(Sylvan Lake Minor Football/ submitted)

By rdnewsNOW staff

Announces new president

Founder of SLMFA Jeremy Braitenback retires after 28 years

May 9, 2025 | 9:19 AM

As preparations for football season inch closer, the Sylvan Lake Minor Football Association (SLMFA) announced a change in leadership.

Jeremy Braitenback, who founded the SLMFA in 1997, has decided to retire. He was also a long-time head coach of the H.J. Cody Lakers senior football team and leaves behind a legacy of winning, which includes two league titles and a provincial championship in 2007.

“Jeremy helped build not just a football association, but a culture of excellence and commitment that continues to define Sylvan Lake Minor Football,” said SLMFA director Mike Williams. “His impact will be felt for generations.”

Long-time head coach of the U16 bantam Lions, Geoff Rambaut will replace Braitenback as president.

He brings plenty of experience to the role through coaching and also from playing in the SLMFA as a young man.

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“I’m incredibly honoured to lead this program,” Rambaut said. “Having come full circle from player to coach to now president, I can tell you this group of volunteers is second to none. I welcome anyone interested in playing, volunteering, or sponsoring to join us — it’s a fantastic community.”

(Sylvan Lake Minor Football/ submitted)

Rambaut is also calling on local municipal officials to address the need for infrastructure investment in local football. The association currently operates without access to a municipal game field with lights.

“Despite the challenges of having virtually no municipal amenities, we’ve managed to build one of the most respected youth football programs in Alberta,” Rambaut added.

“It’s time for our municipal officials to step up and support our players the way they support other sports in town. The new multi-purpose field at Pogadl Park is scheduled to be part of the phase 4 construction starting next year (2026) and we need to make sure it stays a priority for the new council coming in this fall.”

Spring camps officially kicks off May 20, with full training camps beginning in mid-August.