Hot for Soccer: La Mesa AYSO Kicks Off Its 35th Season On Humid Morning

Ayla Jackson, 14, of Santee sang the national anthem and a handful of grown-ups addressed hundreds of families as temperatures rose to the high 80s Saturday morning on the upper field at La Mesa Middle School. But strong sun and high humidity were no obstacle to fun as La Mesa AYSO began its 35th season with opening ceremonies for soccer players new and returning.

Regional Commissioner Craig Angarola, with two children of his own playing, said 1,250 boys and girls are signed up for three months of play that begins next weekend. La Mesa, Region 89, is mainly La Mesa but extends into San Carlos and Allied Gardens.

Saturday’s opener also served as a fundraiser with a dunk tank ($1 for three throws) and several food and drink concessions on the lower field. Free bounce tents and air-filled slides were favorite destinations, and scrimmages followed into the early afternoon for some older boys and girls.

If you have photos from Saturday’s events, add your best shots here.