This winter some of my team are participating in a Futsal league which starts tomorrow. I’m taking a parity team, and I have several objectives for the boys:
- Improve Their Ball Control: The game of Futsal is a fast paced game, and at times last season we seemed just a little off the pace both with and without the ball. I’m going to encourage them to try to play with some finesse and work in some moves to beat an opponent such as step-overs, Cruyff’s, scissors etc. Since the game of Futsal moves so fast, their body and mind has to think that little bit quicker. I would love that to transition into our spring soccer season in a couple of months.
- Improve Their Fitness: Since a lot of players don’t work on their game or play during the winter, their match-fitness takes a dive. I’m only taking a roster of 8 for 5v5 games – the 5 includes a goalkeeper. There should be plenty of playing time for everyone.
- Improve Shooting: One of my most talented players has a tendency to shoot toward the goalkeeper or at his near post. Since the Futsal goals are slightly smaller than what we’re used to playing with, angles become increasingly important – I want to see more shots across the keeper toward the far post.
- Use the Weaker Foot: Naturally, I want my players to be comfortable with both feet. If they can use the Futsal games as a chance to improve their weaker side and do so at an increased pace, then they should be a lot more comfortable going into the spring season.
- Have Fun!: I’m not concerned whether we win, lose, or draw, that is not my objective for these games. I want my players to go out and have fun, try some beat an opponent moves, and if they fall over flat on their backsides then that’s ok. This will be a pressure free environment.
Hopefully the boys will have a good time and learn. If they do that, then I shall be a happy coach. If you’re considering starting a winter soccer training program, hopefully you’ll consider Futsal. I can’t wait to see how my boys progress.
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