The workshop was delivered by Paul Devlin, who is one of The FA’s Futsal Coach Education tutors, delivering courses across the Country for numerous organisations and Counties.
The session introduced the coaches to the game, which is an alternative to traditional 5’a’side and is the only format of Small Sided Football that is recognised and supported by FIFA and UEFA.
Futsal has its own competitive framework including World and European Championships; as well as professional leagues in countries such as Italy and Holland. The game is said to have helped influence the early stages of technical development of players such as Ronaldinho, Robinho and Ronaldo.
Coaches were taken through some of the main difference with this game, including it using a smaller, heavier ball. These differences mean that the game itself, places considerable demand upon technique, movement, tactical awareness and fitness.
It also makes the drills and technical work ideal for indoor coaching, which clubs are now starting as part of their winter training schedule.
Attendees took part in a practical session, which gave them an insight into some of the drills from The FA’s Futsal Coaching Course. A plan of which can be downloaded from the related documents section.
The first of which the County FA are looking to organise early next year as part of the development of the game within the area.
For more details on this course and/or the game of Futsal please keep checking the website; or alternatively you can visit www.TheFA.com