The newly formed Futsal team, Hart Futsal (under 13s 2009/10) played their first competitive game against a Swindon side at the Countries only new Futsal Arena.
The boys acquitted themselves well, playing against a more experienced team. The game was a great learning exercise; it was fast, exciting and huge amount of fun!
Hart Futsal Club comprises mostly of boys from Hart Hornets, with futsal training taking place in addition to their normal weekly training.
After the game, Hart Futsal Coach Graham Coates was delighted. He said “The boys have really thrown them themselves into Futsal and really enjoyed their Futsal experience. I can see already see the benefits and I can see how it can improve our 11 a side game”.
Futsal is the only officially recognised form of indoor football accepted by FIFA, UEFA and recently the FA. It is the world’s fastest growing indoor sport with over 30 million players worldwide. Players such as Zidane, Ronaldo, Ronaldinho and many others have developed their abilities playing Futsal from a young age. In Brazil, many boys play Futsal, up to the age of 15, before switching to the 11 a side game. The Football Association have recently adopted Futsal and it is now seen as a cornerstone of The FA’s strategic development plans.
The name “Futsal” simply combines the Spanish words for “hall” – Sala and “football”. Futsal is played between two teams of five players, with up to 7 substitutes. Futsal is played with a smaller low bounce ball and the ball can also be kicked above head height, with the goals are similar in size to hockey goals.
As a small-sided game, players must receive or play whilst under pressure and it places considerable demand on technique, movement, tactical awareness and fitness.
The facilities in Swindon are owned by a company called Futsal Limited. The arena incorporates a number of modern and high-tech features, enabling a unique experience. Working closely with the Football Association and regional Football Associations, the arena provides local and national leagues for adult and junior players, both male and female.
For further information regarding Futsal contact: Graham Coates (at Hart FC) via http://hartfc.net/xoops/ he will be more than happy to explain the rules, or give an introductory session of Futsal to your team.
