Futsal has been a hot topic in the soccer community recently. At Dutch Total Soccer, we offer futsal because it’s a great way for soccer players to continue their development in the offseason. Winter especially is an easy season for soccer players to take off with the cold and snowy weather.
What is Futsal?
Futsal is a version of soccer and it is played all across the globe. Futsal, like soccer, is played on a field and the ball is designed to have a low bounce. Generally, futsal games are played in a 5v5 setting and one player is designed as the goalkeeper/field player. Since the teams are so small, there isn’t a goalkeeper only position. Futsal is played without walls and the game is very fasted paced because it’s played on a hard surface vs. grass.
How Does Futsal Help With Soccer Development?
Futsal makes soccer players play the game at a fast paced speed and forces players to be quick thinkers. In order to succeed, soccer players have to control the ball in a small area while being able to creatively solve tactical problems of the game. Some of the biggest benefits in futsal are:
- Direct Translation – these are the skills that are not only taught in futsal, but reinforced. Soccer and futsal work complimentary to each other because they help soccer players become complete, developed and creative athletes in all aspect of the game. These skills include techniques for passing & receiving, dribbling & creativity on the ball which can all be easily transferred and used on the soccer field.
- Technical Control – futsal requires players to keep their focus and develop their ball control in tight spaces. Players will learn how to utilize every surface of their feet and be able to react quickly in a change of direction. Players will have to cut sharply, shield effectively, pass quickly and move into open space during games.
- Value of Possession – with futsal, ownership of the ball is very important. Players will have to constantly fight to keep the ball away from their opponents and the ball in bounds. This can be difficult because of the size of the field and speed of the game. Just like in soccer, players must keep the ball in bounds otherwise the other team will get possession.
- Decision Making & Creativity – because of the small space, rapid game development, players are forced to make decisions in a shorter amount of time than in your typical soccer game as well as solve tactical problems with creativity. This will help improve every aspect of their soccer game.
- Quickness & Agility – since futsal requires players to constantly change direction and play with a heads up awareness, players will develop better ball control and balance.
Futsal in the Offseason
Enrolling in a futsal league in the offseason is great for any soccer player. This will help soccer players change their approach to soccer while continuing to develop proper soccer technique. If you are interested in Dutch Total Soccer’s Futsal Teams in Somerset, NJ or want to sign up your soccer player, you can contact us online or call us at 732-748-4625. You can also visit our website to learn more about our futsal training classes or futsal tryouts.