Futsal is a fast-paced, exciting form of indoor soccer that has been becoming increasing popular in the States. Futsal is the only form of indoor soccer endorsed by FIFA and this small sided game is widely played across the world. Futsal is a 5 v 5 soccer game normally played on a flat, hard surfaced court with hockey sized goals and a smaller, heavier low bounce soccer ball. There are touchline boundaries with no walls and players are free to play the ball over head-height. Games are 20 minutes per half and played to a stopping clock (similar to basketball) with time-outs permitted.

The nature of Futsal revolves around a soccer player’s control, skills, and touch on the ball. Since the size of the field is reduced, creativity and technique as well as ball control and passing in small spaces is emphasized. A player is always in a high-pressure situation and needs to think quickly, make fast decisions, and improvise. All of these soccer competencies can be translated into the full-field 11-a-side format of the game.

It is superior to walled soccer in terms of developing better skills and technique. In traditional American walled soccer, players regularly whack the ball (and sometimes their bodies) against the boards which promotes improper technique and too often rewards errant play. In futsal, players are constantly reminded to play the same quality control game that is required for success in the outdoor game. In traditional American indoor soccer, players often whack the ball (and their bodies) against the boards which can promote improper technique and often rewards errant play. Futsal players are constantly reminded of the quality control required for success and are encouraged to foster skillful, creative play above physical contact.

Many of the top world class players have played Futsal in their youth and have credited it to their development. Players such as Pele, Ronaldinho, Kaka, Xavi, and Messi have played Futsal to develop their skills. “Perhaps in regular football you cannot appreciate the talent. Everything is more physical. But in Futsal you have small details of quality, class and tactical aspects.” -Xavi – FIFA World Cup Winner: 2010 and UEFA Champions League Winner

This Summer, Champion’s QUEST will be hosting their first-ever Soccer/Futsal Camp for players looking to not only develop their athleticism, but also their technical skills on the ball. Soccer players ages 8-13 can train in an exciting, fast-paced environment where individual development is of the outmost importance. Email Coach Kyle Ertel by clicking the picture below for more information on our 2017 Summer Soccer/Futsal Camp.