Futsal - it's more than just the game.......
- Players learn to cope in tight spaces
- It improves spatial awareness
- It improves decision making
- Develops a players ability to both defend and attack
- Gives players less time on the ball
- Players touch the ball up to 5 times more in small sided games than 11-a-side
- Goalkeepers are involved in the action two to four times more than 11-a-side
- The ball is out of play 8-10% of the time in a small sided game compared to 34% in 11-a-side
HOW DOES FUTSAL HELP YOUNG PLAYERS?
• Ball retention – possession is key in futsal. Players need to be able to keep the ball using good technique and movement
• Quick play – the small playing area forces quick play. This again requires good technique and movement
• Passing – futsal develops quick, accurate passing – no margin for error
• Skillful play – futsal encourages skillful play, either to retain possession or to create a shooting opportunity
• Confined spaces – everything happens much quicker and there is less margin for error
• Tactical awareness – futsal is a “whole-team” game. Each player needs to be aware of their own responsibilities
• Skill acquisition – the increased number of touches on the ball accelerates the learning process
• Movements – with and without the ball increase significantly in futsal