The Weyburn Junior Eagles put the wraps on the 2000 season on Oct. 14 as they dropped their Regina Minor Football League playoff contest to a over-powering Regina squad.

Although the Jr. Eagles struggled through game action this season, ending with a 0-8 regular season mark, they made strides as an organization have put the wheels in motion for successful years to come.

"We have never had a winning year in terms of game play," said coach Ted Hillstead. "Most of the kids enjoy the practices more than the games, so overall this isn't a disappointing year."

Although Hillstead noted the players enjoy the participation of the sport, this season was the first in recent memory where the Jr. Eagles failed to record a win.

Looking towards next season the Jr. Eagles will looking to build on the foundation they laid this season.

"Most of the kids will be back because this was a very young team," said Hillstead. "We only had five players in the higher ages, so the good thing is we will have a lot of players coming back with experience for next year. The bad thing is we are not sending many players to the Comp team."

With many disappointing on-field moments this season, Hillstead said by far the biggest highlight of the 2000 season for the Jr. Eagles came as they took to the turf at Taylor Field in Regina for a game.

"From the kids' standpoint (playing at Taylor Field) was the highlight of the year," said Hillstead. "They had a blast."

On Sunday the team closed the season with the end-of-the-year banquet, where the team handed out the awards for the 2000 season.

Receiving most valuable player honours for the Jr. Eagles was John Bocian while Zack Rudy was named top offensive player and Michael Worona the top defensive player. As well Dallas Mahnic was honoured as he received the most improved player award.

Also it was announced Blaine Kwochka will be succeeding Wayne Woycik as the president of Weyburn Minor Football.