seed in the North, is ready to prove their worth on the biggest stage. With a solid season behind them, Head Coach Dheeren Govender shares his thoughts on the journey ahead and what fans can expect from his squad. 

Entering the playoffs as the top team in the North is a huge accomplishment for the Ooks, but Coach Govender is keeping his team grounded. "We are feeling confident after a successful season but remain humble, acknowledging the challenges we'll face as the top seed," Govender says. The Ooks have set themselves up for a strong playoff run, but they understand that their opponents will be gunning for them, making the journey to the championship a true test of their resilience. 

The Ooks have had their share of tough matches this season, but Coach Govender believes these experiences have set the stage for success in the playoffs. "Throughout this season, we've learned the importance of maintaining our strong defensive organization, which will be key for us to shine at the ACAC Championships," he notes. The Ooks' defense has been a key part of their success this season, and they'll rely on that solid foundation to carry them through the high-stakes matches that lie ahead. 

As the team fine-tunes their preparations for the ACAC Championships, Coach Govender emphasizes the importance of building on their strengths. "In our final practices leading up to the ACAC Championships, we are dedicated to not only enhancing our futsal skills but also cultivating a proud team identity both on and off the field," Govender explains. The Ooks have worked hard to foster a sense of unity and pride within the team, knowing that success in the championship will require more than just individual talent. 

The team's focus is clear, while results are never guaranteed, they are committed to upholding their high standards. "We can't wait to showcase our strategies and creativity as we take to the court this weekend," says Govender, excited to see his team's efforts pay off. 

With strong leadership and a clear vision, the NAIT Ooks are prepared to take on all challengers in the upcoming ACAC Championships. Championships will take place at Lakeland College; their first match is Friday, March 7th, at 8:00 AM! Go Ooks!