Futsal, give it a go!

Futsal is a sport played across the world, with some of the most celebrated sporting nations hailing its influence in the development of some of their star footballers. It is the only small sided format accredited by FIFA and UEFA. There are professional leagues around the world. And yet, despite the hard work of many, in this country it is still met with hesitation by those who do not quite understand it yet.

I was fortunate enough to attend the Futsal Level 1 course on the 18^th July, delivered in Slough by the excellent Tracey Bourne. Tracey has been involved in Futsal for many years, a keen advocate of the game, and was quick to dispel the myth that Futsal is a diet five-a-side. It is obvious that this is a bugbear for many within the game. For that reason, the first thing we consider are the differences between the five-a-side game and Futsal. And there are many differences that do separate the two.

The England Futsal team is improving as the sport grows

Even just playing the game and learning the techniques, you realise how much this sport can help develop a player’s football ability. The ball, with thirty percent less bounce, stays at your feet when you take a touch.  You are likely to take six times more touches than in the eleven a side format, so we are told, leaving you with more chances to develop technical ability and play one versus one. The physical demands are rigorous resulting in greater fitness whilst, most importantly, having FUN. What’s not to like? 

Looking past player benefits, there is a clear pathway for coaches in a growing sport. The next step is the Level 2 and further down the line the UEFA B License that is in it's infancy, but is set to be launched this year. Should you find that this sport is for you, there will be plenty of opportunities for you to progress up the Futsal coaching ladder.

There is the argument that Futsal is its own sport and not simply a development tool for Football. The idea of it being solely used to develop players for football would belittle Futsal as a sport but there is no reason why it can’t help produce better footballers, particularly ones hoping to play at the highest level. At this moment in time those trying to promote Futsal cannot afford to be picky over who plays the sport so any participation, whatever the gain from it, is positive.

I would encourage anyone with preconceptions of the sport to enrol on the Level 1 course. It is just thirty five pounds for one day’s work in which you take part in lots of practical exercises, get the chance to meet others looking to work in the sport and meet tutors with a fountain of knowledge. You may find, as I have, that there is more to it than meets the eye!