Gauteng Futsal Academy opened in Benoni
Through the Futsal Federation of South Africa, the very first Futsal academy has opened in Benoni.
Their sessions run on Friday evenings from 6pm to 7.30pm at the John Barrable Hall, Hanekam Street, Northmead.
“This is a great opportunity to take advantage of putting in the extra work using futsal; you will notice the difference in your confidence and ability on the ball in no time at all,” said Lee Carter, of the Gauteng Futsal Association.
Registrations for the Gauteng Futsal Academy officially opened in Benoni on February 29.
Training will still take place regardless of the weather as the court is covered and there is seating for visitors to witness all the action.
Futsal, also known as futebol de salon, is only played on a hard court, smaller than a football pitch and mainly indoors.
It cannot be played on AstroTurf or artificial grass.
“Unlike some other forms of indoor football, this game is played on a hard court surface with lines, walls, and nets,” Carter elaborated.
“It is played between two teams made up of five players each, one of whom is the goalkeeper.
“Unlimited substitutions are permitted, and the game is also played with a smaller, harder, low-bounce ball.
“The aim is to introduce aspiring footballers to the concepts of using futsal as a developmental tool for football.
“Most countries, particularly in South America and Europe, have incorporated futsal into their developmental programmes with huge success.
ALSO READ:
“A lot of the superstars in today’s games have come from a futsal background. Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Ronaldinho, Neymar, Xavi and so many more have all played futsal and benefited from using the small spaces on the court.”
Futsal has been proven to improve shooting, ball touches, speed of play, passing, balance, ball control, decision-making, continuous action, dribbling and quicker thinking.
“These are the areas we are going to focus mainly on,” Carter said.
“Futsal is a sport in its own right, and through South African Futsal Federation we compete at various world cups for most age groups every year.
“This year we have the u-15 World Cup in Paraguay and u-17 World Cup in Uruguay. Through our leagues and development programmes we choose players to represent South Africa.
“We also have the Women’s Futsal World Cup next year, so our leagues and programmes benefit boys and girls.
“You are encouraged to continue playing football at your local club or school. Futsal will benefit those teams as well in terms of the individual player.
“Through our programmes, you will also be introduced to the tactical side of the game through playing the games yourself, thereby benefiting your overall playing ability and harnessing your skill set further.”
Should you wish to be part of the Futsal Academy or for more information send a WhatsApp to 076 065 8530.
