Futsal Community, #TheDoctor Andre Caro here and in this post we will discuss something very close to my heart.
Many parents see Futsal as a way to keep their kids occupied during soccer's off-season.
But here's the truth: Futsal is much more than just a seasonal filler. It's a powerful development tool that shouldn't be taken away from young athletes.
This fast-paced, dynamic sport offers unique benefits that go far beyond what they can achieve on the soccer field alone.
In my 15 years of coaching Futsal, I've seen countless children thrive under its influence. They develop:
Confidence on the ball: Dribbling, controlling, and manipulating the ball become second nature, fostering a sense of empowerment and control.
Technical skills: Futsal's smaller space and emphasis on quick touches hone their passing, receiving, and shooting skills to a superior level.
Decision-making: With the constant pressure and flow of the game, players learn to think quickly, read the game, and make split-second decisions under pressure.
Teamwork: Futsal fosters a strong sense of cooperation and communication, as players work together to achieve a common goal.
However, **the benefits of Futsal are fleeting if participation is inconsistent. When children stop playing, their hard-earned skills and habits can fade away as quickly as they developed.
This is especially true for children who only play Futsal during the soccer off-season. While they might see improvement during their Futsal season, their skills can regress during the longer soccer season, essentially taking "two steps forward, one step back" in their development.
Within a few months of stopping Futsal, they might lose some of their:
Ball mastery: The comfort and confidence they had on the ball can diminish.
Technical proficiency: Passing, receiving, and shooting skills can become less precise and effective.
Game awareness: Their ability to read the game and make quick decisions can become sluggish.
After a few years, they might completely revert to their pre-Futsal playing style, essentially losing out on the crucial developmental advantages Futsal offers during their formative years.
I've witnessed this pattern firsthand, time and time again. Years later, many of these children, now teenagers, express regret for giving up Futsal. Their parents, too, often lament the decision, realizing the missed opportunities for their child's overall development.
So, what's the solution?
My recommendation is for children to play Futsal a minimum of twice a week, year-round. This consistent training not only maintains the skills they develop but also allows them to:
Build upon their foundation: Each session adds another layer of skill and refinement, leading to continuous improvement.
Stay sharp mentally and physically: Regular training keeps them physically fit and mentally focused, ready to perform at their best.
Develop a lifelong love for the game: Consistent participation fosters a deeper connection to Futsal, potentially turning it into a lifelong passion.
For children who also play other sports, like soccer, Futsal can be an excellent complement. They can integrate both sports into their weekly schedule, reaping the benefits of each.
Ultimately, the decision to prioritize Futsal rests with the parents. It's crucial for them to understand the long-term benefits this fantastic sport offers and make the best choice for their child's development.
Remember, consistency is key to unlocking the full potential of Futsal. By encouraging your child to play regularly, you're not just investing in their current skills, but also in their future as well-rounded athletes and individuals.
How often does your child currently play Futsal?
Year-round
During the soccer off-season only
Never
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